Abu Dhabi confirmed as The Sphere’s second location

The Sphere’s second-ever location has been confirmed for Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Although target dates for the venue’s construction and opening have not yet been announced, the news was confirmed yesterday.

The Sphere is a music and entertainment venue in Nevada, USA. It opened in September 2023 with a residency by U2, Speaking about U2's concert, Pat Carty said: "They know how to put on a show and this is the best show the showbiz capital of the world has ever hosted, ergo it’s the greatest show on earth".

The final expected cost of The Sphere in the USA was $2.3 billion, making it the most expensive entertainment venue in Las Vegas history.

Speaking to Variety, the chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak said: “This partnership aligns with our Tourism Strategy 2030, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a vibrant hub for culture and innovation. By embracing cutting-edge entertainment like Sphere, we’re not only elevating our global profile but also setting new standards in immersive experiences and cultural offerings.”

Today Sphere Entertainment and @DCTAbuDhabi announced that we will work together to bring the world’s second Sphere to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates! @SphereAbuDhabi is expected to be a landmark addition to this premier international capital city, elevating the entertainment… pic.twitter.com/CchNS5g2bE

— Sphere (@SphereVegas) October 15, 2024

Sphere Abu Dhabi’s confirmation comes after discussions which took place at the end of last year, after the proposed London Sphere didn’t materialise.

The details of the planned London Sphere were first announced in 2018, which would have seen it become the largest concert arena in the UK, with a 21,500-capacity venue.

Locals in the surrounding area raised concerns about the proposed venue, highlighting the health risks and strains on the local infrastructure.

It was also highlighted by The London Assembly Environment Committee that the venue would produce unacceptable light levels - with the finished product set to have an estimated 1 million LED light bulbs on its exterior.

There were calls from the UK government to revive the plans in December of last year. However, developers withdraw their plans in January of this year, stating that it could not be involved in a process that was “merely a political football between rival parties”.