Sphere Abu Dhabi’s pre-construction phase is nearing completion as its developer is taking key steps towards advancing the project.
James Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, reviewed progress on the project in an earnings call this week, noting that the company has “entered into agreements related to the construction, development and operation of Sphere Abu Dhabi.”
Sphere Entertainment is “now finalizing the pre-construction phase with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT),” Dolan added.
Abu Dhabi announcement boosts revenue
For the three months ended June 30, 2025, the company reported revenues of $282.7 million, an increase of $9.3 million, or 3 percent, compared to the prior year’s quarter.
The Sphere segment generated revenues of $175.6 million, an increase of $24.4 million, or 16 percent. Meanwhile, other revenues increased $4.8 million, primarily due to the impact of revenues related to bringing the world’s second Sphere to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
“We continue to execute our strategic priorities to drive long-term profitable growth for our Sphere business. At the same time, we have been making progress with our expansion plans and remain confident in the global opportunity ahead,” Dolan said in a press statement.
“Our goal is to design and operate a venue that is busy 365 days a year with multiple events on most days. While we started in Las Vegas, our strategy has always included a global network of sphere venues,” he added during the call.
DCT to build and operate Sphere Abu Dhabi
According to a Securities and Exchange Commission filing dated July 25, 2025, Sphere Entertainment Group and DCT finalized and entered into a Franchise Agreement, a Joint Development and Partnership Agreement and a Pre-Opening Services Agreement relating to the construction, development and operation of the project.
Under the Franchise Agreement, Sphere Entertainment Group granted DCT the exclusive right to build and operate Sphere Abu Dhabi. DCT also has the exclusive right to build and operate additional Sphere venues in the geographic region spanning the Middle East and North Africa for a period of at least 10 years after the opening date of Sphere Abu Dhabi.
“Sphere Entertainment Group has also granted DCT licenses for the relevant technology, patents, trademarks, The Sphere Experience content and other ancillary content for the development and operation of Sphere Abu Dhabi. DCT’s use of Sphere Entertainment Group’s intellectual property is subject to customary guidelines, restrictions and approvals, as well as quality control procedures,” the filing added.
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Abu Dhabi advances Tourism Strategy 2030
In October last year, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Sphere Entertainment Co. announced that they would work together to bring the world’s second Sphere to Abu Dhabi. This next-generation entertainment venue is gearing up to become a landmark addition to this premier international capital city, elevating the entertainment offerings for residents and visitors alike.
Sphere Abu Dhabi will seamlessly integrate advanced technology with captivating storytelling, creating unforgettable memories for everyone who visits. This partnership aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, further establishing the city as a vibrant hub for culture and innovation.
Since opening the first Sphere in Las Vegas in September 2023, Sphere Entertainment has actively pursued its plans to develop a global network of Sphere venues. This expansion will provide significant growth potential and drive new revenue streams by leveraging Sphere Entertainment’s expertise, proprietary technology, and original content.
Located in a prime spot in Abu Dhabi and echoing the scale of the 20,000-capacity Sphere in Las Vegas, this venue promises to redefine entertainment in the region.
Sphere in Abu Dhabi will be a major year-round destination for both residents and visitors from around the world, offering opportunities to experience events, concerts, and shows like never before in a revolutionary setting.
