Sphere Entertainment partnering with city of Abu Dhabi as second venue location

Sphere Entertainment and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi will work together to bring the world’s second Sphere to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Located in Abu Dhabi and echoing the scale of the 20,000-capacity Sphere in Las Vegas, Sphere in Abu Dhabi is expected to be a major year-round draw for both residents and visitors from around the world. Under the terms of the partnership, which is subject to finalization of definitive agreements, DCT Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee for the right to build the venue, utilizing Sphere Entertainment’s proprietary designs, technology, and intellectual property. Construction will be funded by DCT Abu Dhabi, with Sphere Entertainment’s team providing services related to development, construction, and pre-opening of the venue. Following the venue’s opening, Sphere Entertainment plans to maintain ongoing arrangements with DCT Abu Dhabi that are expected to include annual fees for creative and artistic content licensed by Sphere Entertainment, such as Sphere Experiences; use of Sphere’s brand, patents, proprietary technology, and intellectual property; and operational services related to venue operations and technology, as well as commercial and strategic advisory support.