Second Sphere Set to Be Constructed on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

The Sphere in Las Vegas has certainly cemented itself as something a modern wonder. While the project has faced many controversies due to its environmental impact, it has nevertheless become a huge success and a popular attraction.

As a result, there have been several proposals to replicate this success by building more spheres over the world. Now, the site of the second such landmark has been confirmed.

DCT Confirmed the Site of The Second Sphere

The Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) just announced Yas Island as the site of the Las Vegas Sphere’s twin. The department elaborated that the exact place where the second Sphere will be located is between the existing Yas Mall and Sea World.

According to the DCT, the Yas Island Sphere should be ready by the end of 2029, unless disruptions delay the construction. The Abu Dhabi version of the Sphere will have a similar seat capacity as the one in Sin City and will use the same LED technology on its exterior.

In any case, the announcement comes after a long period of speculations about where the second Sphere will be located. Additionally, Yas Island makes perfect sense for the project, since it is already a major tourism hub. Currently, the artificial island is the home of multiple theme parks, such as Ferrari World, which contains Formula Rossa, the one of the fastest rollercoasters in the world.

Other attractions include Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, CLYMB Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Disneyland Abu Dhabi.

The announced site will situate the new Sphere at a key spot of the island, ensuring its visibility.

The Idea for a Second Sphere Has Been Floated for a While

Abu Dhabi was confirmed as the home of the next Sphere last year, when Sphere Entertainment penned an agreement with the DCT. Prior to that, Sphere Entertainment had also eyed other potential locations, including London, although Mayor Sadiq Khan rejected these plans.

In Abu Dhabi, Sphere Entertainment managed to secure a 25-year agreement, under which the DCT was allowed to build and operate a Sphere venue in the UAE. The DCT was also allowed to leverage Sphere entertainment IP, tech and content, to truly replicate the success of the new Sphere’s Vegas counterpart.

After the initial period, the deal includes options for 10-year extensions.

In the meantime, Nashville has emerged as the potential location for a smaller Sphere.