Going global
The launch of the Sphere in Las Vegas has proven a significant talking point this year. The unique structure has generated much conversation both for its external advertising and jaw-dropping internal entertainment venue.
pitching investors in the Middle East about the benefits of such an arena
While the folks in London have decided against building their own Sphere, Abu Dhabi is now reportedly seriously considering its own version. James Dolan, the billionaire owner of the Sphere project in Las Vegas, has been pitching investors in the Middle East about the benefits of such an arena.
The New York Post’s anonymous source said that “serious talks” are ongoing with Abu Dhabi. Sphere Entertainment had recently noted it was in “substantive discussions” with numerous unnamed countries about potential developments.
Over budget
One of the big talking points about the Las Vegas Sphere was how it went $1.1bn over budget during the construction process. Pandemic delays were a contributing factor to the $2.3bn costs. Sphere Entertainment is currently refusing to pay almost $225m in capital expenditure costs.
James Dolan has argued that the construction cost of the Sphere wouldn’t be as high for future projects as it has already created the necessary technology.
Mixed responses
The United Arab Emirates is already home to some impressive and unique architectural innovations, such as the world’s tallest skyscraper the Burj Khalifa and the boat sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel. It could add The Sphere to that list, although other locations around the globe have had mixed reactions to the possibility of such a venue.
bulky, unduly dominant and incongruous”
London residents and politicians largely opposed the idea of bringing a Sphere to the city despite stakeholders working on plans for about five years. They argued the LED screen would be disruptive, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan saying that the structure would be “bulky, unduly dominant and incongruous.”
Meanwhile, conversations with developers about constructing a similar LED arena in South Korea and Saudi Arabia have now reportedly stalled.