The Abu Dhabi city’s ever-changing skyline is set to receive its newest icon with the multi-billion dollar Sphere Abu Dhabi development on Yas Island.
And as work continues on the mega $1.7bn development, more and more focus is being placed on the most fascinating aspect of the project: the Exosphere.
Standing 112 metres tall, the exosphere is a giant programmable LED screen that will wrap around the outside of the sphere to create a spectacular digital façade that will feature content of art, advertising and immersive visual experiences before you even enter the building.
This huge tech-artwork feat is being delivered by specialist Blue Rhine Industries (BRI) based in the UAE.
Main contractor ALEC Engineering and Contracting (a subsidiary of the ALEC Holdings group of companies) has awarded the lead subcontractor role to BRI to undertake the design, installation, and commissioning of the 1.2 million sq ft LED façade. Leaders at the company said they consider this audiovisual integration project the most significant in its 20-year history, demonstrating the increased capability of local contractors to lead globally prominent projects.
Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi) is working in close partnership with Sphere Entertainment to develop the project, which is the company’s first outside the US.
The completed venue, situated between Yas Mall and Sea World Abu Dhabi, will offer a versatile seating capacity of up to 20,000 people, and is set to be delivered by the end of 2029.
In addition to its unmistakable architecture, Sphere Abu Dhabi will deliver a broad spectrum of entertainment offerings such as international concert residencies, combat sports and immersive original productions that embrace Emirati culture and highlight the talent of the region.
By integrating the latest engineering principles, immersive digital display technology, and regional storytelling, the project aims to position Yas Island as a top-tier international entertainment and tourism destination.