Alec Holdings Secures $1.7 Billion Deal for Sphere Abu Dhabi Construction

Lead

Construction and engineering firm Alec Holdings has won a $1.7 billion contract to design, procure and build the 20,000-capacity Sphere Abu Dhabi on Yas Island, a project scheduled to open in 2029, according to a report in The National dated May 23, 2026. The venue will be sited between SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Yas Mall and is being developed in collaboration with US-based Sphere Entertainment, the company behind Sphere Vegas.

Direct quote

"The project is both technically complex and architecturally ambitious, requiring precision across design integration, supply‑chain coordination, on‑site execution, and quality assurance," said Sean McQue, managing director of Alec Construction. "The infrastructure would set a global benchmark."

Context and details

Alec Holdings chief executive Barry Lewis framed the award as a demonstration of domestic capability, saying the contract "highlights the capabilities of UAE developers, which have contributed to building tourism hotspots, residential areas, and commercial spaces." He added that the award "demonstrates that world‑class infrastructure delivery does not rely on international contractors," describing the venue as "rooted in and built for the emirate's long‑term vision."

The Sphere Abu Dhabi will replicate the multi‑format programming model of Sphere Vegas, which opened in 2023 and is known for its 16K‑resolution wraparound screen. Sphere Vegas has hosted immersive concerts by U2, the Eagles and the Backstreet Boys. Abu Dhabi's venue will stage three categories of events:

• Sphere Experiences — proprietary immersive productions featuring multisensory storytelling;
• Concert residencies;
• Brand events, including combat sports, conferences and product launches.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, told The National that Yas Island was selected because of its "existing infrastructure and range of experiences." The department is partnering with Sphere Entertainment on delivery and programming.

The Sphere will join a cluster of attractions on Yas Island. Developers and planners are positioning the site alongside existing and planned leisure assets, including:

• SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
• Yas Mall
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
• Yas Waterworld
• Yas Marina Circuit — home of the annual Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix
• Planned additions such as Disney Abu Dhabi and a Harry Potter‑themed land as part of an expansion to Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi

Outlook

With an expected 2029 opening, Alec Holdings and its partners say the Sphere Abu Dhabi aims to set a new standard for immersive live entertainment in the region. The project's scale and placement on Yas Island — a hub for high‑profile events including the F1 Grand Prix — position the venue to attract international residencies and large‑scale brand activations. As Alec and UAE authorities move into detailed design and procurement phases, the contest between local delivery capacity and global specialist contractors will remain a focal point of industry attention.