H.H. Sheikh Khaled unveils Abu Dhabi's next cutting-edge venue for performing arts

Abu Dhabi will soon have one of the region's largest and most technically advanced performing arts venues.

The Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi (House of the Arts) development project is set to open in 2030 near Saadiyat Cultural District.

After witnessing the launch, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, was briefed on the architectural vision for the venue, its phases of development and construction, and its advanced facilities and technical capabilities.

Commissioned by DCT Abu Dhabi and designed by the late Frank Gehry, one of the leading figures in contemporary architecture and architect of the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi reflects an architectural vision inspired by music and the performing arts.

Featuring a transparent façade that symbolises Abu Dhabi’s openness to creativity and cultural exchange, the project represents a significant addition to the emirate’s portfolio of world-class cultural landmarks.

It will include a multipurpose performance hall with more than 2,000 seats, a 3,500-seat open-air amphitheatre, a 400-seat studio theatre and a 250-seat jazz venue – with a total capacity exceeding 6,000 across its artistic spaces.

The venue will host world-leading artistic productions, providing exceptional cultural experiences for local, regional and international audiences.

It will serve as a permanent home for a wide range of world-class productions, including opera, ballet, theatre and other live performing arts. It will also foster long-term artistic residencies, international touring partnerships and co-productions with leading performing arts institutions worldwide, attracting acclaimed artists and companies, and opening new horizons for Emirati and regional talent.

Sheikh Khaled affirmed that investing in cultural infrastructure is a fundamental part of Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive development vision that reflects the importance of culture as a strategic driver of sustainable development and a key enabler of the knowledge-based economy.

"Through artistic residencies, international partnerships and world-class productions, it will expand opportunities for cultural exchange, inspire new generations of creatives, and further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global centre for creativity, cultural exchange and artistic excellence," highlighted Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

The project also aims to enhance community participation in cultural activities through artistic workshops, and educational and interactive programmes, while supporting the development of local artistic talent and capabilities. This will further embed the arts in everyday life and strengthen their role in reinforcing national identity, enriching the cultural landscape.