Sphere CEO James L. Dolan Outlines Ambitious Global Expansion Plans

Sphere Entertainment is setting its sights on a massive global expansion. During the company’s second-quarter earnings call on July 30, Executive Chairman and CEO James L. Dolan articulated a clear and ambitious roadmap for the future of the immersive venue brand. When questioned about the company’s financing strategy for new locations, Dolan stated, “I really want five, six years from now, to have five venues up or more and have another five that are under construction.”

Supporting this vision, Executive Vice President David Granville-Smith noted that the company’s internal development team is currently positioned to manage between two and four additional projects over the next 18 months.

Expanding the Global Footprint

The company is currently building upon the success of its flagship Las Vegas venue with two confirmed projects. Construction is actively underway for Sphere Abu Dhabi on Yas Island. This project, which boasts a capacity of 20,000, is expected to be completed by the end of 2029. The development is being funded by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, with Sphere Entertainment set to receive franchise fees and royalties upon completion.

A second venue is planned for National Harbor, located just outside Washington, D.C. This 6,000-capacity site utilizes a different financial model, where a third party handles construction costs while Sphere Entertainment operates the venue under a long-term lease. Dolan expressed confidence that financing for this project will close shortly, with the venue expected to open within four years.

While a third location has yet to be officially named, the company is reportedly in advanced discussions with several markets. Dolan anticipates a formal announcement regarding the next site by the end of 2026 or early 2027.

Financial Performance and Strategic Outlook

Sphere Entertainment reported $313.6 million in second-quarter revenue, marking an 11% year-over-year increase, though total operating losses widened to $61.3 million. This shift was largely attributed to the performance of MSG Networks, the company’s regional sports television unit, which faced a decline in subscribers.

Conversely, the Las Vegas Sphere segment demonstrated strong growth, with revenue rising nearly 30% to $226.4 million. The venue’s operating loss narrowed by 17% to $69.6 million, bolstered by the success of The Wizard of Oz at Sphere, which has sold nearly 3.6 million tickets. Future programming, including The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Sphere, is expected to continue this positive momentum.

The Role of Electronic Music

Electronic music has played a pivotal role in the venue’s programming, with three major residencies already completed. Anyma launched the venue’s first electronic residency with The End of Genesys, followed by the UNITY production from Insomniac and Tomorrowland. Most recently, ILLENIUM concluded his ODYSSEY run. As the company expands, its standardized tech stack will allow these high-production shows to move seamlessly between future global locations, creating a scalable model for live entertainment.