Work Begins on Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi

29 Jun 2026 CW Team

"The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has commenced work on Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi, a landmark performing arts institution on Saadiyat Island. Set to open in 2030, the venue is expected to become one of the region’s most advanced cultural destinations.

Designed by the late Frank Gehry, the institution will host opera, ballet, theatre, jazz, concerts and other live performances. It will include a multipurpose 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 combined capacity of over 6,000.

Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi will offer year-round programming with 365 days and nights of events, performances and activities. It is also planned as a platform for artistic residencies, international partnerships and co-productions with leading performing arts companies.

The project supports Abu Dhabi’s wider cultural vision and adds to the emirate’s growing cultural landscape near Saadiyat Cultural District. It is expected to create jobs, develop local talent, attract cultural tourism and strengthen the creative economy."

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