Frank Gehry-designed cultural destination will host year-round programming and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global center for the performing arts
Abu Dhabi, UAE: (June 26, 2026) The Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the commencement of construction on Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi (House of the Arts), a landmark performing arts institution set to become one of the Middle East’s most technologically advanced venues for live performance when it opens in 2030.
Located on Saadiyat Island, the new institution represents a significant investment in Abu Dhabi’s cultural infrastructure and forms part of the emirate’s long-term strategy to expand its creative economy, strengthen international cultural collaboration, and establish world-class platforms for artistic excellence.
Designed by the late internationally renowned architect Frank Gehry, Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi is expected to become a permanent home for opera, ballet, theatre, orchestral music, jazz, and multidisciplinary performances, welcoming artists and audiences from around the world.
Advancing Abu Dhabi’s Long-Term Cultural Vision
The announcement reflects Abu Dhabi’s continued commitment to investing in culture, creativity, and knowledge as key pillars of sustainable development.
By expanding its portfolio of cultural institutions, the emirate aims to create opportunities for artistic exchange, nurture creative talent, and provide residents and visitors with year-round access to world-class cultural experiences.
Commenting on the project, His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said:
“Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi represents a long-term investment in artistic expression and reflects our broader vision for cultural development. Rooted in our heritage while embracing global collaboration, the institution will provide a permanent home for performances of the highest international standard. Through artistic residencies, international partnerships, and major productions, it will create new opportunities for cultural exchange, inspire future generations of creatives, and further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global centre for culture and the arts.”
A Dedicated Home for World-Class Performing Arts
Upon opening in 2030, Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi will become one of the region’s largest purpose-built performing arts institutions.
The venue has been designed to accommodate a diverse range of artistic disciplines, allowing audiences to experience productions ranging from intimate chamber performances to large-scale international opera and ballet productions.
Programming will take place throughout the year, with performances, educational initiatives, and cultural activities scheduled across all 365 days.
The institution will feature:
- A multipurpose performance hall with seating for more than 2,000 guests
- A 3,500-seat open-air amphitheatre
- A 400-seat studio theatre
- A dedicated 250-seat jazz venue
Collectively, the facilities will accommodate more than 6,000 visitors across multiple performance spaces.
Beyond presenting international productions, the institution is expected to serve as a platform for long-term artistic residencies, touring collaborations, co-productions, and educational initiatives involving leading global performing arts organizations while creating opportunities for emerging artists from the UAE and the wider region.
An Architectural Landmark Designed by Frank Gehry
Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi has been designed by the late Frank Gehry, one of the world’s most influential contemporary architects and the designer of the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
The architectural concept draws inspiration from the movement and fluidity of live performance. Its sweeping, fabric-like exterior is intended to evoke the energy of music and dance while creating a striking visual identity within the Saadiyat Cultural District.
A transparent façade has been incorporated into the design to encourage public engagement with artistic activity, symbolizing openness, accessibility, and cultural dialogue.
The project further reinforces Abu Dhabi’s longstanding commitment to commissioning internationally significant architecture that reflects the emirate’s cultural ambitions while contributing to its evolving urban landscape.
Building on a Growing Performing Arts Ecosystem
The development of Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi builds upon the emirate’s expanding cultural landscape and its growing international recognition as a destination for music and performing arts.
Abu Dhabi has been designated a UNESCO Creative City of Music and continues to host internationally recognized initiatives, including the Abu Dhabi Festival, Berklee Abu Dhabi, Bait Al Oud, and numerous international concerts, festivals, and educational programs. The emirate also served as the host city for International Jazz Day 2025, further strengthening its position within the global performing arts community.
The addition of Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi is expected to complement these institutions by providing permanent, state-of-the-art infrastructure capable of supporting a broader range of international productions and creative collaborations.
Driving Cultural and Economic Impact
In addition to its cultural significance, the new institution is expected to generate lasting economic and social benefits for Abu Dhabi.
The project is anticipated to create employment opportunities across the cultural, hospitality, tourism, technical production, and creative sectors while supporting the development of local artistic talent and expanding opportunities for professional training and cultural education.
Officials also expect the institution to contribute to the continued growth of Abu Dhabi’s creative economy by attracting international visitors, strengthening cultural tourism, and encouraging long-term investment in the arts.
About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is responsible for driving the sustainable development of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors while supporting the emirate’s broader economic and social ambitions.
Working in collaboration with public and private sector partners, DCT Abu Dhabi develops policies, programs, and cultural initiatives that preserve heritage, promote creativity, expand tourism, and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination for culture, innovation, and authentic experiences.
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