The UAE already has plenty of world-class venues, and Abu Dhabi is about to add another one. If live theatre is your idea of a perfect evening, Dar al Funoon is a name you’ll want to remember. It means “House of the Arts” and, as you can guess, the venue will be hosting live productions.
The programme will include opera, ballet, theatre, and other live performances.
One of the most striking design features is the transparent façade, which symbolises Abu Dhabi’s openness to creativity and cultural exchange.
The building is a showstopper on its own, but there’s plenty waiting inside. Here’s what you’ll find at Dar al Funoon:
- A 2,000-seat performance hall
- A 3,500-seat open-air amphitheatre
- A 400-seat studio theatre
- A 250-seat jazz venue
The new performing arts centre is expected to open in 2030 near Saadiyat Cultural District. The building was designed by the late architect Frank Gehry, who is also behind the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
More Places to Explore on Saadiyat Island
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Explore artworks from different cultures and time periods inside one of the UAE’s most famous museums, crowned by its iconic floating dome.
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
Step into interactive digital art installations where light, sound and movement create ever-changing experiences.
Zayed National Museum
Discover the story of the UAE, its culture and the legacy of Sheikh Zayed through exhibitions, artefacts and immersive displays. Here’s more about the story of Zayed National Museum.
Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi
Travel through billions of years of Earth’s history with dinosaur fossils, rare natural specimens, meteorites and interactive exhibits. Discover more about this museum here.
