Dubai to Get Its Own Las Vegas-Style Sphere

11

MGM Resorts is bringing Las Vegas vibes to Dubai, but not in the way you’d expect. CEO Bill Hornbuckle revealed that a new “Dubai Sphere” is in the works, a Middle Eastern cousin to the larger-than-life Vegas Sphere. Smaller in size, sure, but according to Hornbuckle, it’s going to be “equally as compelling.” This dazzling structure will sit proudly at the centre of MGM’s three Dubai hotels: MGM, Bellagio, and Aria. And while it may be a bit smaller in stature, its impact will be nothing short of monumental.

Hold on, though. The Dubai Sphere won’t be just a Vegas knock-off. Forget showgirls and neon lights, this one’s all about storytelling. Hornbuckle shared with Skift that the Sphere will showcase Dubai’s rise from a quiet desert to a city that now regularly sets the bar for grandeur. A trip through time, anyone? The structure will guide visitors through Dubai’s history in an immersive, multi-sensory experience that’s more captivating than a rollercoaster of skyscrapers.

But don’t go looking for blackjack tables just yet! Many are wondering if the Dubai Sphere will inherit Las Vegas’ penchant for casinos. While MGM would love to deal with some cards, for now, there’s no casino license in Dubai, at least not yet. Hornbuckle remains optimistic though, hinting that gaming could find its way to the region over time. The real betting action, however, may first take root in Abu Dhabi, where they’ve already applied for a casino license.

The project isn’t exactly rushing to the finish line. Initially announced back in 2017, construction had been slow to start, but as of November 2023, a contract was finally awarded to kick things off. So, when’s the grand opening? Well, no one knows just yet. MGM remains tight-lipped on the official launch date, but the buzz is that the Dubai Sphere and its Las Vegas sibling might debut together. Double the fun, anyone?

While the Dubai Sphere may not boast Vegas’ glittering slot machines (at least for now), it promises an equally thrilling experience. MGM’s vision to blend entertainment and history is set to turn heads, and if you’re a fan of futuristic architecture and immersive storytelling, this Sphere could be your next obsession. Dubai may have built islands that defy nature, but with MGM’s Dubai Sphere, it’s about to turn the spotlight on its extraordinary past and glittering future. Get ready for a ride that’ll take you from the desert dunes to the heights of the city skyline, one Sphere at a time!

11 COMMENTS

  1. Simply desire to say your article is as surprising The clearness in your post is simply excellent and i could assume you are an expert on this subject Fine with your permission let me to grab your feed to keep up to date with forthcoming post Thanks a million and please carry on the gratifying work

  2. Magnificent beat I would like to apprentice while you amend your site how can i subscribe for a blog web site The account helped me a acceptable deal I had been a little bit acquainted of this your broadcast offered bright clear idea

Comments are closed.