Dar Al Funoon, Abu Dhabi’s newest performing‑arts centre, will open in 2030, adding a fresh cultural landmark to the city’s skyline.
Design and vision
Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the venue is billed as a "centre of excellence" by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi. Gehry, a Pritzker‑Prize‑winning architect, completed the design shortly before his death in December at the age of 96, making the project one of his final works. The building will sit beside Saadiyat Cultural District, joining landmarks such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum, Zayed National Museum, teamLab Phenomena and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, thereby strengthening the island’s reputation as a world‑class arts hub.
“It’s a place where we celebrate all art forms of performance, whether it’s music, whether it’s concerts, whether it’s dance, ballet, recitals, and the list goes on.”
— Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman, Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi
Al Mubarak says the centre will not only host shows but also nurture the ecosystem around them, from education to job creation. He describes the project as part of a "connected vision" that links museums, galleries and performance spaces across the emirate, creating a network of understanding, acceptance and learning for residents and visitors alike.
Cultural impact and community
Beyond the stage, Dar Al Funoon aims to be an educational hub. "It’s a place where people will get to see themselves and get to learn the world," Al Mubarak explains, adding that the centre will help connect audiences with global cultures while showcasing Emirati and Arabic voices. The programme will feature a blend of local talent and international acts, with plans to host performances by artists such as pianist Ludovico and composer Max Richter, underscoring the venue’s global outlook.
The director highlights Abu Dhabi’s multicultural fabric, noting that more than 200 nationalities live in the United Arab Emirates. "We want everybody that’s living here to be truly global, to be truly understanding and to truly take on the world," he says, framing openness as part of the country’s DNA. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, attended the launch alongside Al Mubarak, underscoring the high‑level support for the project and its role in the emirate’s broader cultural strategy. With its mix of concerts, ballet, recitals and community programmes, Dar Al Funoon promises to become a gathering point for residents and visitors alike.
Frequently asked questions
When will Dar Al Funoon open in Abu Dhabi
Dar Al Funoon is set to open in 2030.
Who designed Dar Al Funoon performing arts centre
The centre was designed by architect Frank Gehry.
What kind of programs will Dar Al Funoon offer
The centre will host performances and education programs, featuring a blend of local talent and international acts.
