Abu Dhabi: The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the commencement of construction work on Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi (House of the Arts), a major performing arts institution on Saadiyat Island that is expected to become one of the region’s most advanced cultural destinations when it opens in 2030.

The project forms part of Abu Dhabi’s long-term strategy to strengthen its cultural landscape, promote artistic excellence, and create new opportunities for international collaboration and cultural exchange.

Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Frank Gehry, Dar al Funoon will serve as a world-class venue for a wide range of performances, including opera, ballet, theatre, jazz, and contemporary productions. The institution is planned as a year-round cultural destination, hosting performances and artistic activities throughout the year.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said the project reflects the emirate’s continued commitment to investing in culture and creativity.

“Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi represents our long-term investment in artistic expression and reflects our comprehensive approach to cultural development. It will become a permanent home for world-class performances, bringing together leading artists and creative talent from the UAE, the region, and around the world,” he said.

The new cultural landmark will feature a state-of-the-art performance 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, giving the facility a total capacity of over 6,000 visitors.

Officials said the centre will also support artist residency programmes, international partnerships, and collaborative productions with leading performing arts institutions, while creating opportunities for emerging regional talent to perform alongside globally renowned artists.

Located within Abu Dhabi’s growing Saadiyat Cultural District, the venue has been designed as a tribute to music and performance. Its distinctive flowing architecture and transparent façade are intended to create a welcoming environment that connects visitors directly with the artistic experience.

Gehry, who also designed the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, envisioned the building as a space where architecture and culture merge to inspire audiences and artists alike.

The project further strengthens Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a leading cultural hub in the region. The emirate already hosts major cultural initiatives such as the Abu Dhabi Festival, Berklee Abu Dhabi, and Bait Al Oud, and has earned recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Music.

Beyond its cultural significance, Dar al Funoon is expected to contribute to economic growth by creating employment opportunities, supporting the development of local creative talent, and attracting increased cultural tourism to the UAE capital.

Officials noted that the project reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader vision of investing in culture as a driver of sustainable development while reinforcing its position as one of the world’s premier destinations for arts, creativity, and innovation.