Abu Dhabi’s cultural district has a new addition—teamLab Phenomena, an interactive space where technology and art respond to the people moving through them. The opening event brought together a mix of artists, actors, and creators from around the world for an evening that balanced calm with spectacle.
The exclusive opening night featured a live performance by renowned Italian pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi, followed by a display of 6,000 synchronised drones and pyrotechnics over the Saadiyat skyline.
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, said: “teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is a groundbreaking cultural landmark that redefines immersive art experiences on a global scale. It embodies a bold vision that pushes the boundaries of creativity, technology, and human perception, offering visitors an experience unlike any other. Together with our partner, teamLab, we take great pride in bringing this pioneering concept to life, reinforcing our commitment to shaping world-class experiences that inspire, engage, and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s cultural legacy. Saadiyat Cultural District is a cultural landmark of global significance, bringing together the world’s greatest minds and institutions to foster dialogue, inspire creativity, and shape a more connected future.”
Hollywood stars like Cate Blanchett, Andrew Garfield, and Brendan Fraser, along with Stranger Things’ Natalia Dyer, Marvel’s Pom Klementieff, DC’s Grant Gustin, and spiritual leader Sadhguru, were among the notable guests at the opening, pointing to the wide appeal the project has generated.
The beauty of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi lies in its ever-changing art. Visitors are encouraged to explore freely, with each artwork reacting to their movements. It’s a space that’s never the same twice, offering a truly unique experience every time.
The new space joins the Louvre Abu Dhabi and other cultural institutions in the Saadiyat Cultural District, but it sets itself apart by focusing on engagement rather than observation. It’s not about just seeing art; it’s about being part of it.
TeamLab, an international art collective based in Tokyo, blends digital technology with elements of nature, science, and design. Founded in 2001, the collective’s work has been presented in renowned cities worldwide. The opening of the Abu Dhabi venue marks their ongoing regional expansion, offering visitors a space where art evolves based on their presence.
