The opera house and performing arts center pictured above opened on August 31, 2016, with a performance by Placido Domingo. The city in question is well known for brash, record-breaking innovation, not so much for arts appreciation. With this beautiful, state-of-the-art facility, the city reveals that it does indeed have a taste for high culture. The design was inspired by the traditional sailing vessel of the region, the dhow.
The opera house stands in the shadow of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

photo credit: the Washington Post

Can you name that city? 
See below for answers.

This mystery city is Dubai in the country of UAE.
Click to see Dubai tours.