The Walt Disney Company announced on May 7 that it will open its first-ever theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi, marking a historic expansion into the Middle East. Dubbed Disneyland Abu Dhabi, the new destination will be Disney’s seventh global theme park resort and its first in the region.
Location and Development
Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be built as a waterfront resort on Yas Island, a major entertainment hub that already attracts millions of visitors from across the Middle East, Africa, India, Europe, and beyond. Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations, will oversee the development and operations of the resort, while Disney’s Imagineers will lead the creative design and provide operational guidance.
Disney CEO Bob Iger expressed excitement about the project, stating, “This is a thrilling moment for our company. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting-edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences.”
Cultural Integration
Iger emphasized that the park will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” blending Disney’s timeless characters and stories with Abu Dhabi’s architectural beauty and cultural identity. The resort will feature themed accommodations, unique dining and shopping experiences, and new attractions designed to captivate visitors.
Strategic Importance
The UAE’s strategic location and status as a major air travel hub were key factors in Disney’s decision. With over 120 million travelers passing through Abu Dhabi and Dubai each year, and one-third of the world’s population within a four-hour flight, the park is expected to become a major draw for families worldwide.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of Miral, highlighted the significance of the project: “Abu Dhabi is a place where heritage meets innovation. What we are creating with Disney is a whole new world of imagination—an experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world.”
Future Plans
While an opening date has not been set, Iger noted that the development process typically takes between 18 months and two years for design and development, and approximately five years for construction. The project represents a milestone for both Disney and the region, promising to create magical moments and lasting memories for families.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi joins Disney’s other global parks, including Disneyland in California (opened in 1955), Walt Disney World in Florida (1971), Tokyo Disneyland (1983), Disneyland Paris (1992), Hong Kong Disneyland (2005), and Shanghai Disney Resort (2016).
