This will be the seventh Disney theme park globally
The Walt Disney Company and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s premier developer of immersive destinations, have unveiled plans to develop a groundbreaking Disney theme park resort on Yas Island, marking a historic expansion of Disney’s global footprint.
Set along the scenic Yas Island waterfront–already a world-renowned hub for entertainment and tourism–the upcoming Disney resort will be the company’s seventh global theme park destination and its first in the Middle East. The project promises to merge Disney’s legendary storytelling and innovation with the cultural vibrancy and architectural beauty of the United Arab Emirates.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, emphasized the transformative nature of the project: “What we are creating with Disney in Abu Dhabi is a whole new world of imagination — an experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world. This collaboration underscores the power of combining visionary leadership with creative excellence.”
The new resort will be fully funded and developed by Miral, while Disney Imagineers will lead the creative design and provide operational expertise to ensure a world-class visitor experience. Miral will also operate the park, adding to its growing portfolio of global brand partnerships on Yas Island.
“This is a thrilling moment for our company,” said Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary entertainment at this crossroads of the world. It will bring our iconic stories to life in innovative ways and become a source of joy for generations to come.”
Positioned within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population and adjacent to one of the busiest aviation hubs globally, Abu Dhabi is seen as a strategic location for Disney’s expansion. More than 120 million travelers pass through Abu Dhabi and Dubai annually, making the emirate a natural gateway for global tourism.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, described the upcoming resort as “the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio. Anchored by a beautiful waterfront, this project allows us to tell stories in new and dynamic ways and will reach new audiences in an entirely different region of the world.”
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, called the announcement a major milestone: “We are creating a place of boundless innovation that will solidify Yas Island’s status as a global epicenter for exceptional entertainment.”
Once completed, Disneyland Abu Dhabi will feature signature Disney attractions, themed hotels, immersive dining and shopping experiences, and new forms of storytelling that blend Disney’s timeless magic with the futuristic and cultural identity of the UAE capital.
While an official opening date has not been disclosed, industry experts estimate the project could take approximately two years for design and up to five years for construction, potentially opening between 2029 and 2031.
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