The Walt Disney Company has officially announced plans to create a new flagship theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi, UAE, marking a significant expansion into the Middle East. This ambitious project, developed in partnership with the local developer Miral Group, will be located on the picturesque coast of Yas Island, a renowned destination for entertainment and leisure. With this new venture, Disney will add its seventh park globally and the first in the Middle East.
Disney's CEO, Robert Iger, expressed excitement about the announcement, stating, "This is an exciting moment for our company. We are announcing plans to build a new Disney resort in Abu Dhabi—a place where art and creativity are valued. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically 'Disney' while preserving the traditions of the Emirates, creating a magical oasis of entertainment that brings our stories and characters to life in new forms and serves as a source of joy and inspiration for the entire region."
Josh D'Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, echoed Iger's sentiments, highlighting the technological advancements that the new park will incorporate. He noted that it will be the most technologically advanced Disney park to date, allowing for a more engaging and dynamic storytelling experience. "Every time we have the opportunity to build from the ground up, with all the changes in technology and the advantages it brings, we will strive for full strength. This will allow us to tell our stories in more exciting, flexible, and dynamic ways, which Walt probably dreamed of back in 1955," D'Amaro said.
The announcement comes on the heels of Disney's positive financial results and a notable 7% rise in its stock following the news. The new resort will be situated in a popular tourist area, adjacent to existing attractions like Warner Bros World Yas Island and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi. Yas Island itself has seen a surge in visitors, attracting over 34 million in 2023—a 38% increase from the previous year.
D'Amaro expressed enthusiasm about introducing Disney stories to a new audience in the Middle East, emphasizing the strategic location of Abu Dhabi. He mentioned that the resort will blend classic Disney entertainment with the unique cultural heritage of the region. Miral will be responsible for financing, building, and managing the resort, while Disney will provide creative guidance and operational oversight. This partnership signifies a robust business model that aims to deliver a distinctly Disney experience.
Disney's investment in the new park is part of a broader strategy to inject $60 billion into its Experiences division over the next decade. This includes plans to double its fleet of cruise ships and expand its theme park offerings worldwide. Although the opening date for the Abu Dhabi park has yet to be announced, the scale of the project suggests it may take several years to complete.
In addition to the park, the resort is expected to feature attractions, restaurants, and shops themed around Disney, integrating storytelling with the cultural heritage of Abu Dhabi. D'Amaro highlighted the importance of the location, stating, "There is an almost insatiable demand for Disney experiences, and for every park visitor we have today, there are ten fans who want to experience Disney but have never had the opportunity." He pointed out that a third of the world's population is within four hours of the future park, and the traffic through Abu Dhabi and Dubai is projected to grow, with plans to increase the capacity of Dubai International Airport to 120 million passengers per year by 2026.
The collaboration with Miral Group is seen as a strategic move, as the company has successfully developed other attractions on Yas Island, including Ferrari World and SeaWorld. D'Amaro praised Miral, stating, "They are a professional company, and working with them is extremely comfortable. We are very confident that in this part of the world, with this partner, this is a fitting business agreement."
As the excitement builds around the new Disney park in Abu Dhabi, many are eager to see how the project will unfold. With Disney's commitment to innovation and storytelling, the park promises to create magical moments and memories for families that will be cherished for generations. The investment not only reflects Disney's confidence in its growth strategy but also underscores the potential for the company to thrive in new markets.
In summary, the new Disneyland Abu Dhabi is poised to be a landmark project, combining the magic of Disney with the rich cultural tapestry of the Emirates. As the company embarks on this new chapter, it aims to bring its beloved characters and stories to life in ways that resonate with both local and international audiences. This exciting development is sure to enhance the entertainment landscape of the region, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a global hub for tourism and leisure.
