Mickey Mouse is heading to the desert: The Walt Disney Company has announced plans to build a theme park in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This development marks a significant expansion for Disney, as it will be the first Disneyland in the Middle East, joining the ranks of existing resorts in Anaheim, Orlando, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.
Disney CEO Bob Iger, 74, introduced the project, stating, "Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and unmistakably Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world." The strategic location of Abu Dhabi allows one-third of the global population to reach the UAE within a four-hour flight, making it an accessible destination for millions.
According to Iger, the planning phase for the park has already begun. While specific attractions remain under wraps, early concept sketches hint at a design that will blend contemporary architecture with innovative technology, offering guests a unique and immersive experience. "We usually take between 18 months and two years to design and fully develop a park, followed by about five years for construction," Iger noted in an interview with CNBC. However, he refrained from setting a definitive timeline, suggesting that a completion date in the early 2030s is realistic.
The new park will be situated on Yas Island, a vibrant hub for entertainment that already hosts several major attractions, including Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and Yas Waterworld. The local Emirati company Miral is responsible for the development and construction of the resort, while Disney will oversee creative design and operational management.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, emphasized the importance of creating a distinctive experience that reflects the local culture. He stated, "It’s really important not to just create a theme park that could be anywhere else." The park's design and culinary offerings will be tailored to highlight the rich heritage and unique characteristics of Abu Dhabi.
With around 120 million passengers traveling through Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports annually, the new Disneyland is poised to attract a significant number of visitors. The park’s location means that approximately 500 million people could potentially visit, a crucial factor in its development. D’Amaro described Abu Dhabi as a strategic destination for travelers from Asia, Europe, and Africa, further enhancing its appeal.
The announcement of the Abu Dhabi Disneyland brings the total number of Disney theme parks worldwide to seven. The first Disneyland Resort opened in Anaheim, California, in 1955, followed by Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, which is the largest, featuring four theme parks and two water parks. Tokyo Disney Resort opened in 1983, Disneyland Paris in 1992, Hong Kong Disneyland is known for its compact size, and Shanghai Disney Resort opened in 2016, catering specifically to the Chinese audience.
Yas Island is not new to tourism and entertainment enthusiasts. Located less than a half-hour from Abu Dhabi International Airport, it is already a premier destination for experiential tourism. Visitors can enjoy Ferrari World, the first Ferrari-themed park worldwide, featuring record-breaking roller coasters like Formula Rossa. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi offers a fully air-conditioned indoor experience inspired by beloved characters, while Yas Waterworld boasts over 40 slides and attractions.
Moreover, the newly opened SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is the first SeaWorld outside the United States and the first without orcas in captivity. The Yas Marina Circuit, known for hosting the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and the Etihad Arena provide additional entertainment options, making Yas Island a comprehensive leisure destination.
The introduction of Disneyland to Yas Island is expected to elevate its status as a global hub for family tourism. It will not only enhance the island's offerings but also serve as a beacon for innovation, culture, and sustainability in Abu Dhabi's tourism vision.
As for the opening date, no official timeline has been disclosed yet. However, given the typical development schedule, it is anticipated that the park could be operational by the end of the decade. The collaboration between Disney and Miral promises to create a magical kingdom that intertwines Disney's enchanting narratives with the architectural and cultural richness of the UAE.
In summary, the announcement of Disneyland Abu Dhabi is a landmark moment for Disney and the Middle East, heralding a new era of entertainment and tourism in the region. With its unique positioning and commitment to authenticity, the park aims to deliver an unforgettable experience that resonates with visitors from around the world.
