Disneyland fans have exciting news to look forward to as the Walt Disney Company has announced plans for a new theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi, set to open by 2030. This ambitious project marks a significant milestone as it will be the first Disney park in the Middle East, built on Yas Island, a popular tourist destination already home to a variety of attractions.
The announcement was made on May 7, 2025, highlighting a collaboration with Miral, a UAE government-backed developer. According to Disney CEO Bob Iger, the park will be "authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati," promising a blend of Disney's iconic stories and characters with the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Abu Dhabi.
The planned waterfront resort is expected to draw tourists from across the globe, including the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, and Europe. Iger emphasized that this new park will not only enhance the Disney brand's reach but also cater to hundreds of millions of potential visitors who find traveling to existing Disney parks lengthy and costly.
Miral, which operates several other attractions on Yas Island, including Warner Bros. World and Ferrari World, will oversee the park’s construction and operations. This unique partnership allows Disney to focus on its creative strengths while Miral handles the financial and operational aspects of the project. Josh D'Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, described the upcoming resort as the company's most "modern" and "tech-forward" destination yet.
In a statement, D'Amaro expressed confidence in the partnership with Miral, stating, "This groundbreaking resort destination represents a new frontier in theme park development." He also noted that Disney’s Imagineers would lead the creative design, ensuring the park aligns with Disney’s high standards of guest experience.
The move comes as part of Disney's broader strategy to invest heavily in its theme parks. In 2023, the company announced plans to double its investment in parks over the next decade. This includes enhancements to existing parks and the construction of new ones, with Iger previously declaring that new parks were "an inevitability." The Abu Dhabi project will be Disney's first new theme park since Shanghai Disneyland opened in 2016.
Yas Island has seen a surge in tourism, recording over 34 million visits in 2023 alone, a 38% increase from the previous year. This growth is part of Abu Dhabi’s vision to diversify its economy beyond oil, with significant investments in infrastructure aimed at boosting tourism. The UAE government has committed over $10 billion to develop the tourism sector, making it a prime location for Disney's expansion.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi is set to feature a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, taking into account the region's hot climate. Plans include a modern castle designed to reflect both Disney's heritage and Abu Dhabi's cultural essence. Iger described the park as "an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world," aiming to create a destination that resonates with local and international visitors.
However, the announcement has not been without controversy. As Disney expands into the UAE, some voices have raised concerns about the company’s ties to a government known for its strict laws regarding freedom of expression and LGBTQ+ rights. Critics have pointed out the potential risks associated with operating in a country that has faced backlash for its human rights record.
In response to these concerns, Disney stated, "We are always respectful of the countries and cultures where we do business, while always adhering to our own standards and values." This commitment to cultural sensitivity is essential as the company navigates the complexities of international expansion.
The new park is also expected to boost the local economy significantly. With the potential to attract millions of visitors, it will create thousands of jobs and enhance the overall tourism experience in the region. Miral Group CEO Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi hailed the project as a historic milestone in their efforts to position Yas Island as a global entertainment hub.
Disney's decision to build in Abu Dhabi reflects a strategic move to tap into a rapidly growing market. The location's proximity to a large population base, combined with the UAE's ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure, makes it an ideal site for Disney's next venture. As Iger noted, the location's commitment to creativity and innovation was a key factor in the decision-making process.
As the project progresses, more details will be revealed about the specific attractions and experiences that will be offered at Disneyland Abu Dhabi. For now, fans can look forward to a new chapter in Disney's storied history, one that promises to blend the magic of Disney with the rich cultural tapestry of the Middle East.
With this new park, Disney aims not only to expand its global footprint but also to create a unique destination that resonates with a diverse audience. As the company prepares for this exciting venture, it remains committed to delivering high-quality experiences that reflect its legacy while embracing the local culture.
In summary, Disneyland Abu Dhabi represents a significant development in Disney's ongoing expansion strategy, showcasing the company’s adaptability and commitment to reaching new audiences worldwide. As the project unfolds, it will undoubtedly be a focal point of interest for both Disney fans and the tourism industry in the region.
