Disney has announced plans to build its seventh theme park, marking a significant expansion into the Middle East. The new waterfront resort will be located on Yas Island, just outside of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This announcement was made on May 7, 2025, and the park aims to capitalize on the growing tourism market in the region.
Yas Island is already a vibrant entertainment hub, hosting attractions such as the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, SeaWorld, and a water park. With a population of approximately 9 million, Abu Dhabi has leveraged its position as a major travel hub, thanks in part to long-haul carriers like Emirates and Etihad Airways. These airlines help bring in around 120 million airline passengers to the region each year, making it a prime location for Disney's new venture.
Miral, the Abu Dhabi developer overseeing this project, will be responsible for building and operating the theme park. Disney, on the other hand, will focus on the design and development aspects, licensing its intellectual property, and providing management services. Notably, Disney will not be investing any capital into the project but will instead earn royalties based on the park's revenues and service fees.
The timing of this announcement is particularly interesting, as it coincides with an upcoming visit by U.S. President Donald Trump to the region, scheduled to begin on May 12, 2025. During his visit, Trump is expected to discuss a series of business deals with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, which may further boost interest in the area as a tourist destination.
While Abu Dhabi has traditionally been viewed as a more conservative alternative to the lively nightlife of neighboring Dubai, it is home to cultural landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and several museums currently under construction. This cultural development, combined with the new Disney theme park, positions Abu Dhabi as an increasingly attractive destination for tourists.
Shares of Disney saw a notable increase of more than 9% in morning trading on the day of the announcement, following the release of second-quarter financial results that exceeded Wall Street's expectations. The company reported a strong financial performance, further bolstering investor confidence in its growth strategies.
Last year, Disney had already announced plans to invest a staggering $60 billion (€55.3 billion) over the next decade in its theme parks worldwide, underscoring the importance of this sector as one of its primary revenue generators. The new park in Abu Dhabi is expected to be a significant addition to Disney's global portfolio.
As the project moves forward, many are eager to see how this new theme park will shape the entertainment landscape in the UAE. With its rich blend of culture, history, and modern attractions, Abu Dhabi is poised to become a key player in the global tourism market.
Overall, the development of Disney's seventh theme park in Abu Dhabi represents a pivotal moment for both the company and the region, potentially reshaping tourism dynamics in the Middle East.
