The Walt Disney Company has officially announced Disneyland Abu Dhabi, its seventh global resort destination and the first-ever Disney theme park in the Middle East. This landmark project is being developed in partnership with Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading developer of immersive destinations.
A New Home for Disney Magic
Located on Yas Island—home to Ferrari World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Warner Bros. World—this new park strengthens the island’s reputation as a global entertainment hub. For Disney, it’s a strategic move to expand into a region with immense tourism potential.
“Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” said Disney CEO Bob Iger. The park will blend classic Disney storytelling with Abu Dhabi’s architectural and cultural heritage.
A Global Collaboration
Miral will fully fund, develop, and operate the park, while Disney’s world-renowned Imagineers will lead the design and creative direction. This approach mirrors the successful Tokyo Disneyland model, where Disney licenses its IP while local partners manage operations.
Why Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi offers a unique advantage as a location with one-third of the world’s population being with a 4-hour flight time. Already, 120 million travelers pass through the country on an annual basis.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, said, “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.”
What to Expect
Though specific attractions have not yet been revealed, Disney has shared early plans that state the new park will include original, immersive attractions, that will be unique to the new park.
Disney also promised that there would be new themed hotels and accommodations, as well as culturally infused dining and retail experiences. The layout is also said integrate Disney’s designs with Abu Dhabi’s architectural identity
Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro described the park as “the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio.”
Opening Timeline
No official date has been announced, but projections suggest that design could take up to two years, with a further five years for construction. This places a potential opening around the year 2030, depending on development progress.
A Bold Step Into a New Region
Disneyland Abu Dhabi marks a major milestone in the company’s global strategy. As the first Disney destination in the Middle East, it promises to deliver world-class entertainment while celebrating the cultural richness of the UAE.
