Disney to open theme park in Middle East

Miral to launch landmark development in Abu Dhabi, UAE

The Walt Disney Company has announced plans to open its first-ever theme park in the Middle East, selecting Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island as the site for the landmark project. 

Developed in partnership with Miral, the government-backed entertainment company behind several of the UAE capital’s biggest attractions, the park will be Disney’s first major global expansion in nearly a decade.

The park will join other big-ticket attractions on Yas Island, which currently include Ferrari World and Warner Bros World. Construction is expected to begin following a design and planning phase of up to two years, with completion forecasted within the next six years. 

The park will feature signature Disney storytelling, cutting-edge technology and attractions based on beloved Disney franchises. While further details of the layout and themed lands have not been revealed, Disney says the development will be tailored to regional audiences and blend global entertainment with local cultural influences.

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Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said: "This is a thrilling moment for our company as we announce plans to build an exciting Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi – our seventh theme park destination.

"Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world that will bring to life our timeless characters and stories in many new ways and will become a source of joy and inspiration for the people of this vast region to enjoy for generations to come.”

Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, added: “This groundbreaking resort destination represents a new frontier in theme park development. Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio. The location of our park is incredibly unique, anchored by a beautiful waterfront, which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways." 

The project is part of a broader initiative by Disney to double investment in its Experiences division over the next 10 years. That includes enhancements across its existing theme parks, an expanded cruise fleet and the exploration of new markets.

The announcement comes as Yas Island and Abu Dhabi continues to attract record visitor numbers. The new Disney park is expected to drive further growth in tourism in the UAE capital.

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