Disney Announces First Middle East Theme Park in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — The Walt Disney Company has announced plans for its first-ever theme park and resort complex in the Middle East, to be located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.

The project, dubbed Disneyland Abu Dhabi, marks the seventh Disney theme park globally and aims to blend contemporary architecture with cutting-edge technology. Disney CEO Bob Iger described the new park as “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati” during the announcement.

In an interview, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro emphasized that this resort will be the company’s most tech-forward destination. He shared, “Anytime we have the opportunity to build from the ground up, we’re going to go after that full force.”

The Disneyland Abu Dhabi resort will be developed, built, and operated by Miral, Abu Dhabi’s creator of immersive destinations. Disney Imagineers will oversee creative design and operational details, ensuring that guests experience the hallmark Disney magic.

“There is almost an insatiable demand for these Disney experiences,” D’Amaro added. “For every one theme park visitor we have today, there are 10 more fans out there that want to experience something Disney but have never had a chance.”

The UAE’s strategic location — within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population — is anticipated to boost tourism to the new resort. Iger highlighted Abu Dhabi as a culturally rich hub, merging its heritage with innovation. “We think with this new park, we have an opportunity to celebrate everything that is special about the Disney stories,” he said.

Specific details about the park’s attractions and opening date will be shared in the future. However, the new Disneyland is part of a larger Disney commitment with a $60 billion investment in the Experiences division over the next decade.

Miral’s past projects on Yas Island include Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, which suggests a strong foundation for Disney’s latest venture. The synergy between Disney and Miral reflects a shared vision for creating world-class attractions that will cater to both locals and international travelers.

“This is a thrilling moment for our company,” Iger stated. “It will create magical moments and memories that families will treasure forever.” Miral’s Chairman, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the collaboration’s potential to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a global entertainment destination.