Disney Set to Open New Theme Park and Resort in Abu Dhabi
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In a groundbreaking announcement, Disney revealed plans to open its first-ever theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi, marking its seventh global theme park resort and its first in the Middle East. The destination, known as Disneyland Abu Dhabi, will be located on Yas Island, a popular entertainment hub that already attracts millions of visitors from across the Middle East, Africa, India, Europe, and beyond.
Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, will oversee the development and operations of the resort, while Disney’s renowned Imagineers will spearhead the creative design to ensure the park delivers the immersive storytelling and world-class experiences synonymous with the Disney brand. The resort is set to feature immersive attractions, hotels, dining options, themed accommodations, and unique shopping experiences that blend Disney’s heritage with Abu Dhabi’s architectural beauty and cultural identity.
Disney CEO Bob Iger expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati—an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world.” The park is expected to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways, promising to bring joy and inspiration to people in the region for generations to come.
The opening date for Disneyland Abu Dhabi has not been finalized yet, according to Iger, who mentioned that the park’s design and development typically take between 18 months to two years, with construction lasting approximately five years. Factors such as the UAE’s strategic location as a major air travel hub played a vital role in Disney’s decision to expand to Abu Dhabi, with over 120 million travelers passing through Abu Dhabi and Dubai each year.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of Miral, highlighted the significance of the partnership with Disney, stating, “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.” The collaboration between Disney and Miral is poised to enhance Yas Island’s position as a global destination for exceptional entertainment and leisure.
Moreover, Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, emphasized the unique location of the park, anchored by a beautiful waterfront, allowing Disney to tell their stories in innovative ways that promise to captivate visitors. Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to become a milestone moment both for Disney and the region, offering a place of boundless innovation and creativity.
The addition of Disneyland Abu Dhabi to Yas Island’s roster of entertainment offerings signifies a historic milestone, according to Miral’s Group CEO Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi. As the project unfolds, it is expected to elevate the island’s status as a global destination for exceptional entertainment and leisure, attracting visitors from around the world.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi joins a prestigious lineup of Disney theme parks worldwide, including the original park in Anaheim, California, and others in Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. The announcement of the new theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi marks a significant expansion for Disney into a region known for its blend of tradition and innovation, promising a new chapter in the iconic brand’s history.