Get ready for a magical adventure, Disney is building its first-ever theme park in the Middle East, and it’s coming to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

In a major announcement, The Walt Disney Company confirmed plans to open a brand-new resort destination in partnership with Miral, the team behind attractions like SeaWorld, Warner Bros. World, and Ferrari World.

The announcement was witnessed by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

The park will feature all the classic Disney magic, beloved characters, world-famous rides, themed hotels, shopping, dining, and much more. According to Disney CEO Bob Iger, the resort will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati.”

The announcement marks a historic moment for the region, as this will be Disney’s 13th park worldwide and its first brand-new resort since Shanghai Disney opened in 2016.

A First for the Middle East

Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be designed by the company’s world-famous Imagineers and funded entirely by Miral, the Abu Dhabi-based developer behind many entertainment projects. Construction will begin once the designs are completed, a process expected to take about two years, and the park itself will take another five to six years to build.

While Disney has not yet revealed specific rides or themed areas, the company says the park will be its most technologically advanced and will feature attractions that highlight its most iconic stories and characters, while also reflecting Abu Dhabi’s local culture and modern architecture.

What We Know So Far

• Location: Yas Island
• Design: Disney’s expert “Imagineers” are currently working on the plans. Construction will begin once designs are finalised, with the park expected to take 5 to 6 years to complete.
• Technology: It will be Disney’s most advanced park yet, with cutting-edge features and immersive experiences.
• No cost to Disney: The project is fully funded by Miral, making this a major investment in the UAE’s tourism future.

What to Expect

• A fully immersive resort destination
• Attractions from across Disney’s franchises
• Themed hotels, restaurants, and shops
• A castle as the centrepiece
• A park that’s “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” according to Disney CEO Bob Iger

A Game-Changer for Tourism

“This is a massive opportunity,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. “Abu Dhabi gives us the perfect location to welcome families from across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe.”

Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be located in a key global hub, with more than 120 million travellers passing through Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports each year. The entire project will be funded and operated by Miral.