Disney and Miral Announce Plans for New Disney Theme Park and Resort on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

This iconic waterfront destination, known for connecting travelers from the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and beyond, will soon welcome the seventh Disney theme park resort worldwide.

A New Era of Entertainment in Abu Dhabi

The new Disney theme park resort on Yas Island will blend Disney’s beloved stories, characters, and attractions with Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural heritage, stunning coastal scenery, and modern architectural marvels. The project aims to create a world of imagination and inspiration that resonates with both locals and international visitors.

His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, emphasized the visionary spirit behind the collaboration:

“Abu Dhabi is a place where heritage meets innovation, where we preserve our past while designing the future. The collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence. 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.”

Disney’s Signature Experience with an Emirati Touch

The resort will be fully developed by Miral, with Disney’s legendary Imagineers leading the creative design and overseeing operations to ensure a world-class guest experience. The new theme park will be an unparalleled fusion of Disney’s storytelling magic and Abu Dhabi’s modern, dynamic spirit.

Robert A. Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, highlighted the unique vision for the project:

“This is a thrilling moment for our company as we announce plans to build an exciting Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, whose culture is rich with an appreciation of the arts and creativity. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati—an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world.”

An Innovative Tourist Hub

Strategically located on Yas Island, the resort will leverage Abu Dhabi’s position as a global travel hub. The UAE is within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population, making it a prime location for international tourism. More than 120 million passengers pass through Abu Dhabi and Dubai annually, cementing the emirate’s role as a key player in the leisure tourism sector.

Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, stated:

“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. Anchored by a beautiful waterfront, this park will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways and welcome more families than ever before.”

A Cultural and Economic Milestone

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, personally witnessed the project announcement. He emphasized that this partnership aligns with the UAE’s vision to enhance its position as a global leader in leisure tourism, reflecting the importance of cultural and creative economies in driving economic diversification.

Miral’s CEO, Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, expressed pride in advancing Yas Island’s status as a world-class destination:

“Bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marks a historic milestone in our journey to further advance the island’s position as a global destination. Together, we are creating a place of boundless innovation, where the vision of our leadership continues to inspire the world.”

A Global Destination for Families

Disneyland Abu Dhabi will feature unique entertainment, themed accommodations, immersive dining and retail experiences, and innovative storytelling that seamlessly blends Disney magic with Abu Dhabi’s cultural vibrancy. The project not only promises to redefine family entertainment but also to serve as a model for future theme park innovation.

For more information about the project and updates on the development, visit Disney and Miral’s official websites.

Image Credit: © Disney