Yas Island’s skyline is about to get more magical, as Disney announces a groundbreaking theme park resort in Abu Dhabi.
In a historic announcement witnessed by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi revealed plans to launch its own Disney Theme Park Resort — marking the entertainment giant’s first venture of its kind in the Middle East.
The mega project will be developed on Yas Island, one of the region’s premier entertainment destinations, through a strategic partnership between The Walt Disney Company and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s powerhouse behind immersive tourism destinations.
“This is more than just an amusement park — it’s a bold step in reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s global presence in cultural and family tourism,” stated His Highness Sheikh Khaled. He emphasized the role of creative industries in driving economic diversification and contributing to the UAE’s GDP.
A New Milestone for Disney
The Abu Dhabi Disney Resort will be the seventh Disney theme park destination globally, joining the ranks of iconic locations in California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.
Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, called the project a “cultural, entertainment, and technological marvel,” praising Abu Dhabi’s status as a dynamic, globally connected hub ideal for storytelling on a grand scale.
A First-of-Its-Kind Resort Experience
Unlike any other Disney park to date, the Abu Dhabi resort promises a reimagined take on classic Disney elements. From a futuristic castle centerpiece to revolutionary rides and immersive attractions, the resort is set to deliver a next-generation experience fueled by advanced technology and visionary design.
Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, confirmed that the park’s blueprint will “push the boundaries of theme park architecture,” offering something entirely new for Disney fans in the region and beyond.
Miral to Take the Helm
While Disney will steer the creative and experiential direction of the resort, Miral will take full charge of development and operations. Known for creating landmark attractions such as Ferrari World and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Miral brings a wealth of experience in delivering large-scale family destinations in the UAE.
“What we are building is a world of imagination and inspiration that will create unforgettable moments for families across the globe,” said HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral. “This collaboration cements Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global cultural and tourism powerhouse.”
Once complete, the resort is expected to attract millions of visitors, bolster tourism revenues, and further position Abu Dhabi as a must-visit destination on the world map.
