This marks Disney’s first theme park in the Middle East.
Abu Dhabi is about to get a little more magical. In a move set to redefine entertainment in the region, The Walt Disney Company has announced it will open its first-ever theme park and resort in the Middle East — and it’s coming to Yas Island. Already home to Ferrari World, SeaWorld and Warner Bros. World, the dazzling addition of Disneyland Abu Dhabi will further solidify the capital’s status as a global destination for family fun.
No need to apply for a U.S. visa or board a 16-hour flight to get your Disney fix. Soon, a road trip or a short-haul flight will transport you straight into the world of Mickey, Minnie, Elsa, Simba and more.
The Disneyland Abu Dhabi project is a collaboration between Disney and Miral, the developer behind many of Yas Island’s headline attractions. Once complete, the new resort will become the seventh Disney theme park resort in the world — and the first to feature a unique Middle Eastern twist.
While details remain tightly under wraps, Disneyland Abu Dhabi promises to blend beloved Disney magic with local cultural influences. Expect stunning waterfront architecture, Arabian-inspired design flourishes, and a distinctly Emirati flair woven into the storytelling. As with all Disney parks, guests can look forward to iconic parades, fireworks, immersive rides, themed hotels, shopping, dining — and yes, even those collectable flattened coins.
“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,” said Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “As our seventh theme park destination, it will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world that will bring to life our timeless characters and stories in many new ways and will become a source of joy and inspiration for the people of this vast region to enjoy for generations to come.”
Upon completion, the new theme park resort will offer signature Disney entertainment, themed accommodations, unique dining and retail experiences, and storytelling in a way that celebrates both the heritage of Disney and the futuristic and cultural essence of Abu Dhabi.
An official opening date for Disneyland Abu Dhabi has yet to be revealed, but anticipation is already sky-high. The planning phase is expected to take approximately two years, while construction will take a further six years. When the castle doors finally open, Abu Dhabi won’t just be the UAE’s capital, it’ll be the happiest place in the region.
Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or just a kid at heart, this dream-come-true destination promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
GO: Visit miral.ae for more information.