Abu Dhabi announces first-ever Disney Theme Park Resort in Middle East (VIDEO)
Yas Island to host region’s most ambitious entertainment development yet
Abu Dhabi has announced the launch of a Disney Theme Park Resort on Yas Island, marking the entertainment giant’s first destination in the Middle East and seventh globally.
The development was unveiled in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. The project stems from a strategic partnership between The Walt Disney Company and Miral, the emirate’s destination management leader.
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated that this landmark collaboration showcases the global stature of Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates as world-class destinations in the cultural and leisure tourism sectors. He also emphasised that the creative economy is now a vital part of the UAE’s strategy to diversify its economy and boost GDP, in line with the National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries.
The announcement event also saw the presence of senior officials including Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Miral; Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport; Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council; and Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral.
Disney comes to Yas Island
Yas Island is globally recognised for its immersive attractions and entertainment offerings, making it a prime location for Disney’s latest venture. Already home to iconic venues like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World, the addition of a Disney resort further positions the island as a hub connecting key tourism markets in the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, and Europe.
This expansion makes Abu Dhabi the seventh location to host a Disney theme park resort, joining the ranks of California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. The resort will be fully developed by Miral, while Disney will oversee creative design, attractions, and operational standards to ensure an exceptional guest experience.
Bob Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, commented on the significance of the venture, stating: “This is an extraordinary opportunity for Disney to bring its renowned storytelling to yet another region of the world with a completely new theme park experience that will be a cultural, entertainment and technological marvel.”
A bold vision
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak described the collaboration as a fusion of authentic Emirati heritage and future-facing creativity. “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, creating magical moments and memories that families will treasure forever,” he said.
Miral will also operate the resort upon completion, bringing its extensive experience managing major entertainment assets on Yas Island. Its portfolio includes partnerships with top-tier American and European brands, further solidifying the emirate's leadership in leisure and family tourism.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, provided further insight into the project’s scale: “The concept for this resort will push the boundaries of theme park design, showcasing groundbreaking technology and visionary architecture, including a modern castle unlike anything we’ve ever created.”
He added that the initiative, alongside major expansions in Florida and California, will create thousands of jobs in the United States, signalling a global era of growth for Disney’s theme park division.