Watch: Celebrities and fireworks light up Yas Island in historic Disney Theme Park launch
Over 9,000 drones dazzle sky in breathtaking ceremony
ABU DHABI: This week, history was made in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as Yas Island hosted a dazzling celebration to announce the launch of the Middle East and Africa’s first-ever Disney theme park resort.
Marking this monumental partnership between Miral and The Walt Disney Company, more than 9,000 drones lit up the Abu Dhabi sky in a record-breaking light show, followed by a breathtaking fireworks display. The event captivated guests with a live performance from global artists and drew international attention as global celebrities graced the celebration.
The vibrant ceremony took place at Yas Links, showcasing an orchestration of visuals and music to announce the seventh Disney theme park resort in the world – and its first venture in the Middle East. It promises to connect Abu Dhabi with global tourism circuits spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, and India, further solidifying Yas Island’s reputation as a premier international entertainment hub.
Global guest list
The occasion attracted a star-studded guest list, including Hollywood actor Tyrese Gibson, supermodel Naomi Campbell, Lebanese icon Nancy Ajram, Italian fashion influencer Chiara Ferragni, and Gossip Girl actor Ed Westwick. Industry leaders, entertainment figures, government dignitaries, and prominent media professionals also gathered to witness the landmark moment for the region’s tourism and leisure landscape.
Among the evening’s artistic highlights was a mesmerising collaboration between world-renowned pianist Lang Lang and beloved Emirati singer Rashed Alnuaimi. They were joined by West End sensation Kerry Ellis and classical vocalist Sonya Balsara, delivering a powerful musical performance that echoed across Yas Island’s waterfront.
The 9,000-strong drone display – the largest of its kind in the region – transformed the sky into a living canvas, with imagery inspired by Disney's iconic characters and storytelling legacy. The synchronised drones, accompanied by vibrant music and fireworks, painted an imaginative narrative that celebrated the fusion of Disney magic with Abu Dhabi’s cultural vibrance.
UAE illuminated
As part of the festivities, iconic landmarks across the UAE lit up in Disney-inspired visuals. The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, along with Aldar HQ and other prominent structures in Abu Dhabi, featured themed projections and blue lighting to commemorate the announcement. These symbolic illuminations extended the celebration far beyond Yas Island, marking a nationwide embrace of this milestone project.
The upcoming Disney resort will be masterfully developed by Miral, the driving force behind Yas Island’s transformation into a global leisure destination. Disney’s renowned Imagineers will spearhead the creative direction, ensuring that the new destination seamlessly integrates world-class attractions with the cultural essence of Abu Dhabi.
This announcement is not only a major achievement for Disney and Miral but also an economic signal of confidence in the UAE’s tourism sector. As the destination continues to evolve, Yas Island cements its standing as a global beacon for entertainment and immersive travel experiences.
Visionary development
Miral is widely recognised for developing immersive, multi-attraction environments and managing Abu Dhabi’s premier tourism assets. Its portfolio includes renowned attractions such as Ferrari World Yas Island, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Yas Island, Yas Waterworld, and the record-breaking CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi. The company also oversees the Yas Bay Waterfront and Etihad Arena – the region’s largest indoor entertainment venue.
In addition to managing Yas Island, Miral is spearheading development strategies on Saadiyat Island and introducing visionary projects like teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi and the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. The Harry Potter-themed land under construction at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi further reflects Miral’s commitment to delivering globally recognised experiences in the UAE capital.
The new Disney resort will add to this impressive portfolio, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors and further diversifying Abu Dhabi’s tourism economy. While full details of the resort’s layout, features, and launch date are yet to be revealed, expectations are high for attractions that blend Disney’s legendary storytelling with the heritage and modernity of the Emirates.
Strategic location
Yas Island is strategically located just 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 50 minutes from Dubai, making it highly accessible to regional and international travellers. Spanning 25 square kilometres, the island offers a diverse mix of leisure and entertainment – from award-winning theme parks and luxurious hotels to record-setting adventure attractions and vibrant nightlife.
Attractions like the Yas Marina Circuit – home to the FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX™ – alongside Yas Mall, Yas Links Golf Course, and over 165 dining experiences contribute to the island’s year-round appeal. Venues like WHITE Abu Dhabi and the Etihad Arena offer world-class music, sports, and entertainment events that draw crowds from across the globe.
The opening of SeaWorld® Yas Island in 2023 added another dimension to the island’s offerings, positioning Yas Island as a complete leisure ecosystem. With the Disney resort now in development, the island’s portfolio enters a new era of growth and international visibility.