ICYMI: A Disney Theme Park Resort Is Coming to Abu Dhabi

Get ready for your family's next big adventure—Disney is bringing the magic to Abu Dhabi!

The Walt Disney Company announced on May 7 that it is teaming up with Miral, Abu Dhabi's top creator of entertainment destinations, to build a Disney theme park resort on Yas Island, right in the heart of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This will be Disney's seventh global resort—and the first in the Middle East! It aims to be a one-of-a-kind destination, where Disney characters and stories come together with the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Abu Dhabi, offering a magical experience for families near and far.

"Abu Dhabi is a place where heritage meets innovation, where we preserve our past while designing the future," stated His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman at Miral.

"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."

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A Glimpse of the New Disney Resort

As shown in the released concept art, the new Disney theme park resort in UAE will be situated along a beautiful waterfront, featuring immersive attractions, family-friendly accommodations, and themed dining and shopping areas.

It's definitely a fresh take on Disneyland, with an exciting Emirati twist!

The project will be led creatively by Disney's own Imagineers, while Miral will oversee construction and operations. Miral already runs some of Yas Island's most popular attractions, like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World, so they're no strangers to creating top-tier family experiences.

"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 Disney CEO Robert Iger.

"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."

More Than Just a Theme Park

The Disney Abu Dhabi resort won't just offer classic rides and character meet-and-greets. It's being designed as a place where technology, culture, and creativity blend. Families can expect new forms of storytelling that reflect both Disney's global charm and the spirit of Abu Dhabi.

"Bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marks a historic milestone," said Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral.

"Together, we are creating a place of boundless innovation, where the vision of our leadership continues to inspire the world," he added.

Easy Access to Abu Dhabi
Once the resort opens, distance won't be an issue. With over 120 million people passing through the UAE's airports each year, Abu Dhabi is accessible, just a short flight away from one-third of the world. Specifically, the resort is located on Yas Island, just 30 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and under an hour from Dubai, the UAE's capital.

"Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio," said Josh D'Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. 

"This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before." D'Amaro elaborated. "Ultimately, it will be a celebration of what's possible when creativity and progress come together."

When Will Disneyland Abu Dhabi Open?

The resort is still in development with no official opening date announced yet. However, if your family loves the magic of Disney, this is definitely one to keep an eye on. With its prime location, immersive storytelling, and focus on family fun, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is poised to become a must-visit destination for families around the globe.

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