Disney builds new theme park in Abu Dhabi with Miral on Yas Island
An artist's rendering of the new Walt Disney Yas Island theme park in Abu Dhabi (Screenshot: YouTube)
A brand-new Disney theme park and resort is officially set to open in Abu Dhabi through a partnership with Miral, according to NBC News.
Disney has revealed its plans to launch a state-of-the-art theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, marking its seventh global destination.
The entertainment giant is collaborating with UAE-based Miral to bring the project to life on Yas Island, already known for major attractions like Ferrari World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Warner Bros. World.
While Miral will fully fund and develop the park, Disney's renowned imagineers will lead the creative design and ensure operational quality.
Importantly, Disney will not contribute capital but will benefit through royalties.
"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 Bob Iger.
He added that Disney's imagineers have already begun designing the park, though no opening date has been confirmed.
Guests can expect immersive experiences inspired by their favorite Disney cartoons, brought to life through next-generation technology and storytelling.
A strategic move into a rapidly growing market
The decision to expand into the UAE aligns with Disney's broader international strategy.
While the Abu Dhabi park is not part of Disney's $60 billion investment pledge for its parks division over the next decade, it represents a major push into a region with enormous tourism potential.
"This groundbreaking resort destination represents a new frontier in theme park development," said Josh D'Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences. "Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio."
Disney has already established a presence in the UAE through retail stores and touring shows like The Lion King and Disney on Ice.
According to the company, nearly one-third of the world's population lives within a four-hour flight of the UAE, offering access to an addressable tourism market of about 500 million visitors.
Building on the global success of Disneyland, the Abu Dhabi project aims to set a new standard for innovation and cultural integration in theme parks.
The upcoming Disney resort promises to merge the company's signature storytelling with Abu Dhabi's futuristic vision and cultural richness, creating a destination unlike any other.
