In a bold move that blends imagination with innovation, The Walt Disney Company and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading destination developer, have officially announced plans to bring a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
This groundbreaking development will mark Disney’s seventh global destination resort—and its first ever in the Middle East—making it a milestone moment in the company’s nearly 100-year history.
Set on a vibrant waterfront in one of the most strategically located cities in the world, the new resort aims to capture the hearts of families across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and beyond.
A Vision of Magic and Modernity
The announcement has been met with excitement from both Disney and Miral leadership, highlighting a shared vision to create an experience that is authentically Disney while being distinctly Emirati. The new resort will combine Disney’s beloved characters and stories with Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural heritage, modern architecture, and stunning coastal beauty.
“What we are creating with Disney in Abu Dhabi is a whole new world of imagination,” said His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral. “An experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world, creating magical moments and memories that families will treasure forever.”
This is more than just a theme park—it's a collaborative project aimed at long-term sustainable growth in the region, further positioning travel and tourism as essential pillars of Abu Dhabi’s thriving economy.
Designed by Disney, Built by Miral
While the physical construction will be led by Miral—already known for world-class attractions on Yas Island—Disney Imagineers will oversee the creative direction and guest experience. This includes everything from park layout and themed environments to character interactions and storytelling integration.
“Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. “Anchored by a beautiful waterfront, the location allows us to tell our stories in new and exciting ways.”
Miral will operate the completed resort, bringing its strong experience in managing high-profile entertainment destinations to the table. This partnership ensures a smooth blend of global storytelling and local hospitality.
A Destination Like No Other
Disney’s Abu Dhabi resort will feature signature elements fans know and love—immersive rides, live shows, character experiences, themed hotels, and unique dining and shopping options. But what sets it apart is its commitment to cultural integration.
Robert A. Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, described the project as a way to combine tradition with innovation:
“This destination will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati... an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment that brings our timeless stories to life in new ways.”
The architecture is expected to reflect the futuristic yet culturally rooted aesthetic that Abu Dhabi is known for, combining cutting-edge technology with regional design elements. Guests can expect immersive worlds where local culture meets global fantasy.
Why Abu Dhabi?
The United Arab Emirates is one of the most strategically located countries on the planet. Within a four-hour flight from one-third of the world’s population, it has become a major global travel hub. Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s airports collectively serve over 120 million passengers annually, making the region a natural choice for a major global resort destination.
This move supports both Disney’s goal to expand its global footprint and Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become a world leader in family entertainment and leisure.
“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.”
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Disney and the Region
This project isn’t just about building another theme park—it’s about setting a new standard for immersive, culturally inclusive entertainment. By combining Disney’s storytelling legacy with the future-forward vision of Abu Dhabi, the resort aims to create unforgettable experiences for millions of families.
While the timeline for completion hasn’t been officially announced, anticipation is already building among fans, travelers, and industry experts alike.
With this announcement, Disney continues to prove that magic knows no borders. And for the people of the Middle East—and the world—it’s just the beginning of a new kind of Disney dream.
