Disney to Build First Middle East Theme Park in Abu Dhabi

The Walt Disney Company and Abu Dhabi-based Miral have announced plans to develop a landmark Disney theme park resort on Yas Island, marking Disney's first venture into the Middle East.

In a historic move, The Walt Disney Company has unveiled plans to establish its first-ever theme park and resort in the Middle East, selecting Abu Dhabi's Yas Island as the prime location. This development, a collaboration with Abu Dhabi's leading entertainment company Miral, signifies Disney's seventh global theme park destination and its most technologically advanced to date.

The announcement was made 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. Sheikh Khaled emphasized that this landmark project underscores the UAE's and Abu Dhabi's growing global prominence as premier destinations for leisure and tourism.

Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, stating, "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." He further highlighted that the resort would blend contemporary architecture with cutting-edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways.

Miral will oversee the full development and construction of the new resort, while Disney will spearhead the creative design, attraction development, and operational leadership to deliver a world-class guest experience.

Yas Island, already renowned for attractions like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Yas Waterworld, will now host the upcoming Disney resort. This addition is expected to further solidify Abu Dhabi's position as a global entertainment hub.

While specific details about the park's attractions and opening date remain under wraps, the collaboration between Disney and Miral promises a unique fusion of Disney's storytelling magic with Emirati cultural elements, setting a new benchmark for theme park experiences in the region.