Disneyland Abu Dhabi Is Happening: Here’s What We Know

Disneyland is heading to Abu Dhabi, marking a massive first for the region.

Fez– Disney is finally planting its magic wand in the Middle East, and it’s not just another rumor.

The entertainment giant just announced plans to open “Disneyland Abu Dhabi”, its first-ever theme park in the region and the 13th globally.

The park will be built on Yas Island, a fast-rising entertainment hub already home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld.

This isn’t just big, it’s history in the making.

The project will be fully developed, owned, and operated by UAE-based company “Miral”, with Disney handling the creative vision and branding.

According to Josh D’Amaro, Disney’s Chairman of Parks, Experiences and Products, the design phase alone will take about two years.

Then comes construction, which is expected to stretch over five to six more years. So, realistically, we’re looking at the early 2030s for opening day.

No financial details or sneak peeks of the park’s attractions have been shared yet, but D’Amaro hinted that this will be Disney’s most technologically advanced resort to date.

Imagineers (Disney’s elite team of creatives and engineers) are working on it as we speak.

And in classic Disney fashion, the park will feature the signature castle that’s been the brand’s architectural icon since 1955.

What makes this deal even more interesting? Miral is footing the bill. That means Disney gets a powerful presence in the Middle East, specifically in one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, without spending a dirham.

With over 120 million passengers passing through Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports each year, the location is a strategic jackpot.

This marks Disney’s first major expansion since Shanghai Disneyland opened in 2016 and aligns with the company’s $60 billion investment plan to grow its parks and experiences over the next decade.

That plan also includes doubling its cruise fleet and building new lands, including one based on Disney villains in Florida.

Of course, Disney isn’t alone in this global theme park race. Comcast’s Universal is prepping a $7 billion park in Florida and planning its first European destination in the UK, both of which could crank up the competition with Disneyland Paris.

Yas Island, where the new park will live, is a man-made paradise spanning 26 square kilometers.

Just 30 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi, it already boasts everything from beaches and malls to golf courses and five-star resorts. In other words, it’s primed for Disney magic.

While Disney’s presence in the UAE is already growing (its standalone stores are reportedly thriving), the company has had to navigate cultural sensitivities, like when “Lightyear” was banned in 2022.

Still, D’Amaro confirmed that Disney stays true to its values while respecting local laws wherever it operates.