Disneyland Abu Dhabi: Middle East’s first Disney park
Is Disney building a theme park in Abu Dhabi? Yes!!! The Walt Disney Company has officially announced its plans to establish a new Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone as it ventures into the Middle East for the very first time. This ambitious project, known as Disneyland Abu Dhabi, is coming to Yas Island, a vibrant hub for entertainment and leisure in the UAE capital.
This theme park by Disney in Abu Dhabi aims to blend iconic storytelling with the UAE’s rich culture and stunning landscapes, creating a unique experience for visitors from around the globe. What do we know about the upcoming Disney theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi so far? Let’s find out.
The Vision Behind the Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi
Disney proudly operates 12 magical parks across six exciting destinations: California, Florida, Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Shanghai! And Disneyland Abu Dhabi is set to become the seventh global resort destination for the company and its first in the entire MENA region. Isn’t that wonderful?
The decision to build a Disney theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi reflects Disney’s commitment to expanding its reach and captivating new audiences in a dynamic region.
In North America, you’ll find four enchanting parks at Walt Disney World in Florida and two at Disneyland Resort in California. In Asia, there are two spectacular parks at Tokyo Disney Resort, along with one each at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort. Moving over to Europe, Disneyland Paris stands out with two fantastic parks, making it the only Disney resort on the entire continent.
A Unique Cultural Fusion
Disney’s seventh theme park will not merely replicate existing attractions but will instead incorporate elements that resonate with the local culture and environment.
Disney CEO Bob Iger emphasised the importance of creating a park that is “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati” during the official Disney Abu Dhabi announcement led by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, also attended the launch event.
This approach aims to ensure that the experiences offered are not only familiar to Disney fans but also celebrate the heritage and innovation of Abu Dhabi.
Disney’s new theme park in Abu Dhabi Location
Yas Island’s strategic position as a major entertainment hub in the UAE capital is a key factor in Disney’s decision to make it the location of the Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi.
With over 120 million passengers passing through Abu Dhabi and Dubai each year and one-third of the world’s population within a four-hour flight, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is poised to attract families from diverse regions, including the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe.
Development and Design
Miral, a leading creator of immersive destinations in the UAE, will spearhead the development of Disneyland Abu Dhabi.
With iconic entertainment venues like SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, CLYMB™ Yas Island and Ferrari World to their credit, Miral will oversee the construction and operational aspects of the park. At the same time, Disney’s renowned Imagineers will lead the creative design, ensuring that the park meets the high standards of the Disney brand.
Architectural Marvel
The park is expected to feature a modern castle, which will be a departure from traditional fairy-tale designs. This contemporary structure will rise majestically from the landscape, symbolising the fusion of Disney’s imaginative storytelling with Abu Dhabi’s innovative spirit. The design will incorporate cutting-edge technology to create immersive experiences that engage visitors in new and exciting ways.
Sustainable Growth
The collaboration between Disney and Miral also underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustainable growth in the tourism sector. The park is envisioned as a catalyst for economic development, attracting visitors and creating regional jobs. This aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to position itself as a global destination for entertainment and leisure.
Attractions and Experiences
While specific details about the attractions have yet to be revealed, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to feature a mix of classic Disney rides and new experiences tailored to the local culture.
Immersive Storytelling
Disney is renowned for its ability to weave captivating narratives into its attractions. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will continue this tradition, offering guests the chance to engage with beloved characters and stories in a setting that reflects the unique cultural landscape of the UAE.
Aladdin by Disney
Set in the fictional kingdom of Agrabah, Aladdin might inspire rides and attractions at the Disney Abu Dhabi park. Think Magic Carpet rollercoaster or even a castle looking like the Sultan’s Palace.
Attractions inspired by Aladdin are currently operational at Disney parks globally. In Florida, Walt Disney World features The Magic Carpets of Aladdin ride within the Magic Kingdom. Comparable aerial carousel experiences can be found at Tokyo DisneySea with Jasmine’s Flying Carpets and at Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris with Flying Carpets Over Agrabah. Additionally, Disneyland Park in Paris offers a walkthrough experience themed around the film, known as Aladdin’s Enchanted Passage.
Moon Knight from Marvel and Tatooine in Star Wars
Apart from Aladdin-inspired attractions, you can expect Marvel’s Moon Knight and Tatooine from Star Wars to set up the stage at Yas Island’s latest theme park.
For an extended period, Moon Knight was viewed as one of Marvel’s most overlooked characters — a brooding, Batman-esque antihero who derives his abilities from the deities of ancient Egypt. However, in 2022, the character experienced a resurgence in fame when actor Oscar Isaac took on the role in the Disney+ series that shares its name.
Dining and Retail
Aside from thrilling rides, the park will include themed accommodations, diverse dining options and unique retail experiences. Visitors can expect to enjoy a variety of culinary delights that celebrate Disney’s heritage and the rich flavours of Emirati cuisine.
Boosting Tourism
As one of the major tourist destinations in Yas Island, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to draw millions of visitors each year, boosting regional tourism. This influx of tourists will benefit the park and local businesses, hotels and restaurants, creating a ripple effect throughout the economy.
Timeline – When will Disneyland open in the UAE?
What year will Disney’s theme park in Abu Dhabi open? Disneyland Abu Dhabi represents a long-term investment in the region’s tourism infrastructure. While an official Disney theme park Abu Dhabi opening date has not yet been announced, Disney has indicated that the development process typically takes 18 months to two years for design and planning, followed by approximately five years for construction.
FAQS about Disney Abu Dhabi
Where is the Disney theme park located in Abu Dhabi?
Yas Island is the chosen location of the Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi.
Who is the developer behind Disney’s theme park in Abu Dhabi?
Miral Abu Dhabi, known for iconic destinations like Etihad Area, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, is behind the project.
Is there a special store for Disney in the UAE?
You can find the first stand-alone Disney Store in the UAE at Yas Mall and a flagship store at Dubai Mall, which opened in March 2025! The latest announcement regarding the Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi shows their growing enthusiasm for the region.
What rides can I expect at Disneyland Abu Dhabi?
There’s so much to look forward to at Disney’s new theme park in Abu Dhabi! While specific rides and lands are still under wraps, we hope to see our favourite Disney franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, The Lion King and Toy Story at the new Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi.
Does Yas Island have options for family-friendly entertainment in Abu Dhabi?
Of course! Yas Island has no shortage of award-winning theme parks featuring exhilarating rides and attractions, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and the massive Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi.
The announcement of Disneyland in Abu Dhabi heralds a new chapter in Disney’s storied history, as it expands its global footprint into the Middle East.
With its unique blend of cultural authenticity, innovative design and immersive experiences, the new Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi promises to be a landmark destination for families and Disney enthusiasts. As the project progresses, anticipation continues to build and the world eagerly awaits the unveiling of this extraordinary addition to the Disney family.
Stay tuned to MyBayut for the latest updates on Disneyland Abu Dhabi – a celebration of creativity, culture and community.
Featured Image Credit: Miral
