Disney to Build New Theme Park in Abu Dhabi

The Walt Disney Company announced on May 7 that it will be expanding to offer a seventh theme park: Disneyland Abu Dhabi. 

Created in partnership with Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations, Miral, the theme park resort will be located on Yas Island, surrounded by scenic waterfront and featuring some of the coolest Disney-inspired architecture at any of the parks.

Miral will build and operate the park, which will function as any other Disney park, with unique themed dining, retail, accommodation and entertainment offerings. 

“This groundbreaking resort destination represents a new frontier in theme park development,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences. “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio. The location of our park is incredibly unique – anchored by a beautiful waterfront – which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways. This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before. Ultimately, it will be a celebration of what’s possible when creativity and progress come together.”

An artist concept of the main castle at Disneyland Abu Dhabi. (Photo Credit: Disney)

Disney did not mention when the park is expected to open, but it will likely be several years from now. 

“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 Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. 

“As our seventh theme park destination, it will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting-edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways,” continued Iger. “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world that will bring to life our timeless characters and stories in many new ways and will become a source of joy and inspiration for the people of this vast region to enjoy for generations to come.” 

Topics From This Article to Explore