Disney’s Arabian Adventure Begins
The Walt Disney Company and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s premier creator of immersive destinations and experiences, have announced a historic agreement to develop a world-class Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Strategically located on Yas Island, the waterfront destination will connect travelers from across the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and beyond. As Disney’s seventh theme park resort globally, this new venture will merge Disney’s beloved characters, stories, and attractions with the cultural richness and architectural beauty of Abu Dhabi.
“Abu Dhabi is where tradition meets innovation — a place where we honor our heritage while embracing the future,” said His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral. “This collaboration with Disney showcases what’s possible when visionary leadership and creative excellence come together. The experience we are co-creating will unlock a new realm of imagination, inspiring generations and delivering cherished memories to families from around the world. Through this development, Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its position as a premier global destination.”
Miral will fully finance and develop the resort, while Disney’s renowned Imagineers will take the lead on creative direction and provide operational expertise to ensure a world-class guest experience. With a strong track record of delivering major entertainment projects on Yas Island, Miral will also operate the resort.
“This is an incredibly exciting moment for The Walt Disney Company as we unveil plans to bring a one-of-a-kind Disney resort to Abu Dhabi — a place known for its vibrant appreciation of the arts and innovation,” said Robert A. Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “Our seventh global destination will feature a breathtaking blend of modern architecture and advanced technology, offering deeply immersive experiences that are both authentically Disney and uniquely Emirati. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be a cultural oasis — a place where stories come alive in extraordinary ways, providing joy and inspiration to millions in the region and beyond.”
Strategically positioned within a four-hour flight radius of one-third of the global population, the UAE offers a powerful hub for international tourism. Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s airports collectively serve more than 120 million passengers annually, further enhancing the resort’s accessibility and appeal.
“This pioneering destination represents a bold new chapter in the evolution of theme parks,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. “Our Abu Dhabi resort will be the most technologically advanced and interactive in our portfolio. Its unique waterfront setting will enable us to reimagine storytelling and design in fresh, compelling ways — expanding the Disney experience to a dynamic new audience.”
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, added, “Introducing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island is a significant milestone in our mission to elevate Abu Dhabi’s global entertainment appeal. We are building a place of limitless creativity, driven by the visionary ambitions of our leadership and the magic of Disney.”
Upon completion, the resort will feature iconic Disney attractions, themed accommodations, immersive dining and retail outlets, and innovative storytelling that pays tribute to both Disney’s legacy and Abu Dhabi’s futuristic spirit.