Disneyland Abu Dhabi — The Middle East’s First Disney Park Set to Open on Yas Island
Monday, 12 May 2025
Abu Dhabi is set to make history as it becomes the first Middle Eastern city to welcome a Disney theme park. Disneyland Abu Dhabi was officially announced at a celebratory event on Yas Island, coinciding with its 15th anniversary. The resort will be Disney’s seventh globally and promises a fusion of the brand’s timeless magic with Emirati flair and state-of-the-art technology.
Key Highlights:
- First Disney park in the Middle East and seventh worldwide (after California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai)
- Officially named Disneyland Abu Dhabi
- Located on Yas Island Waterfront, alongside Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
- Expected to become a global tourism magnet for visitors from the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, and Europe
A Blend of Cultures and Creativity
- Disney CEO Bob Iger described the project as a “cultural, entertainment, and technological marvel.”
- The park will fuse beloved Disney characters and stories with regional tastes, reflecting local traditions and modern architectural styles.
- A modern castle centerpiece, unlike anything created before, will be a key highlight of the park.
Leadership and Development:
- Creative design and attractions will be led by Disney’s global team.
- Miral will oversee on-ground development and operations, ensuring local expertise shapes the experience.
- Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral, described the day as “truly momentous.”
Visionary Design & Tech:
- Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, said the park will “push the boundaries of theme park design.”
- The park will use next-gen technology to deliver immersive guest experiences.
Strategic Significance:
- Part of Disney’s $60 billion global investment in Parks and Experiences over the next decade
- Strengthens Abu Dhabi’s status as a cultural and family entertainment capital
- Reinforces Yas Island as a world-class entertainment hub
What’s Next?
- The official opening date has not been confirmed yet, but development is expected to move rapidly.
- Disney fans in the region can look forward to an experience that’s both globally iconic and locally inspired.
