Walt Disney has revealed plans to launch its first theme park in the Middle East, set to open on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The project is a collaboration between Walt Disney and Miral, a leading UAE-based leisure and entertainment company.
Yas Island, already home to attractions such as SeaWorld and Warner Bros. World, will soon welcome a Disney-themed resort. Miral is also currently developing a Harry Potter-themed park, further positioning Yas Island as a top-tier global entertainment destination.
In a statement, Disney highlighted the strategic location of the UAE, situated within a four-hour flight for one-third of the global population. With more than 120 million passengers traveling through Abu Dhabi and Dubai annually, the region serves as one of the world’s largest airline hubs.
Robert Iger, Chief Executive of The Walt Disney Company, described the upcoming Disneyland Abu Dhabi as both “authentically Disney” and “distinctly Emirati,” calling the announcement a thrilling milestone for the brand.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, emphasized that the Disney resort will further elevate Yas Island’s status as a premier global destination and contribute to sustained economic growth in Abu Dhabi and beyond.
The 25-square-kilometre Yas Island is conveniently located 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and about 50 minutes from Dubai. This development marks the seventh Disney theme park globally, joining existing locations in California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.
