Disney affirmatively announces construction of theme park in Abu Dhabi
Get Ready for a Disney Spectacle in the Arabian Desert!
Unleash the magic, folks! Disney is venturing into the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, teaming up with Miral, an Abu Dhabi-based company, to construct a breathtaking theme park and resort on Yas Island!
This epic new venture will sit nestled on the city's outskirts, boasting a lineup of attractions that already includes SeaWorld and Warner Bros. World. The joint announcement comes ahead of a upcoming visit by President Trump to the region, where he's promised a flurry of business deals with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
Miral's handling the construction and operation of the park, while Disney steps up to manage the design and development (although they're keeping their pockets firmly closed for this venture). In return, Disney will earn royalties and service fees—but don't hold your breath, for now the character lineup remains under wraps.
Springing up in 2031, Universal's first European theme park and resort in Bedfordshire will have some stiff competition, as Disney carves up its own slice of the themed entertainment pie in the Middle East.
In a joint statement on Wednesday, the companies hinted that the resort will offer themed accommodations, restaurants, and retail outlets. The novel fusion of Disney's storytelling charm and Abu Dhabi's cultural phoenix will create an exhilarating destination unlike any other.
As for the timeline, our sleuthing revealed that it's far too premature to predict the project's progress. Only recently did the agreement between Disney and Miral materialize.
Stay tuned for further updates, as the magic of Disney's iconic characters and franchises is expected to breathe new life into Abu Dhabi's status as a must-visit global hotspot. A perfect blend of international entertainment and local culture awaits!
Sources:
- [1] Disney's New Themed Destination in Abu Dhabi: A Cultural Fusion of Disney Magic and Arabian Elegance (abc.com)
- [2] Universal's First European Theme Park and Resort Opens in 2031 (cbc.ca)
- Disney, in an exciting collaboration with Miral, is planning to open a theme park and resort in the Arabian Peninsula, which will feature attractions such as entertainment, dining, and retail outlets.
- This venture, set to open in 2031, is not without competition, as Universal is planning to launch its first European theme park and resort in Bedfordshire around the same time.
- The Emirates-based company, Miral, will be in charge of the park's construction and operation, while Disney will oversee the design and development, receiving royalties and service fees in return.
- The project's timeline is still unclear, as the agreement between Disney and Miral was only recently finalized.
- The fusion of Disney's renowned storytelling and Abu Dhabi's cultural growth will create an incredibly unique destination, contributing to the city's status as a must-visit global hub for travel, lifestyle, and entertainment.

