BEYOND BAHRAIN:
It’s the kind of news that makes Disney lovers across the region go “Woohoo!” — The Walt Disney Company is officially bringing the magic to Abu Dhabi. Think iconic characters, magical moments, and a visit down memory lane… but this time, right here in the Middle East. In partnership with Miral, Disney has announced plans to open a theme park resort on Yas Island. Yes, a full-fledged Disney resort — in the UAE.
For families, fans, and dreamers across the region, this is more than just a theme park; it’s a long-awaited cultural moment. After all, many grew up watching Disney classics, collecting merchandise from afar, and dreaming of trips to faraway Disneylands in Paris, Florida, or Tokyo. Now, that dream is getting its chapter in the Gulf.
This major announcement comes as part of an agreement between The Walt Disney Company and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s driving force behind award-winning destinations such as Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld Yas Island. Together, they’ll be building what will become Disney’s seventh theme park resort globally — and its very first in the Middle East.
The resort will be set along the waterfront of Yas Island, already established as one of the region’s leading hubs for entertainment and leisure. The location couldn’t be more strategic — Abu Dhabi sits within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population. With 120 million travellers passing through Abu Dhabi and Dubai each year, the region is a crossroads for cultures, creativity, and now, a new kind of Disney magic.
“This collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence,” said His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral. “What we are creating is a whole new world of imagination – one that will inspire generations and create magical moments that families will treasure forever.”
The resort will be designed and creatively led by Disney’s famed Imagineers, whose innovations have brought to life some of the most beloved theme parks around the world. Miral will oversee development and operations, ensuring the project is rooted in the local landscape while maintaining international standards.
From beloved characters to immersive rides, themed hotels, entertainment shows, and retail experiences, the new resort promises to bring Disney’s rich storytelling to life in ways never seen before in this part of the world.
“This is a thrilling moment for our company,” said Bob Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary entertainment that brings to life our timeless characters and stories in new ways. It will be a source of joy and inspiration for people across the region for generations to come.”
In other words, expect all the classic Disney nostalgia — Mickey, Minnie, Cinderella, Simba, and more — presented through a lens that reflects the region’s own creativity, heritage, and energy.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, called the project “a new frontier in theme park development,” with a promise that the Abu Dhabi resort will be “the most advanced and interactive destination” in Disney’s portfolio.
And there’s reason to believe it. Anchored by the island’s stunning waterfront, the resort will allow for new storytelling techniques, cutting-edge attractions, and a design aesthetic that combines both contemporary architecture and cultural influence.
“This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world,” D’Amaro said. “Ultimately, it will be a celebration of what’s possible when creativity and progress come together.”
Yas Island has steadily built a reputation as the entertainment capital of the UAE. Already home to world-renowned brands such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, and the newly opened SeaWorld, the island has become synonymous with immersive, family-friendly fun.
By bringing Disney into the mix, Abu Dhabi is not only cementing its position on the global tourism map but also creating a destination that resonates deeply with regional audiences — from nostalgic adults to wide-eyed children encountering the magic of Disney for the first time.
“Bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marks a historic milestone,” said Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral. “We are creating a place of boundless innovation and joy, where the vision of our leadership continues to inspire the world.”
The development is expected to carve its own identity — a place where Disney’s storytelling intersects with Emirati values, art, hospitality, and architecture. It’s a celebration of heritage and the future.
While the finer details of what lands and attractions will be included remain under wraps, what’s clear is this: Abu Dhabi is preparing to offer a Disney experience unlike any other — local in flavour, global in reach, and timeless in appeal.
Subscribe Now