Disney Unveils New Theme Park Resort on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Disney announces its seventh theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on Yas Island, opening in the early 2030s. Discover details of this futuristic park.
Walt Disney Company revealed plans for its seventh theme park resort, a groundbreaking destination on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Announced on May 7, 2025, this marks Disney first venture into the Middle East, partnering with Miral, a local leader in immersive experiences.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, sits on the Persian Gulf, known for its modern architecture and cultural landmarks. Yas Island, a 20-minute drive from downtown Abu Dhabi and 50 minutes from Dubai, is a thriving entertainment hub. It already hosts Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, SeaWorld, and Warner Bros. World, making it a prime location for Disney expansion.
The new resort, tentatively called Disneyland Abu Dhabi, will feature a waterfront setting, a first for Disney. Unlike traditional fairytale castles, the park centerpiece will be a modern, spiraling crystal structure, blending Abu Dhabi futuristic aesthetic with Disney storytelling. Disney Imagineers will lead creative design, ensuring an immersive experience, while Miral will finance and operate the resort.
Disney CEO Bob Iger emphasized the park cultural fit, calling it “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati.” The resort will include themed accommodations, dining, and retail, integrating advanced technology for interactive experiences. No opening date is confirmed, but Iger noted a typical timeline of 18-24 months for design and five years for construction, suggesting an early 2030s debut.
Yas Island strategic location, accessible within a four-hour flight for one-third of the world population, including 1.4 billion in India, drove Disney decision. The park aims to tap into a 500-million-strong regional tourism market. This move aligns with Abu Dhabi push to diversify its economy through tourism, backed by over $10 billion in infrastructure investments.
Disney will not invest capital but will earn royalties, allowing focus on its $60 billion global park investment plan, including domestic projects like Villains Land and Cars Land. The Abu Dhabi park is expected to be Disney most technologically advanced, rivaling Shanghai Disneyland in innovation.
Social media buzz on X reflects excitement, with posts highlighting the park potential to elevate Yas Island as a global entertainment destination. Fans anticipate a unique blend of Disney magic and Emirati culture, with concept art sparking discussions about its modern design.
While competition grows, with Universal opening Epic Universe in Florida and planning a UK resort, Disney remains confident. Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, told CNBC that new attractions in Central Florida boost overall tourism, benefiting Disney. The Abu Dhabi project underscores Disney global ambition to reach new audiences.
