06/06/2025

Everything You Need to Know About Disneyland Abu Dhabi

The magic of Disney is coming to the Middle East! In May 2025, Disney and Abu Dhabi’s Miral announced an exciting partnership to create Disneyland Abu Dhabi - a brand-new, world-class theme park resort set to open on Yas Island, the UAE’s premier entertainment destination. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated project.

A new era for Disney and the Middle East 

Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be the company’s first theme park in the Middle East and its seventh global resort, marking the first new Disney park in 15 years. The announcement is a major milestone for both Disney and the UAE, placing Abu Dhabi alongside iconic Disney destinations like Los Angeles, Orlando, Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Shanghai.

Location and design

The resort will be built on Yas Island, a hub already famous for attractions like Warner Bros. World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Ferrari World. Unlike some of its counterparts, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is planned as a waterfront destination, with artistic renderings showcasing a unique, modern castle right on the beach.

Given the region’s extreme temperatures, the park will feature a blend of indoor and outdoor experiences. Early reports and local developers have confirmed that much of the park will be fully or partially indoors to ensure guest comfort year-round.

Creative collaboration

Disney’s legendary Imagineers will lead the creative design and operational oversight, ensuring the resort is “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati”. Miral, the Abu Dhabi-based developer behind many of Yas Island’s top attractions, will handle construction and daily operations, similar to the model used for Tokyo Disneyland.

What to expect

Iconic Disney stories and characters: The resort will bring beloved Disney stories and characters to life in new and innovative ways, blending Disney’s timeless magic with Abu Dhabi’s rich culture and architecture.

World class entertainment: Expect groundbreaking attractions, themed accommodations, unique dining and shopping experiences, all infused with Disney’s signature storytelling.

Stunning waterfront setting: The park’s location on Yas Island offers breathtaking views and easy access for travellers from the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, and Europe.

Family-friendly magic: Disneyland Abu Dhabi is designed to create unforgettable memories for families and fans of all ages.

Opening date and economic impact

While an exact opening date hasn’t been announced, industry experts predict the resort could open by 2030 or in the early 2030s. The project is expected to be a major driver for tourism in the UAE, creating thousands of jobs and supporting local businesses. Yas Island already attracts millions of visitors each year, and Disneyland Abu Dhabi is set to accelerate this growth even further.

Disneyland Abu Dhabi is more than just a new theme park, it’s a symbol of Abu Dhabi’s ambition to diversify its economy and become a global entertainment powerhouse. With its strategic location, innovative design, and the magic of Disney, this resort is poised to become a must-visit destination for families and Disney fans around the world.