The Walt Disney Company has joined forces with Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations in Abu Dhabi, to unveil an exciting agreement for a state-of-the-art Disney theme park resort located on Yas Island, United Arab Emirates. This waterfront resort is set to become a premier destination for entertainment and leisure, catering to travelers from across the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and beyond.
As the seventh Disney theme park resort in the world, this project aims to seamlessly intertwine Disney’s legendary stories, beloved characters, and thrilling attractions with the vibrant culture, stunning shorelines, and breathtaking architecture of Abu Dhabi. His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman at Miral, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Abu Dhabi is a place where heritage meets innovation, where we preserve our past while designing the future.” He expressed that the partnership with Disney exemplifies the remarkable outcomes of merging visionary leadership with creative excellence.
“What we are creating with Disney in Abu Dhabi is a whole new world of imagination — an experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world, creating magical moments and memories that families will treasure forever,” Al Mubarak added, highlighting the importance of Abu Dhabi as a premier destination for visitors worldwide.
The new Disney theme park resort will be fully developed and constructed by Miral, with Disney and its renowned Imagineers leading the creative design and operational oversight. This collaboration ensures a world-class experience that will captivate visitors. Miral has a proven track record of developing family entertainment destinations on Yas Island, having previously collaborated with various American and European brands.
Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, remarked on the excitement surrounding this project, stating, “As our seventh theme park destination, it will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting-edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences.” Iger further emphasized that Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be both “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” creating an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment.
The UAE serves as a significant gateway for tourism, located within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population. It boasts the largest global airline hub, with approximately 120 million passengers traveling through Abu Dhabi and Dubai annually. This strategic location enhances the potential reach of the new Disney theme park resort, making it accessible to a vast audience.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, stated, “This groundbreaking resort destination represents a new frontier in theme park development.” He highlighted the unique waterfront location, which will allow Disney to share its stories in innovative ways. This project aims to welcome more families to experience the magic of Disney than ever before, celebrating the possibilities that arise when creativity and progress converge.
“Bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marks a historic milestone in our journey to further advance the island’s position as a global destination for exceptional entertainment and leisure,” said Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral. He expressed confidence that the development of unique experiences will foster sustained economic growth in Abu Dhabi and beyond.
Upon completion, the new theme park resort will feature signature Disney entertainment, themed accommodations, and unique dining and retail experiences. It will celebrate the rich heritage of Disney while embracing the futuristic and cultural essence of Abu Dhabi, ensuring it becomes a cherished destination for generations to come.
