Disney to Launch Seventh Theme Park in Abu Dhabi on Yas Island with Miral

Disney has exciting news for fans and travelers alike, announcing the development of its seventh theme park and resort, set to grace the waterfront of Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. This ambitious project is being spearheaded by Miral, a leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, known for attractions such as Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and SeaWorld Yas Island.

Despite the project being developed, built, and operated by Miral, Disney's involvement remains substantial. Disney's Imagineers will lead the creative design and operational oversight, ensuring a world-class experience that lives up to Disney's high standards. Disney CEO Bob Iger highlighted during the company's Q2 2025 Earnings Call that Disney will not invest capital in the project but will receive royalties, stating, "So, there isn't any ownership. We own our IP and license it to them is essentially the agreement."

This new theme park resort in Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati - combing Disney’s iconic stories, characters and attractions with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culture, stunning shorelines, and breathtaking architecture. ✨ https://t.co/M1GHeYgr4H #YasIsland… pic.twitter.com/IyjODlj9ar

— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) May 7, 2025

Iger also shared his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its cultural significance. "This is a thrilling moment for our company as we announce plans to build an exciting Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, whose culture is rich with an appreciation of the arts and creativity," he stated. "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 in unique and modern ways."

The new park, dubbed Disneyland Abu Dhabi, promises to be an authentic Disney experience infused with Emirati culture. It will feature Disney's first-ever modern castle, envisioned as a tower of glass or crystal, as seen in the concept art. The tagline, 'A whole new world awaits,' suggests that the park may include elements from the beloved story of Aladdin.

Discussions about this project have been ongoing since 2017, with Iger noting in an ABC News interview that the plan was "crystalized" last year. While a specific opening date remains unconfirmed, Iger mentioned to CNBC that the typical timeline for such projects spans 18 months to two years for design and development, and approximately five years for construction.

The strategic location of Abu Dhabi, within a four-hour flight of about a third of the world's population and home to the largest global airline hub, positions the new park to attract a vast audience. This development will also fill a significant gap in Disney's global presence by establishing a foothold in the Middle East.

His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman at Miral, expressed his vision for the project, stating, "Abu Dhabi is a place where heritage meets innovation, where we preserve our past while designing the future. The collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence."

He further added, "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. Through the development of unique attractions and experiences, Abu Dhabi continues to be a destination of choice for the world."

Upon completion, Disneyland Abu Dhabi will join the ranks of other Disney destinations, including Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, and Shanghai Disney. Josh D'Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, described the new resort as "the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio."

D'Amaro elaborated, "This groundbreaking resort destination represents a new frontier in theme park development. The location of our park is incredibly unique – anchored by a beautiful waterfront – which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways. This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before. Ultimately, it will be a celebration of what’s possible when creativity and progress come together."

For more insights into the world of Disney, explore our coverage of a visit to Walt Disney Imagineering to learn about the first-ever Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic, and discover everything you need to know about Disneyland's 70th anniversary and the Disney Destiny.