Disney has announced an exciting collaboration with Miral to develop a new theme park resort on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. This will mark Disney’s first new park since the Shanghai Disney Resort opened in 2016. The upcoming park promises to blend immersive attractions with elements of Emirati culture, offering unique experiences that resonate with both locals and international visitors.
In a recent interview, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro described the park as one of the most advanced ever created by the company. “We’ll be able to display all of this ambition, all this innovation, all this new technology,” he noted, hinting at the park’s emphasis on cutting-edge tech. Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger added that Disneyland Abu Dhabi will authentically capture the essence of Disney while celebrating the rich Emirati heritage.
The resort will be strategically located less than 30 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi, making it accessible to visitors from both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The development is part of a broader strategy by Miral, which is known for notable attractions like Warner Bros. World and SeaWorld on Yas Island. Miral’s chairman, His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, expressed his vision for the park, stating it will create lasting memories for families and inspire future generations.
Disney’s partnership with Miral underscores the UAE’s commitment to innovation and creativity, positioning it as a cultural crossroads. With a significant portion of the global population within a short flight of Abu Dhabi, the new theme park aims to attract a diverse audience. The park will not only feature Disney-themed attractions but will incorporate water elements in ways not yet explored in other parks, enhancing the immersive experience.
While the exact opening date has yet to be confirmed, there is an eagerness from both Disney and Miral to expedite the development. This initiative is part of Disney’s larger $60 billion investment strategy, which includes existing park expansions and job creation efforts in both the U.S. and internationally.
The creation of Disney’s new park in Abu Dhabi is a hopeful development that promises to bring joy and inspiration to families around the world, further enriching the entertainment landscape of the region.