The Walt Disney Company is set to enter the Middle Eastern market by developing its newest theme park, Disneyland Abu Dhabi. This will mark the first new resort development in 15 years for Disney and is expected to open in the early 2030s. The announcement was made just before Disney’s second-quarter earnings call, highlighting the company’s strategy to enhance its revenue in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape.
Disney’s parks have proven to be a vital source of income, accounting for 59% of its operating income in the recent fiscal year. While attendance at domestic parks slightly declined recently, the company reported a rebound in U.S. park attendance and a surge in revenue during the first quarter. However, park attendance in China has faced challenges due to ongoing trade tensions, impacting international park sales.
The new resort will be developed and operated by Miral, an Abu Dhabi company, in collaboration with Disney Imagineers, who will lead the park’s creative design. Disney’s chairman of experiences, Josh D’Amaro, emphasized the need for the park to reflect the cultural and environmental context of Abu Dhabi, ensuring that the design and offerings are unique to the region.
Strategically located on Yas Island, the resort aims to attract a significant number of visitors, as the regional airport infrastructure facilitates easy access for potential guests. D’Amaro noted that approximately 500 million people in the surrounding region have the means to visit the new park, presenting a lucrative opportunity for Disney.
The Abu Dhabi park is being touted as the most technologically advanced Disney resort to date, blending cutting-edge technology with the futuristic aesthetics of the city. This park will also feature a distinct castle, which will differ from the classic fairytale style, focusing on a more contemporary design. Additionally, the park will be the first Disney resort to be situated directly on a waterfront, enhancing the immersive experience for visitors.
This announcement aligns with the increasing competition in the theme park industry, where Universal Studios has also recently confirmed plans for a new resort. However, D’Amaro remains optimistic that new attractions in the area will ultimately drive more tourism to Disney parks.
Overall, Disneyland Abu Dhabi represents a significant milestone in Disney’s expansion strategy, offering the company a chance to tap into a growing market in the Middle East while balancing its portfolio amid fluctuations in visitor patterns globally. As the world watches Disney embrace this new venture, there is a hopeful tone that it will resonate well with the diverse international audience.