In a major move that will reshape the global theme park landscape, The Walt Disney Company and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s premier creator of immersive destinations, have announced plans to develop a groundbreaking Disney theme park resort in the United Arab Emirates. Set against the stunning waterfront of Yas Island, the world-class destination will become Disney’s seventh global resort and its first in the Middle East.
Yas Island, already known for its world-leading entertainment offerings, will soon welcome a resort that blends Disney’s beloved stories and characters with the rich culture, futuristic architecture, and natural beauty of Abu Dhabi. Designed to appeal to travelers from the Middle East and Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and beyond, the resort is positioned at a geographic crossroads — within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population.
The announcement was hailed as a landmark achievement by local and international leaders. His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, expressed pride in the partnership: “Abu Dhabi is a place where heritage meets innovation, where we preserve our past while designing the future. What we are creating with Disney is a whole new world of imagination — an experience that will inspire generations and create magical moments families will treasure forever.”
Miral will oversee the full development and construction of the resort, while Disney’s legendary Imagineers will lead the creative vision and provide operational oversight. The project represents a seamless collaboration of expertise — Miral’s proven success in entertainment development on Yas Island, and Disney’s unmatched storytelling and design innovation.
Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, described the project as “a thrilling moment” in Disney’s history. “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will blend contemporary architecture with cutting-edge technology to deliver immersive entertainment experiences in new and modern ways,” he said. “It will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary experiences at this global crossroads.”
The theme park resort will feature Disney’s signature attractions, themed accommodations, imaginative dining, and world-class retail experiences. From Mickey Mouse to Moana, guests can expect a fresh take on the stories they love, brought to life through a cultural lens that honors both Disney traditions and Emirati heritage.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, emphasized the innovative potential of the project. “This will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio,” he said. “The waterfront location allows us to tell our stories in ways we’ve never done before, reaching a new region of the world and welcoming more families than ever.”
Miral’s Group CEO, Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, called the venture a historic milestone. “Bringing Disney to Yas Island further advances our position as a global destination for exceptional leisure,” he said. “Together, we are building a place of boundless innovation and inspiration.”
As Abu Dhabi continues to evolve as a hub for global tourism and creativity, the new Disney resort is poised to become a beacon of imagination and a cornerstone of the city’s long-term vision. With over 120 million travelers passing through the UAE annually, the resort is expected to draw millions more, fueling economic growth and offering a new kind of magic in the heart of the desert.
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