Disney to Launch First Middle East Theme Park in Abu Dhabi

The Walt Disney Company has revealed plans to open its first-ever theme park in the Middle East, marking a major expansion of its global entertainment footprint. The new resort will be built on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, through a partnership with local leisure developer Miral.

Announced on Wednesday, the upcoming attraction – dubbed Disneyland Abu Dhabi – will become Disney’s seventh global theme park and its first in the Arab world. The company currently operates resorts in North America, Europe, and Asia, with the most recent addition being Shanghai Disneyland in 2016.

Disney described the UAE as a strategic location, noting that it lies within a four-hour flight of nearly one-third of the world’s population and sees over 120 million annual airline passengers via Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports. The company hailed the region as a growing hub for tourism and international travel.

“This is a thrilling moment for Disney,” said CEO Bob Iger, adding that the new park will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” blending global storytelling with local cultural elements.

Miral, the UAE-based firm behind Yas Island’s transformation into a premier entertainment destination, already manages attractions such as SeaWorld and Warner Bros. World. The company is also behind the development of a new Harry Potter-themed land. Yas Island is located about 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and less than an hour from Dubai.

Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, called the collaboration with Disney a “milestone” that will further elevate Yas Island’s profile on the world stage. “This project will contribute significantly to economic growth in Abu Dhabi and the broader region,” he added.

The announcement came as Disney reported a strong financial performance in early 2025. The company posted a 7% rise in revenue to $23.6 billion in its first-quarter earnings, exceeding expectations. Disney+ added 1.4 million subscribers despite earlier projections of a possible decline due to price hikes.

Domestic theme park attendance also improved, with increased guest spending and a boost in cruise bookings following the debut of the new Disney Treasure ship.

Commenting on the broader outlook, AJ Bell financial analyst Danni Hewson noted that while many U.S. firms are cautious amid economic uncertainties, Disney appears optimistic and forward-looking.

Construction timelines and specific details of the Abu Dhabi park are yet to be released, but the move signals Disney’s intent to tap into the Middle East’s growing demand for family-oriented entertainment and tourism.