Disneyland Abu Dhabi to Open on Yas Island, First-Ever Disney Theme Park in the Middle East

Picture of Author: Amanda West

Author: Amanda West

Disney has officially announced plans to launch its first-ever theme park in the Middle East, set to open on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. This marks the company’s first new theme park in over 15 years and is part of a strategic collaboration with Miral, the capital’s leading creator of immersive destinations. The new resort will join Yas Island’s lineup of world-renowned attractions, further solidifying the island’s status as a global entertainment hub.

Known for housing Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and other major landmarks, Yas Island offers a fitting backdrop for Disney’s newest venture. The addition of a Disney theme park will significantly expand the destination’s appeal to international tourists and regional visitors alike. This project is expected to drive substantial growth in family tourism and boost the UAE’s broader leisure and hospitality sector.

The partnership was announced on May 7 by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Miral, alongside Disney CEO Bob Iger. It will be Disney’s seventh theme park resort worldwide and a major milestone in Abu Dhabi’s evolving tourism strategy. With construction expected to begin soon, the park will blend Disney’s beloved storytelling with Emirati cultural elements, offering a unique experience when it opens in the early 2030s.

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi