For the first time in the Middle East, a Disney resort is set to open its doors – and it will rise on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, already home to attractions like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World.
A Landmark Project
The upcoming park will be Disney’s seventh resort worldwide and the very first in the region. It is being developed together with Abu Dhabi’s Miral Group, a company well known for creating large-scale leisure destinations.
Distinctive Design
Instead of the classic fairy-tale castle, the park will feature a futuristic landmark inspired by local culture, blending Disney’s storytelling with Emirati identity. The goal is to create something both “authentically Disney” and “uniquely Abu Dhabi.”
Timeline and Expectations
The project is still in the early development stages. While no official opening date has been confirmed, industry watchers expect construction and launch to take place sometime in the early 2030s.
Why Yas Island?
Abu Dhabi’s strategic location puts it within a short flight of a huge share of the world’s population. Positioned alongside other world-class attractions, the Disney resort is expected to boost tourism and cement Yas Island as one of the leading entertainment hubs globally.
What Does This Mean For The Region
The move reflects the wider trend of massive investments into entertainment across the Gulf. Just as Saudi Arabia and the UAE are diversifying their economies, theme parks are becoming a centerpiece of the region’s long-term tourism strategy.
