Disney announced that its seventh global destination will be on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. While there's no news yet about specific attractions and experiences planned for the park, Bob Iger, CEO of Disney, promises Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” the same promise he made (and kept) for Shanghai Disney Resort.
What We Know About Disneyland Abu Dhabi
Disney’s newest theme park will feature Disney stories, characters and attractions; however, the project is a partnership with Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, which will finance, develop and build the resort with Disney Imagineers providing creative design and operational oversight.
This is similar to the arrangement for Disney’s first international theme park, Tokyo Disneyland, which, along with Tokyo DisneySea, is owned and operated by Oriental Land Company.
“The collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence,” said Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman at Miral. “What we are creating with Disney in Abu Dhabi is a whole new world of imagination — an experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world, creating magical moments and memories that families will treasure forever.”
Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to open in 2030.
Credit: 2025 DisneyDisneyland Abu Dhabi will join four other world-class theme parks on Yas Island: SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World, home of the world's fastest roller coaster with speeds of up to 150 miles per hour.
Sign Up for Our Monthly Family Getaways Newsletter
I accept the T&C and Privacy Policy.
“Bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marks a historic milestone in our journey to further advance the island’s position as a global destination for exceptional entertainment and leisure,” said Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, group CEO of Miral. “Together, we are creating a place of boundless innovation.”
According to Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, the new Disney resort will be the “most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio,” with signature Disney entertainment, themed accommodations, unique dining and retail experiences.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to open in 2030.
