A new Disney theme park resort is set to open on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, following a strategic partnership between The Walt Disney Company and Miral, the UAE-based developer of immersive destinations.
Disney Theme Park Resort
The project marks Disney’s first theme park destination in the Middle East and its seventh globally, joining existing sites in the United States, Japan, France, China and Hong Kong.
Located on the Yas Island waterfront, the new resort aims to serve as a regional hub for family and cultural tourism, attracting visitors from the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe.
The development was announced in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
His Highness said the project reflects the UAE’s growing position as a global destination for leisure tourism and noted the cultural and creative economy’s role in supporting economic diversification.
The announcement was also attended by several senior officials, including Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral; Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport; and Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral.
Creative and economic goals
Miral will oversee the development and construction of the theme park, while Disney will be responsible for creative design, attractions and operational standards. Once completed, the resort will be operated by Miral.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak said: “Abu Dhabi stands as a unique model where authentic heritage meets a bold vision for the future, where we preserve our past while laying solid foundations for a promising tomorrow.
“The collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence. 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.
Through the development of unique attractions and experiences, Abu Dhabi continues to reinforce its position as a leading global destination for cultural and family tourism.”
Global vision for Disney
Commenting on the partnership, Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said: “This is an extraordinary opportunity for Disney to bring its renowned storytelling to yet another region of the world with a completely new theme park experience that will be a cultural, entertainment and technological marvel.
“Abu Dhabi’s position as an international crossroads, its embrace of global culture, and its ambitious vision for the future make it a perfect location for Disney to reach millions of new families and captivate guests for generations to come.”
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, added: “The concept for this resort will push the boundaries of theme park design, showcasing groundbreaking technology and visionary architecture, including a modern castle unlike anything we’ve ever created.
“This project, together with our ambitious expansion plans in Florida and California, will create thousands of new jobs in the US as we enter into a new era of expansion.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
