The entertainment giant partners with Miral to launch its first Middle East theme park, solidifying Yas Island’s global status as a premier leisure destination
Abu Dhabi, UAE — In a landmark move that will redefine the entertainment landscape of the Middle East, The Walt Disney Company has announced its plans to open a Disney Theme Park Resort on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, in partnership with leading destination developer Miral.
This highly anticipated development marks Disney’s first-ever theme park destination in the Middle East and its seventh globally, joining the ranks of its flagship locations in California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. The project signals a bold new chapter in the region’s tourism and leisure narrative, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s broader vision of economic diversification and cultural expansion.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, hailed the agreement as a transformational milestone.
“This is not just a project,” he stated. “It’s a testament to what visionary leadership, bold ambition, enduring partnerships, and unwavering commitment can accomplish.”
The official announcement was made 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 emphasized that the development highlights Abu Dhabi’s evolution as a global hub for leisure tourism, while also supporting its strategy to grow the cultural and creative sectors.
Joining the ceremony were key dignitaries including HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and of Miral, as well as Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport.
A New Era of Disney Storytelling in the Gulf
The new resort will be developed and operated by Miral, with Disney taking the lead on creative direction and technology. This unique collaboration aims to blend Disney’s unmatched storytelling and innovation with Miral’s deep regional expertise and operational excellence.
Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, described the partnership as an exciting new frontier for Disney.
“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.”
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, added that the upcoming destination will feature groundbreaking design elements.
“This will be a resort unlike any we’ve created before — a modern castle and immersive experiences that push the boundaries of theme park innovation.”
Miral Chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak echoed this sentiment, calling the park “a whole new world of imagination” that will spark inspiration across generations.
Elevating Yas Island’s Global Status
Yas Island has rapidly evolved into one of the world’s premier integrated leisure destinations. With the addition of Disney’s new theme park, it will solidify its position as the region’s cultural and entertainment capital.
The Disney resort will join a dynamic lineup of world-class attractions already on the island, including:
- SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
- Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
- Yas Waterworld
- Etihad Arena
This mega-project underscores the UAE’s continued investment in tourism and entertainment, as it seeks to attract millions of visitors from across the globe and create unforgettable experiences for families, thrill-seekers, and Disney fans alike.
As excitement builds, all eyes will be on Yas Island as it prepares to welcome a new era of magic — with Disney at its heart.
