Disney Theme Park Resort Coming to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
by Rave Staff
8 May 2025

In a historic moment for Abu Dhabi tourism, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, witnessed the official announcement of the Disney Theme Park Resort on Yas Island. This landmark project, developed through a strategic partnership between The Walt Disney Company and Miral, marks a major milestone in the UAE’s leisure and entertainment sector.
Why This Disney Theme Park Resort is a Game-Changer for Abu Dhabi
The new Disney Yas Island Resort will be the seventh Disney theme park destination worldwide, joining iconic locations like Disneyland (California), Walt Disney World (Florida), Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disney Resort.
Strategically positioned on Yas Island—one of the world’s top entertainment hubs—the resort will serve as a gateway for tourists from the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, and Europe, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s status as a global tourism leader.
A Visionary Partnership: Disney and Miral
Under the agreement:
Miral (Abu Dhabi’s leading developer of immersive experiences) will oversee construction and development.
Disney will lead creative design, attraction development, and guest experience operations.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral and DCT Abu Dhabi, stated:“This collaboration blends Abu Dhabi’s bold vision with Disney’s storytelling magic. Together, we’re creating a world of imagination that will inspire generations.”

What to Expect from the Disney Abu Dhabi Resort
While full details are yet to be revealed, Disney executives confirmed:
A never-before-seen modern castle design
Cutting-edge attractions with groundbreaking technology
A mix of Disney’s beloved characters and new experiences
A major boost for Abu Dhabi’s tourism and economy
Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said: “Abu Dhabi’s global connectivity and cultural richness make it the perfect home for Disney’s newest theme park.”
Economic Impact: Jobs, Tourism, and Growth
This project aligns with the UAE’s National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries, driving:
Economic diversification
GDP growth
Thousands of new jobs (including international opportunities)
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, added:“This resort will push the boundaries of theme park innovation while creating employment opportunities worldwide.”
Yas Island: The Ultimate Entertainment Destination
Already home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Yas Island is now set to become an even bigger global entertainment hotspot with the addition of Disney.
When Will the Disney Abu Dhabi Resort Open?
An exact opening date has not been announced, but construction is expected to begin soon. Stay tuned for updates!