The magic of Disney is officially coming to the UAE’s capital. On 07 May 2025, The Walt Disney Company and Abu Dhabi’s Miral Group announced the development of Disneyland Abu Dhabi on Yas Island. This project will be Disney’s first-ever theme park in the Middle East and its seventh globally.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi promises to bring a whole new wave of wonder, imagination and cultural flair to the Middle East. Let’s look into more details about this upcoming project on Yas Island.
- Overview
- Disneyland Location
- What to Expect
- Yas Island Attractions
- Yas Island Hotels
- Nearby Communities
- FAQs
Overview
With six world-famous destinations, the Disneyland parks offer a unique chance to experience Disney magic. Here’s where you can currently find Disney’s magical kingdoms around the world:
- California
- Florida
- Tokyo
- Paris
- Hong Kong
- Shanghai
On 7th May, the Disney announced another location – Yes, it is the UAE’s capital. Adding to the entertaining theme parks in Abu Dhabi, it will be the first-ever Disneyland in the Middle East.
This project isn’t just about entertainment, it’s part of a bigger vision. Abu Dhabi has been working to diversify its economy and grow its tourism sector. Disneyland fits perfectly into that plan. Moreover, this Disney theme park and resort will drive revenue across hotels, restaurants, airlines and shopping in Abu Dhabi.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi – A Collaboration of Walt Disney and Miral
The Walt Disney Company has partnered with Miral. The master developer behind Yas Island’s iconic attractions, Miral, has developed the iconic Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World.
While Miral will finance, build and operate the resort, Disney will lead the creative design to ensure a signature Disney experience. It’s a smart move for The Walt Disney Company as it will expand its global presence into a new region by partnering with Miral.
Disneyland Location
The first-ever Disneyland in the Middle East will be developed on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. The neighbourhood is home to several hotels, attraction places and theme parks. Speaking of that, Yas Island is home to Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld and SeaWorld.
Since Disneyland is home to resorts and hotels, tourists can easily reach the location by taking a short drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport. Additionally, the UAE’s location gives Disneyland Abu Dhabi a huge advantage as it is located within a four-hour flight to one-third of the world’s population.
What makes it even more special is that the park will be located along the island’s stunning waterfront. This will give the Disney Imagineers an incredible canvas to create something truly unique.
What to Expect From Disneyland Abu Dhabi?
From thrill rides to live shows, Disney parks around the world are packed with unforgettable experiences and Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to be no different. While official details of this new Disney theme park and resort are yet to be revealed, fans can look forward to a fusion of classic Disney magic and the UAE’s cultural heritage.
1. A World of Thrills and Magic
From the wild turns of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to the intergalactic fun of Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Disney parks deliver thrills for all ages. Families love the charm of Dumbo the Flying Elephant and the timeless melodies of ‘it’s a small world’, while thrill-seekers love the coasters like Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout.
At Disneyland Abu Dhabi, similar adrenaline-pumping and family-friendly attractions are expected, customised to suit the region’s climate and setting.
2. Nighttime Shows and Fireworks
When the sun sets, the magic at Disney parks intensifies. Shows like Fantasmic! and Happily Ever After light up the skies with fireworks, music and projections. This transforms the skies and Disney castles into living storybooks.
At Disneyland Abu Dhabi, evening shows will likely incorporate Disney’s visual storytelling with Emirati music, design and cultural motifs.
3. Themed Lands
Explore places like Fantasyland, where fairytales feel real or Tomorrowland, which offers futuristic rides. You might also explore Avengers Campus, where you can see your favourite superheroes in action. Each area has fun shows, themed food and chances to meet Disney characters. The same experiences can be expected from Disneyland Abu Dhabi, but with a distinct Emirati flair.
4. Dining
At Disneyland parks, food is part of the fun. From character-themed cafes to upscale dining, there’s something for everyone. For example:
- Goofy’s Kitchen at Disneyland Hotel offers fun meals with Disney characters.
- Lamplight Lounge at Pixar Pier brings together great food and storytelling.
- Galactic Grill and Red Rose Taverne serve fan-favourite Disney bites in themed cafes.
In Disneyland Abu Dhabi, similar dining experiences are expected, but with a regional twist. Menus may include a mix of international Disney favourites like burgers, Mickey-shaped waffles and churros, alongside dishes inspired by Emirati cuisine.
5. Shopping Experiences
The shopping experience at Disneyland Abu Dhabi will likely be just as magical as at other Disney resorts. Shops like the World of Disney, Star Wars Trading Post and The Dress Shop offer a wide range of souvenirs, from themed apparel and plush toys to exclusive collectables.
Visitors to the Disney theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi can expect a blend of these classic Disney offerings with locally inspired items that reflect the Emirati culture.
Yas Island Attractions
Yas Island already attracts millions of visitors each year through its world-class attractions. Adding Disneyland Abu Dhabi is only going to take Yas Island’s popularity and tourist influx to the next level.
Some of the top attractions at Yas Island include:
- Ferrari World
- Yas Waterworld
- Warner Bros. World
- SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
- Yas Marina Circuit
- Yas Mall
- Etihad Arena
Yas Island Hotels
Yas Island offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveller, from families to luxury seekers. With Disneyland Abu Dhabi set to open, staying on the island means you’ll be just minutes away from the excitement.
Here are some of the many hotels on Yas Island you can choose from:
- The WB Abu Dhabi
- W Abu Dhabi
- Radisson Blu Hotel Yas Island
- DoubleTree by Hilton
- Yas Island Rotana Hotel
Nearby Communities
Residents living in nearby communities will have easy access to Yas Island, making it convenient to enjoy Disneyland Abu Dhabi whenever they like. Some of the closest areas include:
- Al Zeina: 13 minutes drive away
- Al Muneera Island: 14 minutes drive away
- Al Seef: 16 minutes drive away
- Al Bahyah: 18 minutes drive away
FAQs
The exact opening date has not been confirmed. However, it is expected to open between 2032 and 2033. The initial planning of Disneyland will take 18 months to two years.
Yes, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to offer experiences fusing Disney’s storytelling with Emirati culture. It may also include attractions exclusive to its location in Abu Dhabi.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be the first Disney park to integrate Middle Eastern cultural elements. This will create a distinct experience unlike any other Disney resort worldwide.
That is all we know about the upcoming Disneyland Abu Dhabi. Bringing a Disney theme park and resort to Yas Island reflects a long-term vision, which is to elevate the island’s position as a global hub for exceptional entertainment and leisure. Until then, you can visit other popular attractions on Yas Island, such as Warner Bros. World or SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.
