Disney to Launch First-Ever Theme Park in the Middle East with Abu Dhabi Resort

The Walt Disney Company has announced plans to open a new theme park in Abu Dhabi, marking its first park development in 15 years and its debut in the Middle East.

The upcoming Disneyland Abu Dhabi resort will be developed in partnership with Miral, a company known for creating major attractions on Yas Island, including SeaWorld Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros. World.

Situated on the waterfront, the new resort will be located on Yas Island—Abu Dhabi’s premier entertainment district—just 20 minutes from the city center and 50 minutes from Dubai.

Disney describes the new park as its most technologically advanced project to date. While specific attraction details have not yet been revealed, the company confirmed it will benefit from the project through a royalty licensing agreement rather than direct capital investment.

This is Disney’s first new park announcement since plans for Shanghai Disneyland were unveiled in 2010.