Disney is set to expand its theme park operations to the Middle East with the development of Disneyland Abu Dhabi.
The project will be in conjunction with UAE-based entertainment giant Miral and will be a theme park resort.
To that end, it will be Disney’s seventh theme park resort and 13th theme park of any description. It will also follow on from Tokyo, Hong Kong and Paris as its only theme park offerings outside of the US.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, Yas Island theme park operator, said: “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 be a destination of choice for the world.”
The new resort will be fully developed, built and operated by Miral.
The Walt Disney Company CEO Robert A. Iger said: “This is a thrilling moment for our company as we announce plans to build an exciting Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, whose culture is rich with an appreciation of the arts and creativity.
“As our seventh theme park destination, it will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways.
“Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world that will bring to life our timeless characters and stories in many new ways and will become a source of joy and inspiration for the people of this vast region to enjoy for generations to come.”
Miral Group CEO Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi said: “Bringing a Disney theme park resort to Yas Island marks a historic milestone in our journey to further advance the island’s position as a global destination for exceptional entertainment and leisure.”
The new theme park resort will offer signature Disney entertainment, themed accommodations, unique dining and retail experiences, and storytelling ‘in a way that celebrates both the heritage of Disney and the futuristic and cultural essence of Abu Dhabi’, Disney said.
