It's official: Disneyland is coming to the UAE
Yes, you read that correctly.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi, officially named Disney Theme Park Resort, is finally coming to the UAE. And we couldn't be more excited.
The park will be 'authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati', according to The Walt Disney Company CEO Robert A Iger.
Mickey Mouse, Marvel superheroes, and, of course, your favourite Disney princesses are all set to call Yas Island in Abu Dhabi home.
The landmark announcement of the latest Disney resort was made by leading entertainment developer Miral on Wednesday May 7.
Abu Dhabi will become the first city in the GCC to have a Disney resort, and you can expect a whole host of amazing rides, shows and food when Disney arrives in the United Arab Emirates.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi to be 'most advanced' ever
While full plans have not yet been revealed for the ultimate family destination, it has been described as the 'most advanced and interactive destination' that Disney have ever had according to Josh D'Amarco, the chairman of Disney Experiences.
He said: 'This groundbreaking resort destination represents a new frontier in theme park development.
'Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio.
'The location of our park is incredibly unique – anchored by a beautiful waterfront – which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways.
'This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before.
'Ultimately, it will be a celebration of what's possible when creativity and progress come together.'
Another Disneyland Abu Dhabi artist design (Credit: Disney)
'A whole new world of imagination'
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman at Miral, said that Disneyland Abu Dhabi will bring a 'whole new world' of imagination.
He 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.'
What will be at Disneyland Abu Dhabi?
It will combine Disney's iconic stories, characters and attractions with Abu Dhabi's vibrant culture, stunning shorelines and breathtaking architecture.
The resort will be fully developed and built by Miral, while Disney's Imagineers will lead the creative design and operational insight.
It will offer signature Disney entertainment, themed accommodations, unique dining and retail experiences, as well as storytelling that celebrates the heritage of Disney and the cultural essence of Abu Dhabi
An opening date for the Disney Theme Park has yet to be announced, so keep an eye on Time Out Dubai for all the latest updates.
Bob Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company said that by bringing the latest Disney resort to Abu Dhabi, they'll be able to reach millions of new families.
He 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.'
The Abu Dhabi park will be the seventh city in the world to host a Disneyland after Orlando, Anaheim, Paris, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Tokyo.
Can't wait for the theme park to open? Disney opened its first official stores in Dubai and Abu Dhabi earlier in 2025, so you can get all kitted out ahead of the grand opening.
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