No passports, flights: Why Disneyland Abu Dhabi will boost tourism, save residents money
With the world of Disney just a drive away, many UAE residents are expected to opt for a staycation over trips to France, Hong Kong, or the US. The news is already generating excitement among travel enthusiasts and residents across the UAE.
'Disneyland is one of the most preferred destinations not just for UAE residents but for people across the GCC,' said Mir Wasim Raja, manager at Galadari International Travel Services (ITS) LLC.
'Right now, many clients ask about Disneyland in France first, followed by Hong Kong and the US. But once we have one here in Abu Dhabi, it'll be a game-changer. Families will choose to spend a few days at the park, turning it into the perfect staycation,' added Raja.
According to travel industry executives, the upcoming theme park is expected to attract not just UAE residents but also visitors from nearby countries and regions such as the Indian subcontinent, Africa, Russia, and the Caucasus.
Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager at Wisefox Tourism, explained how popular Disneyland is among all nationalities in the UAE. 'Everyone loves it — kids, adults, and tourists. Families want their children to meet their favourite Disney characters in real life. The excitement is huge,' he said.
However, the UAE's hot summer weather might be a challenge. 'Many Disney attractions, like parades, are outdoors. So it might be too hot in the summer. But during the winter, we expect ticket demand to go through the roof, just like how it happens with the Museum of the Future,' added Subair.
He also pointed out that getting a visa to France, where the nearest Disneyland is currently located for many UAE residents, can be difficult. In contrast, the UAE has a simpler tourist visa process and is geographically easier to reach for many.
"There's already a lot of talk in the travel industry about Disneyland Abu Dhabi. We expect it to be a massive hit, especially once the unified GCC tourist visa comes into effect. It will be a must-visit for anyone coming to this region," said Subair.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Out Abu Dhabi
12 hours ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Disneyland Abu Dhabi: 8 things we know about the new theme park so far
A whole new world is landing on Yas Island – and it's wearing mouse ears. Yep, the Walt Disney Company is building a full-blown theme park resort right here in Abu Dhabi and the excitement is already off the charts. It'll be the seventh Disney destination in the world – and the very first in the Middle East. The park is still a few years away from opening, but we've been keeping our ears perked for news and we've already got a handful of dazzling details. From a futuristic castle to local UAE stories woven into the rides, here's what we know so far about Disney's Arabian debut. Disney Abu Dhabi: what we know so far 1. It's officially coming to Yas Island The new Disney park will join the already stacked theme park line-up on Yas Island (hello, Ferrari World, SeaWorld and Warner Bros. World). Yas isn't just Abu Dhabi's entertainment capital – it's becoming the region's ultimate family playground. Disney is the cherry on top of an already thrilling sundae. 2. It'll be the most high-tech Disney park ever According to Disney Experiences chairman Josh D'Amaro, the Abu Dhabi project will 'push the boundaries of theme park design,' showcasing 'groundbreaking technology' and 'visionary architecture'. There's even talk of a modern castle design unlike anything in the Disney universe so far. Think less Cinderella and more cutting-edge sparkle (with a touch of Frozen maybe?). 3. It's packed with local flair This won't be a copy-paste Disneyland. Disney Abu Dhabi will fuse beloved Disney stories with distinct Emirati cultural touches, bringing local heritage and tradition into the spotlight. Expect regionally inspired storytelling, architecture and design details woven throughout the park. 4. It's going to be a major economic boost Thousands of new jobs are expected to be created – not just at the park itself, but across hospitality, tourism and entertainment sectors. Yas Island and surrounding communities are likely to see a surge in population and activity. 5. Property prices are set to skyrocket If you already own a slice of Yas, you're in luck. Real estate insiders are predicting a big leap in value as excitement around the park builds. Rental yields, particularly short-term holiday lets, are expected to soar as fans, families and tourists flock to the area. 6. It's going to change the region's tourism game Why fly 15 hours to Disneyland California, when you can do it all in Abu Dhabi? Disney's arrival will draw visitors from across the UAE, GCC, Africa, India and beyond. Winter holidays in the capital? Yes, please. 7. You'll need to wait (just a little while) No need to start queueing just yet – this isn't opening tomorrow. The park is currently in the early design stages and given the scope, we're likely looking at a Disney opening date for Abu Dhabi sometime between 2030 and 2032. In Disney time, that's basically just the next scene. 8. It's going to beat the heat It's (sort of) outdoors – but also indoors. Basically, it's magic. The answer, like any good Disney plot twist, isn't so straightforward. According to Disney Parks boss Josh D'Amaro, the new Yas Island mega-project will be a hybrid, combining the best of indoor comfort with outdoor charm. They're being very ambitious, architecture, tech and water are all coming into play – which sounds like there might be a splash of Moana inspiration involved. Here's the kicker: the park is being built right up against the water. Think cool breezes, waterfront vistas and, who knows – maybe even an indoor-outdoor castle that literally lets the sea into the storyline. Living in the UAE UAE Public Holidays 2025: the dates you need to know Yes, we have predicted dates too 5 unexpected Emirates ID perks you should seriously be using And yes, they all make our lives a little bit easier Islamic calendar vs. Gregorian calendar: Why UAE public holiday dates change every year Consider this your ultimate guide
What's On
16 hours ago
- What's On
Restaurant review: The Bombay Club
We stepped into The Bombay Club at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab with clear expectations, and left with something more. The space is warm and intimate, with an open kitchen and a tandoori oven that's part of the art of Indian cooking itself. Led by Chef Manav Tuli, the menu honours Bombay's culinary roots with dishes that feel familiar but offer a contemporary take on the classics. Great Indian food is rich, spiced, layered, vibrant, fragrant, smoky, and hearty, and The Bombay Club knows how to bring it all together. The spot Image: Supplied You'll find The Bombay Club on the ground floor of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. It's dimly lit, wood-heavy and high on retro. The kind of place that feels like a hidden Bombay retreat, with vintage charm and art details throughout. There's a show kitchen in one corner, with a tandoori oven that adds warmth and a homey feel. It's lively, but still feels intimate, just as suited to a laid-back dinner with friends as it is to a quiet date night. The vibe There's a quiet confidence here. It's not trying to be trendy, which makes it even more special. It feels like someone's retro-style home with a refined touch of chic interiors, giving off an elegant yet comfortable vibe. The food Image: Supplied The Bombay Club's menu is a mix of Bombay street food favourites, but it also dives deeper into regional specialties from Goa, Hyderabad, and other parts of India. The dishes showcase India's diverse flavours, with rich spices and authentic recipes that are perfect for sharing. The service Images: Supplied The team knows their stuff. Expect smart recommendations. They'll also share facts about the food's origin or spice mix if you ask. There's a sense of storytelling behind the menu in a way that connects you to where the food comes from. What to order Images: Supplied Chef Manav Tuli, known for his work at Hong Kong's Michelin-starred Chaat, brings a focused, heritage-led approach to Indian cooking. The menu explores the flavours of Bombay through the lens of India's royal kitchens; rich and perfect to share. Starters include the chutney set (sweet lime, tomato, mint, beetroot, chili), the signature guinea fowl samosa, keema pav with soft milk buns, and tiger prawns in a punchy Goan balchao. From the tandoor, there's chicken sooley, wagyu beef cheek, Konkani lamb chop, and a standout chestnut paneer tikka. Mains include a perfectly creamy smoked butter chicken, while the Hyderabadi dal and naan basket round things out. The Masala Chai is the ideal finish; sweet, soothing, and just perfect after a hearty meal. What's on the bill Prices lean towards the premium side. Starters sit around Dhs80–Dhs120, tandoor mains range from Dhs98–Dhs218. It's a special spot that works just as well for a date night as it does for a dinner with friends or when you want to take someone visiting the city somewhere special. The final say A solid new addition to Dubai's Indian dining scene – comforting, vibrant, and rich, all in a stunning setting, and it's here to stay. What's On verdict Everything at The Bombay Club works in sync, the food, the space, the service, the atmosphere. It's a must-visit for anyone who loves Indian food. You'll come away with a deeper appreciation for it. Location: Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Ground Floor, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai Times: Daily from 6.30pm to 11.30pm Contact: (800) 323 232, @
Web Release
2 days ago
- Web Release
Jazz on the Rocks: A Sophisticated Weekend Escape at Viceroy's Table
Viceroy's Table invites you to Jazz on the Rocks, a weekly soirée where elegance, flavour, and rhythm come together every Friday and Saturday from 8:30 PM until midnight. The space transforms into a jazz lover's dream—think dusky lighting, slow-swaying melodies, and an ambience that exudes timeless charm. The interiors are just as smooth as the music. With jade-green tones, dark polished wood, and rich printed fabrics, the setting sets the perfect stage for an evening of soulful tunes and fine dining. The à la carte menu celebrates bold Indian flavours with a modern twist—from smoked meats and delicate seafood to gourmet small plates and indulgent desserts, everything is crafted to impress. Every cocktail at Viceroy's Table tells a story, featuring a wide variety of signature cocktails, including the Konkani Breeze, Marigold, and Filter Kaapi Martini, among others, all inspired by the different regions of India. Whether you're a die-hard jazz fan or just in the mood for a classy, laid-back night out, Jazz on the Rocks is the place to be. Book your table now and enjoy a journey through India's rich culinary history—served with a side of live jazz and cocktails.
