TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Walt Disney Company has announced plans to build its first Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in collaboration with Miral, a destination developer based in the region.
The project, which marks the seventh Disney theme park globally and the first in the Middle East, will be constructed along the beachfront to provide entertainment and recreation for tourists from around the world.
Disney and its Imagineers team will lead the creative design and oversee park operations.
"It is all their capital, and we will get a royalty. So there isn’t ownership. We own our IP and license it to them, is essentially the arrangement," said CEO of The Walt Disney Company Robert A. Iger, quoted from Variety on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.
Developed by Miral
Iger explained that Miral will handle park operations, but Disney will assign some of its own employees to the project.
Miral, well known for developing various family entertainment destinations on Yas Island, will manage the park alongside other American and European brand experiences.
"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," said Iger as quoted from the Disney website.
Disney’s Identity with a Local Touch
Iger emphasized that Disneyland Abu Dhabi will maintain Disney’s brand identity while incorporating cultural elements unique to the United Arab Emirates.
"Through the development of unique attractions and experiences, Abu Dhabi continues to be a destination of choice for the world," said Iger.
CEO of Miral Group, Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, stated that building the magical world of Disney theme park on Yas Island is a historic milestone. "Together, we are creating a place of boundless innovation, where the vision of our leadership continues to inspire the world," he said.
As reported by Deadline, the announcement comes amid Disney’s broader push to expand its theme park and experiences division, which has seen strong results. In 2023, the company committed to doubling its investment in theme parks.
Editor’s Choice: Disney to Open New Theme Park in Abu Dhabi, First in Middle East
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