Beloved cartoon character Mickey Mouse makes an appearance at a Disney resort. ARCHIVE

The Walt Disney Company and Abu Dhabi-based destinations developer Miral officially announced on Wednesday (May 7) plans to develop a new Disney theme park resort on Yas Island—making it the first Disney resort in the Middle East and the company’s seventh theme park destination worldwide. The landmark project will bring together Disney’s beloved stories, characters, and cutting-edge attractions with the vibrant culture and architectural beauty of Abu Dhabi. The waterfront resort will be fully developed by Miral, while Disney Imagineers will lead the creative design and operational oversight. ALSO READ: Disneyland Abu Dhabi - What we know so far “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 Robert Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati — an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world.” Positioned strategically, the UAE is within a four-hour flight of one-third of the global population and serves as a major travel hub, with over 120 million passengers flying through Abu Dhabi and Dubai annually. The new Disney resort is expected to attract families and fans from across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and beyond. “This groundbreaking resort destination represents a new frontier in theme park development,” added Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio… anchored by a beautiful waterfront — which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways.” The announcement signifies a major milestone in the UAE’s growing reputation as a global entertainment hub. Yas Island is already home to internationally acclaimed attractions like Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, and Yas Waterworld. ALSO READ: Expat Media editors take on Yas Island theme parks Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, emphasized the cultural and economic impact of the project. “Abu Dhabi is a place where heritage meets innovation. 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,” he said. The park will offer themed accommodations, retail and dining experiences, and signature Disney entertainment tailored to celebrate both Emirati culture and the legacy of Disney storytelling. “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,” said Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral. ICA/Expat Media
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