Disney announces plan to build new theme park in Abu Dhabi
Last updated: 15:45 07 May 2025 BST, First published: 15:40 07 May 2025 BST
The Walt Disney Co (NYSE:DIS, ETR:WDP) has announced plans to develop a new theme park resort on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island.
Disney is developing the park with Miral, Abu Dhabi’s state-owned destinations company, which manages Yas Island – home to the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 race track, the Ferrari World and the Warner Bros theme parks, as well as a large waterpark.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be the seventh Disney theme park resort, and, according to Disney CEO Bob Iger, it will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati”.
Announced alongside expectation-beating second quarter financials, Iger described the planned new park as “an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world” – referencing the fact that the UAE is positioned as a global travel hub, uniquely located ‘four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population’.
The resort will be fully developed and operated by Miral, alongside Disney’s creative design and supervision.
Disney said the new park will offer 'signature Disney entertainment' along with 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."
Reacting to the financial results, Disney stock rose by some 8.2% in early deals in New York.
