Disney Makes Licensing Deal to Miral For Theme Park In Abu Dhabi
Exciting news, Disney fans! The Walt Disney Company has officially partnered with Miral, Abu Dhabi’s renowned creator of immersive experiences, to develop a groundbreaking new Disney theme park resort located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Yas Island is already a celebrated international leisure and entertainment hub, attracting visitors from across the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and beyond. Disney’s seventh global theme park resort will uniquely combine the enchanting world of Disney characters and storytelling with the vibrant culture, stunning shorelines, and breathtaking modern architecture of Abu Dhabi.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman at Miral, described the ambitious project as “a whole new world of imagination,” highlighting Abu Dhabi’s dedication to blending cultural heritage with innovation. “This collaboration demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence,” Al Mubarak said, emphasizing the resort's potential to create lasting magical memories for families worldwide.
The resort's creative vision and operational oversight will be guided by Disney and their Imagineers, while Miral, known for developing renowned family destinations on Yas Island, will build, pay for, and operate the new resort.
Disney will receive royalties.
Disney CEO Robert A. Iger expressed enthusiasm for this historic venture, stating,
“It will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting-edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences.” Iger highlighted how Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,”
Positioned strategically within a four-hour flight of approximately one-third of the world's population, the UAE serves as a critical global travel hub, welcoming approximately 120 million passengers annually through Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, noted the unique appeal of the park’s waterfront location, calling the Abu Dhabi resort “the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio.” He emphasized the innovative storytelling opportunities afforded by this spectacular site, which will enable more families than ever to experience the magic of Disney.
Miral Group CEO Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi celebrated the project as a significant milestone, enhancing Yas Island’s reputation as a premier global destination. “Together, we are creating a place of boundless innovation, where the vision of our leadership continues to inspire the world,” he explained, underscoring the economic benefits the resort will bring to the region.
Once completed, the new Disney resort promises signature attractions, immersive storytelling, themed accommodations, and extraordinary dining and shopping experiences—celebrating both Disney’s beloved heritage and Abu Dhabi’s forward-looking culture.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting adventure in Abu Dhabi!