Disneyland Abu Dhabi - A Landmark Middle East Entry

The Announcement: Disney Ventures into the Middle East

In a significant move signaling strategic international expansion, The Walt Disney Company announced plans in May 2025 to establish its first-ever theme park resort in the Middle East, selecting Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, as the location. This development marks Disney's seventh global theme park destination, joining existing resorts in California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. The project is a collaboration with Miral, the Abu Dhabi-based developer responsible for shaping Yas Island into a prominent leisure and entertainment hub. A celebratory drone and fireworks show over the Abu Dhabi skyline marked the announcement, attended by celebrities and officials, underscoring the project's high profile.