Disney Heads to Abu Dhabi
On May 7, Disney CEO Bob Iger announced plans for a new Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi. The UAE capital, already home to 18 theme parks, offers a prime location—just four hours from India and six from parts of Europe. This move could open the Disney gates to over 500 million new visitors.
Business First, Not Funds First
The $10 billion park will be fully funded by UAE-based Miral Group, with Disney handling the design through its Imagineers. Despite recent complaints about poor maintenance at existing parks—like EPCOT’s ceiling collapse and damaged dolls on Disneyland’s “It’s a Small World”—Disney won’t spend its own money on this new build.
Gamifying the Magic
Disney sees this as more than a theme park. Chairman Josh D’Amaro says the plan is to “gamify everything,” hinting at interactive and immersive tech-driven experiences.
Fans React—Some With Caution
YouTuber Jonathan Crichton praised the expansion, saying, “I absolutely love this.” Others worry about the park’s placement in a country with strict laws. LGBTQ+ rights are severely limited, alcohol laws are unclear, and public affection is restricted.
Opening and Location
The park will open in the early 2030s on Yas Island, already home to SeaWorld, Ferrari World, and Warner Bros. World. Early designs show a crystal castle centerpiece and several hotel properties.
Magic or Misstep?
With no opening date yet, the question remains—can Disney’s magic thrive in a place with such heavy social restrictions? Time will tell.
