Disney to Open First Middle East Park in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Disney just revealed plans for its seventh global theme park, marking the company’s first destination in the Middle East. It will be built on the rapidly developing Yas Island, already home to other major attractions, but now set to showcase a blend of Disney classics and region-specific elements. Executives say the project capitalizes on the UAE’s status as a top travel hub, with a third of the world’s population living within a relatively short flight. The park’s opening date remains to be determined, though prior Disney resorts have often taken up to seven years to complete. The entertainment giant highlighted the success of its other parks—particularly the strong turnout as pandemic restrictions lifted—as a sign the time is right for fresh expansions.