The Walt Disney Company has officially announced the construction of its largest-ever theme park in the United Arab Emirates. Dubbed the “new crown jewel” of the global entertainment industry, the project will be the biggest Disney park outside the United States and a major step in the company’s expansion strategy into the rapidly growing tourism market of the Middle East.
A New Benchmark in Global Entertainment
The upcoming Disney theme park, to be built in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, is expected to become the largest family entertainment complex in the region. It will also surpass the size of all previous Disney parks, including Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland Paris.
According to preliminary plans, the park will span over 18 square kilometers, making it the most expansive Disney property ever built. The estimated investment exceeds €10 billion, including supporting infrastructure, hotels, transit hubs, and residential developments integrated into the entertainment district.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
The park will be located near Abu Dhabi International Airport, in a fast-developing area envisioned as a future tourism and business hub. The development plan includes integration with existing infrastructure such as express highways, metro lines, and maritime access.
In addition to the theme park itself, the project will feature five Disney-themed hotels, over 20 fine-dining restaurants, luxury shopping areas, and a year-round water complex made possible by a state-of-the-art climate control system tailored to the desert environment.
Unique Themed Lands
Disney has revealed that the UAE park will be the first of its kind to be fully designed for desert climate and local cultural context. Alongside iconic lands like Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Adventureland, the park will introduce several exclusive themed zones, including:
- Arabian Legends – Inspired by Middle Eastern folklore, including tales from One Thousand and One Nights and a localized version of Aladdin.
- Galactic Outpost – A science fiction universe based on the Star Wars franchise, featuring original storylines unavailable in other Disney parks.
- Wadi World – A water-themed oasis with artificial lagoons, palm-lined canals, controlled-temperature pools, and climate-adapted water rides.
Economic Impact
The park is expected to have a transformative effect on the UAE economy. According to the Ministry of Economy, the project will create over 50,000 jobs, both during construction and in ongoing operations. It is projected to attract more than 20 million visitors annually, potentially making it the largest tourism destination in the Middle East.
Investment is being jointly channeled from public and private sectors, spanning transportation, real estate, hospitality, and technology.
Strategic Partnership with the UAE
The government of the UAE and Disney have signed a strategic agreement offering a range of incentives, including tax exemptions, streamlined work visas for international staff, and legal protections for long-term operations. A dedicated free economic zone will be established to support the tourism and entertainment cluster.
Salem Al Mansouri, the UAE’s Minister of Tourism, commented:
“The Disney project is more than a theme park — it is a commitment to our vision of becoming a global capital for tourism, culture, and innovation.”
Innovation and Sustainability
The park will serve as a showcase for Disney’s new sustainability initiatives, making it the company’s first carbon-conscious theme park built from the ground up. Features include:
- Solar-powered systems
- Desalination and water recycling plants
- Smart sensors to manage energy and water consumption
- Electric, autonomous public transport within the resort
Visitors will also be able to explore a Sustainability Discovery Center, offering interactive exhibits about the technologies and ecological solutions embedded throughout the park.
Cultural Sensitivity and Localization
A key element of the UAE park is its deep cultural integration. Attractions, food services, and entertainment experiences are being designed to reflect local customs and values. Highlights include:
- All food and beverage offerings will comply with halal standards.
- Ride operations and show schedules will accommodate prayer times.
- Disney will debut new characters and storylines inspired by Arab heritage, developed in collaboration with Emirati artists and writers.
A Global Move for Disney
For The Walt Disney Company, this initiative represents a major leap forward in global brand localization. The UAE park is seen as the first step in a broader plan to expand into emerging markets, with future projects rumored for India, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil.
By adapting its theme park model to new cultural and climatic contexts, Disney aims to extend its brand’s emotional and entertainment power to millions of new fans across the globe.
Construction Timeline and Future Development
Construction began in March 2025, with phased openings planned starting in early 2027. The official grand opening is scheduled for late 2028. The project will continue to evolve over time, with future phases expected to include:
- Interactive science and arts pavilions
- An artificial archipelago with maritime attractions
- A dedicated sports zone designed to host international events
Conclusion
The record-breaking Disney theme park in the United Arab Emirates marks a bold new chapter for the global entertainment industry. As the Middle East continues to rise as a tourism powerhouse, this investment by Disney underscores the region’s growing strategic importance.
More than a park, the UAE Disney project is a symbol of cross-cultural connection, innovation, and ambition. It represents a future where entertainment transcends borders — and where dreams are built not only in California or Florida, but in the heart of the desert, where magic meets vision.
