Disney has unveiled plans for its seventh theme park, set to be located in the United Arab Emirates, as confirmed by the company on Wednesday.
### New Waterfront Resort
The new resort will be situated on Yas Island, located on the periphery of Abu Dhabi. This area is already home to numerous attractions, including the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Ferrari and Warner Bros. theme parks, SeaWorld, and a waterpark.
### Abu Dhabi’s Growing Appeal
As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is part of a federation of seven sheikhdoms on the Arabian Peninsula. It boasts a population of around 9 million and has successfully utilized its major airlines, Emirates and Etihad Airways, to attract a growing number of tourists. The recent real estate surge and record-breaking tourist figures have established Dubai as a major destination and layover point for travelers.
### Collaboration with Miral
Disney, in collaboration with Miral – the Abu Dhabi-based developer managing the project – aims to benefit from the 120 million airline passengers that transit through Abu Dhabi and Dubai each year.
While traditionally seen as more reserved compared to the vibrant nightlife and beaches of nearby Dubai, Abu Dhabi is also home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and several museums currently under development.
### Timing of the Announcement
This announcement comes ahead of an upcoming visit to the region by US President Donald Trump, who has indicated plans for various business agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
### Project Management and Financials
Miral will oversee the construction and operation of the theme park, having played a key role in the development of most entertainment venues on Yas Island. Meanwhile, Disney will focus on design and development, licensing its intellectual property, and providing management and development services as outlined in a regulatory filing.
Importantly, Disney will not be investing capital in the project. Instead, it will receive royalties based on the park’s earnings and will also collect service fees.
Last year, Disney revealed plans for a significant investment of $60 billion over the next decade into its theme parks, as these venues remain a major source of revenue for the company.
A specific opening date for the UAE theme park has yet to be disclosed.