In a significant move, the Walt Disney Company has revealed plans to establish its first new theme park in 15 years, situated on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. This announcement marks Disney’s entry into the Middle Eastern market and is set to become the company’s seventh global resort destination. The details were shared shortly before Disney’s second-quarter earnings call.
Disney’s theme parks have been crucial to the company’s financial success, accounting for 59% of its operating income in the 2024 fiscal year as competition in the streaming market intensifies. While attendance at domestic parks in the US showed minor declines last year, Disney reported a resurgence in park attendance and a revenue boost in the first quarter of this year. However, challenges persist in international markets, particularly in China, known for decreased attendance at the Shanghai and Hong Kong parks due to ongoing trade tensions.
The new Abu Dhabi resort will be developed by Miral, with Disney’s “imagineers” overseeing the creative design. It is expected to open in the early 2030s and will include a theme park and several hotels, with a commitment to incorporating local culture into its design and attractions. Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, emphasised that the park would not simply replicate existing Disney parks but would tailor its offerings to the unique landscape of Abu Dhabi.
The strategic choice of Abu Dhabi, with its ambitious airport expansion plans, positions the resort to attract a larger regional audience, including potentially 500 million people within a reachable distance. The resort will be the first Disney property built directly on a waterfront, featuring a unique castle design unlike any seen in previous parks.
Disney is prepared to utilise cutting-edge technology to enhance visitor experience, potentially using real-time content from films and games within the park to create immersive attractions. This innovative approach reflects Disney’s continuous evolution and responsiveness to audience expectations.
Amidst the competitive landscape—exemplified by Universal’s recent announcements regarding new attractions—Disney remains unconcerned about potential impacts on its established parks. D’Amaro noted that new attractions tend to increase overall tourist numbers in Central Florida.
The long-awaited Disneyland Abu Dhabi has been in development discussions for nearly a decade, with Disney’s theme parks attracting over 140 million visitors globally in 2023, including record numbers at its flagship parks in the US. Despite challenges in domestic attendance due to rising costs and economic uncertainties, Disney’s international parks continue to excel, illustrating the company’s resilience during fluctuating market conditions.
This new venture in Abu Dhabi underscores Disney’s commitment to international growth and its strategy of diversifying theme park locations to adapt to changing global dynamics.