Disney’s Boldest Park Yet Is Coming to the Desert—and It’s Unlike Anything You’ve Seen

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Ready your passports and imaginations—Disney is about to sprinkle pixie dust in the desert. In a historic announcement that lit up morning TV, Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger revealed on Good Morning America that a brand-new Disneyland destination is coming to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. And this isn't just another theme park—this will be the most technologically advanced Disney park the world has ever seen.

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A Modern Disney Wonderland

“This is a big deal,” said Iger. And he's not wrong. Abu Dhabi isn’t just getting a Disneyland—it’s getting a next-generation theme park that fuses iconic Disney storytelling with cutting-edge technology, modern architecture, and a flair uniquely tailored to the region. Anchored by what Iger calls the “first real modern castle,” the park will rise from the desert sands and overlook the coastline, blending innovation and enchantment in one sweeping vision.

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A Global Hub for Disney Dreams

Why Abu Dhabi? According to Iger, the UAE capital sits at a global crossroads. It’s a place where East meets West, culture meets ambition, and now, where Disney meets the future. “It’s accessible to so many regions we’ve barely touched,” Iger explained. That global reach means this park won’t just be a regional attraction—it’ll be a world-class destination.

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And if you’re imagining a sand-swept version of Anaheim’s 1955 Disneyland, think again. This park promises immersive experiences, modern storytelling, and all-new attractions built with tomorrow’s technology. While specific lands and rides are still under wraps, fans can expect the full force of Disney's intellectual property—from princesses to galaxies far, far away.

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A Local Partner with Global Vision

Disney isn’t building this dreamland alone. They're teaming up with Miral, Abu Dhabi’s powerhouse of entertainment development. If that name rings a bell, it’s because Miral has already crafted some of the most immersive experiences in the region. According to Miral Chairman H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, this park is “a legacy piece” for future generations. “We’re creating happiness,” he said. “And we want it to last forever.”

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That means no shortcuts. Miral and Disney are aiming for fast-track development without compromising on quality—because this park isn’t just a first for Abu Dhabi; it’s a bold statement to the world.

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What’s Next for Disney Fans?

Although the official opening date hasn’t been announced, groundwork for the park has been quietly progressing since 2017. With plans now crystalized, construction is set to accelerate—and the countdown to Disneyland #7 is officially on.

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From a castle that rises out of the sand to rides that push the limits of imagination, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is more than a theme park. It’s a celebration of where Disney magic meets modern marvel—and the entire world is invited.

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