United Arab Emirates will soon be home to the Happiest Place on Earth. The Walt Disney Company has announced plans for the world’s first seventh theme park since Shanghai Disneyland opened in 2016.
Disney announced a new waterfront theme-park resort at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. The island is a “world class destination for leisure and entertainment.” Yas Island is also operated by Miral and features hotels, theme parks, and other attractions.
Disney Parks Blog announced that “this seventh Disney theme-park resort will combine Disney’s iconic stories, character and attractions with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant cultural, stunning shores, and astounding architecture.”
In a press release, Robert A. Iger CEO of The Walt Disney Company said: “This will be our seventh theme park, and it will blend contemporary architecture with cutting edge technology to offer deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern way.” Travel + Leisure
The partnership will operate in a similar way to Tokyo Disneyland Resort. Disney and its Imagineers are responsible for the creative direction, while Miral develops, builds, and operates it. Disney will reach a whole new audience and Abu Dhabi will grow its tourism industry.
Details about the rides and attractions are still to be announced, but according to the announcement, in addition to the theme park, there will also be themed dining, retail, and accommodations that “celebrate the heritage of Disney as well as the futuristic, cultural essence of Abu Dhabi.”
Disney
Josh D’Amaro said that the resort will be interactive and advanced. He said that the location, along the shoreline, would enhance their storytelling ability. “Ultimately, the event will be a celebration for what’s possible when progress and creativity come together.”
UAE is easily accessible through the world’s biggest airline hub. It is reported that 120 passengers travel to and from Dubai and Abu Dhabi every year. One-third of world’s population is within four hours flight.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi Group CEO of Miral said: “Bringing a Disney Theme Park Resort to Yas Island represents a historic landmark in our journey to further enhance the island’s status as a worldwide destination for exceptional leisure and entertainment.” “Together we are creating an environment of limitless innovation where the vision and leadership of Miral continues to inspire people around the globe.”
A date for the opening has not been announced. Miral’s Yas Island, currently, is home to Warner Bros. World and Ferrari World. Ferrari World has the world’s fastest rollercoaster, which reaches speeds up to 149 mph.
