Disney magic is officially coming to Abu Dhabi. In partnership with Miral, an entertainment developer based in the United Arab Emirates, The Walt Disney Company will establish a new Disney resort on Yas Island—making it the seventh such destination globally. But while the announcement promises a fresh wave of storytelling and technological innovation, it also brings complex conversations to the forefront.
Disney CEO Bob Iger revealed what makes this new project stand apart: “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati—an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world that will bring to life our timeless characters and stories in many new ways,” he said. “As our seventh theme park destination, it will rise from this land in spectacular fashion.”
The park will be located along Yas Island’s scenic waterfront and is expected to become a central tourism hub for families traveling from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. According to Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio.”
Miral Chairman His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak also expressed pride in the collaboration. “The collaboration between Abu Dhabi and Disney demonstrates the remarkable results of combining visionary leadership and creative excellence,” he said. “What we are creating with Disney in Abu Dhabi is a whole new world of imagination—an experience that will inspire generations across the region and the world.”
While specific attractions have not been detailed, the move reflects Disney’s larger strategy of expanding its global footprint. In 2023, the company announced an estimated $60 billion in capital expenditures over the next decade to support growth in Disney Experiences—including international parks and cruise lines.
“Right now, we have more projects underway around the world than at any time in our history,” Iger said at a shareholders meeting, as reported by Blooloop.
The announcement, however, has reignited discussions around regional policies and Disney’s values. The UAE’s laws concerning LGBTQ+ individuals have come under scrutiny. Homosexuality is criminalized, and some forms of same-sex activity can lead to imprisonment with no maximum penalty limit.
This legal context has already affected Disney content in the region. Lightyear (2022) was banned in the UAE due to a same-sex kiss. Other titles—including Beauty and the Beast (2017), Onward (2020), and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)—were similarly barred in nearby countries. The underperformance and LGBTQ+ representation in Strange World (2022) make it a likely exclusion from the upcoming park.
Cultural adaptations may also influence character appearances. As reported in the Daily Mail, London-based Middle East culture expert Corina suggested that Ariel’s iconic shell top may need reworking. “A version with a longer top or a full-body aquatic outfit (similar to her look in some animated series or toys) could be used to maintain the character’s identity while respecting local dress codes.”
The same could go for Minnie Mouse. “She would probably be in a dress, although the dress might be a maxi dress,” Corina added. Yet some regional performances—like those at the Dubai Mall—still feature mermaids in traditional attire, indicating a possible gray area.
The original Aladdin (1992) also faced controversy over lyrics in “Arabian Nights,” which the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee criticized. Disney adjusted the song’s lyrics for its 2019 remake, and any park representation would likely reflect that update.
Although fans continue to hope for a fifth gate at Walt Disney World in Florida, that project remains unannounced. For now, the spotlight is firmly on Yas Island. Interestingly, Disney will not be funding the park directly; instead, Miral will license Disney’s intellectual property, similar to the arrangement with Tokyo’s Oriental Land Company.
This resort marks a major turning point in the company’s approach to global expansion and storytelling innovation. But it also asks a familiar question: How will Disney balance its creative ambitions with cultural considerations?
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