It should have been a moment of celebration.
The kind of grand announcement that sends shockwaves through the entertainment world—Disney is building a brand-new, state-of-the-art theme park in the heart of Abu Dhabi. A shining jewel in the company’s expanding global portfolio. A billion-dollar bet on magic, technology, and tourism.
But instead of cheers, the company was met with questions. Disbelief. Outrage.
And for many Disney fans, heartbreak.
Why would the world’s most famously inclusive brand build its next kingdom in a place where millions of its own fans aren’t safe—or even welcome?
Disney Park Abu Dhabi: A Bold Expansion with a Troubling Undercurrent
Located in the United Arab Emirates’ capital city, the upcoming park is set to feature immersive lands, luxurious resorts, and the signature storytelling fans around the world adore. Abu Dhabi, known for its oil wealth and modern skyline, has rapidly become a major cultural hub, housing attractions like Warner Bros. World and Ferrari World.
A whole new world awaits Disney and Miral have announced an agreement to create the seventh Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi. – @DisneyParks on X
A whole new world awaits ✨ Disney and Miral have announced an agreement to create the seventh Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi. https://t.co/Z3II42opKF #YasIsland #InAbuDhabi pic.twitter.com/7MskZjXuvz
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) May 7, 2025
But behind the glitz lies a darker truth. The UAE enforces strict laws criminalizing homosexuality. Under its interpretation of Sharia law, same-sex relationships can carry severe penalties—including, in rare cases, the death penalty, although such punishments are typically avoided through legal maneuvering or deportation. Still, the laws remain on the books—and the risk is real.
And it doesn’t stop there.
Women’s Rights Still Under Constraint
Though often seen as more progressive than its neighbors, the UAE has yet to achieve full equality for women. Guardianship customs and legal restrictions continue to impact women’s autonomy in areas like marriage, divorce, travel, and employment. Public displays of affection can be penalized, and while female tourists are generally welcomed, there’s an unspoken rule: don’t push the boundaries.
This raises another key question: How can a company whose heroines include Moana, Elsa, and Mulan—all symbols of freedom and female empowerment—justify investing in a nation where women still fight for basic rights?
One former cast member who worked at Disneyland put it bluntly: “This isn’t a ‘Frozen’ fairytale. It’s a real place, with real consequences. Are we just supposed to pretend that doesn’t matter?”
Faith in Question: What About Christian Visitors?
Christianity is not illegal in the UAE, and churches do exist—but Christian practice is tightly regulated. Public worship, missionary work, and religious expression outside designated spaces are prohibited. Bibles can be carried privately, but cannot be shared or displayed publicly.
Looks like I won’t be able to visit Disneyland Abu Dhabi – @imemegination on X
Looks like I won’t be able to visit Disneyland Abu Dhabi pic.twitter.com/AS2ZHMzSqt
— Imemegination (@imemegination) May 7, 2025
In other words, families who incorporate faith into their vacations—those who pray before meals at a Disney restaurant or wear a cross necklace—may face new challenges at this Middle East destination.
“It makes me uncomfortable,” said one father from Texas. “I want my kids to experience Disney, but not if it means silencing who we are.”
Magic at What Cost?
Disney has spent years championing representation, launching Pride merchandise, introducing LGBTQ+ characters, and taking public stands on social issues. Their decision to open a park in Abu Dhabi, critics argue, directly contradicts those values.
I gotta be honest; today is a real weird day for LGBT Disney Parks fans. – @DisneyScoopGuy on X
I gotta be honest; today is a real weird day for LGBT Disney Parks fans.
— Matt Desmond (@DisneyScoopGuy) May 7, 2025
Social media lit up almost immediately following the announcement. Fans expressed disappointment, while advocacy groups called the move “shortsighted” and “irresponsible.”
“Disney wants to have it both ways,” said cultural commentator Lena Ortez. “They want to stand for inclusivity—until it interferes with international expansion. That’s not leadership. That’s branding.”
Even internally, some cast members reportedly voiced concern. Will LGBTQ+ employees be allowed to work there? Will female staff be required to follow stricter dress codes? Will Christian traditions be quietly erased?
So far, Disney has released little detail beyond the announcement, focusing on the project’s economic potential and architectural vision. But many believe silence on human rights issues speaks volumes.
The Disney Park in Abu Dhabi: A Fanbase Divided—and Watching
The global Disney community is vast, diverse, and loyal. But this latest move may fracture that unity. For some, it’s a business decision. For others, it’s a betrayal of everything the brand claims to stand for.
To be clear, there’s no denying the creative promise of a new international park. But for many fans—especially those in the LGBTQ+, female, and Christian communities—the question isn’t whether it will be magical.
The question is whether they’ll be allowed inside at all.
Because Disney isn’t just a company. It’s a culture. And culture, at its core, should never be exclusive.
