For nearly seven decades, Disney has been redefining what it means to visit a theme park. Since Disneyland first opened its gates in 1955, fans have traveled across continents to step into immersive worlds where stories and characters come to life. With each new destination, Disney has managed to blend familiar traditions with innovative ideas, creating experiences that feel both comforting and groundbreaking.
A key part of that identity lies in the iconic castles that anchor each park. From Sleeping Beauty Castle in Anaheim to the soaring Enchanted Storybook Castle in Shanghai, these landmarks don’t just serve as photo backdrops—they embody the spirit of each resort. They’re the first structures guests see upon entering, the centerpieces of parades and fireworks, and the enduring symbols of Disney magic across the globe.
Related: Disney Imagineers Officially State Why the Current Cinderella Castle Will Be No More
In May 2025, fans were surprised when Disney announced a brand-new resort would join the family. The new destination is planned for Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. Similar to Tokyo Disney, the project will be funded and operated by a partner—in this case, the Miral Group—while Disney provides its signature Imagineering expertise.
What makes this addition especially notable is that it will be the company’s very first indoor theme park, located on Yas Island.
Although Disney has remained tight-lipped about many specifics, company leaders have teased that the park will deliver something different from anything that’s come before.
Related: Arabian Nights and Marvel Thrills: What Disney Fans Could Expect in Abu Dhabi
Guests can expect beloved Disney characters, familiar attractions, and cutting-edge technology, all brought together under one roof. Hints have also been dropped about how the centerpiece of the park—the castle—will stand apart from every other Disney castle.
Speaking earlier this year, Disney CEO Bob Iger fueled speculation by suggesting that the new design would reflect the resort’s unique setting. “You start thinking about what is possible, actually envisioning a castle rising up in this case from the sand and also being on the water,” Iger said.
Now, Imagineer Zach Ridley has expanded on that idea. Appearing on We Call It Imagineering, Ridley confirmed that Imagineers are leaning into Abu Dhabi’s geography as they craft the new design.
“Weʼre going to create a castle park here, a park thatʼs based on our Magic Kingdom-style of storytelling.”
“Abu Dhabi is a city on the water, and so weʼre really excited about being able to incorporate water for the first time in the design of one of our castles.”
This marks a first for Disney, as previous castles have only featured moats, fountains, or decorative water elements. The Abu Dhabi project aims to go further, weaving water directly into the castle’s layout and atmosphere.
As of now, construction has not begun. The resort remains in development, with opening timelines pointing toward somewhere between 2030 and 2032. That long wait hasn’t dampened speculation, however, as fans eagerly debate what Imagineers might bring to life in a setting that’s already filled with opportunity and challenges.
Not everyone is celebrating the news. Critics have raised concerns about Disney expanding into a region where human rights remain a serious issue. Homosexuality and transgender identity remain illegal in the UAE, and many worry about what this means for Disney fans and employees who would want to visit the park. These controversies have sparked conversations online, where excitement over the design is often tempered by questions of ethics.
Are you excited to hear that Disney will incorporate water features into its new castle in Abu Dhabi? How do you feel about Disney building a theme park in the Middle East? Where do you think Disney’s next resort should be located? Share all your thoughts with us in the comments!
