Introduction to Disney’s New Venture
The Walt Disney Company announced plans to open a new themed resort in Abu Dhabi, marking its seventh location worldwide. The new park, yet to be dated for its grand opening, will be constructed on Yas Island alongside local partner Miral.
Targeting a Broader Audience
Disney aims to attract tourists from the Middle East, Africa, India, Europe, and beyond with this new addition. The announcement comes just before U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.
A Unique Blend of Disney and Abu Dhabi Culture
According to Disney CEO Robert Iger, “Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” promising “an extraordinary Disney entertainment oasis at this crossroads of the world.”
The new resort will merge Disney’s iconic stories and characters with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culture, stunning coastline, and impressive architecture.
Disney’s Theme Park Expansion
Abu Dhabi will be home to Disney’s seventh themed park, following the first opening in California in 1955. The other locations are in Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.
Iger explained the choice of location due to the long and costly travel for many customers to other Disney parks. He also highlighted the success of existing Abu Dhabi attractions, such as the Louvre and Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim.
Miral, which operates several hotels, resorts, and attractions in Abu Dhabi including Warner Brothers World, Ferrari World, and Sea World, will be responsible for building and operating the new Disney complex under Disney’s supervision.
Modern and Technologically Advanced Destination
Josh D’Amaro, Disney Experiences president, stated in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that the new complex will be Disney’s most modern and technologically advanced destination.
Positive Disney Results
Disney reported better-than-expected results in the first quarter, driven by increased subscribers and higher profitability from its streaming service.
The company’s overall revenue rose 7% to $23.6 billion between January and March, with Disney+ subscribers reaching 126 million (+1.4 million new subscribers since the previous quarter).
This growth in subscribers occurred when analysts anticipated a decline during the period.
The Experiences segment, which includes theme parks and consumer products, saw revenue growth. Parks and Experiences Domestic income increased by 13%, totaling $1.8 billion.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the new Disney project in Abu Dhabi? Disney plans to open a new themed resort on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with local partner Miral.
- Why is Abu Dhabi chosen for this new park? The location was selected due to the long and costly travel for many customers to other Disney parks. Abu Dhabi’s existing successful attractions, such as the Louvre and Guggenheim, also played a role in the decision.
- What makes this new Disney park unique? The resort will blend Disney’s iconic stories and characters with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culture, coastline, and architecture.
- What are Disney’s recent financial results? Disney reported better-than-expected first-quarter results, driven by increased subscribers and higher profitability from its streaming service. Disney+ reached 126 million subscribers, surpassing expectations.
