New Disneyland Abu Dhabi Guide: Opening Date, Location, Attractions & Muslim-Friendly Features

Exciting news for globetrotters and Disney aficionados alike! Prepare to add a captivating new destination to your travel itineraries — Disneyland Abu Dhabi! That’s right, the Walt Disney Company has officially announced plans to develop its seventh global theme park resort in the United Arab Emirates, promising a unique blend of Disney magic and Middle Eastern charm.

As Disney’s seventh theme park resort worldwide, Disneyland Abu Dhabi will join the prestigious family of parks in California, Florida, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Each destination offers a distinct flavour, and this new venture promises to integrate Disney’s iconic storytelling and attractions with the rich culture, stunning coastlines, and impressive architecture of Abu Dhabi.

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Disneyland Abu Dhabi: Joining the global Disney family

Image credit: The National | Official Website

This upcoming waterfront resort will be strategically located on Abu Dhabi’s dynamic Yas Island, a burgeoning hub for entertainment and leisure. Developed in collaboration with the local firm Miral, Disneyland Abu Dhabi aims to draw a diverse international audience, inviting travellers from the Middle East, Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and beyond to experience its wonders.

Whilst Miral will oversee the construction of the resort, the renowned Disney Imagineers will be at the helm of the creative design and operational strategy. Disney CEO Bob Iger expressed his enthusiasm for this expansion, noting that Disneyland Abu Dhabi will rise as a spectacular destination, seamlessly merging contemporary design with cutting-edge technology to deliver deeply immersive entertainment experiences in innovative ways.

Meanwhile, Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, highlighted the unique waterfront location of the park, emphasising its potential to unlock new and imaginative ways of storytelling, making it the “most advanced and interactive destination” in their portfolio. This project signifies an exciting opportunity to introduce the Disney experience to a new part of the world and welcome even more families.

Upon its completion, the resort will feature uniquely themed accommodations, diverse dining options, and curated retail experiences, all designed to weave together Disney’s storytelling legacy with the modern and cultural essence of Abu Dhabi.

While no exact date of completion has been announced, it’s worth noting that, in previous cases, a Disneyland theme park typically takes between 18 months and two years to design and fully develop and approximately five years to build.

Yas Island: A growing entertainment hub

Image credit: Everhomes | Official Website

Yas Island is already a well-established destination, boasting attractions such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, alongside the Yas Marina Circuit for Formula 1, a major shopping mall, and a renowned golf course. The addition of Disneyland Abu Dhabi is set to further solidify Yas Island’s status as a premier global travel destination.

A warm welcome for Muslim travellers

Image credit: Disneyland | Official Website

Disneyland Abu Dhabi is set to become a standout destination for Muslim travellers, thanks to its location in the heart of the UAE — a Muslim-majority country known for its hospitality and cultural inclusivity. Visitors can expect a travel experience that’s both magical and mindful of Islamic values, making it easier than ever for Muslim families to enjoy a Disney vacation without compromising their lifestyle.

The resort is likely to include essential amenities such as dedicated prayer rooms within the park, allowing guests to comfortably perform their daily prayers. Halal-certified dining will also be a key feature, with diverse food options that cater to various tastes while adhering to dietary requirements. From themed restaurants to quick-service kiosks, Muslim travellers can dine with confidence and peace of mind.

Family-friendly facilities will be thoughtfully integrated throughout the resort, including gender-sensitive restrooms and nursing rooms for parents with young children. With its location in Abu Dhabi, the park will also observe local customs and cultural traditions, offering a respectful atmosphere during Ramadan and Islamic holidays.

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All of this makes Disneyland Abu Dhabi a unique and inclusive destination, where Muslim visitors can fully immerse themselves in the Disney magic while enjoying a seamless, culturally respectful experience.