Disney has finally dropped a major clue, and habibi’s and habibitis are officially losing their mind over this. After months of speculation, Disneyland Abu Dhabi’s location has finally been revealed. For the first time, the upcoming global entertainment giant will sit firmly on Yas Island. The confirmation came straight from Disney CEO Bob Iger, who shared images from a site visit on January 26. The visuals show Yas Island signage and a stretch of blue water behind it.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi Location Revealed On Yas Island, Targeting 2030–2033 Opening
View this post on Instagram
This update follows reporting by Gulf News, which first detailed how Disney and Abu Dhabi developer Miral are progressing with early groundwork while keeping exact details tightly under wraps.
Why Yas Island Was Always the Obvious Choice
Yas Island is renowned as Abu Dhabi’s entertainment backbone. From mega theme parks like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World. Yas Waterworld and A Formula 1 circuit, the infrastructure is huge.
While Miral has not officially confirmed the exact plot, all signs point north. Yas North remains the only part of the island large enough to accommodate a Disneyland-scale project. Earlier comments from Miral CEO Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi also hinted that expansion and infrastructure upgrades would be “considered,” which quietly supports the idea that land extension could be part of the plan.
What Makes Disneyland Abu Dhabi Different From the Rest
This will be the seventh Disneyland park in the world, but it won’t be a copy-paste version.
Bob Iger previously described the park as “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati.” It signals cultural design choices, regional storytelling, and architecture that reflects the UAE rather than borrowing heavily from existing parks.
One standout feature has already been confirmed. For the first time in Disneyland history, a water element will integrate directly into the park’s design. Confirmed in September 2025, this move makes perfect sense in a coastal setting like Yas Island and adds a new layer to how guests experience the park.
How Long Will It Take?
As for timelines, Disney Parks chairman Josh D’Amaro told Reuters that design alone could take one to two years, followed by four to six years of construction. Based on that, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is expected to open sometime between 2030 and 2033.
No opening date yet, nor have ticket prices been released.
Also Read: Let Your Kids Enjoy Krave’s Wholesome Disney Meal Inspired By Lilo & Stitch!
What This Means For Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Play
Disneyland Abu Dhabi positions Yas Island as a multi-day destination for families across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. It also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s strategy of blending global entertainment with regional identity.
Image Courtesy: Disneyland Resort/Website
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: January 27, 2026 1:14 PM