Outdoor Disneyland Abu Dhabi “wouldn’t succeed,” says Miral CEO.

by Dubaiforum
3 minutes read

Disneyland Abu Dhabi: A Vision of Hybrid Entertainment Amidst Desert Realities

The ambitious plan to establish Disneyland Abu Dhabi on Yas Island continues to spark discussions about the feasibility and design of a theme park in a region renowned for its extreme temperatures. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, the company tasked with developing and operating this monumental project, has declared that an entirely outdoor theme park in Abu Dhabi “would never work.” His candid assessment underscores the complexities of creating a large-scale entertainment destination in an environment characterized by blistering heat for much of the year.

In a dialogue with Forbes Middle East, Al Zaabi emphasized that past experiences with existing parks further validate this assertion. Miral already successfully manages three major indoor theme parks on Yas Island: Warner Bros. World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and Ferrari World, all designed to provide immersive experiences while protecting visitors from the sweltering climate. The group’s operational acumen reflects a deep understanding of the local environment and the expectations of international tourists.

Al Zaabi elaborated that the forthcoming Disneyland Abu Dhabi will take a hybrid approach, incorporating both indoor and outdoor elements into its design. “At this stage, it is too early to decide, but I reckon a good percentage of it will be indoor,” he stated, highlighting a commitment to ensuring visitor comfort without compromising on the experience that Disney parks are globally celebrated for. This insight suggests a strategic pivot that aligns with the region’s climatic realities, facilitating an engaging experience year-round.

The announcement of Disneyland Abu Dhabi, made in May 2023, positions it as the world’s sixth Disney resort. The project promises to intertwine the magic of Disney’s cherished stories and characters with the unique cultural tapestry, stunning shorelines, and architectural grandeur that Abu Dhabi offers. Bob Iger, the CEO of The Walt Disney Company, has indicated that the new park will not merely replicate existing models but rather serve as an innovative and significant addition to Disney’s global portfolio.

In a recent interview with CNBC, Iger articulated a vision for the park that transcends traditional confines, stating, “We are not talking about anything small or anything in a box,” which signals Disney’s ambition to create a truly landmark attraction in the Middle East. This ambitious vision is reflected in the collaborative efforts of Walt Disney Imagineering, the creative force behind Disney’s theme parks, which will play a pivotal role in the park’s design and operational execution.

Moreover, Disneyland Abu Dhabi aims to be not only a destination of entertainment but also a culturally resonant experience. Iger reiterated that the resort will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati.” This sentiment was echoed by Al Zaabi in an interview with Gulf News, where he remarked, “This destination will be authentically Emirati in style but fully Disney in experience. We want visitors to feel the culture of the UAE while enjoying the magic of Disney.”

The implications of this development extend far beyond entertainment; they also encompass economic prospects and tourism for Abu Dhabi. The convergence of Disney’s globally recognized brand with Emirati culture is poised to attract a diverse array of visitors, enriching the local economy and enhancing the region’s profile as a premier tourist destination.

By adapting its vision to incorporate an indoor and outdoor hybrid structure, Disneyland Abu Dhabi reflects a nuanced understanding of its operational environment. This innovative approach, combined with the allure of Disney’s storied legacy, heralds a new chapter for attractions in the region, merging global entertainment standards with local cultural authenticity.

As Yas Island continues its evolution into a world-class leisure hub, the Disneyland venture stands as a testament to thoughtful planning and execution in a challenging environment. Through this multifaceted theme park, visitors can anticipate an unparalleled experience that harmonizes the whimsy of Disney with the rich heritage of the Emirates—a celebration of local culture wrapped in a fantasy that only Disney can deliver.

Image credits: Paul Hiffmeyer

Tags: #DisneylandAbuDhabi #EconomyNews #UAE #StartupsEntrepreneurship #LifestyleNews

You may also like

About Dubai Forum

Dubai Forum: your daily source for the latest news from Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, and the broader Middle East region. Our coverage includes updates on people, lifestyle, communities, business, startups, and finance, keeping you informed on all facets of the dynamic Dubai scene. #Dubaicommunities #people #travel #startups #DubaiForum