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The recent announcement of the arrival of a Disneyland theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi has generated enthusiasm worldwide, and particularly within the real estate sector. For our valued clients of Dubai-Property.com this means not only a new tourist attraction, but also a powerful engine for growth and opportunity in the UAE's booming real estate market.
On May 7, 2025, The Walt Disney Company and Miral, the leading developer of experiential destinations in Abu Dhabi, officially announced their plans for an iconic Disney resort on Yas Island. This will be Disney's seventh theme park worldwide and the first in the Middle East - a historic moment for both Disney and the region.
Yas Island: the ideal setting for Disney magic
The choice of Yas Island is no accident. This island is already an international hotspot with attractions such as Warner Bros. World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World. With the addition of Disneyland, it will become one of the world's most complete entertainment destinations, attracting visitors from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe and far beyond.
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The new park is described as "authentically Disney, but distinctly Emirati" - a unique blend of Disney's stories and characters combined with Abu Dhabi's cultural richness and progressive vision. It is expected to be the most technologically advanced Disney park ever, with largely covered areas to ensure comfort in the region's hot climate.
A partnership built on success
The project will be fully developed, built and operated by Miral, while Disney's renowned Imagineering team will provide creative design and operational oversight. This collaboration follows Tokyo Disneyland's successful model of combining local expertise with Disney's global standards.
Although the exact opening date is not yet known, official sources suggest that the park is likely to open its doors between 2030 and 2032. Construction has now begun, with obvious activity on Yas Island: preparations, utilities and large-scale earthworks are visible. Modern techniques such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) are also being used to speed up development.
The real estate impact: what does it mean for investors?
The arrival of Disneyland has far-reaching positive implications for the real estate market in the UAE - and especially Abu Dhabi:
Tourism and rental demand
A Disney park invariably causes an increase in tourism worldwide. Tourism in Abu Dhabi is expected to increase by 30-40% within five years of opening. This will lead to increased demand for short-term rentals, serviced apartments and hotels, especially on and around Yas Island. With limited supply, this will further drive up real estate prices.
Employment and population growth
The project is estimated to create 20,000 jobs during construction and 10,000 operational positions in sectors such as hospitality, transportation and tourism. This will create an increase in population and thus a greater need for housing and commercial space.
Value creation and ROI
According to Savills data, average sales prices in Abu Dhabi in Q1 2025 increased by 13.4% from a year earlier (from AED 14,100 to AED 16,200 per sq ft)【Source: Economy Middle East, May 27, 2025】. This growth is reinforced by Disney's arrival. On Yas Island, villa prices rose 10%, on Saadiyat Island even 26% in Q1 2025. Investing in these zones offers the prospect of strong capital growth and high returns.
Infrastructure development
Major projects typically lead to improvements in infrastructure, such as roads, public transportation and utilities. This increases the attractiveness of surrounding areas - with added value for property owners.
Growing International Interest
Disney's entry into Abu Dhabi underscores the confidence of international parties in the UAE. This will lead to new investment flows and additional demand from both institutional and private investors worldwide - including from the Netherlands.
Conclusion: an opportunity not to be missed
With its strategic location, modern infrastructure, attractive tax climate and international appeal, Abu Dhabi confirms its position as a global investment destination. Disneyland Abu Dhabi is more than an amusement park - it is a game-changer for real estate investment in the UAE.
For Dutch investors looking to diversify their portfolio and take advantage of the latest developments, now is the perfect time. The market is already picking up strongly, and with Disney coming up, the expectation is that the value and rentability of real estate will continue to rise.
Ready for your magical real estate journey?
Get in touch with Dubai-Property.com for personal advice on investing in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. We are happy to guide you every step of the way - from selection to purchase.
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