On January 26, 2026, Disney CEO Bob Iger took a big step forward by visiting the site for the new Disneyland Abu Dhabi. The park will be built on Yas Island, the UAE's famous entertainment hub. Iger shared photos from the sandy coast, showing the iconic "YAS" sign backwards in the distance. He said, "Walking the site of what will one day be Disneyland Abu Dhabi! Lots of work ahead, but all very exciting." Disneyland Abu Dhabi was first announced in May 2025 as the seventh Disneyland worldwide and the first in the Middle East. The park is being developed with Miral, the company behind Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World on Yas Island. It will feature a signature Disney castle, both indoor and outdoor attractions suitable for the UAE's climate, and themed hotels, shops, and restaurants. Disney promises a mix of classic storytelling and local Emirati culture. Josh D’Amaro, Disney Experiences Chairman, called the site "incredibly unique" with a beautiful waterfront for telling new stories. Iger described the park as "authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati." The plan is to spend 1-2 years on design and 4-6 years building. This means the park could open by 2030 or early 2030s. The UAE is a key travel hub connecting the Middle East, Africa, India, and Europe, making it a smart choice for Disney's expansion. Yas Island already attracts millions, and the new Disneyland will boost tourism even more. Iger highlighted the UAE’s cultural and creative spirit as reasons for choosing Abu Dhabi. This new park joins six other Disney resorts worldwide, expanding Disney's presence into a vibrant new region.