Disney to open its seventh theme park — and it’s not where you expect

Disney is set to open a theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi — its seventh location and first in the Middle East, the entertainment giant announced on Wednesday.

The park will be situated on Yas Island, already a notable leisure destination in the United Arab Emirates that includes prominent attractions such as Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

The Walt Disney Company partners with Miral to launch a resort in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi Media Office

Bob Iger is the CEO of Disney. Getty Images

The area also boasts the Yas Marina Circuit, famous for hosting Formula 1 events.

Miral will shoulder the entire cost of the development and construction, while Disney will oversee the creative design, using its renowned imagineering team. The House of Mouse will also manage the park’s operations.