The UAE is gearing up for an exciting new chapter in its tourism story with the announcement that Disneyland will be coming to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; the first Disney theme park in the Middle East. This is just one of many high-profile developments aimed at transforming the UAE into one of the world’s leading tourism destinations.
A Game-Changer for UAE Tourism
On 7 May 2025, The Walt Disney Company made an exciting announcement that will reshape tourism in the Middle East, the creation of a Disneyland theme park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. This marks the first Disney theme park in the region and is expected to be a major attraction for families, international tourists, and fans of Disney characters and stories.
The arrival of Disneyland on Yas Island is not just a win for Abu Dhabi but for the UAE as a whole. It adds to the growing list of attractions that have made the UAE a top destination for both leisure and business travel. Disney’s investment in the region reflects the UAE’s ambition to become a global hub for family tourism, and with it comes a wealth of opportunities for local businesses, tourism operators, and real estate developers.
UAE’s Vision for Exponential Tourism Growth
While Disneyland Abu Dhabi is a significant milestone, the UAE’s commitment to expanding its tourism sector is evident across the entire nation. Both government and private sector players are working in harmony to position the UAE as a global tourism leader, drawing millions of visitors annually from around the world. Here’s how:
Dubai continues to push the envelope with its ambitious projects, events, and cultural offerings that attract millions of international visitors, including Global Village, the Museum of the Future, Dubai Fountain, Burj Khalifa, and numerous other attractions such as beaches and adventure parks.
As a result, visitor numbers are soaring, with a 15% increase in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year. These initiatives not only bolster Dubai’s tourism sector but also drive demand in the real estate market. From luxury villas to high-end hotels and commercial properties, the city offers vast opportunities for real estate investors looking to capitalise on Dubai’s tourism boom.
Ras Al Khaimah, a hidden gem, is emerging as a significant player in the UAE’s tourism growth. Known for its natural beauty, historical significance, and adventure offerings such as Jebel Jais, the Hajar Mountains, and high-end resorts, RAK is drawing a growing number of tourists each year. These numbers are expected to rise further with the opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island, the world’s largest casino, in 2027.
Sharjah on the other hand has gained recognition as a cultural capital with its museums, art festivals, and rich Islamic heritage.
Ajman and Fujairah are capitalising on the UAE’s coastal appeal, offering beach resorts, diving experiences, and a more relaxed environment compared to their bustling neighbours.
Each of these developments contributes to overall tourism growth, creating diverse opportunities for investors across the country.
Real Estate and Tourism: A Symbiotic Boom
As the UAE’s tourism industry booms, the real estate market is thriving. Here’s how:
- With millions of tourists expected to flock to the UAE over the coming years, there is growing demand for short-term rentals, holiday homes, and luxury hotels.
- Alongside hospitality, commercial spaces such as retail centres, entertainment venues, and conference facilities are also in high demand. The UAE is fuelling the growth of retail and leisure developments, providing attractive investment opportunities.
- As the UAE continues to attract tourists and expatriates, the need for residential properties, whether for long-term stays or as holiday homes, has surged. Dubai and Abu Dhabi remain top markets, while Ras Al Khaimah’s emerging tourism sector is also creating new opportunities in the residential real estate market.
The arrival of Disneyland in Abu Dhabi is a major milestone in the UAE’s ongoing transformation into a global tourism powerhouse. But it’s just the beginning. With concerted efforts across the entire country, from Dubai’s high-end offerings to Ras Al Khaimah’s growing adventure tourism scene, the UAE is set to continue its exponential growth in tourism for years to come.
