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Disney Worldbuilders: Abu Dhabi Park Revealed
20 Aug
Summary
- New documentary shows Disney's first Middle East park development.
- Key creatives like Kevin Feige and Jon Favreau are featured.
- Park design is inspired by Abu Dhabi's diverse natural landscapes.
A new Disney+ documentary, 'Disney Worldbuilders,' is set to premiere on August 20, 2026, offering viewers an in-depth look at the development of Disney's inaugural theme park in the Middle East. This ambitious project, slated for Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, is helmed by Walt Disney Imagineering and will be the company's seventh global resort.
The documentary provides a unique glimpse into high-level planning meetings, featuring prominent figures such as Marvel Studios' Kevin Feige and Lucasfilm's Jon Favreau. These creatives are exploring how to translate beloved Disney characters and stories into immersive theme park experiences. The film highlights the initial design inspirations for the Abu Dhabi park, which are drawn directly from the region's varied biomes, including its coral reefs, deserts, and urban landscapes.
Leslie Iwerks, the director of 'Disney Worldbuilders,' described the atmosphere during a crucial planning meeting as electric, comparing the moment to Walt Disney's initial vision for Disneyland. The Abu Dhabi park, announced in May 2025, is being developed by Miral Group, with Disney's Imagineers leading the creative and operational aspects. Construction is anticipated to take between five to eight years from the initial design phase.
