Following Disney’s official announcement of its plans to open the sixth theme park in the world—on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi—investors have shown a marked increase in interest in the region.
This landmark development is already having a positive impact on the real estate market in the UAE capital.
Although the park's completion will take several years, inquiries for off-plan properties in Abu Dhabi have surged, and local developers have begun discussing potential price revisions.
According to recent market data, Abu Dhabi’s real estate market was already showing upward momentum even before Disney’s announcement. In April 2025, the total value of real estate transactions increased by 15.7% compared to March, reaching AED 2.9 billion.
However, analysts recorded a clear spike in interest during the first week after the Disney news broke.
“There’s been a real buzz in recent days. We’re confident that interest in Yas Island and the surrounding areas will remain strong in both the short and long term,” experts commented.
The planning stage properties have seen the biggest surge in demand. Over 70% of all transactions in April involved off-plan developments—including projects on Yas, Saadiyat, and Jubail islands.
Many believe that Disneyland’s arrival will impact not only Yas Island but the entire Abu Dhabi market, driving up interest in new residential developments, including up-and-coming areas like Zayed City.
Rental Market Expected to Grow Alongside Investor Demand
According to market analysts, the growing interest in Yas Island is also expected to boost the rental sector. In April alone, approximately 18,000 rental agreements were signed, with a total value of AED 1.3 billion.
Experts forecast that this number will continue to rise as the Disney park nears completion.
“Yas Island has always been popular among investors targeting the short-term rental market. There is already a shortage of hotels, and attractions like Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit make the island especially appealing,” analysts noted.
“We’re seeing a growing number of investors interested in the profitability of short-term rentals and holiday apartments.”