Abu Dhabi Park to Feature Biome-Based Lands Instead of Themed Areas
Disney is developing its first Middle East theme park in Abu Dhabi, with creative input from Walt Disney Imagineers. The company's seventh global theme park resort and first in the region will use Abu Dhabi's natural landscapes to guide its layout and storytelling.
The new Disney+ documentary 'Disney Worldbuilders' offers a behind-the-scenes look at the project and its high-profile planning meetings. Viewers get a glimpse into the minds of some of the company's most talented creative forces, including Marvel Studios' Kevin Feige, Lucasfilm's Jon Favreau, and Pixar's Pete Docter.
Throughout the film, viewers get to witness a meeting between Disney executives, including former CEO Bob Iger and current CEO Josh D'Amaro, and members of the UAE's Department of Culture and Tourism. Tom Fitzgerald, portfolio executive creative director of Walt Disney Imagineering, presented an idea for organizing the park into 'biomes' rather than traditional themed lands.
The biomes will be inspired by Abu Dhabi's diverse landscapes, including coral reefs and deserts. Leslie Iwerks, the director of 'Disney Worldbuilders', described witnessing the momentous occasion as a 'really cool, full circle moment' for her.