Disney's Abu Dhabi Theme Park Takes Inspiration from Local Landmarks

Disney's Imagineers have been researching local landmarks in preparation for its upcoming theme park in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. According to a recent video promoting the plans for the park, Disney's team visited two historic landmarks: Al Ain Oasis and Sultan Bin Zayed Fort.

Al Ain Oasis is one of the largest oases in the region, spanning over 2,900 acres and featuring around 147,000 date palm trees that produce 100 varieties of dates. The oasis is adjacent to Sultan Bin Zayed Fort, a mud-brick building built in 1910 by Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed the First.

The video also shows Disney's delegation visiting Qasr Al Watan, the UAE's presidential palace. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning French architect Jean Nouvel, the palace features geometric shapes cut into its roof, inspired by the patterns found in Islamic architecture. However, according to Miral's chairman Mohamed Al Mubarak, Nouvel was actually inspired by his experience under an oasis, with thousands of date trees above him.

Disney has confirmed that it is working on new projects simultaneously, including its Abu Dhabi theme park resort. While details have been thin on the ground since the announcement, concept art released recently shows fireworks erupting from the park, suggesting that it will not be entirely indoors as previously reported.