Eagle-eyed theme park fans have gone into full detective mode this week after Disney CEO Bob Iger was spotted standing at what appears to be the future site of Disneyland Abu Dhabi on Yas Island.
While the exact location of the park has never been officially confirmed, photos of Iger at the site quickly circulated online, prompting people to start comparing the background to satellite images on Google Maps.
The detail that really caught attention? A small jetty is visible behind him, which has since become the centre of online speculation.
Social media users began matching the coastline, skyline, and shoreline features to Yas Island’s northern waterfront, with many now convinced they’ve pinpointed the exact plot of land where Disney will eventually build.
Whether the jetty is part of future Disney infrastructure or simply a coincidence remains unknown, but it’s the most tangible “clue” fans have had so far.
What We Actually Know About Disneyland Abu Dhabi
Disney officially announced Disneyland Abu Dhabi in May 2025, confirming a partnership with Miral to develop a full Disney theme park and resort on Yas Island.
This will be Disney’s first park in the Middle East and its seventh destination globally, joining the likes of Paris, Tokyo, and Orlando.
The park is being designed by Walt Disney Imagineering, with Miral responsible for building and operating it. Disney has described the project as being “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati,” hinting at a blend of classic Disney storytelling with regional culture and design.
When Will It Open?
There’s still no official opening date, but industry insiders expect the early 2030’s to be the most realistic timeline. For now, the park remains firmly in the planning phase, making every site visit, aerial photo, and mysterious jetty all the more exciting.
Until construction begins, it looks like Google Maps will remain Disneyland Abu Dhabi’s most visited attraction.
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