Abu Dhabi could become home to one of the world’s most ambitious new attractions, with plans for a $5 billion moon-themed resort currently being explored in the UAE.
Moon World Resorts Inc. is seeking a vast 556-acre site for the development, equivalent to around 2.25 million square metres. While no location has been officially confirmed, Abu Dhabi is reportedly considered the most viable destination in the country due to the sheer amount of land required.
The proposed resort would form part of the company’s global expansion plans, with up to 10 regional licences expected to be awarded across North America, Europe, Oceania, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. A government agreement and regional licensee for the UAE project have yet to be secured.
Should the development go ahead, Moon World Resorts estimates it could welcome as many as 10 million visitors each year, support around 60,000 jobs, and make a significant contribution to the UAE economy. The company believes Moon UAE could eventually become one of the most visited resort destinations in the Middle East.
About Moon Resort Abu Dhabi
The Moon resort concept goes far beyond a single hotel. Designed as a futuristic smart-city development, it would centre around a striking spherical structure inspired by the moon.
Plans include hotels, restaurants, event spaces, wellness facilities, and an immersive lunar surface and moon base experience. The wider development would also feature a lagoon, landscaped parkland, and around 12,000 luxury branded residences.
Moon World Resorts has indicated that its first project could begin construction as early as 2027, with a potential opening in 2032. However, several international locations are still being considered, and the company has not confirmed which destination will move forward first.
For now, the future of a Moon resort in Abu Dhabi will depend on government approvals, securing a regional partner, and finding a site large enough to accommodate the development.
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