Attraction to draw 3–8 million visitors annually; 30,000 housing units projected to be needed by 2030

Disneyland Abu Dhabi is already making waves in the capital’s property market, driving both demand and prices higher, according to real estate specialists.

Since the official announcement on May 7, certain Abu Dhabi properties have experienced price jumps of up to 15% overnight. For example, three-bedroom apartments on Reem Island rose from AED 1.8 million to AED 2.5 million, said Khaled Al Najjar, Property Sales Manager at Oia Properties.

Pricing Ripple Effect

Al Najjar noted that some developers postponed their project launches to take advantage of the surge in property values. Other nearby high-profile attractions, such as the Sphere entertainment venue and King’s College School Wimbledon on Fahid Island, have further boosted demand. In fact, many developments “sold out immediately after the Disney announcement,” he added.

In the resale market, prices in many cases increased by 10–15%. With Disneyland Abu Dhabi forecasted to attract three to eight million visitors each year, Al Najjar estimates that around 30,000 housing units will be required by 2030—nearly triple the 11,000 units expected for delivery this year.

This will mark the region’s first-ever Disney theme park and the seventh Disney resort worldwide. Miral will manage development and operations, while Disney will lead the creative design and attraction development. The destination will merge beloved Disney stories and characters with elements of Emirati and Arab culture.

Market Trends & Investor Focus

Ben Crompton, Managing Partner at Crompton Partners, mentioned that there is currently no added premium for units with a “Disney view” as the exact location and dimensions are still unclear—though sales have clearly surged since the news broke.

He also pointed out that short-term rentals, already thriving in communities like Water’s Edge and Raha Beach, are expected to see significant growth as the park’s opening approaches. The Department of Culture & Tourism regulates these rentals, requiring property owners to obtain a licence—a process Crompton describes as “relatively straightforward” when handled with the support of professional operators.

Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/disneyland-abu-dhabi-expected-to-rise-in-north-yas