Competition drives progress in the UAE’s entertainment sector, and Disney’s arrival in Abu Dhabi proves this principle, according to Dubai Holding Entertainment’s chief executive.
Fernando Eiroa, who leads operations for Dubai’s premier entertainment destinations including Global Village, Real Madrid World, and Roxy Cinemas, shared his perspective on how Disney’s entry will strengthen the region’s leisure industry.
“I always compare the expansion of theme parks in Abu Dhabi or in Dubai or in other emirates to what happened in Orlando, in Florida,” Eiroa told Gulf News. “What you create is a destination, and the more offering that you have, the more entertainment options, the more people will come to the region.”
The Florida Model Applied to the UAE
Eiroa’s comparison to Florida’s entertainment ecosystem reveals his strategic vision. In Orlando, Disney, Universal, and other parks coexist successfully, each attraction expanding the destination’s overall draw rather than competing destructively.
The CEO believes this same principle applies to the UAE. Disney’s Abu Dhabi venture, expected to create over 30,000 job opportunities across construction, operations, and tourism sectors, will amplify rather than diminish Dubai’s entertainment success.
“The more competitors you have in the region, the more you have to improve yourself. You have to make things better, right? Because otherwise, you lose customers,” he explained. “But this is a challenge for everybody. That is a good challenge, because it will make us stronger and better.”
Record-Breaking Performance in Dubai
Eiroa’s confidence stems from proven results. Last season, Global Village welcomed 10.5 million visitors in just six and a half months, establishing new records for Dubai’s family entertainment sector.
“Global Village represents the spirit of Dubai in a perfect way,” said Eiroa. “It’s a melting pot of different cultures, different people, and we take a lot of care to make it affordable for everyone.”
His remarks followed the unveiling of a life-sized statue of Kylian Mbappé at Real Madrid World, one of several attractions under Dubai Holding Entertainment’s management. The company also operates The Green Planet and Roxy Cinemas, forming the backbone of Dubai’s growing tourism sector.
Dubai’s Expansion Plans
Rather than viewing Disney’s entry as a threat, Dubai Holding Entertainment is doubling down on expansion. The group is currently developing a new themed glamping experience at Dubai Parks and Resorts whilst adding ten new attractions to Riverland.
These additions include immersive restaurants, pirate shows, escape rooms, and virtual racing simulators, all designed to enhance Dubai’s entertainment portfolio.
“We are continuously thinking about what is next,” Eiroa stated. “We are redefining entertainment in the region, in the country, and in the city.”
Creating an Entertainment Corridor
By establishing multiple anchor attractions across different emirates, the UAE is collectively shaping itself into a world-class entertainment corridor. Disney’s first Middle East theme park on Yas Island represents another milestone in this transformation.
The entertainment sector’s expansion aligns with broader UAE economic goals, creating diverse career pathways for professionals seeking opportunities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
What This Means for the Region
Eiroa’s perspective captures a broader truth about the UAE’s entertainment evolution: competition fuels innovation. For Dubai Holding Entertainment, this means maintaining focus on creativity, inclusivity, and world-class experiences.
The approach positions the UAE to remain the region’s leading destination for leisure and family entertainment, with both emirates benefiting from increased visitor numbers and international recognition.
As Disney prepares to open its Abu Dhabi park in the early 2030s, Dubai’s entertainment leaders are ready to meet the challenge by raising their own standards and expanding their offerings.
FAQ
Will Disney’s Abu Dhabi park hurt Dubai’s entertainment sector?
No. According to Dubai Holding Entertainment CEO Fernando Eiroa, Disney’s entry will strengthen the entire region by creating a destination effect similar to Orlando, Florida, where multiple parks coexist and thrive together.
What is Dubai Holding Entertainment doing to stay competitive?
The company is adding ten new attractions to Riverland, developing themed glamping experiences at Dubai Parks and Resorts, and continuously innovating across its portfolio including Global Village, Real Madrid World, and Roxy Cinemas.
How many visitors did Global Village attract last season?
Global Village welcomed a record 10.5 million visitors in six and a half months during the last season, demonstrating Dubai’s continued appeal as an entertainment destination.
When will Disney Abu Dhabi open?
Whilst no official opening date has been announced, industry experts anticipate the park could open in the early 2030s based on typical Disney development timelines.
What job opportunities will Disney create in Abu Dhabi?
Disney’s Abu Dhabi park is expected to generate over 30,000 jobs across construction, operations, tourism, hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors, plus an additional 20,000 positions in supporting industries.
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