Clifford Chance advises Disney on the new Disney Theme Park Resort in Abu Dhabi, UAE

15 May 2025

Tariq Imam, Lynn Ammar, Stephen Reese, Inaamul Laher, Kelly Gregory, Paul Coates, Violetta Kokolus, Katrin Schallenberg, Sabra Ferhat, Briony Byrne, Matthew Judkins, Johnson Cortelek, Gareth Dray, Sima Al Baterni, Noor Al Kooheji, Lauren Royers, Laura Hartley, Isabella Savage
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, London

Clifford Chance advises Disney on the new Disney Theme Park Resort in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Global law firm Clifford Chance is advising The Walt Disney Company ("Disney") on its strategic partnership with Miral for the development and operation of a new Disney theme park resort on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

The landmark waterfront theme park resort is planned to be the most advanced and interactive in the Disney portfolio and will offer signature Disney entertainment and attractions, themed accommodation, and unique dining and retail experiences in a way that blends iconic Disney characters, attractions and storylines with the futuristic and cultural essence of Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi destination will be Disney's seventh theme park resort globally, the first in the Middle East, and Disney's first since Shanghai Disneyland Park opened in 2016. Further details may be found here.

Clifford Chance's multidisciplinary team is led by Real Estate and Hospitality Partner Tariq Imam and Corporate Partner Lynn Ammar, both based in the UAE. Tariq and Lynn are supported by a core team comprising Stephen Reese and Briony Byrne (Intellectual Property, London), Inaamul Laher and Matthew Judkins (Construction, UAE), Johnson Cortelek (Real Estate and Construction, UAE), and Gareth Dray and Sima Al Baterni (Corporate, UAE). The Clifford Chance team also includes Kelly Gregory and Noor Al Kooheji on corporate matters, Violetta Kokolus, Lauren Royers, Laura Hartley and Isabella Savage on intellectual property matters, Paul Coates on dispute resolution matters, and Katrin Schallenberg and Sabra Ferhat on antitrust matters.

Lead partner Tariq Imam commented, "It is an enormous honour and privilege for Clifford Chance to represent Disney on such a landmark and historic transaction. Disney theme park resorts are unique, once-in-a-generation projects, so we are grateful to the talented and dedicated team at Disney for placing their trust in our firm."

Lead partner Lynn Ammar said, "For over a century, Disney's enchanting stories have captivated audiences worldwide, mesmerising children and adults alike. We are delighted to help bring Disney's timeless magic to the Middle East, right here in Abu Dhabi, the crown jewel of regional attractions."