Disneyland Abu Dhabi Likely to Rise in North Yas, Says Real Estate Expert
North Yas tipped as prime site for mid-2030s Disneyland Abu Dhabi, with soaring property prices hinting at the island’s rising allure.
Mid-2030s theme park expected to boost Yas Island’s property demand, with prices already up 20% in a year.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi is set to become the newest jewel in the UAE’s tourism crown, with industry insiders tipping North Yas as the most likely location for the highly anticipated attraction. According to Ben Crompton, Managing Partner at Crompton Partners, the world-famous theme park is expected to open in the mid-2030s on one of the last remaining waterfront plots on the island, close to the Fahid Bridge.
While the project has yet to be officially confirmed for the location, Crompton notes that Yas Island’s real estate market reacted almost instantly after the announcement in May. “Demand for Yas Island homes surged immediately,” he said, pointing to a 20% increase in property prices over the past year.
Despite the buzz, the upcoming park has not yet influenced nightly rates or occupancy for short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, in the area. However, Crompton predicts this will change as the opening date approaches, with developments like Water’s Edge already proving popular among short-term rental operators.
Abu Dhabi’s short-term letting sector is regulated by the Department of Culture & Tourism, which requires a licence for property owners. “It’s relatively straightforward, and there are many professional operators who can assist,” Crompton added.
Among the current property hotspots, Water’s Edge, Yas Acres — particularly its new Magnolias and Dahlias projects — and Yas Golf Collection are attracting robust off-plan interest. Villas have outperformed apartments, with Aldar projects delivering the strongest returns. “In the last 12 months, most projects on Yas Island saw 20% returns, with villas doing better than apartments, and Aldar outperforming other developers,” Crompton noted.
If the Disneyland project proceeds as envisioned, North Yas could soon become not only a global entertainment destination but also one of the most coveted addresses in the capital.
