Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro thinks Universal Epic Universe will draw more visitors to Walt Disney World instead of pulling guests away.
Epic Universe
When asked about the new Universal Orlando Resort theme park at the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference, D’Amaro said, “We’re always on the offensive… We’re constantly investing for the long term, fortifying each one of our theme parks.”
He added, “If something is built new in central Florida, like Epic Universe,” that draws new visitors, and “that tourist is going to have to visit the Magic Kingdom.” (via Variety)
Epic Universe officially opens on May 22. It’s just about 15 miles from Magic Kingdom and brought three new hotels to the area: Helios Grand Hotel, Stella Nova Resort, and Terra Luna Resort. The worlds of Epic Universe are Celestial Park, Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi
D’Amaro also talked about the new Disneyland theme park coming to Abu Dhabi. The unnamed park will be Disney’s seventh theme park resort.
“We knew there was demand for Disney product around the world,” D’Amaro said. He explained their decision to build in Abu Dhabi because one-third of the world’s population is within a four-hour flight radius of the city. He called it “a crossroads for the world.”
D’Amaro echoed Bob Iger’s words about the new park being Disney’s “most technologically advanced,” calling it “the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio.” He said Abu Dhabi “will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways.”
Disneyland Abu Dhabi (a placeholder name) is being constructed and will be operated by Miral, with Disney overseeing creative development.
Josh D’amaro
D’Amaro is one of the lead candidates to potentially replace Bob Iger as CEO of The Walt Disney Company. His participation in this year’s MoffettNathanson conference is notable because Iger represented Disney at the 2024 conference.
The rest of the shortlist reportedly under consideration by the Disney Board of Directors includes Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, Dana Walden, and Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, Alan Bergman. Chairman of ESPN and Sports Content, Jimmy Pitaro, was previously among the candidates, but he said he is not interested in the position.
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