For the first time in 15 years, the Walt Disney Company has announced the development of a new theme park - a resort destination in Abu Dhabi that marks the company’s entry into the Middle East.

Disneyland Abu Dhabi could become a growth engine for the company in the region. It could also expose Disney and its vaunted brand to criticism.

Walt Disney Co.’s seventh theme park destination will be in the United Arab Emirates, on a relatively new tourist island already packed with amusement parks, a golf course, indoor skydiving and a stadium.