Why Disneyland Abu Dhabi might be Middle East’s most cinematic theme park yet: Films, shows shot at original fantasyland

Dubai: While most people visit Disneyland for the rides, churros, and childhood nostalgia, Hollywood has occasionally dropped by with cameras in tow. Over the years, the “Happiest Place on Earth” has moonlighted as a movie set—sometimes with Disney’s blessing, sometimes not. From emotional biopics to bizarre guerrilla indie films, Disneyland has found its way into some unexpected cinematic moments.

And now, with Disneyland Abu Dhabi taking shape in the UAE, the spotlight is shifting east. Could this new park become the next filming hotspot for Hollywood and Bollywood storytellers? If history’s any indication, don’t rule out a drone shot over a castle lit by desert sun. As we wait for Disneyland Abu Dhabi to open its fantastical doors, here's a look at Hollywood films that have tipped their hat to Disneyland's magic.

Scenes were shot inside Disneyland Anaheim, with Tom Hanks walking through Main Street, Fantasyland, and the King Arthur Carrousel as Walt Disney. It’s one of the rare feature films officially permitted to shoot in the park.

A black-and-white indie psychological horror film secretly shot inside Disneyland Anaheim and Walt Disney World without Disney’s approval. The film shows a dark, surreal take on theme park life, filmed using handheld cameras.

This Kurt Russell-starrer filmed a few sequences inside Disneyland Anaheim, including ride footage used to depict a college outing. It was one of the earliest examples of a Disney movie using the park on screen.

A two-part special episode filmed in Walt Disney World (Orlando), featuring iconic scenes on rides like Splash Mountain and in front of Cinderella Castle. This was part of ABC’s Disney integration.

Filmed entirely inside Disneyland Anaheim. The characters explore the park, ride Big Thunder Mountain, and navigate family chaos amid the crowds—shot during regular park hours with special access.

Features a school trip to Disneyland Anaheim. The characters are shown enjoying real attractions, including ride montages and candid scenes shot throughout the park.

Though shot in Walt Disney World, this episode features full scenes in the Florida park’s rides and character zones. It was part of a trend in the '90s where TGIF sitcoms filmed Disney-themed episodes.

Multiple episodes across the 1990s and 2000s were filmed inside Disneyland and Walt Disney World, often during holiday specials or themed competitions, featuring audience segments inside the parks.

Dozens of episodes, parades, and behind-the-scenes specials were shot inside Disneyland Anaheim and other parks. Walt Disney himself often walked viewers through the attractions, especially in early broadcasts.