As Disney gears up to bring its unique brand of storytelling to the Middle East, a beloved but often debated attraction in Florida is quietly undergoing transformation.
Earlier this month, The Walt Disney Company, in partnership with Miral, announced Disneyland Abu Dhabi, its seventh global resort destination. CEO Bob Iger described the project as “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati.” While details on which franchises will appear in the indoor theme park are still under wraps, it’s what might not be included—and the location itself—that has already stirred commentary.
Adding to the mix is former President Donald Trump, who remarked on the project during a recent trip to the United Arab Emirates. “Disney. I see that new theme park is going to be incredible,” Trump said. “Bob Iger was in my office the other day, and he was showing it to me. It’s going to be incredible.”
Notably, Trump’s resort—the Trump International Golf Club, Dubai—is just an hour from Yas Island, where the new Disneyland park will sit alongside Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The comments came as the Mouse House remains silent on the Hall of Presidents at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, now closed for refurbishment following Trump’s return to the Oval Office in 2024.
For more than 50 years, the Hall of Presidents has offered a cinematic and Audio-Animatronic look at the evolution of the U.S. presidency. The 25-minute show highlights all American presidents, including the most recent additions, and invites guests to reflect on the nation’s history through artifacts and immersive storytelling rooted in Walt Disney’s original vision.
In 2021, President Joe Biden was added to the presentation with a pre-recorded message and animatronic likeness. The attraction has consistently updated with each administration since President Bill Clinton’s term in the 1990s.
With Trump’s return to office—beating Democratic nominee Kamala Harris in the 2024 election—the attraction is closed once again as Imagineers prepare to install his figure for a second time. The historical context is unique: only Grover Cleveland previously served two non-consecutive terms, making this moment especially notable for Disney historians and political observers alike.
Disney fans continue to speculate about how the company will present the 45th and now 47th president, especially in light of Trump’s policies and political views. His stances on topics like immigration, gender, and women’s rights remain heavily criticized, and his re-election prompted widespread concern across the country.
However, this refurbishment period is consistent with previous transitions. The Hall of Presidents closed on January 20, 2021, and reopened in early August that same year for President Biden’s debut. A similar timeline followed in 2017 when Trump’s animatronic first appeared, with the theater going dark from January 17 to December 19.
Inside the Hall of Presidents lobby, exhibits showcase authentic presidential memorabilia, some dating as far back as the 1700s. These displays, along with the show’s blend of technology and tradition, help frame the attraction as a thoughtful tribute to American ideals—even amid challenging political climates.
The official Walt Disney World Resort website currently notes: “The Hall of Presidents is currently closed for refurbishment. Please check back here for updates.”
As the global stage continues to shift, Disney fans around the world are watching closely—not just to see how the company continues to expand, but how it responds to changing leadership at home.
How do you feel about the Disney and Donald Trump connections? Let us know in the comments down below!
You’re think they could have made a better likeness to Trump. It didn’t look like him first time around, and still doesn’t look like him now! Why closer the attraction, if all they plan to do is rearrange the same statues?!?!?!
It would be the best if this attraction was closed for the next 5 years. Or never opened again.
He doesn’t deserve to be there
agreed
Yes he does.. He won fair and square overwhelmingly. Your opinion is always the right one as well as mine.
I agree!
After non-stop attacks, he’s now praising Disney. He said “only an hour from the Trump resort.”
Going to be hard to put a positive spin on his hall of presidents speech
The Hall of Presidents honors the great office and position of all the Presidents of the United States. Any rude remarks about the 47th, the 46th or any of the persons who have held or hold this office are vulgar and disrespectful of the United States. Disney should ensure that each and every audioanimatronic likeness of the Presidents is of high quality, lifelike, and respectful.
It’s a shame that this attraction – which teaches about American history in an entertaining setting – has to be considered a “hot button” for anyone, causing people on both sides of the aisle to get riled up. History cannot be rewritten; it is what it is, and those who do not learn from history are condemned to repeat it.
I agree that Disney should stay above the political divide and focus on honoring the Office of the President rather than the politics surrounding individuals. The Hall of Presidents is a unique and meaningful attraction that celebrates our nation’s history, not just one person or party.
As someone who supports President Trump, I also believe we should show the same dignity and respect to all who have served in that role, including the 46th and 47th Presidents. Rude or hateful remarks directed at any President only distract from the spirit of unity and respect that the attraction is meant to foster.
Disney has a long tradition of storytelling and craftsmanship. I hope they continue that tradition by ensuring each animatronic figure is realistic, respectful, and worthy of the office it represents, regardless of political affiliation. That’s the kind of Disney magic that brings people together.
President Trump should be recognized as President now. Indeed he is! 🇺🇸 🏰