Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi Unveils First Harry Potter-Themed Land

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, run by government-backed Miral, finally introduced a Harry Potter-themed land, a project announced four years ago that makes it the first non-Universal park to host such attractions. The new area includes highly detailed versions of Hogwarts Castle and Diagon Alley, built indoors to protect the elaborate sets from the region’s extreme heat.

Early wizard-themed merchandise has already appeared in the Treasures of Hollywood shop, styled after Gringotts and staffed by attendants in Hogwarts-like robes. Miral has hired Jamie Chegwin, formerly of Warwick Castle and Thorpe Park, to lead marketing for the Harry Potter expansion, which will roll out in phases over the coming years. The development positions Warner Bros.

World as a direct competitor to Universal’s Potter lands in Orlando, Hollywood, Beijing and Osaka. Construction can be seen from the park’s exterior, and the attraction will be the only one worldwide to feature both Hogwarts and Diagon Alley replicas.