When Universal Tried to Build a Theme Park in the Desert (Ep. 89)

Jim and Eric kick off this week’s show with a mix of snarky social media, surprising Super Bowl ads, and listener-driven questions before pivoting into a deep historical dive. From Universal’s well-timed trolling of Disney to a fascinating look at a Middle East theme park that almost happened, this episode blends breaking news with one of those long-form Universal history lessons Jim is known for. NEWS • Universal Orlando trolls Disney following the closure of Dinosaur with a pointed Jurassic Park social post • Xfinity debuts a Super Bowl ad reuniting the original Jurassic Park cast, directed by Taika Waititi • Universal explores walkaround Jurassic Park characters including John Hammond, Ian Malcolm, and Dennis Nedry • Ongoing fan speculation around the Oz-tacular Spectacular trademark and where a Wicked-themed show could land • Listener questions about Epic Universe character appearances, including the elusive Donkey Kong meet-and-greet FEATURE • A detailed history of Universal Studios Dubailand - the ambitious Middle East park that was announced, partially built, and ultimately abandoned • How the Great Recession stalled Universal’s international expansion plans • Why Universal quietly walked away from Dubailand after nearly a decade • How this abandoned project connects to Universal’s renewed interest in the Middle East and a possible Saudi Arabia theme park HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR Be Our Guest Vacations Are you planning your next Universal or Disney adventure? Let the experts at Be Our Guest Vacations handle the details. As a Platinum level Authorized Vacation Planner, they offer top-tier concierge service for Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disney destinations, cruises, and more. Start planning today at BeOurGuestVacations.com and be sure to let them know the Epic Universal Podcast sent you. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices