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
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