Miral and Warner Bros have announced that the $1bn Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi theme park construction is in progress.

The themed destination is being built on Yas Island, alongside the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld, where rides are already under production. The development will also feature a Warner Bros branded hotel.

The first phase of the project is slated to open in 2018 and is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs.

Warner Bros Entertainment chairman and CEO Kevin Tsujihara said: "Warner Bros has been entertaining audiences for more than 90 years with the world's most-loved characters and franchises.

"Working with our partners at Miral, we'll bring this expertise to Yas Island, one of the world's leading entertainment destinations, to create a fully-interactive, innovative and unique experience that will allow fans of all ages to experience the most exciting aspects of Warner Bros. in a completely immersive environment."