Is Zootopia Based on Dubai?

By Alice Nichols

Zootopia is an animated film that took the world by storm when it was released in 2016. The movie is set in a world where anthropomorphic animals live together in a modern city. While the setting of Zootopia may seem like a fictional place, many have speculated that it is actually based on the city of Dubai.

Why do people think Zootopia is based on Dubai?

There are several reasons why people believe that Zootopia draws inspiration from Dubai. One of the main similarities is the futuristic and modern architecture present in both Zootopia and Dubai. The skyscrapers, advanced transportation systems, and overall grandeur of the cityscape in Zootopia bear a striking resemblance to Dubai’s iconic skyline.

The Role of Animals:

In Zootopia, animals hold various positions in society and live together harmoniously. This concept mirrors Dubai’s multicultural society where people from different backgrounds coexist peacefully. Like Dubai, Zootopia portrays a diverse community with animals from all walks of life working side by side.

City Infrastructure:

Dubai is known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and efficient transportation systems. Similarly, Zootopia showcases an elaborate network of trains, buses, and other modes of transport to cater to its diverse animal population. This attention to detail reinforces the idea that Zootopia draws inspiration from Dubai’s urban planning.

The Connection Between Sahara Square and Dubai

Zootopia features different districts within the city, each with its own unique characteristics. One district that stands out is Sahara Square, a desert-themed area populated by animals adapted to arid environments.

Architecture:

The architecture of Sahara Square closely resembles traditional Arabian design elements found in Dubai. The sandstone buildings, intricate patterns, and domed structures are reminiscent of the architecture seen in Dubai’s historic neighborhoods like Bastakiya.

Climate:

Dubai’s desert climate is well-known, and Sahara Square captures this perfectly. The scorching heat and sand dunes depicted in Zootopia’s Sahara Square closely resemble the arid landscapes of Dubai.

Conclusion

While Disney has not officially confirmed that Zootopia is based on Dubai, it is hard to ignore the striking similarities between the two. From the modern cityscape to the multicultural society and district-specific architecture, Zootopia captures many elements that make Dubai unique. Whether intentional or coincidental, the resemblance adds another layer to the already beloved animated film.