Universal Studios in the UK still expected to open by 2031.

Universal is still aiming to open its UK theme park in 2031, according to Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences.

Speaking at the Bank of America 2025 Media, Communications & Entertainment Conference this week, Woodbury confirmed that the goal is to launch the park in 2031—provided planning, design, and construction progress without major setbacks.

“We’ve had 18,000 people register on our app to work for us, and 2,000 vendors interested in joining the project,” he said. “Our hope is that the process runs smoothly, but parks are complicated organisms.”

In April, Universal struck a multibillion-pound deal for a resort in Bedfordshire and has since submitted a planning application. While Woodbury acknowledged that infrastructure challenges could cause delays, he added, “we think we have a pretty good handle on it at this point.”

A culturally distinct UK destination

Woodbury described the project as “a full-blown Universal theme park with a 500-room hotel integrated into it, much like Epic [Universe in Orlando]. We’ve developed a different mix of attractions that we believe will really resonate in the UK.”

Planning documents suggest the resort could include the tallest rides in Europe. The park’s core offering will be Universal-branded IPs, but Woodbury emphasized the importance of cultural nuance: “It will be very unique culturally. You have to pay close attention to that. Humor, for example, can vary a lot between different cultures.”

Asked about Disney’s recently announced Abu Dhabi park, Woodbury said Universal’s immediate focus remains on Epic Universe in Orlando and the UK project. At the same time, he noted, the company is “looking ahead for other places and opportunities.”

You can listen for free to the webcast below. You’ll have to register but it’s quick and easy.

https://bofa.veracast.com/webcasts/bofa/mediacommunicationent2025/M6C657.cfm