Universal Studios is preparing to enter the Indian entertainment landscape with its first-ever theme park in the country, expected to open by mid-2027 near Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport.
According to a report by The Economic Times, Bharti Real Estate — part of Sunil Mittal’s Bharti Enterprises — is in advanced talks with Universal Studios to bring an indoor theme park to a massive upcoming retail complex in Delhi Aerocity. The project will be developed inside what is being described as India’s largest mall, spanning 3 million square feet.
Bharti plans to lease approximately 300,000 square feet — about 10% of the total mall area — to house the amusement park. “We have earmarked 10% of the total leasable area for a global entertainment park,” said SK Sayal, CEO of Bharti Real Estate.
While details of the agreement are still being finalized, Bharti is also reportedly in discussions with other potential partners for the project. Universal Studios has not officially commented on the development.
The larger Aerocity development, which includes this mega-mall, has a total development potential of 17 million square feet. Recently, the Delhi government approved round-the-clock operations for restaurants and bars in the area, boosting expectations of increased tourism and nightlife appeal.
Industry players have welcomed the move. Umang Tewari, founder of Liv Bar, highlighted that the 24/7 operating model not only supports late-night visitors and professionals but also aligns with efforts to elevate India’s nightlife infrastructure.
This marks a major milestone for Delhi as it prepares to host one of the world’s most iconic entertainment brands in a region fast emerging as a commercial and tourism hub.
