Robert Iger, chairman of the Walt Disney Company, has announced plans for a €2 billion, multi-year expansion for Disneyland Paris alongside French president Emmanuel Macron at the Palais de l’Elysée in Paris.
The new development will include a transformation of the Walt Disney Studios Park, adding three new areas that are based on Marvel, Frozen and Star Wars, along with multiple new attractions and live entertainment experiences.
The expansion plan is one of the most ambitious development projects at Disneyland Paris since its opening in 1992.
“We’re very excited about the future of Disneyland Paris and continue to invest in its long-term success,” said Iger.
“The resort is already the leading tourist destination in Europe, and the transformative expansion we announced today will add even more of our beloved characters and unparalleled storytelling to create new lands, attractions and entertainment that further elevate the guest experience and drive new opportunities for tourism in this dynamic region.”
The new areas will infuse some of Disney’s most popular stories and characters into this unique destination, building upon the success of the resort’s 25th anniversary celebration and continuing to enhance the guest experience for millions of Europeans.
With over 320 million visits since 1992 and representing 6.2 per cent of France’s tourism income, Disneyland Paris has played a key leadership role in tourism for the region.
The resort continues to be a powerful driver of economic and social development with over 16,000 employees representing 100 nationalities.
This investment will help make the region even more dynamic and appealing and open up more opportunities for French and European citizens in the tourism industry.
The multi-year development will roll out in phases beginning in 2021, significantly expanding the Walt Disney Studios Park.
In addition to the three new areas, the creative vision includes a new lake, which will be the focal point for entertainment experiences and will also connect each of the new park areas.