Thailand Eyes to Build Disneyland Instead of Casino Complex

Thailand is exploring plans to bring Disneyland to the country, replacing a previously proposed entertainment complex that included a casino.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn confirmed the change on December 9. The original proposal, introduced by the Pheu Thai Party, aimed to boost tourism with a large entertainment hub featuring theme parks, water parks, concert venues, sports stadiums, and a legal casino.

Phiphat said the government has now instructed the Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EEC Office) to prepare land for an 80,000-seat international stadium and to study the feasibility of hosting a Disneyland resort in Thailand.

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Discussions are focusing on suitable locations across the four EEC provinces: Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chanthaburi. The total area under consideration for these developments is up to 4.8 million square metres.

“Many countries are competing for major global investments,” Phiphat said, adding that Thailand must also pursue opportunities in sports and world-class theme park ventures. He noted that upcoming infrastructure projects, including a high-speed rail linking U-Tapao, Don Mueang, and Suvarnabhumi airports, as well as additional airports in the eastern region, would support these plans.

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The government plans to consult private concessionaires of the high-speed rail project to gather feedback on the proposals. Even if the projects are not completed during the current administration’s term, the groundwork would create significant investment opportunities in the EEC.

Image credit: Disneyland Resort Website

Currently, Asia is home to three Disney resorts, each offering a unique experience. Tokyo Disney Resort in Japan features both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, which is the only ocean-themed Disney park in the world, attracting millions of visitors with its innovative rides and themed entertainment.

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Hong Kong Disneyland stands out with exclusive attractions, including the World of Frozen, giving fans of the hit franchise an immersive experience they can’t find anywhere else in Asia.

Meanwhile, Shanghai Disney Resort is known for its modern design and grandeur, featuring the world’s largest Enchanted Storybook Castle. The resort combines cutting-edge attractions with iconic Disney magic, making it a must-visit destination for families and tourists across the region.

Thailand’s potential Disneyland would mark another major step in attracting global tourism and investment to the country.