Shanghai: Three Southeast Asian nations are anticipated to lead the influx of foreign tourists visiting Shanghai Disneyland by 2025, as a result of China's visa-free policy.

According to Thai News Agency, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand are projected to become the primary sources of foreign tourists for the theme park located in eastern China.

Xinhua News Agency highlighted insights from Andrew Bolstein, chairman and general manager of Shanghai Disney Resort, who noted the significance of ASEAN tourists alongside visitors from East Asian countries like Japan and South Korea. These regions were major sources of foreign visitors to Shanghai Disneyland last year.

Statistics reveal that since its opening over nine years ago, Shanghai Disneyland has seen over 100 million visitors by the end of October 2025. Bolstein expressed optimism about a rapid increase in the number of foreign tourists in 2025.

Among Thai visitors, Shanghai Disneyland is particularly popular for characters like Lina Bell, the pink fox detective, along with classic icons such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Donald Duck, who are often seen in Chinese-themed costumes.

As Shanghai Disney Resort gears up for its 10th anniversary in June 2026, celebrations are set to commence in March. The resort is also advancing with the construction of two new hotels and ongoing enhancements to its attractions.

The Shanghai Bureau of Culture and Tourism reported that from January to November 2025, the city welcomed 8.282 million inbound tourists, marking a nearly fourfold increase year-on-year. Of these, 6.287 million were foreign visitors, reflecting a nearly fivefold growth, surpassing both forecasts and the 2024 total.