In March, Disney parks around the world decided to close due to the Covid-19 pandemic. And now, with the positive epidemic control situation in China in general and Shanghai in particular, Shanghai Disneyland Park, Wishing Star Park and Shanghai Disneyland Hotel will officially reopen next week, May 11, 2020. This marks the first reopening in the Disney park chain since the severe outbreak of Covid-19.
"We understand how much guests are looking forward to returning to Disneyland, and our cast members are excited to get back to work," said Bob Chapek, CEO of The Walt Disney Company.
In particular, in preparation for this opening, Disney will apply many new safety measures to ensure the health of visitors. Disney will require all visitors to wear masks during the entertainment process, except when eating and drinking. In addition, Shanghai Disney will also strictly maintain body temperature checks as well as use the government-issued Shanghai Health QR code - a tracking and early detection system used in China.
Disney said it will also control visitor density, limit visitor numbers with advanced reservation and entry systems, increase disinfection and sterilization measures, and train staff on contactless interactions to minimize risk. Shanghai authorities are reportedly limiting the number of visitors to Shanghai Disneyland to no more than 24,000 per day.
Shanghai Disneyland will also use technology to measure visitor density in areas to limit crowding and limit the number of people queuing at attractions.
“This is an encouraging sign for Disney parks and retail locations around the world,” said Disney Parks Chief Medical Officer Dr. Pamela Hymel. “We will continue to do our best.” Hymel also said that the company is planning for its US parks to reopen in phases, including the use of “virtual queues.”
