Thailand is entering one of the most significant tourism infrastructure development phases in its history, following new updates revealed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn regarding preparations in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The government is laying the groundwork for a global-scale Entertainment and Sport Mega Complex, with one of its core ambitions being the introduction of a Disneyland resort in Thailand.
The project is positioned as a major economic catalyst designed to attract high-spending international tourists and to accelerate the realization of the high-speed rail network linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports. In particular, the U-Tapao route is expected to become a new travel and tourism hub that supports the development of an entirely new urban and leisure district.
5,000 Rai Allocated for an Integrated Entertainment City
The designated project area spans approximately 5,000 rai and will be developed into a fully integrated Sport and Entertainment Complex. Planned components include an 80,000-seat stadium, horse racing facilities, world-standard swimming venues, shopping centers, hotels, and a full-service hospitality district. The government has confirmed that no casino operations will be included within the project.
The proposed Disneyland resort will serve as the core anchor of the development, occupying approximately 1,800–2,000 rai. The project will follow a licensing investment model similar to Tokyo Disneyland, where Thai investors will finance land acquisition, construction, and operations, while The Walt Disney Company will provide brand and intellectual property rights in exchange for royalty fees.
The total investment value of Disneyland Thailand is estimated at approximately 100 billion baht, and Thai investor interest has already begun to emerge.
Government Stands Firm on High-Speed Rail Contract
Minister Pipat reaffirmed that the Ministry of Transport will not revise the existing high-speed rail contract linking the three airports, stating that proposed changes would excessively favor private operators and could expose the government to legal risks from other bidders. He emphasized that Disneyland would play a critical role in increasing passenger traffic and improving the long-term economic viability of the high-speed rail project.
Enhancing Thailand Toward a Global Entertainment Hub
The Disneyland Thailand initiative is widely seen as a major step in reshaping Thailand’s tourism model, shifting it beyond traditional nature- and culture-based travel toward becoming a Global Entertainment Hub. The project is expected to attract high-spending visitors, increase length of stay, and significantly expand revenue within Thailand’s service and hospitality industries.
If this happens, the development would represent one of the most transformative mega projects for Thailand’s tourism sector in recent decades.
