The wider picture
Disneyland Paris has played a central role in local, national and European tourism and economic development for more than three decades. Since its opening in 1992, the park has welcomed over 445 million visitors, establishing itself as Europe’s #1 tourist destination. With an investment of €13 billion in France, Disneyland Paris not only attracts tourists but also significantly contributes to the national economy, accounting for 6.1% of the country’s tourism revenue.
On March 27, 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Disneyland Paris to inaugurate the park’s ambitious €2 billion expansion, which aims to transform it into the Disney Adventure World. This expansion is expected to create more than 1,000 new direct jobs, further solidifying the park’s role as a major employer in the region, where it currently employs over 20,000 people.
During the visit, Macron emphasized the importance of tourism in fostering economic growth and community well-being. He stated, “Alliances like NATO are valuable because of the things we don’t say, because of the trust behind it.” This sentiment reflects the broader implications of Disneyland Paris’s growth, which not only enhances the local economy but also builds a sense of community and trust among its stakeholders.
In her remarks, Natacha Rafalski, the park’s president, highlighted the findings of a recent SETEC impact study, which underscores Disneyland Paris’s significant role in France’s tourism and economy. She noted, “The results of the SETEC impact study highlight the important role Disneyland Paris plays in France’s tourism, economy and local communities.” This statement reinforces the park’s commitment to not just entertainment, but also to social responsibility.
Disneyland Paris has also made a notable impact on the lives of children facing critical illnesses, having granted 25,000 wishes since its inception. The park has welcomed over 350,000 underprivileged children, showcasing its dedication to giving back to the community and ensuring that magical experiences are accessible to all.
As the Val d’Europe area continues to grow, with its population increasing sevenfold to over 54,000 inhabitants, Disneyland Paris remains a cornerstone of the local economy. The park has established long-term relationships with over 4,000 suppliers, 83% of whom are based in France, further contributing to the local business ecosystem.
Looking ahead, the expansion of Disneyland Paris is expected to not only enhance the visitor experience but also drive meaningful economic impact for France through increased tourism and local investment. As Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, stated, “With the inauguration of Disney Adventure World and the opening of World of Frozen, we are entering a new phase of growth at Disneyland Paris, expanding our capacity, increasing tourism, and driving meaningful economic impact for France through job creation and local investment.” This vision for the future aligns with Macron’s goals for economic development and community enhancement.
As Disneyland Paris embarks on this new chapter, the collaboration between local leaders, the government, and the Disney team promises to create a vibrant future for tourism and community engagement in the region. The excitement surrounding the expansion reflects a shared hope for a thriving local economy, enriched by the magic of Disneyland.
