New Disney Theme Park 'Is Happening'

BusinessHollywood & EntertainmentNew Disney Theme Park 'Is Happening'ByCaroline Reid,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Caroline Reid covers the entertainment industryFollow AuthorJun 16, 2026, 08:00am EDTSummaryDisney is reportedly developing a second theme park adjacent to Shanghai Disneyland, which just celebrated its 10th anniversary. While not officially announced at the event, industry insiders confirm a "second gate" is planned, with the resort already expanding its hotels and adding a Spider-Man land. Executives hint at making it a multi-day destination. An announcement at Disney's D23 event in August is anticipated, with a potential opening around the 15th anniversary. The park's theme is debated, ranging from local franchises like Avatar and Marvel to a unique concept focusing on nature, culture, and arts, originally conceived by Imagineering's former president Bob Weis. This early, highly praised idea might be revisited.Show More Shanghai Disneyland Resort looks set to open another park by 2031. (Costfoto/Future Publishing via Getty Images)Future Publishing via Getty ImagesIt has emerged that Disney is understood to be developing a new theme park as this author reported last week.The park is expected to be located next to Shanghai Disneyland which celebrates its tenth anniversary today. Ahead of its anniversary, the resort hosted an event yesterday where it announced that it has installed the final piece of the roller coaster track for the centerpiece attraction in its upcoming Spider-Man land. It added that its third on-site hotel will be called the Disney Enchanted Star and a fourth property is on the way. Its Disneytown dining and entertainment district will also be extended though the second park was not announced at the event.I was invited to the media festivities but was unable to attend due to lengthy processing timelines for travel documentation. However,...