Shanghai Disneyland was the first of the Disney Parks to close earlier this year (January 23 if you can believe it) and today Disney has confirmed its plans to begin a gradual return to normalcy in step with the rest of the country’s workplaces, schools, shops, restaurants, and entertainment destinations. May 11, 2020 is confirmed as the official reopening date for Shanghai Disney but this will hardly be a return to “business as usual.”

Details outlined by Disney for the precautions being taken following the threats of coronavirus are outlined below.

During this initial re-opening phase, Shanghai Disney Resort instituted enhanced measures and procedures that comply with government directives and focus on the needs of guests and cast members. The initial park re-opening will demonstrate a deliberate approach, drawing on the experience from the successful re-opening of Disneytown, Wishing Star Park and Shanghai Disneyland Hotel in early March, and implement enhanced health and safety measures. At opening, these measures and procedures include:

  • Limited and pulsed attendance with an advanced reservation and entry system: Guests are required to purchase admission tickets valid on a selected date only and Annual Pass holders must make a reservation prior to arrival.
  • Controlled guest density: Capacity will be recommended and managed in queues, restaurants, ride vehicles and other facilities. Queues will be structured and ride vehicles will be loaded to promote social distancing.
  • Implementing required government health and prevention procedures: This includes temperature screening and the use of the government-issued Shanghai Health QR code, a contact tracing and early detection system used in China. Additionally, guests must wear a mask during their visit, except when dining.
  • Increased sanitization and disinfection measures: Hand sanitizers will be available at queue entries and attraction exits. High-touch locations, such as ride vehicles, handlebars, queue railings and turnstiles will have increased sanitization.
  • Training for cast members: Cast members will receive training on procedures with an emphasis on contactless guest interaction, cleaning and social distancing and will receive additional protective equipment including masks.

Shanghai Disney Resort plans to recognize and celebrate the contributions of medical professionals, with additional details announced soon.