Hong Kong Disneyland to open 12 September 2005

Financial Secretary Henry Tang says the opening of Hong Kong Disneyland next September will be a driving force for the growth of tourism in Hong Kong, particularly family tourism.

Disney and the Hong Kong SAR Government today (November 22) jointly announced that Hong Kong Disneyland would officially open on Monday, September 12, 2005.

"The announcement of the opening day marks a key milestone for the development of Hong Kong tourism and the economy as a whole," Mr Tang said.

Mr Tang said the whole economy would continue to benefit from Hong Kong Disneyland.

"The project has already created 11,400 jobs during construction and another 18,000 are expected to be created in phases by the opening," he said.

"Over a period of four decades, it is estimated Hong Kong Disneyland will generate economic benefits to Hong Kong of HK$148 billion."

The Financial Secretary noted that the project would be completed less than six years after its commencement in late 1999.

"Never has a Disneyland been built so fast, achieving the same quality as other Disney theme parks and resorts. And, it will be completed within budget," Mr Tang said.

Disney also announced the admission price to Hong Kong Disneyland of HK$295 per adult during the week and HK$350 at weekends and peak days. Children's tickets (between three and 11 years) will be HK$210 and HK$250

The admission ticket will include a full day's programme of fun and excitement across Main Street USA and three themed lands - Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Adventureland.

At its opening next September 12, Hong Kong Disneyland will comprise a theme park and two hotels. Under the agreement reached with Disney in November 1999, the Government is spending HK$22.45 billion, including infrastructure works, equity and loans.

Ends/Tuesday, November 23, 2004