The global theme park industry is thriving, with attendance significantly increasing in 2023. According to the World Economic Outlook Report, the sector grew by 2.9% in 2024 and 3% in 2023.
Disney continues to dominate the theme park industry, operating eight of the top 10 most-visited parks globally. Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando remains the most popular, attracting 17.7 million visitors, followed closely by Disneyland Park in Anaheim with nearly 17.2 million visitors. Universal Studios Japan and Tokyo Disneyland rounded out the top four.
Overall, theme park attendance surged by 23% in 2023, exceeding 240 million visitors. The top 10 parks contributed significantly to this increase, with combined attendance reaching 512.3 million visitors.
Chinese theme parks experienced a dramatic surge in attendance due to eased COVID-19 restrictions. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, Zigong Fantawild Dino Kingdom, Shanghai Disneyland, Chimelong Paradise, and Universal Studios Beijing all saw significant increases in visitors.
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi made history by entering the global top 25 theme parks, securing the 17th spot with 1.75 million annual visitors, highlighting the growing appeal of Middle Eastern attractions.