James Rasulo, Disney’s Parks and Resort Chairman, recently set the record clear when speaking to The Khaleej Times about the possibility of a Disney location in the Middle East. While he admitted that one never says never, he did make it pretty clear that the region just isn’t a good fit at this current time. He did, however, allude to India being on the right track as well as possible expansion further east in China.
Frankly, I’m both surprised and impressed that Disney is able to even make such considerations at a time when a large portion of the areas population, or at least the most vocal part, is anti-American. There are not many brands that are as easily identifiable with the United States as Disney. Yet, Disney’s willingness to even broach such subjects suggests they are thinking and acting both locally and globally. Perhaps Disney as an ambassador to the world is good public relations.
What do you think?
I think sometimes the strength and appeal of American culture is often what alienates the rest of the world towards the US. However, that doesn’t stop people from outside the US buying tickets to the latest Hollywood release, getting excited waiting for the next episode of ‘Lost’ or saving up for a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Disneyland. It’s like a brother/sister kind of thing – often on the outside there is this animosity and resentment but underneath is respect, admiration and a fair whack of envy.
World diplomacy through a Mouse! What could be better…
Although India is considered a developing country, with a population of over a billion, there should still be a lot of people filling the park.
If James Rasulo did make the comment it is hard to understand the percieved statement by whitehonea, it really is not true. Only SOME countries are upset with the USA, NOT all. The majority still send there kids to school, buy there cars, drink there soft drinks and listen to there news !.
The one destination that RASULO did like was Abu Dhabi due to its proximity to Saudi (but not in it), its freedoms and human rights and its highly educated population that 90% speak English.
There are some fantastic waterfront secure areas in Abu Dhabi Emirate, new airports, good roads and tolerant and helpful society.
Any one want to be on Abu Dhabi ?
Forget India, look at Abu Dhabi on a road and airmap hub !!
I don’t see anything wrong with Disney moving to Arabian ventures. In the end, we are all the same, regardless of heritage and some like Disney, others yet don’t. Whether we live in the US or not, Disney is cool for some.
I dont see why there would be a problem. Many Disney characters are Arabian. The most popular, ALADDIN. So it will most definitely be a great place for a Disney theme park. Lastly, if it’s in an Arab country, it will get all of the Arab countries involved so thats another plus.
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