In late November 2024, Shanghai Disneyland became the center of an online controversy surrounding the excessive use of electric wheelchairs by able-bodied visitors. Originally intended to assist individuals with disabilities, electric wheelchairs were being rented out by businesses to general tourists for convenience. Rental companies aggressively promoted these wheelchairs outside the park at a daily fee of approximately 200 yuan (US$28) per person.
As a result, the park saw a significant increase in electric wheelchair use, with visitors maneuvering them through crowds and bypassing long queues. This created safety concerns and inconvenienced other park-goers.
The phenomenon sparked intense debate on social media. Supporters of the rentals noted that Shanghai Disneyland’s vast size leaves tourists physically exhausted after a full day of walking. They argued that renting a wheelchair for convenience was a practical solution. However, critics countered that the wheelchairs are for the use of individuals with disabilities, and making them accessible to everyone was unfair and wasteful. They emphasized the ethical concern of depriving resources from those who genuinely need them.
In response to the outcry, Shanghai Disney revised its wheelchair policy: Starting December 10, only tourists with valid proof of disability will be allowed to bring manual or electric wheelchairs into the resort. The move aims to ensure that such resources are reserved for those with legitimate needs.
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