HONG KONG, Sept. 17, 2025 – Cathay and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on travel experiences aimed at strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a premier global tourism hub.
The agreement, announced September 16 at a ceremony at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, unites two of the city’s most recognizable brands: Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong’s flagship carrier, and HKDL, a world-class theme park that attracts millions of visitors annually. The signing was led by Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam and HKDL Managing Director Michael Moriarty. Adding a touch of Disney flair, Mickey Mouse appeared to mark the occasion.
Expanding Hong Kong’s Tourism Appeal
The partnership seeks to create new opportunities for travelers by blending Cathay’s air travel expertise with HKDL’s entertainment offerings. Both companies described the move as an effort to drive inbound tourism, stimulate the local economy, and showcase Hong Kong as a leading transit and leisure destination in Asia.
“At Cathay, we aim to move people forward in life. Teaming up with Hong Kong Disneyland Resort allows us to combine our premium travel services with Disney’s enchanting experiences. Together, we’ll inspire travelers to visit our home city and discover its unique charm,” said Lam.
Moriarty underscored the timing of the initiative, which coincides with the theme park’s milestone anniversary. “As we celebrate Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary, this collaboration with Cathay strengthens our commitment to elevating Hong Kong’s global tourism appeal,” he said. “We look forward to creating magical, immersive experiences that captivate today’s travelers and reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a world-class destination.”
New Transit Product in 2026
One of the first joint projects to emerge from the MoU will be a special travel offering for passengers transiting through Hong Kong. Scheduled to launch in 2026, the product is designed to turn layovers into opportunities for exploration, allowing travelers to experience the resort during their stopover.
By creating seamless connections between Cathay’s international flight network and the resort’s attractions, the initiative aims to encourage more visitors to leave the airport and engage with the city’s cultural and entertainment assets. Industry observers note that the program could provide a much-needed boost to Hong Kong’s tourism recovery and local businesses.
Tourism Strategy for a Gateway City
Hong Kong has long marketed itself as a gateway to Asia, combining modern infrastructure with deep cultural heritage. The collaboration between Cathay and HKDL is positioned to reinforce that message by highlighting both the city’s metropolitan appeal and its family-friendly entertainment options.
The tourism sector plays a vital role in the local economy, and both partners emphasized their shared vision of creating memorable journeys that benefit not only travelers but also the broader community. With the added focus on stopover tourism, the effort is expected to increase footfall at local attractions, hotels, and dining establishments.
About the Partners
Cathay, rebranded in recent years as a premium travel lifestyle company, extends beyond air travel to include holidays, dining, wellness, and retail. Its flagship airline, Cathay Pacific, is nearly 80 years old and a founding member of the oneworld global alliance. Known for its high service standards, the carrier connects Hong Kong to cities across the globe.
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, meanwhile, remains a centerpiece of the region’s leisure market. With eight themed lands, award-winning attractions, and a roster of Disney characters and stories, it has become a destination for families and tourists from around the world. The resort’s hotels complement the theme park experience, while community engagement and sustainability initiatives reflect its broader social mission.
Looking Ahead
For Hong Kong, the MoU between Cathay and HKDL represents more than a partnership between two companies. It signals a coordinated effort to enhance the city’s competitiveness in an increasingly crowded tourism market.
By leveraging their global reach and brand power, both organizations aim to transform Hong Kong into a must-visit stop for international travelers. As the 2026 launch of the transit product approaches, industry stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the collaboration translates into tangible gains for the city’s tourism industry.
