Imagine a thriving hub of entertainment, sports, and culture right in the heart of Saudi Arabia. This vision is becoming a reality as the Kingdom’s entertainment industry experiences significant growth, driven by the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030. This transformative plan aims to diversify the economy and enhance global engagement, making Saudi Arabia a beacon for cultural enrichment.
The Transformative Power of Qiddiya
Qiddiya stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to revolutionizing its entertainment sector. Initiated in 2018 under King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Qiddiya is set to become the epicenter of entertainment, sports, and cultural activities. It promises to deliver unique destinations and programs that elevate the quality of life for both visitors and residents.
Canadian firm AtkinsRéalis leads the design consultancy for Qiddiya, with Global Director Bradley Caruk sharing his insights on the project. “Having spent 25 years in the global entertainment industry, I’ve learned that fun is universal. With groundbreaking attractions like Six Flags Qiddiya City, we offer an immersive, story-driven theme park experience,” Caruk explained. He highlighted the park’s unique offerings, including some of the tallest, longest, and fastest rides in the world.
Jamie Ryder, a partner at Reed Smith’s Entertainment & Media Industry Group, noted Qiddiya’s potential to disrupt the sector. “Qiddiya’s scale is impressive, aiming to serve over 600,000 residents and attract 48 million visits annually,” Ryder remarked. He emphasized the innovative attractions, such as the world’s first Dragon Ball theme park, and the development’s focus on ‘play’, which positions Qiddiya as a significant player in hosting major sporting and entertainment events.
Strategic Collaborations and Global Appeal
Qiddiya’s partnerships with local and international entities align seamlessly with the Vision 2030 objectives, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s young and vibrant society. The Dragon Ball theme park, based on the popular Japanese anime series, is expected to resonate with the Kingdom’s youth and attract tourists from across the region, especially given the region’s leading anime viewership.
Ryder also highlighted the Six Flags theme park as the first of its kind outside the Americas, appealing to both Saudi youth and international visitors. The Speed Park Track, a significant draw for motor racing enthusiasts, further underscores Qiddiya’s appeal. Combined with the mixed-use Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium and dedicated esports neighborhood, Qiddiya promises world-class attractions for locals and tourists alike.
Commitment to a World-Class Entertainment Destination
Several companies recognize Saudi Arabia’s vision of developing premier entertainment destinations. Caruk of AtkinsRéalis emphasized the company’s dedication to exceeding guest expectations through innovative design. “We work as a cohesive team to turn concepts into memorable experiences. Hearing guests express a desire to return is the ultimate reward,” Caruk stated.
Qiddiya’s alignment with Vision 2030 is undeniable. It plays a crucial role in transforming Saudi Arabia into a global entertainment, sports, and tourism destination. Ryder from Reed Smith noted, “Qiddiya is not just about economic diversification; it enhances the quality of life for Saudi citizens and tourists, aligning with the Quality of Life Vision Realization Program.”
Caruk concluded, “Qiddiya City is set to be a premier destination for play, offering something for everyone. Its diverse experiences will set a precedent for future developments worldwide. As a multi-billion-dollar industry, entertainment sees Qiddiya as a key player in realizing dreams, and we at AtkinsRéalis are proud to contribute to this groundbreaking project.”
