Saudi Arabia has officially opened Six Flags Qiddiya City, marking a major milestone in the Kingdom’s drive to become a global hub for leisure and entertainment. The attraction opened to the public on December 31, becoming the first operational destination within the wider Qiddiya City development near Riyadh.
The launch signals a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s long term tourism strategy, positioning large scale entertainment as a pillar of economic diversification and global visitor appeal.
Opening ceremony marks first Qiddiya attraction
The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, the governor of Riyadh Province. Officials described the event as the formal beginning of Qiddiya City’s entertainment ecosystem after years of planning and construction.
In a statement shared on social media, Qiddiya City said the launch redefines the Kingdom’s entertainment sector and reflects Saudi Arabia’s ambition to compete with leading global leisure destinations.
Six Flags Qiddiya City is the first attraction to open within the massive Qiddiya project, which is designed to host multiple entertainment, sports, and cultural venues.
First Six Flags park outside North America
Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb described the opening as a landmark moment for both Saudi Arabia and the Six Flags brand.
He said the park represents the first global expansion of Six Flags outside North America, placing the Kingdom at the forefront of international entertainment tourism. According to the minister, the project strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position on the global tourism map by offering experiences that meet international standards.
Officials highlighted that the park combines thrill rides with immersive attractions designed to appeal to families, tourists, and adventure seekers alike.
World class rides and immersive experiences
Six Flags Qiddiya City features a wide range of high intensity rides and themed experiences, supported by advanced technologies. The park has been designed to blend entertainment with local identity, linking global branding with Saudi Arabia’s cultural and geographic context.
Authorities said the attraction is intended to set a new benchmark for large scale theme parks in the Middle East, offering experiences comparable to established global destinations.
While full details of ride capacity and attendance projections were not disclosed, officials stressed that the park is expected to draw both domestic visitors and international tourists.
Central role in Vision 2030 goals
The opening aligns closely with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on oil by expanding sectors such as tourism, entertainment, and culture.
By developing destinations like Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia hopes to retain tourism spending within the country while also attracting visitors from abroad. The entertainment sector has been identified as a key driver of job creation, private investment, and quality of life improvements.
Government officials say projects like Six Flags Qiddiya demonstrate how fast the Kingdom is moving from planning to execution.
Qiddiya City leadership welcomes milestone
Qiddiya Investment Company Managing Director Abdullah Aldawood expressed appreciation for the support shown by Riyadh’s leadership.
He said the governor’s patronage reflects strong institutional backing for development initiatives that enhance the region’s economic and social growth. Aldawood added that Six Flags Qiddiya City represents just the beginning of what the wider project aims to deliver.
Qiddiya City is expected to host multiple future attractions, positioning it as one of the largest integrated entertainment destinations in the world.
What the opening means for Saudi tourism
The launch of Six Flags Qiddiya City sends a clear signal that Saudi Arabia is moving into an execution phase for its leisure ambitions. Analysts say the project strengthens the Kingdom’s competitiveness in the regional tourism market and supports its goal of becoming a year round destination.
As more attractions within Qiddiya City come online, officials expect visitor numbers and international interest to grow steadily.
What do you think about Saudi Arabia’s push into large scale entertainment tourism? Share your thoughts and let us know if Six Flags Qiddiya City is on your travel list.
