Qiddiya Project 2025: The Entertainment and Sports Capital Opens Its Doors to the World

Just 40 minutes from the capital Riyadh, nestled in the stunning Tuwaiq Mountains, the largest entertainment, sports, and cultural project in Saudi Arabia's history is taking shape. Qiddiya is not just an entertainment city, but a comprehensive global destination that will transform the concept of entertainment in the region. With the opening of its first landmarks in December 2025, we explore everything you need to know about this exceptional project.

Project Overview

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the Qiddiya project in April 2017, and Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz laid the foundation stone in April 2018. The project is one of the Public Investment Fund's most prominent projects under Vision 2030.

Total Area: 376 square kilometers

Estimated Cost: $22 billion (SAR 82 billion)

Location: Tuwaiq Mountains, southwest of Riyadh

Distance from Riyadh: 40 minutes by car

Six Flags Qiddiya City: The Grand Opening

On December 31, 2025, Qiddiya officially opens its doors with the launch of Six Flags Qiddiya City, becoming the first park of its kind outside North America. The park offers an exceptional experience combining excitement and Saudi culture in a sustainable environment.

Number of Rides: 28 exclusive rides and experiences

Entertainment Zones: 6 different zones

Adult Ticket Price: Starting from SAR 325

Children's Ticket Price: Starting from SAR 275

Free Entry: Children under 4 years

Six Flags' Six Zones

The park features six diverse entertainment zones, each offering a unique experience:

City of Thrills: Excitement and adventure rides

The Mysterious Springs: A world of secrets and discovery

Steam Town: Industrial revolution atmosphere

Twilight Gardens: Nature and fantasy magic

Valley of Fortune: Hidden treasure adventures

The Grand Exposition: Various shows and events

Aquarabia: The Middle East's Largest Water Park

In May 2024, Qiddiya launched the Aquarabia project, the Kingdom's first locally-made water park and the largest in the region. It offers water experiences suitable for all family members.

Contract Value: SAR 2.8 billion

Number of Attractions: 22 water rides and experiences

Expected Opening: 2025

Target Audience: All family members

Speed Track: A World-Class Motorsports Destination

Former Formula 1 driver Alexander Wurz designed the Speed Track to be one of the world's premier racing circuits. The track features a unique design that utilizes Tuwaiq's mountainous terrain.

Standard: FIA Grade 1 (Formula 1 qualified)

Number of Corners: 21 corners

The Blade Height: Over 70 meters (20 stories)

Formula 1 Hosting: Expected 2027

Qiddiya Express Train

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City announced the Qiddiya Express Train project that will connect the city to King Salman International Airport and King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD).

Maximum Speed: 250 km/h

Travel Time: 30 minutes from airport to Qiddiya

Competing Companies: 145 companies

Implementation Model: Public-private partnership

Qiddiya Golf Course

Qiddiya unveiled a new golf course designed by golf legend Sir Nick Faldo, to become a global destination for golf enthusiasts.

Number of Holes: 18 championship-standard holes

Designer: Sir Nick Faldo

Course Opening: 2026

Club and Academy: 2028

Project Timeline

The Qiddiya project is being implemented in three main phases:

Phase One (2017-2025): Infrastructure, 45 projects, 300 activities

Phase Two (2023-2025): Main complexes and 4,000 residential units

Phase Three (2026-2035): Complete development and full operation

Economic and Social Impact

The project is expected to bring radical transformation to the entertainment and tourism sector:

Expected Visitors: 48 million visitors annually by 2030

Job Opportunities: 325,000 direct and indirect jobs

GDP Contribution: SAR 135 billion

Entertainment Facilities: Over 300 facilities

Strategic Partnerships 2025

Qiddiya signed important strategic partnerships to enhance visitor experience:

Al Rajhi Bank: 5-year partnership as official sponsor

Mercedes Experience Center: Formula 1 experiences

World Travel & Tourism Council: Official membership

Conclusion

Qiddiya is not just an entertainment project, but a comprehensive vision for the future of entertainment, sports, and culture in Saudi Arabia. With Six Flags opening on December 31, 2025, a new era begins placing the Kingdom on the map of global entertainment destinations. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, sports enthusiast, or looking for special family experiences, you'll find everything you're looking for in Qiddiya.