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.
