Saudi Arabia has launched a colossal new theme park in a landmark move to boost tourism and shift its economy beyond oil. The $1 billion Six Flags Qiddiya City officially opened on New Year's Eve, drawing massive crowds and queues from eager thrill-seekers.
A New Era of Entertainment in the Desert
After four years of construction, the gates opened to the first Six Flags park outside North America. Located on a desert mountain cliff on the outskirts of Riyadh, it forms the inaugural operational part of the vast Qiddiya entertainment and sports complex.
The park's main draw is its collection of record-breaking attractions. Chief among them is Falcon's Flight, billed as the world's longest, tallest, and fastest rollercoaster. It reaches a staggering height of 195 metres and achieves a top speed of 155mph.
Other headline rides include:
- Gyrospin: The world's tallest pendulum ride.
- Spitfire: A triple launch rollercoaster.
- Iron Rattler: The world's tallest tilt rollercoaster.
Visitor Reactions and Operational Challenges
The park has proven immediately popular with Saudi residents, with thousands paying the 325 riyal (approximately $87) adult ticket fee. Visitor Jonathan Ingham, who travelled to experience the rides and the country, praised the park's beauty, cleanliness, and the friendliness of staff.
However, he reported significant operational teething problems. "The operational success of most attractions during my visit was less than acceptable," Ingham told Metro. Over two days, he managed only ten rides in total, citing "significantly long" queue times and sold-out 'Go Faster' passes.
Despite this, he highlighted the positive hospitality he received as a solo Western traveller. Local visitor Omar al-Arabi appreciated the park's cultural relevance, telling the Financial Times, "Everything they did from scratch... It fits the environment. It fits the culture."
Part of a Broader Economic Vision
The project is a cornerstone of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ambitious reform programme, driven by the sovereign wealth Public Investment Fund (PIF). It aims to diversify the economy, reduce reliance on oil revenues, and create domestic leisure opportunities.
Managing director Abdullah al-Dawood stated the project is expected to generate 7,000 jobs and contribute 2.5 billion riyals ($686 million) to GDP. The opening comes as Saudi Arabia races to develop infrastructure ahead of major events like Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Although the project, first unveiled in 2018, faced delays from its original 2022 opening date, officials are optimistic. They hope the park will attract international tourists and encourage Saudi citizens to spend their leisure money at home rather than abroad.
The wider Qiddiya site will eventually include a Formula 1 racetrack, a World Cup stadium, and a performing arts centre, marking a profound transformation for the kingdom.
