The Qiddiya project was announced in April 2017 as part of
Saudi Vision 2030, a national strategy aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy and increasing domestic tourism and entertainment spending. The project is supported by the
Public Investment Fund and was envisioned as a large-scale entertainment, sports, and cultural destination near Riyadh. Construction began in early 2019. The first phase of development was initially scheduled for completion in 2023 but was later revised, with timelines extending into the mid-2020s. The project includes major developments such as
Six Flags Qiddiya City, the Aquarabia waterpark, a purpose-built
Formula One circuit, and a planned
Dragon Ball theme park, the first of its kind worldwide. These announcements prompted criticism from international observers and human rights organisations, who accused Saudi Arabia of attempting to
sportswash its international image and raised concerns over the country’s human rights record, including issues affecting LGBT people. Concerns have also been raised regarding labour conditions and human rights associated with the Qiddiya megaproject. In 2024, UK Export Finance classified the project as Category A under its social and environmental risk framework, citing the potential for significant adverse environmental and social impacts during construction and operation. Human Rights Watch reported risks linked to the
Kafala system, wage theft, and heat stress affecting migrant workers involved in Saudi Arabia’s megaprojects, including Qiddiya City. The Business & Human Rights Resource Centre (BHRRC) has additionally documented concerns over worker safety, including incidents involving vehicle strikes, falls from heights, and exposure to extreme heat at Qiddiya construction sites.
Six Flags Qiddiya City opened on 31 December 2025 as the first operational asset of Qiddiya City, marking the initial public opening of the wider development. == Qiddiya company ==