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QIDDIYA SAUDI ARABIA'S VISIONARY MEGA-PROJECT
Qiddiya is an ambitious project launched by King Salman bin Abdulaziz in 2018, poised to become Saudi Arabia’s premier destination for entertainment, sports, and culture. This mega-project, a pivotal part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, is strategically located southwest of Riyadh, overlooking the cliffs of the Tuwaiq mountains. The vision behind Qiddiya is to establish a global capital of entertainment and leisure, contributing significantly to the Kingdom's economy and societal progress.
A Hub for Entertainment, Sports, and Culture
Qiddiya aims to offer five core experiences: Sports & Wellness, Nature & Environment, Parks & Attractions, Motion & Mobility, and Arts & Culture. This project is set to redefine the entertainment landscape with family-friendly theme parks, state-of-the-art sports arenas, and a variety of cultural venues.
The city plans to host a multitude of attractions, including a gaming and esports district, a speed park track, golf courses, and the Six Flags Qiddiya – a massive theme park promising rides and experiences unparalleled globally. Additionally, a water theme park featuring 23 rides, some being world-firsts, will add to the allure of this mega-project.
Economic and Societal Impact
Qiddiya is not just a leisure destination but a significant economic catalyst. It's expected to create over 325,000 job opportunities and contribute approximately $36 billion to the GDP once fully operational. The project aligns with the Kingdom's objectives of economic diversification and job creation, and it emphasizes play and recreation's importance for human development and societal well-being.
Project Development and Launch
The development of Qiddiya is progressing steadily, with contracts worth SR10 billion ($2.7 billion) already awarded. The project covers an overall area of 360 square km and is anticipated to host over 600,000 residents. Qiddiya City is expected to attract around 48 million visits per year.
The first of the 82 entertainment locations, including the waterpark and Six Flags amusement park, is due to open soon. These attractions, along with others, are part of the plan to expand the city’s offerings in response to Riyadh’s projected population growth.
Saudi Arabia is gearing up to become a major player in the global esports arena with the planned construction of a massive esports and gaming district in Qiddiya, a key part of its Vision 2030 initiative. This project represents the Kingdom's commitment to diversifying its economy and embracing new, innovative industries.
A Hub for Digital Entertainment
The esports district, encompassing a substantial area within Qiddiya, is set to feature state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple arenas and a range of entertainment options. This gaming hub is poised to host major international gaming events and tournaments, positioning Saudi Arabia as a global center for esports.
Attracting the Youth and Boosting Local Talent
One of the primary objectives of this esports district is to attract the younger generation, a significant demographic in Saudi Arabia where a large portion of the population is under the age of 30. By offering a dedicated space for gaming and digital entertainment, the Kingdom aims to engage its youth, foster local talent, and create a vibrant community centered around esports and technology.
GAMING AND E-SPORTS DISTRICT
By tapping into the growing global esports market, the project not only promises economic growth but also positions the Kingdom as a forward-thinking nation, ready to embrace the digital future and offer exciting opportunities to its youth.
Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium: A Marvel in Qiddiya
Saudi Arabia's Qiddiya project, a cornerstone of Vision 2030, is set to feature an architectural wonder: the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium. This state-of-the-art stadium, planned for the heart of Qiddiya, represents a fusion of modern design and technological innovation, set to elevate the Kingdom's position as a global hub for sports and entertainment.
Unparalleled Design and Location
The Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium is uniquely perched atop a 200-meter-high cliff in Qiddiya City, about 40 minutes from Riyadh. Designed by Populous, a global architectural design company, the stadium's location offers breathtaking views, seamlessly blending with the majestic natural landscape of the area.
Cutting-Edge Features
The stadium will have a total capacity of 45,000 seats, hosting a diverse array of events including soccer, boxing, esports, concerts, and theater performances. It is designed to be the world's first fully integrated venue with a combined retractable roof, pitch, and LED wall. This LED wall is not just for display; it serves as a portal to live event broadcasts, high-definition films, and laser shows, offering an immersive experience to the audience.