Qiddiya City Joins World’s Elite Destinations with DMAP Accreditation

Qiddiya City has been awarded the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) Accreditation with Distinction by Destinations International, marking it as one of the world’s elite destinations. This prestigious recognition places Qiddiya City among a select group of destinations globally that have achieved the highest level of accreditation, reflecting its commitment to excellence in destination development and management.

Context and Background

Qiddiya City, developed by the Qiddiya Investment Company, spans 360 square kilometers and is located 45 kilometers west of Riyadh. It is one of the most ambitious destination development projects in the world and a central pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. The city is built on the “Power of Play” philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of play in nurturing creativity, enhancing wellbeing, building communities, and driving economic growth.

Key Details

The DMAP Accreditation with Distinction is awarded to organizations that exceed all required standards with no identified areas for improvement. Of the nearly 200 organizations worldwide to achieve DMAP accreditation, fewer than 20% have received this highest level of recognition. Qiddiya City is the first destination management organization in the Middle East to receive this distinction, highlighting its leadership in the region.

Implications and Impact

This accreditation serves as a powerful signal to the global tourism community that Qiddiya City is being developed to the highest international standards. It underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to operational excellence and its vision to create a transformative impact on individuals and communities through innovative destination management.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The recognition of Qiddiya City aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of diversifying the economy and enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a global tourism hub. By setting new benchmarks for excellence in destination development, Qiddiya City contributes to the Kingdom’s broader ambitions of sustainable economic growth and cultural enrichment.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the DMAP Accreditation with Distinction?

A1. The DMAP Accreditation with Distinction is the highest level of recognition awarded by Destinations International to destination organizations that exceed all required standards with no identified areas for improvement.

Q2. Who awarded the accreditation to Qiddiya City?

A2. The accreditation was awarded by Destinations International, the world’s largest and most prominent organization supporting destination organizations.

Q3. What does Qiddiya City’s accreditation signify?

A3. It signifies Qiddiya City’s commitment to operational excellence and its adherence to the highest international standards in destination development and management.

Q4. How many organizations have received the DMAP Accreditation with Distinction?

A4. Fewer than 20% of the nearly 200 organizations worldwide that have achieved DMAP accreditation have received the Accreditation with Distinction.

Q5. What is the “Power of Play” philosophy?

A5. The “Power of Play” philosophy is the foundational concept of Qiddiya City, emphasizing the importance of play in nurturing creativity, enhancing wellbeing, building communities, and driving economic growth.

Q6. Where is Qiddiya City located?

A6. Qiddiya City is located 45 kilometers west of Riyadh, spanning 360 square kilometers.

Q7. Who developed Qiddiya City?

A7. Qiddiya City was developed by the Qiddiya Investment Company, under the leadership of the Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Q8. What are some key attractions in Qiddiya City?

A8. Key attractions include Six Flags Qiddiya City, Aquarabia, PlayMaker Studios, the National Tennis Centre, an 18-hole golf course, and Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium.

Q9. When did Qiddiya City begin welcoming visitors?

A9. Qiddiya City began welcoming visitors at the end of 2025.

Q10. What is the significance of Qiddiya City’s accreditation for Saudi Arabia?

A10. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to excellence in destination development and its alignment with Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and global tourism leadership.

Q11. How does Qiddiya City contribute to Saudi Vision 2030?

A11. Qiddiya City contributes to Saudi Vision 2030 by setting new benchmarks for destination development, enhancing the Kingdom’s tourism sector, and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Q12. What is the role of the Public Investment Fund in Qiddiya City?

A12. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a central role in the development of Qiddiya City, providing leadership and resources to realize this ambitious project.

Q13. What is Destinations International?

A13. Destinations International is the world’s largest and most prominent organization supporting destination organizations, providing accreditation and resources to promote excellence in destination management.

Q14. What is the National Tennis Centre in Qiddiya City?

A14. The National Tennis Centre is the largest facility dedicated to tennis in the region, offering world-class facilities for players and fans alike.

Q15. What is the significance of PlayMaker Studios?

A15. PlayMaker Studios is the Kingdom’s first integrated film production hub, designed to serve regional and international film and television productions.

Q16. What is the Saudi Cup?

A16. The Saudi Cup is a prestigious horse racing event that will be hosted at the Horse Racing Venue in Qiddiya City in the future.

Q17. How does Qiddiya City promote sustainable living?

A17. Qiddiya City promotes sustainable living through its integrated urban design, featuring hotels, residential neighborhoods, parks, and a modern transport network.

Q18. What is the role of Qiddiya Investment Company?

A18. The Qiddiya Investment Company is responsible for the development and management of Qiddiya City, ensuring it meets the highest international standards.

Q19. What is the significance of Six Flags Qiddiya City?

A19. Six Flags Qiddiya City offers record-breaking rides and entertainment experiences, attracting visitors from across the Kingdom and the region.

Q20. How does Qiddiya City impact the global tourism community?

A20. Qiddiya City impacts the global tourism community by setting new standards for destination development and showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to excellence in tourism.

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