Riyadh, January 10, 2025 — Qiddiya City participated in the third edition of the Saudi Tourism Forum, held in Riyadh from January 7 to 9 in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Development Fund (TDF). The participation aligns with the vision of Qiddiya Investment Company to enhance Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading tourism destination and support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 through its ambitious projects in entertainment, tourism, and sports.
Context and Background
The Saudi Tourism Forum serves as a key platform for showcasing the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving tourism sector, which is central to the economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030. Qiddiya City’s involvement underscores its role as a flagship project designed to attract millions of visitors annually. The forum brought together industry leaders, investors, and government officials to discuss trends, opportunities, and strategic partnerships that are shaping the future of tourism in Saudi Arabia.
Key Details
At the forum, Qiddiya’s pavilion highlighted major projects like Aquarabia Qiddiya City, the Kingdom’s largest water theme park, and Six Flags Qiddiya, which features the Falcon’s Flight roller coaster. Visitors were also introduced to other ongoing projects, such as Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, golf courses, e-sports zones, and the speed circuit, among other previously announced areas. Furthermore, the city demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by adopting environmentally friendly initiatives that conserve natural resources, implement best environmental practices, and promote sustainable tourism in the Kingdom, thereby contributing to a responsible visitor experience.
Implications and Impact
Qiddiya City’s showcase at the forum signals its growing prominence as a global entertainment destination, with potential to boost international tourism arrivals and stimulate local economic growth. The emphasis on sustainability aligns with global trends, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in responsible tourism development. These projects are expected to create numerous job opportunities and foster innovation in the hospitality and leisure sectors.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The active participation of Qiddiya City in the Saudi Tourism Forum reflects its integral role in realizing Vision 2030 ambitions to diversify the economy and establish the Kingdom as a premier global tourism hub. By advancing world-class entertainment and sustainable practices, Qiddiya is set to contribute significantly to the national goal of attracting 150 million visits annually by 2030.
20 Questions
Q1. What is Qiddiya City?
A1. Qiddiya City is a mega-entertainment, tourism, and sports project in Saudi Arabia, spearheaded by Qiddiya Investment Company, designed to be a premier global destination aligned with Vision 2030.
Q2. What was the Saudi Tourism Forum?
A2. The Saudi Tourism Forum is an annual event held in Riyadh, bringing together experts and investors to discuss the Kingdom’s tourism growth, organized with support from the Ministry of Tourism and other agencies.
Q3. When and where was the third edition held?
A3. The third edition of the Saudi Tourism Forum took place in Riyadh from January 7 to 9, 2025, at a venue that facilitated networking and project showcases.
Q4. Which entities collaborated on the forum?
A4. The forum was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Development Fund (TDF).
Q5. Why did Qiddiya City participate?
A5. Qiddiya City participated to enhance Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading tourism destination and to support Vision 2030 goals through its entertainment, tourism, and sports projects.
Q6. What major projects were highlighted at Qiddiya’s pavilion?
A6. The pavilion highlighted Aquarabia Qiddiya City, the Kingdom’s largest water theme park, and Six Flags Qiddiya, featuring the Falcon’s Flight roller coaster.
Q7. What is Aquarabia Qiddiya City?
A7. Aquarabia Qiddiya City is Saudi Arabia’s largest water theme park, offering a range of attractions and experiences for visitors of all ages.
Q8. What is the Falcon’s Flight roller coaster?
A8. The Falcon’s Flight is a notable roller coaster at Six Flags Qiddiya, designed to be a thrilling attraction that draws adventure seekers from around the world.
Q9. What other projects were mentioned at the forum?
A9. Other projects include Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, golf courses, e-sports zones, and the speed circuit, all part of Qiddiya’s diverse offerings.
Q10. How is Qiddiya City addressing sustainability?
A10. Qiddiya City adopts environmentally friendly initiatives to conserve natural resources, implement best practices, and promote sustainable tourism for a responsible visitor experience.
Q11. What is the role of the Ministry of Tourism in the forum?
A11. The Ministry of Tourism collaborated to organize the forum, underscoring its support for tourism development and alignment with Vision 2030 economic diversification.
Q12. How does Qiddiya support Vision 2030?
A12. Qiddiya supports Vision 2030 by creating world-class attractions, boosting tourism, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable growth in the entertainment and leisure sectors.
Q13. What is the significance of the forum for international visitors?
A13. The forum showcases Saudi Arabia’s tourism opportunities, helping international investors and tourists discover new projects and experiences, enhancing global engagement.
Q14. Was the forum open to the public?
A14. The forum was primarily a professional event for industry stakeholders, though it included pavilions and displays that may have been accessible to registered attendees.
Q15. What types of sustainability practices were highlighted?
A15. Qiddiya highlighted practices like resource conservation, use of eco-friendly materials, and design principles that minimize environmental impact, setting a benchmark for responsible tourism.
Q16. How will Qiddiya’s projects affect local employment?
A16. Qiddiya’s projects are expected to create thousands of jobs in construction, hospitality, and entertainment, contributing to economic diversification and skill development in Saudi Arabia.
Q17. What is the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium?
A17. It is a planned multi-purpose stadium within Qiddiya City, designed to host sports events and entertainment shows, further enhancing the city’s appeal.
Q18. Does Qiddiya City include e-sports facilities?
A18. Yes, Qiddiya City plans to develop e-sports zones, catering to the growing global interest in competitive gaming and digital entertainment.
Q19. How does Qiddiya City promote sustainable tourism in the Kingdom?
A19. By implementing green initiatives and responsible practices, Qiddiya City sets an example for sustainable tourism, helping Saudi Arabia attract eco-conscious travelers and preserve natural resources.
Q20. What is the future outlook for Qiddiya City?
A20. Qiddiya City is poised to become a world-leading destination for entertainment and tourism, driving economic growth and supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 targets for a diversified and vibrant society.
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