Qiddiya Investment Company Signs Management Agreement with Six Flags for Two Parks

RIYADH — Qiddiya Investment Company has signed a comprehensive Management Services Agreement with Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, naming the North American regional amusement-resort leader as the official operator for Six Flags Qiddiya City and Aquarabia Water Theme Park. The announcement, made on February 10, 2025, via the Saudi Press Agency, marks a major milestone for the Qiddiya City megaproject near Riyadh. Under the agreement, Six Flags will leverage its operational excellence, strategic insight, and management expertise to run both parks, which are scheduled to open in late 2025.

Context and Background

Qiddiya City is a flagship entertainment, sports, and cultural destination under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, designed to diversify the economy and boost tourism. The project represents a multi-billion-dollar investment aimed at attracting millions of visitors annually. This partnership with Six Flags, North America’s largest regional amusement-resort operator, brings world-class expertise to the Kingdom, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global tourism hub.

Key Details

Six Flags Qiddiya City will feature 28 rides and attractions, including the world’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster, Falcons Flight. Adjacent to it, Aquarabia Water Theme Park will offer 22 state-of-the-art water rides, including the world’s tallest water coaster and tallest double-loop water slide, along with eight themed areas such as Surftopia, which will house Saudi Arabia’s first surf pool. Brian Machamer, President of both parks since 2019, will continue leading operations. “We are excited to collaborate with Six Flags,” said Abdullah Al Dawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company. “Their expertise will help create memorable experiences that contribute to Saudi Arabia’s cultural and economic growth as part of Vision 2030.” Selim Bassoul, Executive Chairman of Six Flags, added that the agreement represents an important step toward creating high-quality, engaging experiences.

Implications and Impact

The agreement positions Qiddiya City as a premier destination for regional and international tourists, boosting Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector and creating thousands of jobs. The parks are expected to set new benchmarks for family-friendly entertainment in the Middle East, driving economic diversification and nurturing local talent. By partnering with a globally recognized brand, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its ability to attract top-tier operators and deliver world-class attractions that align with its Vision 2030 goals.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This partnership directly supports Vision 2030’s objectives of economic diversification, job creation, and tourism growth. By integrating Six Flags’ operational expertise with Qiddiya’s visionary leadership, the two parks exemplify the transformative potential of the Power of Play — a core theme of Qiddiya City. As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to the world, developments like these solidify its position as a dynamic, forward-looking nation committed to innovation and cultural exchange.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the new agreement between Qiddiya Investment Company and Six Flags Entertainment?

A1. The Management Services Agreement appoints Six Flags as the official operator for Six Flags Qiddiya City and Aquarabia Water Theme Park, bringing operational expertise to both parks.

Q2. When were Six Flags Qiddiya City and Aquarabia Water Theme Park announced to open?

A2. Both parks are scheduled to open in late 2025, as confirmed by Qiddiya Investment Company in its announcement.

Q3. What is the world-record roller coaster at Six Flags Qiddiya City called?

A3. The roller coaster is named Falcons Flight, which will be the world’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster upon completion.

Q4. How many rides and attractions will Six Flags Qiddiya City feature?

A4. Six Flags Qiddiya City will feature 28 rides and attractions, offering a mix of thrill experiences and family-friendly entertainment.

Q5. What is the name of the water park adjacent to Six Flags Qiddiya City?

A5. The water park is called Aquarabia Water Theme Park, featuring 22 water rides and attractions.

Q6. What record-breaking water rides will Aquarabia Water Theme Park have?

A6. The park will feature the world’s tallest water coaster and the world’s tallest double-loop water slide.

Q7. How many themed areas will Aquarabia Water Theme Park include?

A7. The park will include eight themed areas, including Surftopia, which features Saudi Arabia’s first surf pool.

Q8. Who is the Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company?

A8. Abdullah Al Dawood serves as the Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company.

Q9. Who is the Executive Chairman of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation?

A9. Selim Bassoul is the Executive Chairman of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation.

Q10. Who will continue to lead operations for both parks?

A10. Brian Machamer, who has served as President of Six Flags Qiddiya City and Aquarabia Water Theme Park since 2019, will continue in that role.

Q11. How does this agreement support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

A11. The partnership boosts tourism, creates jobs, and diversifies the economy, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals for cultural and economic growth.

Q12. What is Qiddiya City?

A12. Qiddiya City is a megaproject entertainment, sports, and cultural destination near Riyadh, part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative.

Q13. How many jobs are expected to be created by the two parks?

A13. Thousands of jobs will be created, nurturing local talent and enhancing the Kingdom’s attractions industry.

Q14. What is the significance of Six Flags as an operator?

A14. Six Flags is North America’s largest regional amusement-resort operator, bringing proven operational excellence and global expertise.

Q15. How will the parks contribute to regional tourism?

A15. The parks will set new standards for family-friendly entertainment, attracting regional and international visitors.

Q16. What is the concept of the Power of Play?

A16. The Power of Play is Qiddiya City’s theme emphasizing innovation, culture, and transformative entertainment experiences.

Q17. Are the parks part of a broader Saudi tourism strategy?

A17. Yes, they are integral to Vision 2030’s goal of establishing the Kingdom as a global leader in tourism.

Q18. Where can visitors find updates about the parks?

A18. Updates are available at www.sixflagsqididdyacity.com and www.aquarabiaqiddiyacity.com.

Q19. What type of experiences will the parks offer?

A19. They will offer world-class entertainment, thrill rides, and water attractions designed to engage all ages.

Q20. How does this agreement reflect Saudi Arabia’s global engagement?

A20. It demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s ability to attract top international partners, showcasing its commitment to modernization and openness.

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