New Dragon Ball theme park open at Qiddiya near Riyadh

Friday, March 22, 2024

In a recent unveiling that is set to revolutionize the travel and tourism industry, Saudi Arabia has announced plans to construct a theme park inspired by the iconic Japanese “Dragon Ball” manga series. Positioned within the luxurious confines of Qiddiya, a forthcoming tourist magnet just a stone’s throw from Riyadh, this project promises to be a cornerstone attraction for fans worldwide. The declaration arrives in the wake of the global fandom reeling from the loss of Akira Toriyama, the revered creator of “Dragon Ball”, who passed away at the age of 68 due to a blood clot in the brain.

Spanning an impressive 500,000 square meters, or roughly 125 acres, the theme park aims to bring the exhilarating escapades of the “Dragon Ball” universe to life. Enthusiasts of the franchise will have the unparalleled opportunity to dive into the narrative, journeying alongside characters from the inaugural “Dragon Ball” series through to the contemporary “Dragon Ball Super” saga, as outlined by the Qiddiya Investment Company.

Having first graced the pages of manga in 1984, “Dragon Ball” has ascended to the pinnacle of manga and anime fame, inspiring an array of anime adaptations, cinematic ventures, and video games, securing its status as one of the most celebrated franchises globally. The recent passing of Toriyama has elicited a wave of mourning and homage from admirers and dignitaries alike, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, underscoring the widespread influence and beloved nature of his work.

While the authorities at Qiddiya have withheld specifics regarding the park’s opening timeline and financial outlay for its construction, they have unveiled plans for the park’s structure. It will feature seven distinct zones, each themed around the magical orbs central to the “Dragon Ball” narrative. Promising a minimum of 30 attractions, the park will be dominated by a majestic 70-meter dragon, symbolizing the heart of the “Dragon Ball” experience.

The creation of this theme park within the expansive Qiddiya “entertainment city”, which is set to include premier theme parks, motorsport amenities, and a safari zone, signifies a significant push towards enriching Saudi Arabia’s tourist offerings. The announcement has already made a palpable impact on the stock market, with shares in Toei Animation, the powerhouse behind the “Dragon Ball” anime, experiencing a 6.7 percent surge.

This initiative not only aims to honor the legacy of Akira Toriyama and his creation but also positions Saudi Arabia as a burgeoning hub for global tourism, particularly for manga and anime enthusiasts. By melding cultural appreciation with high-end entertainment, the Dragon Ball theme park is poised to become a pivotal destination, offering an immersive experience that transcends generations and geographies.

[Image Source: The Independent]

« Back to Page