Saudi Arabia’s Investment In Entertainment And Tourism Hits New Heights With Universal Studios Planning A Groundbreaking Theme Park For Global Travelers

Published on December 27, 2025

Saudi Arabia is making a bold move to become a leading entertainment hub in the Middle East by planning a Universal Studios theme park. This initiative, still in its early stages, aims to rival established giants like Disney, positioning the kingdom as a premier global travel destination. With the country’s Vision 2030 focusing on diversifying its economy and expanding tourism, the park would serve as a significant draw for international visitors, blending Hollywood-style entertainment with the kingdom’s growing cultural and leisure offerings.

Saudi Arabia’s growing ambition to establish itself as a leading entertainment hub in the Middle East is taking a significant step forward with discussions about the potential development of a Universal Studios theme park in the kingdom. The move, if realized, could bring a major Hollywood-style theme park to Saudi Arabia and shift the dynamics of the regional entertainment industry.

According to reports, early-stage planning and concept development are already underway for the theme park, with Universal Studios eyeing the opportunity to enter the Saudi market. This development could set Universal Studios on a path to challenge Disney, which has long held a dominant position in the global theme park industry. Universal’s move to Saudi Arabia would mark a significant expansion of its brand, tapping into the kingdom’s growing desire to diversify its economy and attract international tourists.

In line with the project, the Saudi government may play a key role, potentially funding the park through a government-backed entity. This arrangement would likely take the form of a licensing agreement with Universal, allowing the international company to retain its brand identity while benefiting from Saudi support for large-scale tourism and entertainment projects. If the park becomes a reality, it could offer an unprecedented blend of international entertainment alongside local Saudi attractions, in line with the country’s Vision 2030 plan to boost tourism and entertainment offerings.

Comcast Corporation, Universal’s parent company, is leading the early discussions on the project. Comcast’s extensive portfolio of entertainment properties, including its ownership of NBCUniversal, Universal Studios theme parks, and the Peacock streaming service, positions it as a formidable player in the global media and entertainment industry. The company is working with local authorities to determine the specifics of the project and its potential scale in the kingdom.

This project comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in its tourism and entertainment sectors. Recent developments such as the Qiddiya entertainment city near Riyadh are central to the nation’s tourism strategy. The Qiddiya project, which will include amusement parks, sports venues, and cultural attractions, aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goal of creating a diverse and vibrant tourism industry.

The discussions regarding a Universal Studios park represent just one aspect of the broader shift in Saudi Arabia’s entertainment landscape. While the Universal Studios theme park is still in its early stages, Saudi Arabia is already home to several world-class attractions and entertainment venues that are worth exploring. Here are five notable entertainment spots to visit during your trip to Saudi Arabia:

1. Al Shallal Theme Park, Jeddah

Al Shallal is one of Saudi Arabia’s oldest and most popular theme parks, offering a wide variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. With its roller coasters, water rides, and even an indoor ice-skating rink, it provides a fun-filled experience for families. The park also features cafés and play areas, making it a great destination for a day out with children.

2. Winter Wonderland, Riyadh

Winter Wonderland is a seasonal theme park that opens during Riyadh Season, one of the largest entertainment festivals in the country. It features an exciting lineup of thrill rides, games, food stalls, and live performances. The park is particularly popular among families and young visitors looking for a festive atmosphere and quick entertainment in the heart of Riyadh.

3. Atallah Happy Land Park, Jeddah

Located in Jeddah, Atallah Happy Land Park is another popular amusement park offering a mix of rides suitable for both children and adults. From roller coasters to spinning rides, the park ensures a range of fun experiences. The park also offers food stalls and open spaces for relaxation, making it a great spot for weekend outings with family and friends.

4. Cyan Waterpark, Jeddah

Cyan Waterpark is one of the newest water parks in Saudi Arabia and offers a fantastic range of water-based attractions. Featuring water slides, wave pools, and kids’ play zones, the park is designed for visitors of all ages. Safety and cleanliness are top priorities at Cyan Waterpark, ensuring a pleasant experience for guests looking to cool off in the hot Saudi climate.

5. Loopagoon Water Park, Dhahran

Loopagoon Water Park, located in Dhahran, is a popular choice for families seeking a fun-filled day of water activities. The park features a variety of water slides, splash areas, and pools designed to cater to both children and adults. Its focus on family-friendly entertainment makes it a great option for those looking to relax and enjoy the water in a well-maintained setting.

These entertainment venues are just a few examples of the exciting options available for visitors to Saudi Arabia. With the ongoing development of new attractions like the Universal Studios theme park, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a key destination for international tourists seeking world-class entertainment and leisure experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the excitement of the rides or to enjoy the latest attractions, Saudi Arabia’s entertainment scene is rapidly expanding and diversifying, making it an exciting place to explore in the years ahead.