Universal Studios Explores Saudi Arabia Theme Park as Middle East Leisure Market Surges
Comcast’s Universal in early planning talks for a major new destination in Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya entertainment megaproject
Universal Studios, part of Comcast’s global theme park portfolio, is undertaking initial planning for a potential new theme park in Saudi Arabia, industry sources say, marking a significant move into the rapidly expanding Middle Eastern entertainment sector.
The project, still in early stages, is expected to be developed under a licensing or partnership agreement with a Saudi government-backed entity and could form part of the vast Qiddiya entertainment and tourism megaproject southwest of Riyadh.
Observers say the efforts reflect growing competition in the region’s leisure market, where other major players, including The Walt Disney Company, are also expanding their footprint.
Executives from Comcast have held discussions with Saudi officials and investors as part of broader efforts to diversify Universal’s global presence, with talks focusing on conceptual planning and potential financing arrangements rather than a definitive construction timeline.
Should the project proceed, it is anticipated to open in the 2030s and draw on Universal’s extensive portfolio of intellectual properties, though specific franchise plans have not yet been confirmed.
The drive to establish a Universal presence in Saudi Arabia follows the kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, which has spurred multibillion-dollar investments in entertainment parks, water parks and cultural attractions designed to attract domestic and international visitors and reduce economic dependence on oil revenues.
Saudi Arabia’s leisure sector has seen major developments, including the under-construction Six Flags Qiddiya City and other themed attractions, underscoring strong national appetite for large-scale visitor experiences.
Investors and industry analysts say that a Universal Studios park could further elevate the kingdom’s tourism and entertainment profile, positioning it alongside established global destinations.
While early stage and subject to negotiation, the planning efforts signal Universal’s intent to capture a share of the region’s growing market and contribute headline attractions to Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural landscape.
The project, still in early stages, is expected to be developed under a licensing or partnership agreement with a Saudi government-backed entity and could form part of the vast Qiddiya entertainment and tourism megaproject southwest of Riyadh.
Observers say the efforts reflect growing competition in the region’s leisure market, where other major players, including The Walt Disney Company, are also expanding their footprint.
Executives from Comcast have held discussions with Saudi officials and investors as part of broader efforts to diversify Universal’s global presence, with talks focusing on conceptual planning and potential financing arrangements rather than a definitive construction timeline.
Should the project proceed, it is anticipated to open in the 2030s and draw on Universal’s extensive portfolio of intellectual properties, though specific franchise plans have not yet been confirmed.
The drive to establish a Universal presence in Saudi Arabia follows the kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, which has spurred multibillion-dollar investments in entertainment parks, water parks and cultural attractions designed to attract domestic and international visitors and reduce economic dependence on oil revenues.
Saudi Arabia’s leisure sector has seen major developments, including the under-construction Six Flags Qiddiya City and other themed attractions, underscoring strong national appetite for large-scale visitor experiences.
Investors and industry analysts say that a Universal Studios park could further elevate the kingdom’s tourism and entertainment profile, positioning it alongside established global destinations.
While early stage and subject to negotiation, the planning efforts signal Universal’s intent to capture a share of the region’s growing market and contribute headline attractions to Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural landscape.
