Universal Studios Plans Major Theme Park in Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya as Part of Vision 2030 Entertainment Drive
Comcast’s Universal is in early planning stages for a multibillion-dollar park at Qiddiya, potentially positioning the Kingdom as a global leisure destination
Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning entertainment sector is poised for a significant expansion as Universal Studios — the flagship parks division of Comcast — advances early planning for a new theme park within Qiddiya, the Kingdom’s sprawling entertainment, sports and tourism megaproject.
The initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil and cement its status as a global hub for tourism and leisure.
Industry sources indicate that Universal’s plans remain in the conceptual phase, with initial design and feasibility work underway.
A report by a leading financial news outlet cited unnamed insiders confirming that the project is still at an early stage and no formal approvals have yet been granted for construction.
The prospective park would likely be developed through a licensing agreement or partnership with a Saudi government-backed entity rather than being wholly financed by Universal itself.
Comcast’s Chief Executive Officer, Brian Roberts, recently visited Riyadh for an investment conference and toured the Qiddiya site, underscoring the company’s interest in exploring opportunities within the Kingdom’s dynamic entertainment landscape.
While details such as specific rides, attractions and intellectual property franchises have not been disclosed, observers say the involvement of Universal would bring world-class themed experiences to the region and elevate Saudi Arabia’s international tourism profile.
The proposed Universal Studios park comes amid a broader surge in entertainment development across the Gulf, where major operators are expanding their footprints.
Qiddiya itself hosts a number of high-profile projects, including Six Flags Qiddiya City — which opened in December 2025 with record-setting roller coasters — and the Aquarabia water park, part of the Kingdom’s effort to attract millions of visitors annually.
Analysts say that if realised, a Universal Studios theme park at Qiddiya would serve as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s cultural and leisure offerings, creating new employment opportunities, stimulating economic growth and helping to draw international tourists.
Although the timetable for construction and opening has not been established, planning signals confidence in the long-term prospects of the Kingdom’s entertainment sector and its appeal to global investors.
The initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil and cement its status as a global hub for tourism and leisure.
Industry sources indicate that Universal’s plans remain in the conceptual phase, with initial design and feasibility work underway.
A report by a leading financial news outlet cited unnamed insiders confirming that the project is still at an early stage and no formal approvals have yet been granted for construction.
The prospective park would likely be developed through a licensing agreement or partnership with a Saudi government-backed entity rather than being wholly financed by Universal itself.
Comcast’s Chief Executive Officer, Brian Roberts, recently visited Riyadh for an investment conference and toured the Qiddiya site, underscoring the company’s interest in exploring opportunities within the Kingdom’s dynamic entertainment landscape.
While details such as specific rides, attractions and intellectual property franchises have not been disclosed, observers say the involvement of Universal would bring world-class themed experiences to the region and elevate Saudi Arabia’s international tourism profile.
The proposed Universal Studios park comes amid a broader surge in entertainment development across the Gulf, where major operators are expanding their footprints.
Qiddiya itself hosts a number of high-profile projects, including Six Flags Qiddiya City — which opened in December 2025 with record-setting roller coasters — and the Aquarabia water park, part of the Kingdom’s effort to attract millions of visitors annually.
Analysts say that if realised, a Universal Studios theme park at Qiddiya would serve as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s cultural and leisure offerings, creating new employment opportunities, stimulating economic growth and helping to draw international tourists.
Although the timetable for construction and opening has not been established, planning signals confidence in the long-term prospects of the Kingdom’s entertainment sector and its appeal to global investors.
