Universal Studios' $3 Billion Theme Park in Saudi Arabia: What Shocking Secrets Are Hidden?

In a significant move for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's entertainment sector, **Universal Studios** is exploring the development of a multibillion-dollar theme park in Qiddiya, a sprawling new hub for tourism and leisure situated southwest of Riyadh. This potential project marks a notable step in the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil dependence and establish itself as a global destination for entertainment.

According to a report from **The Wall Street Journal**, the plans for the theme park are currently in their early conceptual stages, with no formal approvals for construction yet in place. **Comcast Chief Executive Officer Brian Roberts** recently visited Saudi Arabia to attend an investment conference, where he toured the Qiddiya site. He confirmed that while discussions are ongoing, the project remains unfinalized and emphasized the exploratory nature of the initiative, stating, "We’re in early planning stages." The exact franchises, rides, or attractions that might be included in the new park have not yet been disclosed.

The potential addition of a **Universal Studios** park fits within a broader trend of significant entertainment expansions in the Gulf region. Earlier this year, the **Walt Disney Company** announced a partnership with Abu Dhabi developer **Miral** to construct a theme park in the UAE capital, highlighting increased interest from major entertainment brands in the region. Saudi Arabia is also advancing several other entertainment projects, including the **Six Flags Qiddiya City**, which is set to be the Kingdom’s first theme park, and is scheduled to open on **December 31, 2025**.

Qiddiya itself spans an impressive **334 square kilometers**, making it approximately two and a half times the size of **Disney World** in Florida. The Saudi **Public Investment Fund (PIF)** aims for the project to attract **48 million visitors annually** and contribute **SAR 17 billion ($4.5 billion)** to the country's GDP. Tourism in Saudi Arabia has seen remarkable growth, with over **100 million visitors** recorded in 2024, including about **30 million international tourists**. Preliminary figures for 2025 indicate that this upward trend is set to continue, with approximately **60.9 million visitors** in just the first half of the year.

The potential for a **Universal Studios** theme park reflects a rising interest among global entertainment brands in Saudi Arabia's burgeoning leisure market. If brought to fruition, this park would not only enhance the Kingdom's entertainment offerings but also support the ambitious target of reaching **150 million visitors** by **2030**, as outlined in the nation's **Vision 2030** initiative. This comprehensive strategy aims to boost tourism, cultural infrastructure, and overall economic diversification.

While still in the planning phase, the proposed **Universal Studios** park could become a landmark attraction within Qiddiya, complementing other major developments in the region. It signifies Saudi Arabia's commitment to leveraging cultural and entertainment investments as catalysts for economic growth and positioning the Kingdom on the global stage for tourism and leisure.