Play Qiddiya City, a major initiative under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, has officially become a Destination Partner of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). This partnership marks a significant advancement in Saudi Arabia’s strategy to diversify its economy, improve tourism infrastructure, and establish itself as a global leader in leisure and entertainment.

Strategically positioned just 40 minutes from Riyadh, Qiddiya City is one of Saudi Arabia’s groundbreaking giga-projects. According to the official Saudi Vision 2030 website, these projects aim to decrease dependence on oil revenues, stimulate tourism, create job opportunities, and greatly enhance the living standards for both residents and visitors.
As the destination marketing and management organization (DMMO) for Qiddiya, Play Qiddiya City is focused on promoting this unique location as a top-tier international tourism hub. The city embraces a philosophy known as the “Power of Play,” which integrates sports, entertainment, and cultural experiences into its development. Government sources emphasize Qiddiya’s importance in fulfilling Vision 2030’s objectives, noting its potential to significantly reshape Saudi Arabia’s cultural and tourism sectors.
Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Play Qiddiya City’s transformative potential in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing tourism industry. She pointed out that the city will play a crucial role in redefining global tourism experiences and praised its commitment to sustainable development and ambitious aims to become a leading entertainment destination.
Ross McAuley, Director General of Play Qiddiya City, stated that joining WTTC is a significant milestone for enhancing Qiddiya’s global visibility. He described Qiddiya City as the “ultimate ambassador for play,” showcasing a unique combination of culture, sports, and entertainment that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s progressive future vision. McAuley affirmed that this collaboration underscores the city’s dedication to innovation and excellence on a global scale, aiming to attract visitors from across the globe.
Government tourism portals have outlined several innovative projects in the pipeline at Qiddiya City, including “The Blade,” the world’s first cantilevered track and a groundbreaking motorsports attraction. Additionally, the city will feature “Falcon’s Flight,” which is set to be the tallest, fastest, and longest rollercoaster in the world, located in the upcoming Six Flags Qiddiya City theme park. Furthermore, “Aquarabia Qiddiya City,” the largest water park in the region, will provide exceptional water-based entertainment.
These developments exemplify Qiddiya City’s distinctive approach, encapsulated in its motto “ordinary needs an extra,” which promises extraordinary experiences beyond typical leisure activities. The partnership with WTTC aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategic objectives, reinforcing its status as a leading global destination for tourism and entertainment.
Through official tourism channels, Qiddiya City continues to promote its diverse offerings, ensuring a blend of world-class entertainment and cultural enrichment that supports the transformative ambitions of Vision 2030. As it progresses, Qiddiya City is poised to become a crucial landmark in global tourism.

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