Qiddiya will be an iconic destination, and the future capital of entertainment, sports and the arts in Saudi Arabia, which is creating a host of giga-projects as part of Vision 2030.
17/12/20: Our exclusive interview with Philippe Gas, Qiddiya CEO.
Gas worked for the Walt Disney Company for 30 years. He previously served as president and managing director of Walt Disney Attractions Japan & Disneyland International.
Prior to this, Gas was CEO of Euro Disney SCA and led the launch of Shanghai Disney Resort. He brings a wealth of experience to the job.
“The Qiddiya giga-project sits at the core of the future of Saudi Arabian entertainment,” said His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism.
Philippe Gas worked for Disney for 30 years
“Philippe has an impressive international track record of delivering world-class entertainment destination experiences and leading large organizations, which makes him the right person to oversee this next, crucial phase of development.
“I want to thank Michael Reininger for laying the foundation for our future success with his steadfast leadership over the past few years and on behalf of the whole Qiddiya team I wish him every success in his future endeavors.”
Reininger will remain for a handover and advisory period before leaving QIC. He has overseen several key project milestones.
“Qiddiya is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to develop an unforgettable offering that will transform entertainment for an entire region and create cherished memories for current and future generations,” said Gas.
Saudi Arabia giga-projects are part of Vision 2030
“I am grateful to His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman and the Qiddiya board of directors for entrusting me with this prestigious responsibility.
“The Qiddiya team has delivered a lot in a short amount of time and it is my honor to take the helm at this critical juncture so that together, we can launch an incredible new entertainment experience to the world.”
Don Potts, president of parks and attractions at Qiddiya, recently gave an exclusive update on the project as well as new video footage, which you can watch above.
Meanwhile, Six Flags Qiddiya has awarded the lead design contract to SNC-Lavalin for the upcoming theme park project in Saudi Arabia.
Images: QIC
