Universal Destinations & Experiences is in the early planning stages to build a new theme park in Saudi Arabia, the Wall Street Journal reports.
According to the WSJ, Universal is carrying out the initial concept work for the park, which could be financed by a Saudi government-backed entity as part of a licensing deal with Universal.
Universal is yet to complete a deal for its planned multibillion-dollar project in Saudi, and the WSJ reports that the park likely wouldn't open until the 2030s.
News of a Universal theme park in Saudi Arabia comes as the kingdom invests in new entertainment experiences and attractions in a bid to diversify the economy away from oil.
A Universal park in Saudi Arabia would compete with the new Six Flags Qiddiya City, which opens on 31 December with the world’s tallest, longest and fastest roller coaster.
It also comes after Disney announced its first theme park in the Middle East with Disneyland Abu Dhabi.
Located on Yas Island, the new Disney park will be developed, built and operated by Miral, and could open as early as 2030.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi
Miral already oversees three major theme parks on Yas Island – Warner Bros. World, SeaWorld and Ferrari World. The group also operates the Yas Waterworld water park.
Disneyland Abu Dhabi was announced in May. It will be the world’s sixth Disney resort, and will combine Disney’s iconic stories, characters and attractions with Abu Dhabi’s culture, shorelines and architecture.
Returning to Universal's plans for Saudi Arabia, no attractions, rides or IPs have been announced yet.
Elsewhere, planning permission has been granted to build the first Universal theme park in the UK, which is expected to open in 2031.
Images courtesy of Universal
