Saudi Arabia has launched a monumental new era for regional entertainment with the grand opening of a $1 billion (£742m) Six Flags theme park, headlined by the planet's most extreme rollercoaster. The highly anticipated Six Flags Qiddiya City welcomed its first visitors on 31 December 2025, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom's ambitious tourism and leisure strategy.
A New Epicentre for Global Thrill-Seekers
After four years of construction, the gates have swung open on what is being hailed as a record-shattering destination. The park's crown jewel is the Falcon's Flight rollercoaster, which claims a triple crown of world records. According to Six Flags, it is the longest, tallest, and fastest coaster globally, soaring to a height of 195 metres and achieving a blistering top speed of 155mph.
This flagship attraction is just one of five "record-breaking rides" spread across six intricately designed themed zones. Visitors can journey from the coral-inspired wonders of Discovery Springs to the steampunk aesthetics of Steam Town. The experience continues through the enchanting, firefly-lit Twilight Gardens, the treasure-hunt landscape of the Valley of Fortune, the classic charm of the Grand Exposition, and the adrenaline-fuelled City of Thrills.
Engineering Marvels and Culinary Journeys
The park's 28 attractions are designed to push boundaries. Alongside Falcon's Flight, highlights include:
- Gyrospin: The world's tallest pendulum ride.
- Spitfire: A intense triple launch rollercoaster.
- Iron Rattler: Securing another record as the world's tallest tilt rollercoaster, standing at 63.4 metres high.
Beyond the rides, the park caters to all senses with 29 dining venues offering a fusion of Saudi flavours and international cuisine, alongside 25 themed retail outlets for souvenirs and merchandise.
A Strategic Landmark for Saudi Vision and Six Flags
This development represents a major strategic move for all parties involved. For the US-based Six Flags group, this is its first theme park to open outside North America. For Saudi Arabia, it is the nation's largest theme park and the inaugural operational component of the vast Qiddiya City entertainment complex, located in the Tuwaiq Mountains near Riyadh.
The project was set in motion when the Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) awarded a 3.75 billion Saudi riyal contract in December 2021, with construction commencing immediately. Access to this world-class experience starts at 325 riyals (£64) for an adult day ticket, which grants unlimited access to all rides and attractions.
John Reilly, CEO of Six Flags, stated: "Six Flags is proud to announce the opening of Six Flags Qiddiya City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a landmark project that will redefine entertainment in the region. This world-class destination combines cutting-edge, record-breaking attractions, immersive experiences for all ages, and the signature thrills that have made Six Flags a global leader."
The park is merely the first phase of the colossal Qiddiya City vision. Future plans for the desert complex include a Formula 1 racetrack, a stadium proposed for World Cup events, and the Aquarabia water park, which is scheduled to open in March 2026.
