Saudi Arabia Set to Launch the Region’s Largest Water Park with Unprecedented Rides

Saudi Arabia largest water park
Credit: SPA

Saudi Arabia is set to open the Middle East’s largest water-themed park, a groundbreaking facility located in Qiddiya City. The Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) Board of Directors announced the new attraction, named ‘Aquarabia.’

Aquarabia will feature four unique record-breaking structures: the world’s tallest water coaster, the tallest drop body slide, the tallest water slide, and the longest mat racer. Additionally, the park will offer the first underwater adventure ride with fully submersible vehicles.

QIC stated that Aquarabia will complement Six Flags Qiddiya City, the flagship theme park in Qiddiya and the first Six Flags park designed and built outside North America.

Dozens of Rides and Water-Based Experiences

Aquarabia, Saudi Arabia’s first home-grown water park, is expected to attract visitors worldwide with its 22 rides and family-friendly aquatic activities. Adventure sports enthusiasts can enjoy an extreme watersports zone featuring rafting, kayaking, canoeing, free solo climbing, cliff jumping, and the Kingdom’s first surf pool.

Furthermore, Aquarabia will offer immersive, narrative-based design elements inspired by ancient desert wellsprings, providing a unique experience rarely seen in water parks.

Boosting Tourism and Employment

Aquarabia and Six Flags Qiddiya City are located within Qiddiya City in a walkable neighborhood, offering a unique selection of activities, a variety of hotels, dining options, and even an oasis for relaxation between exhilarating experiences.

Qiddiya City aims to provide residents with entertainment options while boosting local tourism and employment, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. With a target of creating 10,000 jobs, Aquarabia and Six Flags Qiddiya City will significantly contribute to the Kingdom’s economic diversification and GDP goals.

“This announcement marks a significant milestone for Qiddiya City and the entertainment, tourism, and sports sectors. As we continue expanding our entertainment offerings, Aquarabia and Six Flags Qiddiya City will meet the diverse entertainment needs of our community, contribute to the diversification of our economy, and create job opportunities in the tourism sector,” said Abdullah al-Dawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company, in a statement.

Six Flags Qiddiya City will feature five world record-breaking coasters spread across six uniquely themed lands, including Sirocco Tower, the world’s tallest free-standing shot tower ride; Gyropsin, the world’s tallest pendulum ride; Spitfire, the world’s tallest inverted top hat coaster; Iron Rattler, the world’s tallest tilt coaster; and Falcons Flight, the world’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster, which will run parallel to the F1 track.

Both parks are currently under construction and are expected to be completed next year. Aquarabia and Six Flags Qiddiya City will be the first attractions to open to visitors in the new city.

Sustainability at the Forefront

As a newly planned destination, Qiddiya City has a unique opportunity to integrate sustainability into every aspect of its development, from planning and construction to operation. In line with this, Aquarabia and Six Flags Qiddiya City are committed to upholding the highest standards of sustainable practices, utilizing innovative technology and design elements to optimize water usage and waste management.

The water park will use recycled water for irrigation and cooling, with specialized filters that will reduce water wastage by up to 90 percent and minimize energy consumption. Additionally, Six Flags Qiddiya City aims to recycle operational waste, with a target of diverting more than 80 percent from landfills.

The unveiling of Aquarabia follows the announcement of many exciting entertainment, sports, and cultural attractions in Qiddiya City, including the world’s first multi-purpose Gaming and Esports District, the multi-sports Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, a motorsport track, and the Dragon Ball theme park.