Saudi Arabia sets up to build First-Ever Dragon Ball Z Theme Park

Get ready to Kamehameha your way to a whole new world of thrills! Saudi Arabia is about to unleash its inner Super Saiyan with the announcement of the world’s first-ever Dragon Ball Z theme park.

This epic new addition to the kingdom’s vast Qiddiya entertainment project will span a whopping 5.3 million square feet. Fans can expect to explore seven meticulously recreated zones inspired by iconic Dragon Ball Z locations, experience over 30 themed rides, and unwind in Dragon Ball-themed hotels and restaurants.

The excitement doesn’t stop there! Five of the rides will be groundbreaking “world firsts,” according to the press release. One of these is sure to be a legendary experience – a 230-foot-high roller coaster named after the series’ wish-granting dragon, Shenron.

This announcement underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in video games and anime. Toei Animation, the Japanese powerhouse behind Dragon Ball Z, is collaborating with MiSK, a foundation established by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to create original anime movies. Further solidifying this commitment, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is not only financing Qiddiya but is also the third-largest shareholder of Japanese video game giant Nintendo.

So, what exactly is Qiddiya? This ambitious project envisions transforming a vast desert area, roughly 40 minutes outside Riyadh, into a multibillion-dollar “city.” Spanning over 360 square kilometers, it aims to become a world-class entertainment destination featuring over 400 attractions, including golf courses, theme parks, hotels, a Six Flags amusement park, and a waterpark.

With a vision as bold as a Spirit Bomb, Qiddiya City aspires to be home to 600,000 residents and attract millions of visitors annually. This ambitious project is part of Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030” plan, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to diversify the kingdom’s economy and transform it into a major tourist hub. The country’s tourism sector saw significant growth in 2023, reaching a record 106 million visitors, and the Dragon Ball Z theme park is sure to be a major draw for fans worldwide.