Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans to construct the world’s inaugural Dragon Ball theme park. The Dragon Ball theme park will be situated in Qiddiya, an entertainment and tourism project near Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.
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Over 500,000 square meters (5.4 million square feet), the dragon ball theme park will be an expansive endeavor, offering visitors an experience within the Dragon Ball universe.
The dragon ball theme park will have more than 30 attractions, including rides and themed lands based on different aspects of the Dragon Ball series.
Seven distinct areas will recreate iconic locations from the original series, such as Kame House, Capsule Corporation, and Beerus’ Planet.
A highlight of the dragon ball theme park will be a 70-meter-high sculpture of Shenron, the wish-granting dragon from the series, housing a roller coaster inside. The park will feature hotels and restaurants, a complete entertainment experience for visitors.
The project is a result of a long-term partnership between the Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), owned by the Saudi Arabian government’s investment fund, and Toei Animation, the Japanese producer of Dragon Ball.
The project has faced criticism due to Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. Concerns have been regarding the country’s treatment of women, lack of acknowledgment of LGBTQ+ rights, and human rights issues.
Some fans have expressed reluctance to visit the theme park due to these concerns. The announcement of the theme park comes shortly after the passing of Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, who died at the age of 68.
Toriyama’s legacy is large over the project, contributions to the world of manga and anime. Fans worldwide have mourned Toriyama’s death and celebrated his impact on popular culture.
The development of the Dragon Ball theme park is with Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy away from fossil fuels and promote tourism and entertainment.
Qiddiya, the site of the theme park, is part of a larger initiative to establish Saudi Arabia as a destination for leisure and entertainment.
The dragon ball theme park represents a cultural milestone bridging the gap between Japanese pop culture and global audiences.
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While an official opening date has not been announced, construction on the project is expected to commence soon, a progress towards realizing the vision of the Dragon Ball theme park.
The project is a collaboration between the Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC), owned by the Saudi Arabian government’s investment fund, and Toei Animation, the Japanese producer of Dragon Ball.
The announcement of the theme park came shortly after the passing of Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator of Dragon Ball, who died on March 1, 2024.
The decision to build the theme park in Saudi Arabia has faced criticism due to the country’s human rights record, treatment of women, and lack of recognition of LGBTQ+ rights.
Some fans expressed reservations about visiting Saudi Arabia or supporting the project due to these concerns.
Akira Toriyama’s death marked the end of an era for Dragon Ball fans worldwide. His contributions to manga and anime, including Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, have left a mark on pop culture.
Toriyama’s passing was mourned by fans and industry peers alike with tributes pouring in from around the globe.
Dragon Ball has inspired numerous spin-off series, films, video games, and merchandise. The announcement of the theme park with the 40th anniversary of the original Dragon Ball manga.
The construction of the Dragon Ball theme park is part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy away from fossil fuels and invest in entertainment and tourism projects.
Qiddiya, the site of the theme park, is envisioned as a major entertainment destination, aiming to attract visitors from around the world.
While an official opening date for the theme park has not been announced, construction is expected to commence soon.
Also Read: Legendary Manga Artist Akira Toriyama Dies at 68
