Qiddiya will feature an F1 circuit, a stadium for 2034 World Cup, and a theme park with world's fastest rollercoaster

An advert for Qiddiya

Qiddiya is currently under construction in the Saudi Arabian desert (Image: Getty)

A groundbreaking £30 billion metropolis is taking shape in the Saudi Arabian desert, with plans to become three times the size of Paris and boast its own Formula 1 circuit. Qiddiya, as the city is known, promises to deliver “limitless opportunities” for its future inhabitants and represents a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to transform the nation’s economy through tourism and entertainment development.

The ambitious urban project will be situated 45km (28.12 miles) from Riyadh and 70km (43.75 miles) from King Khalid International Airport, according to the development’s official website.

Spanning around 360 square kilometres, Qiddiya will encompass 20 distinct “neighbourhoods” designed to accommodate roughly 500,000 residents, complete with all the facilities expected of a contemporary metropolis, reports the Mirror.

An advert for Qiddiya at the Saudi Grand Prix

An advert for Qiddiya at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (Image: Getty)

Dubbed “The City of the Future,” the development will feature a Formula 1 racing circuit, a stadium set to host matches during the 2034 World Cup, and man-made beaches, according to Infobae.

Furthermore, Qiddiya City’s 2024 ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Report emphasises that sustainability will lie at the heart of the project in the long term, despite the inevitable emissions generated during construction.

Chief Strategy Officer Muhannad Aldawood said: “This report is more than a compilation of data and narratives; it embodies our values, partnerships and unwavering commitment to leaving a legacy of environmental stewardship, social impact and economic resilience.”

The entrance to Qiddiya

The entrance to Qiddiya (Image: Getty)

Whilst the city remains under development, several areas have already been unveiled, including the section hosting the Dakar Rally and the $1bn (£744m) Six Flags theme park, which opened on December 31st.

As the Dakar continues its high-octane journey through the desert, the Six Flags theme park has begun welcoming visitors following four years of development by the American firm.

The venture features Falcon’s Flight, the world’s longest, tallest, and fastest rollercoaster, with riders reaching speeds in excess of 150mph and ascending 195m into the air.

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Following the launch, Six Flags CEO John Reilly said: “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.”