Macron Unveils €6 Billion Saudi-Backed Theme Park Project in France

Islamabad, Pakistan Aug 25, 2026 ALN: French President Emmanuel Macron announced a €6 billion Saudi-backed investment to develop three theme parks in Cergy-Pontoise, northwest of Paris, describing the project as unprecedented and the biggest development of its kind in France since Disneyland Paris.

Macron stated that the project, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya, is expected to create 22,000 jobs and establish a new global entertainment destination in France. This ambitious initiative reflects both the growing economic ties between France and Saudi Arabia and the increasing importance of the entertainment sector in global economies.

“An extraordinary announcement,” Macron said in a post on X. “With Saudi Arabia, we are making an unprecedented announcement.” The investment signifies a pivotal moment for France’s leisure and tourism industry, which has been striving to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic that significantly affected travel and entertainment sectors worldwide.

The three theme parks to be developed in Cergy-Pontoise under the €6 billion investment are set to offer diverse attractions. One of the major parks will reportedly be inspired by the popular Japanese manga and anime franchise Dragon Ball, which has a massive global following. This aligns with a broader trend of theme parks increasingly incorporating popular culture and entertainment franchises to attract visitors and enhance their appeal.

Macron emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “A new global destination. Here, in France,” and expressed gratitude to Qiddiya and Saudi Arabia for their confidence in France, its talent, and its economic future. The project comes at a time when France is actively seeking to bolster its position as a premier destination for international investment and tourism.

The announcement coincided with the visit of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman to France, which has been characterized by an ongoing effort to strengthen economic and investment ties between Riyadh and Paris. This visit underscores the strategic partnership between the two nations, particularly in sectors like entertainment, tourism, and technology.

Macron linked the investment to France’s “Choose France” initiative, aimed at attracting significant international investments and creating jobs across the country. “This is the very essence of Choose France: to seek out the most ambitious projects and make France the country where they become reality. To create jobs. To make France shine,” he stated. The initiative, launched in 2018, has been a cornerstone of Macron’s economic policy, aimed at positioning France as a leading global hub for investment.

According to the Élysée Palace, the Choose France initiative has facilitated more than 230 investment decisions totaling nearly €87 billion before its ninth edition scheduled for June 2026. This shows a robust interest from international investors in the French economy, which is seen as resilient and innovative despite various global economic challenges.

The Saudi-backed development would represent one of the largest recent investments in France’s leisure and entertainment sector. Macron drew a direct comparison with Disneyland Paris, which has attracted over €13 billion in investment since its opening in 1992 and supports tens of thousands of jobs. Disneyland Paris has been a significant player in the French tourism industry, drawing millions of visitors annually and contributing substantially to the local and national economy.

Qiddiya, the entity financing this new venture, is a Public Investment Fund portfolio company and plays a crucial role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the kingdom's economy away from oil dependency. The Qiddiya project is central to these efforts, focusing on developing the entertainment, sports, and culture sectors within Saudi Arabia. Its flagship Qiddiya City development near Riyadh includes a variety of attractions, such as Six Flags Qiddiya City, Aquarabia (a water park), a gaming and esports district, and the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium.

By investing in France, Qiddiya is not only expanding its international footprint but also enhancing its brand recognition in the global entertainment landscape. This project could serve as a model for future collaborations between Saudi Arabia and other nations, showcasing the potential for cross-border investments in the entertainment sector.

Macron concluded his announcement by signaling further ambitions for attracting international investment to France. “We’re not done surprising the world,” he said. “Very proud of this achievement.” This statement reflects a broader vision for France’s economic future, emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and the pursuit of ambitious projects that can enhance the country's global standing.

Overall, the announcement of this €6 billion investment in theme parks highlights the evolving landscape of international investment and the importance of cultural and entertainment sectors in fostering economic growth. As France seeks to solidify its position as a leading destination for tourism and investment, projects like this will play a crucial role in shaping the future of its economy and its cultural offerings.