China’s Haichang secures deal to develop theme parks, zoo and safari in Saudi Arabia
- Haichang will develop various forms of entertainment venues, such as family entertainment centres and water parks in different cities
- The plan has a target of attracting 100 million visitors by 2030 and boosting the tourism sector’s contribution to the total economy to 10 per cent
Hong Kong-listed Haichang Ocean Park, Asia’s largest ocean park owner and operator, is expanding to the Middle East with the planned development of a new theme park project in Saudi Arabia.
According to a statement on Wednesday, the venture – based on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) – will make Haichang the first ocean park brand and service industry provider from China to enter the Kingdom, which is diversifying its economy and promoting tourism under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative.
The plan has a target of attracting 100 million visitors by 2030 and boosting the tourism sector’s contribution to the economy to 10 per cent.
Under the MOU, Haichang will develop various forms of entertainment venues, such as family entertainment centres, water parks, intellectual property (IP) themed parks, zoos and safari parks in various Saudi cities, which will involve job creation.
“We are honoured to be partnering with the Ministry of Investment on this first-of-its kind landmark development strategy,” said Qu Cheng, Haichang executive director. “Our goal is to leverage Haichang’s over 20 years of extensive experiences, coupled with world-renowned IPs, and latest technologies available to create entertainment venues, including the first world-class ocean park that offers unparalleled comprehensive guest experiences.”