For sheer, unbridled fun with friends or family, a day at one of Saudi’s top theme parks is one of the best choices you can make. From hair-raising rollercoasters to classic merry-go-rounds, thrilling waterslides and lazy rivers, there are no end of rides and attractions out there.
Theme parks in Saudi really come into their own in the warmer months. Almost all waterparks use chilled water, so splashing about in the pools and on rides is the perfect way to beat the heat. Meanwhile the entertainment parks often stay open all night, giving visitors a fun and family-friendly place to stay out late and make the most of the cooler hours.
Be aware that waterparks often have separate visiting hours for men and women, and there are usually dress codes – check with the venue before you go to avoid disappointment. This is our round-up of the best theme parks in Saudi Arabia – take your pick and have some fun!
1. Aquarabia, Qiddiya City
After much anticipation, the waterpark to beat them all has finally opened its doors to Saudi families in Qiddiya City, joining Six Flags at the new destination of choice for kids in the Kingdom (more on that theme park below!). Featuring an array of record-breaking and gravity-defying thrill rides, and spanning 250,000 square metres, Aquarabia is nearly 50% larger than any existing aqua fun destination in the region.
Just 40 minutes from Riyadh, the sprawling waterpark represents yet another significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, transforming the desert landscape into a global hub for the "Power of Play", whilst enticing tourists both at home and abroad to explore more of the Kingdom beyond the capital city of Riyadh, and well-known Red Sea port city of Jeddah. Dive into our in-depth guide to Aquarabia to get all the info on tickets, rides and opening times.
2. Cyan Waterpark, Jeddah
Sometimes when the mercury starts rising, the only thing for it is to pack up your swimming things and head to the nearest waterpark. Jeddah’s Cyan Waterpark was the top choice for families in the Kingdom before the spectacular arrival of Aquarabia, but it's still an incredibly impressive option. Especially if you’re aiming to keep the whole family cool and entertained during a long, sweltering day. The water is chilled and there are both high-octane and relaxed areas to have fun in, including slides, flumes, wave pools and a lot of splashy rides.
Older kids will enjoy the thrill of the Spinner and Black Hole, while those after a more laid back experience can enjoy floating along the flowing Lazy River. There are restaurants and cafes galore on-site, and the family-friendly changing facilities are kept clean. Sundays and Wednesdays are for women only, and there is dress code guidance for the whole family – check their website for details before you go. Buy an express pass in advance to beat the queues.
3. Al Shallal, Jeddah
Jeddah is home to one of the best and biggest theme parks in the KSA – Al Shallal. This massive fun zone on the Corniche is a winner with both adults and kids, as it has rides, games and shows to suit thrill-seekers and gentler souls alike. There’s a merry-go-round, boat rides and Tea Cups for those who prefer a slower pace, while at the other end of the scale you’ll find a twisting rollercoaster and terrifying Sling Shot that catapults riders into the sky.
Elsewhere in the park you’ll find a bowling alley, ice-skating rink, video games arcade and magic show, plus a good selection of restaurants and snack kiosks. Al Shallal is particularly popular during the summer months, as it stays open very late (until 1am on Thursday and Friday) allowing visitors to stay out and take advantage of the cool nights. Ladies-only hours are on Wednesdays.
4. Loopagoon, Al Khobar
Saudi’s East Coast is home to the country’s first ladies-only waterpark, Loopagoon. Based in Dana Bay near Dammam, the park features a wide range of water rides and attractions, plus a private beach for anyone who feels like just relaxing and soaking up the sun. There are plenty of child-friendly zones here, such as the Kid’s Aqua Venture slide park, and a Spray Ground with pop-up water fountains.
Bigger kids will enjoy the Cannon Bowl, Tornado and Flow Rider, all designed for getting the adrenaline pumping to the max, or there are calmer options in the Bubble Cove and on the Lazy River. Men and boys over the age of 7 aren't permitted in the waterpark, but can purchase entry tickets to Dana Bay, where there are watersports, restaurants and other facilities open to all.
5. Six Flags Qiddiya City
Six Flags has finally arrived in Saudi! The US amusement park brand opened a brand new destination just outside Riyadh in Qiddiya City, which features all sorts of hotly anticipated rides. Falcon’s Flight is the longest, tallest and fastest rollercoaster in the world and there are also 27 other incredible rides, with varying levels of thrill. Shops, restaurants and food carts and more entertainment options are on offer across the enormous site – every picky eater in the family will be catered to with 29 different dining locations on offer.
Six Flags is a major part of Qiddiya, the enormous entertainment city that's also just opened Aquarabia to the public. When finished, it will feature a host of sporting and entertainment attractions, including a Formula One race track.
