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Graphic shows where Saudi Arabia's Qiddiya entertainment hub is being built.
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ENTERTAINMENT

New theme park carved out of the Arabian desert

By Ninian Carter

February 9, 2021 - Saudi Arabia is constructing a vast entertainment zone near Riyadh, which will include the world’s tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster.

Qiddiya is a vast new entertainment project being built in the desert west of the Saudi capital, Riyadh.

Work began in 2019, with the first phase due to open in 2023. Part of phase one will include a Six Flags theme park, featuring the “Falcon’s Flight” ride – the world's tallest, longest and fastest roller coaster.

Falcon’s Flight will travel 4 kilometres, including a nerve-racking ascent up a cliff face before dropping 160 metres into a tunnel – reaching a top speed of 250km/h, thanks to the use of magnetic motor acceleration technology.

Other planned attractions at the vast 334 square kilometre site are an F1 race circuit, Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, airfield, city centre and eco zone.

Consisting of three planned phases, Qiddiya is expected to be completed in 2031, and is set to become one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 09/02/2021; STORY: Graphic News
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