The construction boom in Saudi Arabia continues unabated, with plans underway to develop a new city dedicated to entertainment and leisure activities located about 30 miles southwest of Riyadh, the nation’s capital. Named Qiddiya City, this ambitious project is set to be completed by 2031 and is envisioned as the hub for entertainment, sports, and cultural activities in Saudi Arabia.
Upon completion, the city, with an estimated cost of £260 billion, will be three times larger than Paris and is expected to accommodate around 500,000 residents. Several attractions, such as the Six Flags and Aquarabia theme parks, are already operational, while the Qiddiya Speed Park Track is preparing to host the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix starting from 2028. Additionally, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman sports venue is scheduled to be ready by 2029, in time for hosting matches during the 2034 World Cup.
A notable feature of this mega-project is the National Tennis Centre, designed by the renowned architecture firm Populous, which bears a striking resemblance to the All-England Tennis Club at Wimbledon. The facility will offer top-notch competition infrastructure, training facilities, and wellness amenities, along with two multi-purpose arenas equipped with retractable roofs for climate control and hosting various events beyond tennis.
The National Tennis Centre will comprise 30 tennis courts, predominantly hard courts with two clay courts. The centerpiece, Centre Court, will have a seating capacity for approximately 15,000 spectators and will be versatile enough to host diverse events. Court Three, with an 8,000-seat capacity and a retractable roof, aims to provide a comfortable environment for players and spectators amid the region’s high temperatures.
Part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to diversify the economy beyond oil, Qiddiya City, along with projects like Neom smart city and the Red Sea tourism venture, aims to position the country as a global destination for entertainment, sports, and culture. The National Tennis Centre is pivotal in this strategy, aligning with the Ministry of Sports’ efforts to boost sports participation and tourism in the Kingdom.
Abdullah Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company, emphasized the importance of the National Tennis Centre in promoting tennis at all levels, nurturing local talent, and enhancing sports engagement in Saudi Arabia. Eno Polo, CEO of ATP, praised the facility as a significant addition to the tennis landscape, offering opportunities for players, fans, and the broader community to engage with the sport and contribute to its growth regionally.