Qiddiya Investment Company has signed a memorandum of understanding with the French government to explore developing a major mixed-use, entertainment-led destination in France, marking a step in its international expansion strategy. The site identified for the study is Cergy-Pontoise in the Île-de-France region, near Paris.
The project currently envisages around €6 billion in total investment — roughly SAR 24–26 billion over the development lifecycle. The concept under study includes up to three major entertainment parks, hotels, and complementary leisure, hospitality, cultural and sports facilities, alongside residential units aimed in part at young professionals and students.
The memorandum initiates a joint study phase to define the scope of the project, the development model, and the contractual and regulatory framework, all in line with French procedures and approvals. It does not yet constitute a final investment decision or a detailed implementation schedule.
Why it matters
For residents and expats in the Kingdom, the move highlights how Saudi entertainment brands are expanding beyond national borders and building a global presence. Qiddiya, already a flagship destination under development inside the Kingdom, would extend its expertise in large-scale entertainment to an international market.
At this stage, no ticket prices, operating hours, or named attractions for the planned French destination have been confirmed, and opening dates have yet to be set. The project remains in a planning and exploration phase. No Saudi-side application steps, government service platforms, or official fees have been announced in connection with this overseas development.
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