Qatar Unveils Ambitious $5.5 Billion Development Featuring a Disney-Sized Theme Park

Tuesday, 2 July 2024

Qatar is embarking on an ambitious 20 billion riyal ($5.5 billion) tourism project that promises to redefine the region’s entertainment landscape. At the heart of this monumental development is an expansive theme park set to surpass even the renowned Magic Kingdom.

Project Overview

• Location: Situated about 40 minutes north of Doha, the capital of Qatar.
• Size: Spanning 7 kilometers of coastline and covering 8 million square meters (1,976 acres).
• Features:
  • Massive Theme Park: The centerpiece of the project.
  • 18-Hole Golf Course: Surrounded by 300 luxurious villas.
  • Opulent Resorts: Designed for ultimate comfort and luxury.
  • Marina and Beach Club: Enhancing leisure and lifestyle options.
  • Residential Neighborhoods: Offering modern living spaces.
  • Shopping Centers: Catering to all retail needs.

Development and Management

• Oversight: The project will be managed by Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, a subsidiary of the state’s sovereign wealth fund.
• CEO Statement: Ali Mohamed Al-Ali, CEO of Qatari Diar, emphasized the importance of the theme park as the core attraction and its role in attracting visitors and investors. He noted, “The government’s plan to boost the tourism industry and diversify the economy includes this initiative.”

Strategic Goals

• Tourism Growth: The initiative is a key part of Qatar’s long-term vision to become a premier tourist destination.
• GDP Contribution: By 2030, Qatar aims for tourism to account for 12% of its GDP.
• Post-World Cup Surge: The FIFA World Cup 2022 has significantly boosted tourism, with over $300 billion invested in preparations.

Transportation and Sports

• Airport Traffic: Doha’s airport saw over 45 million passengers last year.
• Sports Initiatives:
  • Hosting the AFC Asian Cup and securing a ten-year deal for Formula 1 races.
  • Future events include the FIFA World Cup 2027 and the FIFA Arab Cup.

Future Plans and Opportunities

• International Partnerships: Qatari Diar is negotiating with foreign amusement park operators for the new park, which will cover 650,000 square meters (160 acres), significantly larger than the 100-acre Magic Kingdom.
• Property Development: Sixteen property lots will be available for investors and private developers to build homes, hotels, and other amenities. Discussions are ongoing with developers from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Turkey, the US, and Europe.

Enhancing Beachside Luxury

• Accommodation: The Simaisma development will enhance beachside lodging options, with 10% of the 39,000 hotel rooms located on the beach.

Unique Selling Proposition

• Distinctive Offering: Al-Ali highlights that the project is not competing with other regional destinations but offers a unique, all-in-one experience. “We’re presenting a unique product that isn’t accessible anywhere else—it integrates all conveniences and services in one location,” he stated.