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Amid a climate of growing political and economic links between the two nations, Haichang Ocean Park is to develop theme parks, waterparks and social entertainment centres in Saudi Arabia.

Announced today, the Shanghai-based Haichang Ocean Park will collaborate with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment to develop attractions and other location-based entertainment (LBE) experiences across the Kingdom with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Asian theme park operator to explore investment opportunities in the nation.

According to the MOU, Haichang Ocean Park has plans to develop theme parks, waterparks, wildlife parks and social entertainment centres in the country - aiming to attract global and local visitors and drive the long term, sustainable growth of the tourism sector.

Advising that the group aims to create “entertainment venues including the first world-class Ocean Park”, Haichang Ocean Park Executive Director, Cheng Qu stated “our goal is to leverage on Haichang's over 20 years of extensive experiences, coupled with world-renowned IPs, and latest technologies available, to create the entertainment venues including the first world-class ocean park that offers unparalleled comprehensive guest experiences.

“In addition, it will also serve as an educational platform to promote awareness and importance of ocean conservation. We believe the families of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East will appreciate our unique offering, and we look forward to bringing this world-class experience to the KSA."

The collaboration between the Ministry of Investment and Haichang Ocean Park is strategic development of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the country's economy and promote tourism as a key driver of growth.

Haichang Ocean Park is working with local partners and stakeholders to find appropriate sites for its planned projects.

The Shanghai-based company owns and operates six parks in China, in locations including Dalian, Yantai, Shanghai, Chongqing and Sanya. It has also licensed its brand to four other parks.

Developed by Legacy Entertainment, Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park is currently expanding. Additionally, a new Ocean Park will open in Zhengzhou this year.

The agreement follows Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud having recently hosted China’s President Xi Jinping in Riyadh.

Images: Haichang Ocean Park.

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