French President Emmanuel Macron has announced a €6 billion Saudi-backed theme park development near Paris, describing it as an unprecedented investment and the largest project of its kind in France since Disneyland Paris.
The development will bring three theme parks to Cergy-Pontoise, northwest of the French capital. According to Macron, the project could create around 22,000 jobs and establish a major international entertainment destination in France.
The announcement came during Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to France, highlighting the growing economic relationship between Riyadh and Paris.
Saudi Investment to Create New Theme Park Destination
Saudi entertainment developer Qiddiya will finance the €6 billion project. One of the planned attractions will feature the popular Japanese manga and anime franchise Dragon Ball, according to details released after Macron’s announcement.
Macron presented the investment as a major vote of confidence in France. He said the project would create a new global destination while supporting employment and economic growth.
The French president also connected the development to his government’s Choose France initiative, which aims to attract large international investments and encourage foreign companies to create jobs in the country.
Macron Highlights Choose France Investment Drive
Macron launched the Choose France Summit in 2018 as a flagship programme designed to attract international investment.
According to France’s Élysée Palace, the initiative had generated more than 230 investment decisions worth nearly €87 billion before its ninth edition in June 2026.
The new Saudi-backed development could become one of the biggest recent investments in France’s leisure and entertainment industry.
Macron compared its potential impact with Disneyland Paris, which opened in 1992. The resort has attracted more than €13 billion in investment and supports tens of thousands of jobs.
Qiddiya Expands Global Entertainment Ambitions
Qiddiya forms part of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund portfolio. The company plays a major role in Saudi Arabia’s plans to expand its entertainment, sports and cultural industries.
Its flagship Qiddiya City project near Riyadh includes Six Flags Qiddiya City, Aquarabia, a gaming and esports district and the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium.
The French theme park project would give Qiddiya a major presence in the European entertainment market while strengthening Saudi economic ties with France.
Project Could Transform Cergy-Pontoise
The planned development could bring a major boost to Cergy-Pontoise and the surrounding Paris region. Thousands of new jobs could emerge during construction and later through the operation of the parks, hotels, restaurants and other attractions.
The project also aims to attract international visitors and position the area as a new entertainment destination.
For France, the €6 billion investment represents another major foreign-funded development under the country’s efforts to attract global companies and capital.
Macron signaled that France will continue pursuing large international projects. He said the country still has more ambitious plans ahead and suggested that further major investment announcements could follow.
