Qiddiya City, pioneering as the world’s first city explicitly designed for play in Saudi Arabia, has partnered with the Faldo Series, a leading initiative for nurturing young golfers globally.
This collaboration aims to foster grassroots golf within the Kingdom and beyond. By hosting the Kingdom’s Faldo Series events, Qiddiya City is positioning itself as a central hub for youth golf in the region, promoting the development of the sport among the next generation.
As a key element of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Qiddiya is envisioned as the world’s first “city built for Play,” seamlessly blending theme parks, sports venues, cultural centers, and residential communities.
Located approximately 45 km (a 40-minute drive) from downtown Riyadh and nestled on the scenic slopes of the Tuwaiq Mountains, Qiddiya City aims to offer visitors breathtaking natural beauty alongside an array of entertainment options.
Once fully operational, the project is expected to create 325,000 jobs and contribute an impressive SAR 135 billion ($36 billion) to the country’s annual GDP, positioning it as a significant driver of tourism in Saudi Arabia.
Qiddiya City & Sir Nick Faldo cooperation
Qiddiya City proudly announced the unveiling of a magnificent 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, set to open its gates to the public in 2026.
Accompanied by a state-of-the-art clubhouse, academy, and practice facilities, which are scheduled to welcome visitors in 2028, this project represents a commitment to accessibility and innovation.
With its unique design features, including a groundbreaking ‘3-hole return’ layout system, it promises to empower and inspire players of all levels.
The course is thoughtfully designed to cater to players of all skill levels. With floodlighting available for extended hours, it provides an excellent environment that challenges professional players while remaining accessible to amateurs.
Additionally, customized learning pathways will be available for beginners and those seeking to enhance their skills.
By blending traditional golf elements with innovative entertainment experiences, the course aims to create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere for all participants.
Amenities & facilities
The course will be enhanced by a remarkable clubhouse and a cutting-edge driving range and academy, meticulously designed by Pattersons to harmonize with the desert landscape.
This design seamlessly incorporates sustainability alongside world-class golfing features.
The clubhouse will provide an extensive array of facilities to support the golf course while also establishing itself as a lively hub for community engagement, social interaction, and wellness.
It will include leisure amenities such as
- fitness and conditioning centers,
- wellness facilities,
- spaces for social gatherings,
- both indoor and outdoor pools, and
- a diverse selection of food and beverage options.
The venue is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors annually, making it a vibrant destination for all.
My comments
My initial inquiry concerns the timeline required to achieve an annual influx of 200,000 tourists and guests.
This projected number of visitors is interesting to me because the Saudi Arabian expat community is mainly comprised of individuals from South and Southeast Asia (e.g., Bangladesh, India, Pakistan), Egypt, Sudan, the Philippines, and other regions.
What is more promising is the potential of the tourism industry.
Saudi Arabia welcomed 116 million tourists in 2024, exceeding its annual visitor target for the second consecutive year, according to official data.
According to the Ministry of Tourism’s latest annual statistical report, the figure includes 29.7 million inbound tourists, representing an 8% year-over-year increase, and 86.2 million domestic trips, up 5% from 2023.
Qiddiya City is poised to achieve its ambitious visitor goals, thanks to an array of thrilling entertainment, dynamic sports, and enriching cultural facilities:
- The Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium, which will host major sports and cultural events, including the 2034 World Cup;
- The Speed Park Track for motor sports;
- The Mercedes AMG World of Performance is an immersive and interactive experience, featuring a public race track and the Performing Arts Center.
Additionally, I seek to understand the duration it will take for a significant investment to generate a return. I have a particular interest in the golf club component of this endeavor.