It will be the first large-scale development of its kind in the kingdom
In a twitter post, the Ministry of Investment announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hong Kong-based Haichang Ocean Park, a leading ocean park developer and operator, to create the country’s first large-scale ocean park. The memo was signed in the presence of key officials, HE Minster of Investment, Khalid AlFalih, and Executive Director of Haichang Ocean Park, Qu Cheng, where it was agreed that Haichang will utilise its diverse expertise and experience to develop various forms of location-based entertainment venues among KSA’s cities, from family entertainment centre, water park, IP themed park, to zoo and safari park.
The agreement, which is directed by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, identifying the kingdom’s aim to diversify the country’s economy and promote tourism as a key driver of growth, is expected to create numerous job opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.
Qu said: “We are honoured to be partnering with the Ministry of Investment on this first-of-its-kind landmark development strategy. 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.”
Working alongside local partners and stakeholders, including the Ministry of Investment and General Entertainment Authority, Haichang intends to identify the best sites for its planned projects, whereby it will play a vital role in enhancing the country’s tourism industry and promote its unique cultural and traditional features.
Leading Ocean Park Development
Haichang Ocean Park has been recognised as a leader in the industry, having won numerous awards for its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability. It is renowned for its world-class entertainment offerings, featuring a combination of marine life exhibits, thrilling rides, and immersive experiences that provide visitors with a unique and unforgettable adventure and a chance to explore the wonders of the ocean.
The entertainment developer currently owns and operates six parks in the flourishing cities of Dalian, Yantai, Shanghai, Chongqing, and Sanya. In addition, it has also licensed its brand to four other parks. The Shanghai Park is under its Phase Two expansion, and a new ocean park will soon be open in Zhengzhou this year. Furthermore, it is expanding its scale through developing networks of Haichang Aquarium and Discovery Center in China. This new line of business will reach 50 venues by the end of the year.
Similarly to the collaboration with Saudi Arabia, Haichang also plans to expand its operations in Southeast Asia, aiming to develop world-class marine-life theme parks that offer visitors an immersive experience of the ocean and its inhabitants, while also showcasing the culture, traditions, and environment of the region.
