France, Saudi Arabia agree on €6 billion Dragon Ball Z theme park project near Paris

PARIS: France and Saudi Arabia have reached an agreement to construct a €6 billion (£7 billion) manga-themed amusement park near the French capital, according to a statement from the Elysee Palace on Monday during a visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The ambitious project, inspired by the renowned Japanese manga and anime franchise Dragon Ball Z, will be built in the vicinity of Cergy-Pontoise, northwest of Paris, and is projected to generate approximately 22,000 jobs.

The Elysee Palace disclosed that the concept emerged following a mutual passion for Dragon Ball Z between French President Emmanuel Macron and the Saudi crown prince during Macron's visit to Saudi Arabia in 2025. Saudi entertainment and investment firm Qiddiya will shoulder the financial burden of the endeavor, which aligns with the kingdom's strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil and bolster its global influence in the entertainment sector.

As of now, the proposed opening date remains undetermined, with construction anticipated to span multiple years. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a notable figure in Saudi Arabia, embarked on a rare official overseas visit and shared the stage with Macron at the Esports World Cup's closing ceremony in Paris on Sunday. French officials view the Dragon Ball Z theme park initiative as a testament to France's enduring appeal as a destination for foreign investment, although several key aspects of the extensive development, encompassing three distinct theme parks, are yet to be finalized.