The construction boom in Saudi Arabia continues unabated, as plans for a new city geared towards entertainment and leisure, called Qiddiya City, are well underway. Situated approximately 30 miles southwest of Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, this £260 billion project is set to be completed by 2031, boasting a size three times that of Paris and expecting to house around 500,000 residents.
Already, attractions like Six Flags and Aquarabia theme parks are operational, with Qiddiya Speed Park Track preparing to host the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix starting in 2028. Additionally, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman sports venue is on track for completion by 2029, in time to host matches for the 2034 World Cup.
A notable feature of this ambitious project is the National Tennis Centre, which bears a striking resemblance to the renowned All-England Tennis Club at Wimbledon. Designed by the same architectural firm behind Wimbledon’s iconic Centre Court retractable roof, the 30-court complex promises world-class competition infrastructure, elite training facilities, and versatile arenas suitable for various events beyond tennis.
With 28 hard courts and 2 clay courts, the National Tennis Centre’s main court can accommodate up to 15,000 spectators and is equipped with a retractable roof for climate control. Another court with an 8,000-person capacity will also have a retractable roof to provide relief from the region’s hot temperatures.
Part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to diversify its economy, Qiddiya City, including projects like the National Tennis Centre, aims to elevate sports in the kingdom and attract more visitors. Abdullah Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company, emphasizes the center’s role in promoting sports participation and tourism, aligning with the country’s long-term goals.
Eno Polo, CEO of the ATP, commends the National Tennis Centre for its contribution to the global tennis scene and its potential to foster tennis engagement at all levels, ensuring a lasting impact on the sport in the region for years to come.