Saudi Arabia to launch outrageous theme park on oil rig

Photo / The Public Investment Fund (PIF)

Kiwis may be famous for our 'number 8 wire' mentality but we aren't the only innovative ones.

In Saudi Arabia, an investment fund has announced plans to repurpose an old oil rig into an amusement park.

Located in the Arabian Gulf, 'The Rig' will include a combination of rollercoasters, race cars, watersports and other child-friendly attractions, using the existing structure of an old oil rig.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) said the new tourism project is designed to align with the Kingdom's efforts to shift its focus on oil towards tourism and entertainment as a way to preserve the environment.

#PIF announces “THE RIG.” Project.
The world’s first tourism destination inspired by offshore oil platforms.

— Public Investment Fund (@PIF_en) October 16, 2021

The amusement park will take up over 150,000 square metres with rides, 11 restaurants and three hotels.

In a statement from PIF, the project was "expected to attract tourists from around the world, while being especially popular with citizens and residents of the GCC countries in the region."

The announcement closely follows news that Qiddya Investment Company has partnered with Intamin Amusement Rides to design the world's longest, fastest and tallest coaster.

According to The Rig's website, the 'epic' offshore destination is not just a theme park but an 'extreme park'.

"Test your limits at bungee, board and base jumping. Top your best on wing and water. Then catch your breath – you've barely begun. Explore our state-of-the-sport platform, enriched with our world-famous Saudi hospitality."

Historically dependent on oil production, Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed bin Salman has made economic diversification a priority.

In 2016 he launched a strategic framework 'Vision 2030', with the overarching objectives being an ambitious nation, thriving economy and vibrant society.