Paris – The French government announced on Monday that it has reached an agreement with Saudi Arabia to develop a €6 billion (approximately $7 billion) manga‑themed amusement park in the Cergy‑Pontoise area, northwest of the capital. The project, inspired by the popular Japanese series Dragon Ball Z, will be financed by Saudi entertainment and investment group Qiddiya and is expected to generate roughly 22,000 jobs over its construction and operational phases.
Background and partnership
The idea for the park emerged after President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discovered a shared enthusiasm for the franchise during Macron’s 2025 visit to Saudi Arabia. Both leaders highlighted the cultural bridge the project could build, while also underscoring France’s continued appeal to foreign investors.
Economic impact
French officials framed the development as a significant boost to the national economy, especially in a region that has been seeking new sources of employment. The park will comprise three separate themed areas, each dedicated to different aspects of the Dragon Ball Z universe, and will be one of Europe’s largest amusement‑park projects. While no opening date has been set, construction is expected to span several years, during which time local contractors, suppliers, and service providers are anticipated to benefit from the influx of capital.
Local considerations
Community leaders in the Cergy‑Pontoise area have expressed cautious optimism. The promise of thousands of jobs is welcomed, but officials also note the need for careful planning to address traffic, environmental impact, and infrastructure demands. The French Ministry of Culture and the regional planning authority will work together to ensure the park integrates with existing urban development plans.
International context
The agreement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil, investing heavily in entertainment, tourism, and sports projects worldwide. Qiddiya, the Saudi group financing the park, is already involved in several large‑scale leisure developments within the kingdom.
Next steps
Details regarding the park’s exact layout, financing structure, and regulatory approvals are still being finalized. French officials indicated that further discussions will focus on land use, environmental safeguards, and the timeline for construction permits. The partnership will be monitored closely as a benchmark for future foreign‑direct investment in France’s leisure and tourism sectors.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
