For countless enthusiasts, the concept of a Dragon Ball theme park is nothing short of a fantasy coming to life. The opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant universe crafted by the iconic manga artist Akira Toriyama is a dream many fans cherish. Naturally, one would expect such an attraction to be located in Japan, where the Dragon Ball phenomenon first exploded into popular culture in 1984 through the pages of Weekly Shonen Jump.
However, in a surprising turn of events, a new Dragon Ball theme park is under construction—not in Japan, but in Saudi Arabia. This development has sparked curiosity among fans about why Japan, the heart of anime and manga, is not home to a dedicated space celebrating one of its most beloved exports.
Toei Brings a Dragon Ball Theme Park to Saudi Arabia
A Park Built for Levels Over 9000
In an ambitious project led by the Qiddiya Investment Company, significant plans are underway to erect a massive Dragon Ball theme park in Saudi Arabia. This initiative is part of a broader entertainment endeavor located close to Riyadh, meticulously coordinated with Toei Animation, the renowned studio behind the original Dragon Ball series. This park is also pivotal to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, intended to bolster both tourism and entertainment sectors.
The design of the park includes seven distinct zones featuring iconic settings from the Dragon Ball saga, promising to engage fans with exhilarating attractions. Visitors can expect a thrilling Flying Nimbus roller coaster, a high-speed battle simulation experience, and life-sized replicas of beloved characters. Moreover, there will be interactive attractions, themed eateries, and plenty of picturesque spots perfect for capturing memories.
Why Is There No Dragon Ball Theme Park in Japan?
Still Room for a Comeback
The decision to establish the inaugural Dragon Ball theme park in Saudi Arabia instead of Japan has indeed raised eyebrows. Though Japan boasts popular anime-themed attractions, such as the Dragon Ball 4D ride at Universal Studios Japan, a full-fledged park has yet to materialize. Factors like limited space and high development costs might contribute to this phenomenon. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is providing a vast site, making it the ideal candidate for such an expansive project.
While an official completion date for the Dragon Ball park has not been disclosed, anticipation surrounding its scale and unique location continues to grow. This strategic move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s aspirations to enhance its entertainment landscape. Nevertheless, Japan is not entirely sidelined; franchises like One Piece and Naruto still present ample opportunities for future theme parks back home.
Source: Mainichi Daily