Saudi Arabia has announced it will build a theme park!
It will based on the famed Japanese animated series Dragon Ball, sparking mixed reactions from fans.
It will feature a 70m (229.6ft) dragon at its centre and at least 30 rides, the firm behind the project says.
The park would be the world’s first such attraction based on the popular media franchise.
The announcement was met with some criticism from fans, citing Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
The plans are part of “a long-term strategic partnership” between the QIC and Toei Animation, the Japanese producer of Dragon Ball.
According to the official Dragon Ball website,
The park will include a roller coaster inside the dragon modelled after Shenron, a wish-giving dragon that features in the franchise.
Qiddiya is a major entertainment and tourism project being built near Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh.
It is part of the energy-rich nation’s plans to diversify its economy away from fossil fuels.
While some Dragon Ball fans have welcomed the plans for the theme park.
Others on social media have questioned the decision to locate the attraction in Saudi Arabia.
The BBC reported there was some criticism of the park due to Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
Saudi is diversifying away from its hydrocarbon-reliant economy and has been investing heavily in entertainment.
Toriyama passed away on March 1 at the age of 68.
Leaving behind a storied legacy that includes one of the most influential mangas, as well as the beloved Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z anime series.
Dragon Ball was first published in 1984, with other top manga artists like One Piece creator Eiichiro Oda.
And Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto pointing to elements of Dragon Ball as an inspiration for their own work.
