Riyadh, January 17, 2025 – Boulevard World, an unprecedented cultural and entertainment destination in Riyadh, has quickly become one of the most celebrated attractions in Saudi Arabia, uniting the world's diverse cultures in a single space. This extraordinary zone not only offers visitors a chance to explore a multitude of global traditions and experiences but also fosters greater understanding and communication between nations, making it a beacon of cultural exchange and unity.
Since its inception as part of the Riyadh Season, Boulevard World has captured the imagination of both domestic and international visitors. By January 10, 2025, the site had already welcomed more than 16 million attendees, a testament to its appeal and success. Built in just 82 days, Boulevard World is a monumental achievement, seamlessly blending world cultures, traditions, and cuisines into one immersive experience. The site comprises 22 distinct zones, each representing a different country or region, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, India, Japan, China, Spain, France, Italy, the United States, Mexico, and more.
This expansive and vibrant destination offers a wide range of attractions and amenities designed to appeal to all ages. With over 1,400 shops, 300 restaurants and cafes, and the world’s largest artificial lake—spanning an impressive 121,900 square meters—Boulevard World provides an unmatched entertainment experience. The lake itself is a highlight, offering visitors the chance to explore its waters via submarines and boats, while the Boulevard Pier features an array of thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and the iconic giant Boulevard Ferris Wheel, which offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding area.
For those seeking unique cinematic experiences, Boulevard World houses the largest sphere in the Middle East, which contains the Planet Cinema—a spherical theater offering an immersive 360-degree cinematic experience. The site also features other attractions such as the War Zone, a fleet of 47 boats, and a cable car stretching 1.2 kilometers, connecting Boulevard World to Boulevard Riyadh City with a capacity of up to 3,000 passengers per hour.
In a nod to the digital age, Boulevard World also embraces the virtual realm with Meta World, providing visitors with immersive experiences through popular video games. Additionally, attractions like the Vampire Hotel offer thrilling adventures, while the Courchevel area brings the atmosphere of international ski resorts to Riyadh, complete with a ski slope for all skill levels. The Dolphinarium, featuring captivating performances by trained dolphins, adds yet another layer of excitement to this multifaceted destination.
Boulevard World’s design allows visitors to embark on a day-long journey through various global civilizations, offering a miniature version of the world’s most iconic landmarks. The squares within Boulevard World are transformed into miniature replicas of famous sites, from the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe of Paris to the Taj Mahal of India, the pyramids of Egypt, the Golden Gate Bridge, and even the ancient wonders of the Greek amphitheater. Visitors can also explore the intricate alleyways of Venice, the Spanish flamenco performances, the charm of Santorini, and the lively streets of Los Angeles, all within this vast cultural hub.
The experience extends beyond architecture to encompass the rich culinary traditions of each country. Whether it’s traditional Japanese sushi, French pastries, or Mexican street food, Boulevard World offers a truly global gastronomic journey. The African zone introduces visitors to the continent’s diverse cultures, with traditional cuisine, folk music, and even live encounters with African wildlife. Similarly, the Asian zone immerses visitors in the vibrant cultures of the Far East, while the Saudi Arabia zone offers a deep dive into the Kingdom’s own heritage, with displays of regional handicrafts, markets, and authentic dishes.
Boulevard World’s ambition has earned it numerous accolades, including Guinness World Records for the largest artificial lake, the largest metal sculpture of a fictional character, the largest LED sphere, the tallest portable rollercoaster, and the tallest portable spinning tower ride. This remarkable achievement solidifies Boulevard World’s place as not only an entertainment destination but also a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s vision to become a global cultural and tourism hub.
With plans for continued expansion each year, Boulevard World is set to grow even more, adding new zones and attractions that will showcase even more cultures and traditions from around the globe. This expansion aligns with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to diversify its economy, enhance tourism, and strengthen its position as a global leader in entertainment and cultural exchange.
Boulevard World’s story began in November 2022, with its inauguration by Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), as part of Riyadh Season 2022. Since then, it has become a key part of Saudi Arabia’s drive to enhance the quality of life for its citizens and solidify Riyadh’s position as a world-class entertainment hub. As Boulevard World continues to thrive, it will remain at the forefront of global cultural exchange, offering visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the rich diversity of the world in the heart of Riyadh.
