France and Saudi Arabia approve $7 billion theme park near Paris

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman concluded a multi‑sector diplomatic tour of Paris by signing a series of agreements that span energy, defence, artificial intelligence and tourism, including a new theme‑park project slated for development in Saudi Arabia. The deals were announced on Friday as part of a broader effort to deepen economic ties between Saudi Arabia and France, with the Crown Prince meeting French officials and business leaders throughout his three‑day visit.

Among the signed contracts, a French entertainment consortium will partner with the Saudi sovereign wealth fund to build a large‑scale theme park that aims to attract both domestic and international visitors. Parallel agreements cover a joint venture in renewable‑energy infrastructure, a defence procurement package involving advanced aerospace systems, and a collaborative AI research programme linking French tech firms with Saudi research institutions. French officials highlighted the projects as a boost to bilateral trade, while Saudi representatives framed them as key components of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 diversification strategy.

The suite of agreements underscores a renewed momentum in Franco‑Saudi cooperation, signaling a shift toward high‑value, technology‑driven investments. Observers note that the theme‑park initiative, alongside the other deals, illustrates the Crown Prince’s focus on expanding the Kingdom’s non‑oil economy and strengthening strategic partnerships with European partners.