Saudi Arabia is constructing a massive new city called Qiddiya City, located about 30 miles southwest of Riyadh, as part of its Vision 2030 plan to diversify beyond oil. The £260bn city, three times the size of Paris, is designed as a capital of entertainment, sport, and culture, with a planned population of 500,000.
Wimbledon-Inspired Tennis Centre
The Qiddiya Investment Company has unveiled plans for a National Tennis Centre that bears a striking resemblance to the All-England Tennis Club in Wimbledon. The 30-court facility is being designed by Populous, the same architectural firm responsible for Wimbledon Centre Court's retractable roof. The centre will feature two multi-purpose arenas with retractable roofs for climate control, capable of hosting concerts and major events beyond tennis.
Facility Details
The National Tennis Centre will include 28 hard courts, two clay courts, and a Centre Court seating 15,000 spectators. Unlike Wimbledon's grass courts, the hard courts are better suited to the region's hot climate. Court Three will have an 8,000-seat capacity and also a retractable roof, primarily for cooling rather than rain protection.
Part of Vision 2030
Qiddiya City is one of several mega-projects under Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, alongside Neom and the Red Sea tourism project. The tennis centre aims to boost sports participation and tourism, supporting grassroots initiatives and elite talent. The neighbouring 18-hole Championship golf course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, is another key attraction.
Statements from Officials
Abdullah Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company, said: "At Qiddiya City, we believe in the Power of Play; the idea that play, in all its forms, has the ability to transform lives, build communities and inspire generations. The National Tennis Centre demonstrates this philosophy." Eno Polo, CEO of the ATP, added: "The National Tennis Centre at Qiddiya City is a remarkable addition to the global tennis landscape. As the largest tennis facility of its kind in the region, it reflects a bold vision for the future of tennis."
Other facilities in Qiddiya City include the Six Flags and Aquarabia theme parks, already open, and the Qiddiya Speed Park Track, expected to host the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix from 2028. The Prince Mohammed bin Salman sports complex is scheduled for completion in 2029, in time for the 2034 World Cup.
