Qiddiya City has become the first destination management organisation in the Middle East to receive the Destination Marketing Accreditation Programme (DMAP) Accreditation with Distinction from Destinations International, marking the highest level of recognition under the global accreditation framework.
The city is only the second destination in the region to
achieve DMAP accreditation and joins fewer than 20% of nearly 200 accredited
organisations worldwide to receive the "with Distinction"
designation, reflecting excellence in governance, operations, financial
management, branding, visitor services, and destination development.
Developed by Qiddiya Investment Company across 360 sq km
west of Riyadh, Qiddiya City is a Public Investment Fund project
supporting Saudi Vision 2030.
The destination began welcoming visitors in late 2025 with
attractions including Six Flags Qiddiya City, Aquarabia waterpark, and
PlayMaker Studios.
It is also developing major venues such as the National
Tennis Centre, Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium for the 2034 FIFA World Cup,
a motorsports track, gaming and esports district, and performing arts centre.
Muhammad Bassrawi, Chief Marketing and Destination Officer
at Qiddiya Investment Company, described
the accreditation as a powerful signal to the global tourism community that
Qiddiya City is being built to the highest international standards, saying:
"This recognition affirms our commitment to operational excellence across
every dimension of destination management, and our belief that the Power of
Play philosophy has the potential to create a positive, transformative impact
on the lives of individuals and communities."
Don Welsh, CEO of Destinations International, said, "We are pleased to have Qiddiya City join our distinguished group of accredited organisations. This achievement embodies the quality and performance standards we aspire to in destination organisations, and Qiddiya City is a valued member of Destinations International and our programme's community of prestigious destinations." -TradeArabia News Service