RIYADH: Qiddiya has earned the mark of excellence under the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program from Destinations International, the world’s most prominent body dedicated to supporting destination organizations.
The achievement places it among a select group of destinations worldwide to receive the highest mark under the prestigious international accreditation program.
Qiddiya is the first destination management organization in the Middle East to earn the DMAP mark of excellence, and only the second organization in the region to achieve DMAP accreditation.
The mark of excellence is awarded to organizations that go beyond the program’s accreditation requirements, demonstrating institutional excellence across every aspect of their operations while maintaining a long-term commitment to developing the destinations they serve and strengthening their global standing.
Of the almost 200 destination organizations worldwide that have achieved DMAP accreditation, fewer than 20 percent have been awarded the mark of excellence, the program’s highest distinction reserved for organizations that exceed every required standard without any areas identified for improvement.
Mohammed Basrawi, chief executive of marketing and destination management at Qiddiya Investment Company, said the accreditation sends a powerful message to the global tourism community that Al-Qiddiya is being developed in line with the highest international standards.
“This recognition reaffirms our commitment to operational excellence across every aspect of destination management and reflects our belief that the Power of Play philosophy has the ability to create a lasting, positive impact on people’s lives and communities,” he said.
Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International, said: “We are delighted to welcome Qiddiya to our distinguished community of accredited organizations. This achievement reflects the quality and performance standards we champion for destination organizations, and Al-Qiddiya is a valued member of Destinations International and our global community of leading destinations.”
DMAP is an independent global accreditation framework that establishes best practices and performance benchmarks across governance, financial management, operations, human resources, technology, visitor services, sales, brand management, destination development and partnership building.
Developed by Qiddiya Investment Company, Qiddiya spans 360 sq. km about 45 km west of Riyadh and is one of the world’s most ambitious integrated destination developments.
Qiddiya City began welcoming visitors at the end of 2025 with the opening of several flagship attractions. Six Flags Qiddiya City offers entertainment experiences and record-breaking games that attract visitors from across Saudi Arabia and the wider region. Aquarabia, the Kingdom’s largest water theme park, provides year-round family entertainment, while Playmaker Studios, Saudi Arabia’s first fully integrated film production complex, is designed to support film and television productions serving regional and international markets alike.
The destination continues to expand its portfolio of landmark attractions, including the National Tennis Center, the largest dedicated tennis facility in the region, in addition to an 18-hole championship golf course designed by golf legend Sir Nick Faldo, a purpose-built motorsports speedway and Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, one of the venues selected to host matches during the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Additional landmark attractions will include a performing arts center, the world’s first dedicated esports and gaming district, and a horse racing venue that will eventually host the Saudi Cup.
The city will feature hotels, residential neighborhoods, a transport network linking it to central Riyadh, retail and dining districts, parks and open spaces, and comprehensive civic infrastructure.
