In a bold move diverging from its conservative cultural norms, Saudi Arabia is set to embark on the construction of a theme park inspired by Japan's beloved anime series 'Dragon Ball.' The decision, while welcomed by fans, has also sparked criticism amidst concerns over human rights violations in the kingdom.

Named 'Qadia,' the ambitious entertainment and tourism project, located near Riyadh, marks Saudi Arabia's first foray into creating a park based on a popular animation series and media franchise. The move aligns with the kingdom's broader efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependence and embrace modernization.

At the heart of the park will stand a towering 70-meter-high dragon, meticulously designed in the style of Japanese culture, serving as a central attraction. This innovative venture underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to pushing the boundaries of entertainment and tourism infrastructure development.

The project, part of the ambitious 'The Line' initiative announced in 2021, aims to create a sprawling 'magic' city replete with luxury resorts, hotels, floating infrastructure, and artificial islands. Spearheaded by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the initiative seeks to transform the desert landscape into a vibrant hub of modernity and innovation.

Spanning an impressive five hundred thousand square meters, the Dragon Ball-themed park will offer visitors an immersive experience, complete with exhilarating rides and attractions, including a roller coaster housed within the colossal dragon installation.

To bring the vision to life, Saudi Arabia has forged a strategic partnership with Toei Animation, the renowned Japanese creator of 'Dragon Ball,' and QIC, the project's investment company. However, the announcement has drawn both praise and criticism from the global community.

While enthusiasts of the Dragon Ball series have eagerly embraced Saudi Arabia's endeavor, others have raised concerns about the kingdom's human rights record and questioned the appropriateness of establishing such a park in the country. These debates have unfolded on social media platforms, highlighting the complexities surrounding the kingdom's cultural transformation efforts.

The decision to embark on this groundbreaking project comes just days after the passing of Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator of the Dragon Ball series. Despite the controversy, Saudi Arabia remains steadfast in its commitment to realizing its vision for Qadia and cementing its position as a leading destination for entertainment and leisure.