French authorities and Saudi Arabian investors are currently in preliminary discussions regarding a potential multi-billion-euro entertainment complex near Paris. The project, which remains in the negotiation phase, centers on the former Mirapolis amusement park site in Courdimanche, Val-d'Oise. Reports indicate that the development could feature a theme park dedicated to the globally popular Dragon Ball manga series, mirroring a similar project currently under development in Saudi Arabia's Qiddiya complex.
The site under consideration has a storied history in the French leisure industry. Mirapolis opened in 1987 as one of the country's largest theme parks, famously featuring a massive statue of the literary giant Gargantua. However, the park struggled with low attendance and financial difficulties, leading to its closure in 1991. Since then, the expansive grounds have remained largely unused despite various attempts to redevelop the area.
Negotiations are reportedly being led by the Qiddiya Investment Company, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The potential investment is viewed as a significant opportunity to revitalize the site and boost regional tourism. While the scale of the project is estimated to reach over one billion euros, officials have emphasized that no final agreements or implementation timelines have been confirmed. The French government, including the Élysée Palace, is evaluating the proposal as part of broader economic and tourism cooperation efforts.
If the project moves forward, it would represent a major addition to the European entertainment landscape. However, the proposal faces significant logistical hurdles, including the need for extensive infrastructure upgrades to handle the potential influx of visitors, as well as complex land-use and regulatory approvals. For now, the project remains a high-profile, confidential proposal that has yet to secure the necessary backing to transition from concept to construction.