The Saudi General Entertainment Authority (GEA) represented by its CEO, Mr. Amr bin Ahmed Banaja, signed a memorandum of understanding with Qiddiya Investment Company, represented by its CEO, Mr. Michael Reininger, on Sunday July 8, at GEA's headquarters, in Riyadh. The agreement, which comes as part of GEA's scholarship program launched last week, aims to launch joint programs designed to develop human capital. The first collaboration seeks to provide scholarships for 60 students to study at Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida, USA. The first batch of students will receive scholarships in event management and entertainment management majors. The program will begin in the autumn of 2019 and will last for five years. It will include English language preparation program and internship training at Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. Following graduation, students will join the Qiddiya project. Through this ambitious scholarship program, GEA is keen to achieve its strategic objectives in developing local content and creating a robust sector to increase the industry contribution in the GDP which reflects in increasing career opportunities for qualified national cadres as well to support "quality of life" program deliverables, an initiative of Vision 2030. Moreover, the partnership aims to achieve Qiddiya's goals regarding creating new sectors, career paths and building the skills and expertise necessary for the development of these sectors. The registration process to win a scholarship opportunity will end on the 12th of this month. It has so far witnessed a large turnout by Saudi students eager to study and work in the Kingdom's promising entertainment sector. For registration, please visit: https://www.gea.gov.sa/hr-development/qiddiya. About the General Entertainment Authority In line with one of the pillars of the Kingdom's vision 2030 in creating a vibrant society, the General Entertainment Authority has been established to organize, develop, and lead the entertainment sector to provide exciting entertainment options, and tailored experiences to the needs of people from all walks of life around Saudi Arabia. Also, to stimulate the role of the private sector in building and developing entertainment activities. The General Entertainment Authority contributes to supporting the Saudi economy by participating in diversifying its sources, raising its gross domestic product, supporting small and medium enterprises and increasing the proportion of foreign direct investment in the entertainment sector. About the Qiddiya Investment Company The Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) was incorporated on 10th May, 2018, as a closed joint-stock company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia. QIC will drive the development of Qiddiya, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's pre-eminent multifaceted entertainment destination, home of inspiration, discovery and engagement. Announced by His Royal Highness Mohammad bin Salman, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs and of PIF, on 7th April, 2017, Qiddiya is a transformational project that will be built 40km from downtown Riyadh, with a total area of 334 sq. km. Visitors will enjoy access to a range of diverse activities and services across five innovatively designed cornerstones: Sports & Wellness; Nature & Environment; Parks & Attractions; Motion & Mobility; and Arts & Culture. The development of these areas will give rise to: high-end theme parks; water and snow-based activities; numerous sports arenas capable of hosting international competitions and world-class training academies; race tracks for motorsport enthusiasts; outdoor and adventure activities alongside nature and environment experiences; and an array of historical, cultural and educational activities and events. Qiddiya will also include a variety of real estate options and community services. A core element of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, Qiddiya will unlock tremendous opportunity, enabling economic diversification, while enhancing the quality of life for Saudi citizens. The project broke ground on 28th April, 2018 and phase one is set to open in 2022. A three-phased approach is currently underway for the entire project. 2019 will see the launch of the Visitor Experience Centre, the reveal of the masterplan as well as the start of construction for phase one.
