DAMMAM, June 1, 2025 — The $2 billion Global City project is planned in three phases. According to development materials, Phase 1 (opening late 2025) is an entertainment and festival area, Phase 2 (in subsequent years) will expand attractions and add watersports, and Phase 3 will build a Global Arena and a residential community. In total, the site will host dozens of national pavilions, restaurants, and themed markets across a 125,000-square-meter entertainment zone. The entire development covers almost 800,000 square meters (including large lakes and parks) — comparable in size to major global theme parks. 

Phase 1 will feature roughly 16 country pavilions (each showcasing a nation’s culture and products) and about 11 restaurants serving Arabic, Asian and fusion cuisines. The layout includes themed districts such as “China Town” and “Indian Gully” and a central food street. Entertainment options will include carnival rides, arcade games, a petting zoo, stunt shows and a “Garden of Lights” display. Marketing materials even promise that visitors will “enjoy live performances as you shop!” among the handicraft markets.

Nightly attractions are a hallmark of Phase 1. A lantern Light Festival will illuminate the park with multicolored displays representing different countries. Another highlight is Dream Sphere, an immersive art installation featuring interactive digital projections and AI-driven visuals in six themed zones. A Thai-inspired floating food market will add a vibrant touch, serving Asian street foods in a waterside setting.

Future phases add even more. Phase 2 will enlarge the festival district with extra pavilions, stunt areas and restaurants, and will debut a full water park with slides, wave pools and lazy rivers for all ages. In Phase 3 the centerpiece Global Arena will open as a world-class expo and entertainment complex with cutting-edge technology and flexible event spaces. A new residential neighbourhood will also be built, offering modern, sustainable housing and community hubs for residents and long-term visitors.