Brian Machamer has been appointed park president of Six Flags Qiddiya, the centrepiece of the entertainment, sports and arts project now under construction 40km from the Saudi capital city of Riyadh.

Brian Machamer

Industry veteran Machamer boasts more than 25 years of experience, having overseen multiple international theme park developments at a senior leadership level in regions including Singapore, United Arab Emirates and Malaysia.

“I am thrilled to welcome Brian to the Six Flags International team to lead one of the most ambitious theme park and entertainment projects on the planet,” said Six Flags international development president David McKillips. “Brian’s extensive development and park operational experience will be invaluable as we move forward to create a world-class global destination.”

"This is the opportunity of a lifetime and I am excited to join this impressive team to help introduce Six Flags' signature brand of thrills to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Machamer. "The brand name is synonymous with innovation at the highest level and Six Flags Qiddiya will be a game-changer in the region." 

Having begun his career with Universal Studios Florida in 1990, where he spent over 10 years serving in various operational roles, Machamer’s new position as president will see him responsible for all aspects of the park, including strategic planning, budgeting and operations.

Six Flags Qiddiya will be one of the key assets to be unveiled as part of the first phase of Qiddiya, which is being built to provide fun and professional opportunities to the Saudi population. It will cover 32 hectares (79 acres) and feature 28 uniquely themed rides and attractions across six lands: The City of Thrills, Discovery Springs, Steam Town, Twilight Gardens, Valley of Fortune and Grand Exposition. The park will also boast a number of record-breaking roller coasters including The Falcon’s Flight, the longest, tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world.

Six Flags Qiddiya is scheduled to open in 2023.