Saudi Arabia’s US$530m Qiddiya circuit begins to take shape

New aerial footage has revealed significant construction progress at Qiddiya’s new motorsport circuit near Riyadh, including work on one of the most ambitious track sections ever developed.

The Speed Park Track is being built by PIF-owned Qiddiya Investment Company as part of the wider Qiddiya City sports and entertainment destination.

Managing contractor UNIMAC values the circuit and infrastructure project at approximately SAR2bn, equivalent to US$530m. The company is delivering the track to FIA Grade 1 and FIM Grade A standards, making it capable of hosting Formula One and MotoGP.

A separate SAR1bn contract was awarded to El-Seif Engineering in July for a four-storey viewing and hospitality facility supporting premium race-day experiences.

The approximately 7.7km circuit will feature 21 corners, 80 garages and potential speeds exceeding 325km/h. It is expected to accommodate as many as 70,000 spectators during major events.

Its defining feature will be The Blade, a cantilevered opening corner rising approximately 70 metres above the surrounding development. The section will sit at the height of a 20-storey building and create one of motorsport’s most recognisable track landmarks.

Former Formula One driver Alex Wurz designed the circuit alongside Hermann Tilke, whose company has worked on venues across the international motorsport calendar. The design combines permanent and street-circuit configurations to support different races and public experiences.

Construction is progressing towards the venue’s proposed completion, with Qiddiya expected to become the future home of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after its current period in Jeddah.