Saudi Arabia and France signed 15 agreements on Monday covering tourism, defence, cybersecurity, AI training, and military training [1].
The deals signal a deepening strategic partnership as France seeks significant Saudi investment and Saudi Arabia looks for a major market for French defence manufacturers.
A central part of the agreements involves the development of three theme parks in the Paris region [1], [2]. One of these is planned as a manga-themed park, with reports specifying it will be based on the Japanese manga series "Dragon Ball" [1], [2].
Investment figures for these projects vary by source. One report cites a Saudi investment of $10 billion [1], while the French presidential office reported the amount as €6 billion [2]. The projects are expected to create around 22,000 jobs [1].
Beyond tourism, the two governments agreed to expand cooperation in high-technology sectors. The agreements include frameworks for artificial intelligence training and cybersecurity initiatives [1], [2].
Defence cooperation remains a pillar of the relationship. The signed documents include provisions for military training and the procurement of defence equipment [1], [2]. This allows French firms to secure a stable foothold in the Saudi market while providing the Kingdom with advanced European military technology.
The geographic focus for the tourism developments is the area near Paris, with some reports specifying the northeast region [1], [2].
“Saudi Arabia and France signed 15 agreements on Monday covering tourism, defence, cybersecurity, AI training, and military training.”
This multifaceted agreement demonstrates Saudi Arabia's strategy to diversify its global economic footprint through leisure and technology investments while maintaining strong security ties. For France, the deal provides a critical influx of foreign capital and secures long-term contracts for its defence industry, reinforcing its role as a primary strategic partner for the Kingdom in Europe.
