Six Flags has forged an agreement with Tatweer, Dubailand's developer, to create the theme park. In addition, Tatweer and Six Flags Dubailand also have agreed to create new concepts across the region, such as Six Flags theme parks, branded restaurants, hotels and retail outlets.

Dubailand has already inked deals with other theme parks and entertainment companies. It will include Universal Studios Dubailand, the Tiger Woods Dubai golf complex, and DreamWorks Animation Park--a five-million-sf theme park, which alone is projected to be twice the size of Florida's Walt Disney World.

Like its North American parks, Six Flags Dubailand will feature thrill rides and adventure attractions. It will also show case the children's musical group, the Wiggles, and professional skateboarder Tony Hawk. Groundbreaking is expected in 2009.

"The new alliance with yet another global leisure and entertainment leader such as Six Flags consolidates Tatweer's commitment to becoming a leading global tourism, leisure and entertainment investor, and a key contributor to the tourism objectives of Dubai Strategic Plan 2015," says Saeed Al Muntafiq, executive chairman of Tatweer. "The addition of Six Flags, one of the world's most reputed leisure and entertainment companies, to our burgeoning portfolio complements Dubailand's value proposition as an unrivalled tourism destination."

Mark Shapiro, president and CEO of Six Flags, says, "Expanding Six Flags beyond our current North American borders validates the growing strength and momentum of our brand. Through this partnership with Tatweer, we now have the opportunity to create a world-class theme park destination that will allow guests from around the globe to experience Six Flags' unique combination of thrills and entertainment." Six Flags currently operates 21 parks in the US, Mexico and Canada.

Dubai is planning a wide range of attractions in an effort to draw 15 million tourists to the country annually. Dubailand will also include Dubai Sports City, Motor City, Falcon City, Dubai Heritage Vision, and Al Barari, which are under development. The Polo and Equestrian Club and City of Arabia are currently in the initial stages of development. Dubailand will also include residential units, shopping malls and 55 hotels.

Tatweer is a member of Dubai Holding. In addition to tourism and real estate development, it is involved in energy, healthcare and industry.