20th Century Fox is hoping to finally get a foothold in the theme park world, but starting in the U.S. is not an option apparently. The studio has announced plans for a second 20th Century Fox World, even as the opening of its first was delayed.
20th Century Fox Consumer Products announced a licensing deal with Al Ahli Holding Group (AAHG) to build a theme park and resort in Dubai. It will be the first completely Fox-branded resort, complete with a hotel and multiple rides.
Rides will be based on Fox’s blockbuster franchises on both film and television, including Ice Age, Rio, Planet of the Apes, Alien, Predator, Night at the Museum and Titanic. The Simpsons and Sons of Anarchy were also listed as potential properties to get rides.
In addition to the rides and hotels, there will also be a main street with shopping and dining.
“20th Century Fox World, Dubai is the second Fox theme park destination and marks an important step forward in our global theme park strategy. Fox World will be a world-class destination that will help fuel Dubai's emergence as a global tourism destination,” Jeffrey Godsick, President of Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products, said in a statement. “This park builds on the foundation being laid by 20th Century Fox World, Malaysia, currently under construction.”
In July 2013, Fox announced a 20th Century Fox World in Malaysia, which will be part of a casino resort built by Genting Malaysia Bhd. However, that project has been delayed because of the slumping ringgit, GGR Asia reported last month. Now, the park is targeting a 2017 opening.
The Dubai park is currently scheduled to open in 2018.
While Fox has no immediate plans for a park in the U.S., the company surprisingly reached a licensing deal with Disney in 2011 that would bring an Avatar section to Animal Kingdom in Orlando. That is set to open in 2017.