Just a few months after announcing plans to add a fourth theme park to its expanding attractions portfolio, Six Flags has started work on a development at Dubai Parks and Resorts.

The AED2.67bn (US$727m, €639m, £515m) project – the first Six Flags development in the Middle East – will operate under a licensing model with an opening date of Q4 2019.

The Six Flags park will contain 27 rides split across six themed zones. 6.7 million people are projected to visit the attraction during its first year of operation.

The deal was first inked in 2014 and is the first of several that sees Six Flags significantly expand its reach outside of North America, with plans for further theme parks in China, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia.

“We are delighted to announce that construction has commenced on the region’s first Six Flags branded theme park,” said Raed Al Nuaimi, Dubai Parks and Resorts CEO.

“This is the fourth theme park at our destination and it will help us strengthen the appeal of Dubai Parks and Resorts as a must-visit destination in the ­region.

“Our association with Six Flags will help us develop a world-class destination that redefines the industry and positively impacts the regional tourism sector.”