SPRING 2026 5-16 Park News
18-19 SimEx-Iwerks 22-23 Industry Insider 24-25 Tom Anstey Column 26-28 Flying Theatre 30 Manifesto
THIS MONTH’S COVER SHOT: 2025 was a year of preparation for growth for SimEx-Iwerks. As the attractions industry continues to evolve, leading operators are prioritizing experiences that feel emotionally powerful, operationally efficient, and distinctly different from at-home entertainment.
32-33 Hyper Japan Festival 34-36 Saudi Arabia 38-45 Park Updates 46-51 Product Showcase 54 Web Guide
SPRING 2026 • ISSN 1462-4796
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Park Word
Hello everyone. How’s 2026 treating you so far? It’s been kicking the hell out of me – I won’t lie! I don’t think
I’ve ever known a Christmas work hangover last so long! Getting hold of our contributors and collaborators has been a toughie, as people play catch up having enjoyed Christmas and New Year as much as was humanly possible (so t ’would seem!). As a wise man once said, “the bill comes due”. If you had a blast in December and January, you’re probably still slightly in catch-up mode too! Fingers crossed we’re through all that and properly into the year now though, with nothing but clear skies and rain-free fun ahead. Fortunately for you, we have an issue to match such a breezy forecast. First up we give some serious love to Six Flags Great
Adventure as it prepares for an exciting season ahead, with LOADS of other news hot on its heels as you flip through our mighty tome. Having enjoyed many of their attractions in 2025, I was delighted to sit down with Miral Destinations’ Liam Findlay, plucking his brains on all things, from the company’s plans for the Middle East to what people can expect when they step into the world of “Stranger Things: The Experience”. Tom Anstey has been a busy boy, splitting himself
between reminiscing rides of the past in locations like Dreamland Margate, to diving into what we might expect as we hit the 10th anniversary of Saudi Arabia’s Visions 2030 strategy - you can’t say we’re not diverse in our coverage, can you! I could easily prattle my way through the rest of the issue, but it’s probably best if you discover it for yourselves as you go. So, for the last time, let me welcome you to the issue with a proper Happy New Year! Matt
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SPRING 2026
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