Alan Mahony, executive director of attractions at Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN), has more than 35 years of experience working in integrated resorts, theme parks, water parks and aquariums.
As a Public Investment Fund (PIF) owned company, SEVEN is creating a new entertainment economy for the long term, designed to transform the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Its goal is to create a brighter tomorrow, by offering a range of entertainment options for young and old, while also supporting the local talent in the entertainment sector. SEVEN aims to become “the leading national investor, developer and operator of a diverse ecosystem in KSA [Kingdom of Saudi Arabia].”
“We believe that together with our partners we have the drive and expertise it takes to build the entertainment economy from the ground up,” says its mission statement. “We believe that entertainment will enhance the quality of life for citizens of and visitors to the Kingdom, spreading joy and driving progress throughout the nation.”
Prior to joining SEVEN in January 2022, he was vice president of Aquaventure and the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis Sanya, overseeing daily operations. He was appointed pre-opening to oversee all aspects of the design, construction and launch operations. Mahony has implemented successful strategies to ensure positive trading during the pandemic, with Atlantis Sanya now experiencing record attendance and revenue growth.
Aquaventure Atlantis debuted in May 2018 in Sanya, China. The $1.65 billion water park “really is the world’s number one water park”, according to Mahony. Aquaventure is Asia’s largest water park, covering 200,000 square metres. It houses 35 attractions. On what makes the attraction special, Mahony said: “The theming and the storytelling. The way everything right down to the slide towers is fully themed makes it a unique experience compared to any other water park. And I’ve seen a lot!”