US theme park operator Six Flags has agreed a one-year exclusivity deal giving Bahrain-based Gulf Finance House the right to licence the Six Flags brand for theme park developments in China.

The deal could also see the two groups collaborating in the future on construction of a Six Flags-themed luxury resort.

Gulf Finance House has previously worked with Six Flags to introduce the brand to Dubai.

"This partnership underscores the renewed health of our brand and the opportunities that now lie ahead for our unique thrill park experience," said Six Flags president and CEO, Mark Shapiro.

"We're excited about the potential of collaborating with Gulf Finance House to bring the new Six Flags and its recharged product to an entirely new audience."

Acting CEO of Gulf Finance House , Peter Panayiotou, added: "We were proud to facilitate Six Flags' introduction to Dubai and are now thrilled to be partnering with Six Flags ourselves.

"Our goal is to create an exciting, state-of-the-art tourist destination in China that will draw travellers from around the globe.

“Six Flags is recognized as a world leader in the entertainment and theme park industry. The experience and brand loyalty they bring to the table is unmatched."

The Dubai Six Flags park, the first Six Flags site outside of North America, will be part of the Dubailand scheme and is being developed by Tatweer, a member of Dubai Holding. Work is scheduled to begin on site in 2009.