The Evolution of Saudi Arabia’s Film Industry
In just a few short years, Saudi Arabia has transformed its cinematic landscape. Less than a decade ago, the nation had no film industry to speak of. The opening of cinemas in 2018, after a 40-year hiatus, marked a significant turning point for the country, which began welcoming non-religious tourists only in 2019. Today, Saudi Arabia is home to over 800 cinemas, capturing the interest of both local and international audiences. Amidst this cinematic renaissance, Zaid Shaker, acting executive director of Film AlUla, is energizing the industry with his vision and leadership.
Momentum Builds in AlUla
After joining Film AlUla in July, Shaker expressed his enthusiasm for the burgeoning film sector. “All the pieces of the puzzle are falling into the right places,”he noted. With a talented team at his side, Shaker feels optimistic about supporting film and television production in the historic region of AlUla, recognized as Saudi Arabia’s oldest UNESCO World Heritage site.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Film AlUla Studios opened its doors in the spring, featuring impressive amenities, including 26,000 square feet of soundstages and a 61,500-square-foot backlot. The facility also serves as a governmental liaison to assist with permitting and provide rebate and incentive applications. According to Shaker, interest in these facilities from studios and streaming platforms is on the rise, particularly as they prepare for a strong pipeline of productions in the latter half of the year.
New Offerings and Upcoming Productions
Shaker shared insights on the studio’s new capabilities, highlighting the readiness of their advanced recording studio, which accommodates full orchestras, and a versatile production hub designed to support filmmakers’ needs.
Confirmed Film Productions
Excitement is building around the upcoming announcement of the first feature film under the Stampede Arabia slate, a collaboration with Hollywood veteran Greg Silverman. Shaker expressed enthusiasm about ongoing discussions with various production companies, reiterating the studio’s capacity for complementary shoot schedules due to its unique indoor and outdoor environments.
Nurturing Local Talent and Sustainability
Film AlUla is deeply committed to developing local talent. “Every initiative focuses on the local community,”Shaker explained, detailing ongoing training programs aimed at upskilling crew members. This effort is reflected in recent productions such as Norah, which debuted at Cannes Film Festival with 40% local crew members, and Siwar, where an impressive 80% of the crew was local. The AlUla Creates program has fostered a new generation of filmmakers, producing shorts showcased at the Red Sea Film Festival.
Building a Sustainable Future
Sustainability is essential to Film AlUla’s operations, with guidelines in place that incentivize environmentally-friendly production practices. The team is continually educated on modern sustainable practices to ensure that their efforts align with global standards.
The Global Impact of Saudi Cinema
As the local film industry flourishes, Shaker is optimistic about the international landscape of Saudi films. The anticipated release of Hijra by filmmaker Shahad Ameen, along with the culturally significant Hobal, emphasizes the narrative power of Saudi cinema and its potential to resonate globally. “Our filmmakers are cultural ambassadors,”Shaker asserted, underscoring the importance of storytelling in representing Saudi heritage.
Future Focus: Balancing Local and International Productions
The future for Saudi cinema looks bright, blending the attraction of international projects with the nurturing of local films. With strong community ties and a burgeoning infrastructure, Film AlUla is well-positioned to thrive. Shaker remarked, “The more we can attract international films, the more practical training opportunities we can provide for local talent, creating a symbiotic relationship.”
Pride in Achievements
Shaker attributes the success of Film AlUla to the team’s determination and the studio’s unique facilities. Recent achievements, such as the opening of the Saudi Film Festival by Siwar, resonate deeply with him, affirming their shared commitment to building a vibrant film culture in the kingdom.
The Current State of Saudi Cinema
With over 800 cinema screens operating, Saudi Arabia now accounts for 42% of the box office revenue in the Middle East, a staggering leap from a mere eight years ago. Films like Hobal highlight the audience’s eagerness for unique storytelling alongside commercial cinema. The excitement is palpable at events such as the Red Sea Film Festival, where new talents and narratives emerge, infused with energy and creativity.