Saudi Arabia’s Film Scene Transformation
The **transformation** of the film industry in Saudi Arabia is nothing short of **remarkable**. Just six years ago, the kingdom had no film scene to speak of. Fast forward to today, and the country has witnessed its cinema doors reopening after a nearly **40-year ban** on public screenings. Since 2019, with the welcoming of non-religious tourists, the number of cinemas has surged to over **800**. This revitalization has sparked excitement among industry professionals, including Zaid Shaker, the acting **executive director** of Film AlUla, who took on his role in July and has been instrumental in this evolution.
The Current Landscape of Film AlUla
Film AlUla, a burgeoning hub for film and TV production, is set against the backdrop of **Saudi Arabia’s oldest UNESCO heritage site**. Shaker expresses his enthusiasm, saying, “All the pieces of the puzzle are falling into the right places.” With a **26,000-square-foot** soundstage and a **61,500-square-foot** backlot, Film AlUla Studios opened its doors last spring and aims to become a **government liaison** that assists productions with permitting and incentives. This has inspired inquiries from studios and **streamers** who are keen on using the facilities.
Exciting Developments in Workspaces
Shaker reveals that Film AlUla is operationally ready to welcome its **first film**. The facilities include a cutting-edge **recording studio** capable of accommodating a full orchestra, a production hub for filmmakers, and an activation space designed for various creative endeavors. This focus on modern amenities demonstrates a commitment to attracting high-quality productions.
Upcoming Projects and Productions
This year marks a significant milestone as Film AlUla anticipates announcing the **first feature film** production under the **Stampede Arabia** slate, a collaboration that originated with L.A.-based Stampede Ventures. Shaker notes that he is in discussions for other promising projects, showcasing the growing interest in both studio space and the stunning locations that AlUla has to offer.
Supporting Local Talent and Community Engagement
Film AlUla is dedicated to developing a skilled local workforce. Programs to **upskill** and train crew members are ongoing, with as much as **40%** of the crew in recent films like *Norah* being local talents. This commitment is highlighted by training initiatives such as **AlUla Creates**, which has produced several short films screened at the **Red Sea Film Festival**. While there are no strict quotas for employing Saudi nationals, bringing local talent into studio operations remains a primary objective.
Environmental Responsibility in Production
Sustainability is another core tenet of the operations at Film AlUla. The organization focuses on minimizing its environmental footprint while ensuring compliance with international best practices. Shaker emphasizes that productions are often incentivized based on their sustainability measures, keeping AlUla’s **cultural** and environmental significance in mind.
Global Recognition of Saudi Films
Saudi films are gradually gaining traction on the **global stage**. Following the success of *Norah* at Cannes, other local projects like Shahad Ameen’s *Hijra* and Abdulaziz Alshlahei’s *Hobal* are anticipated to make their mark in international cinema circles. These films resonate with Shaker’s perspective that Saudi filmmakers are now emerging as vital cultural narrators in cinema.
The Future Focus: International Collaboration
The current strategy aims to strike a balance between attracting **international projects** and nurturing **local content**. Shaker argues that international films can act as a catalyst for local filmmakers, providing them with valuable learning opportunities through real-time training and **shadowing programs**.
Achieving Milestones and Goals
Among the achievements Shaker takes pride in is the opening of the **Saudi Film Festival** with *Siwar*, shot in AlUla, signaling a big step toward local recognition. The **vibrancy** of the film industry in Saudi Arabia is palpable, with 42% of cinema revenue in the Middle East coming from the kingdom. This is indicative of an audience eager for diverse storytelling.
The Saudi Film Industry’s Positive Trajectory
The Saudi film industry is experiencing an exhilarating transformation marked by **positive energy** and a growing interest in cinema among the youth. Initiatives such as the **Red Sea Film Festival** and the Saudi Film Festival serve as platforms that further engage young filmmakers, fueling their passion and creativity. As voice comes to the youth, the storytelling landscape of the kingdom continues to grow, setting the stage for a **bright and dynamic** future in film.