Cinema of Saudi Arabia

Cinema of Saudi Arabia comprises film production and public cinemas in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. For an extended period from the mid-1980s until 2018, public cinemas in the country remained closed due to social and religious policies in effect at that time. People watched films on television, video cassettes, DVDs, and the internet.

In 2018, public cinemas reopened as part of economic and social reform programmes known as Vision 2030. Since then, state-funded bodies have been established to finance film production, and major international cinema chains have entered the market.

Early history

Before the 1980s, there were private screening venues and halls run by oil company clubs in the eastern region, particularly in worker settlements. There were also film screenings in homes and cultural clubs. The importance of public film screenings declined following political changes that occurred after 1979.

Period of restriction and independent film

Although public cinemas were closed, Saudi filmmakers exhibited their work at international film festivals and online platforms. The film Wadjda, directed by Haifa al-Mansour, is considered a significant work in the history of Saudi cinema and was released in 2012–2013. Young groups working on YouTube also created a new audiovisual market.

Reopening in 2018

An announcement made in late 2017 authorized the reopening of public cinemas, with the first official screening taking place in Riyadh in early 2018. Cinema chains both domestic and international have opened venues in major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Films continue to be subject to state review.

Bodies and festivals

The Film Department of the Ministry of Culture and other bodies provide grants and training. The Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, launched in 2021, has become the region's largest film festival venue. Efforts are also underway to attract international film production to the country.