Saudi Arabia has recently unveiled plans to slash license fees and ticket prices for cinemas within the country, signaling a significant move toward rejuvenating its cinema industry.
Spearheaded by the Film Commission and endorsed by the Minister of Culture, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, this initiative aims to ignite growth, boost audience engagement, and position Saudi Arabia as a prominent hub for cinematic excellence in the region.
The decision comes amidst an impressive announcement from the General Authority for Media Regulation, revealing the sale of over 61 million cinema tickets and the accumulation of SR3.7 billion ($986 million) in revenue since April 2018. In a bid to streamline operations, the commission has simplified the licensing process and reduced fees across various cinema operations, including both permanent and temporary setups as well as those catering to special needs audiences.
Prospective applicants can now conveniently obtain licenses through the Cultural Licenses Platform (Abde’a) for a spectrum of activities, ranging from studio operation and content production to film distribution and cinematography. Moreover, the commission is actively encouraging cinema operators to roll out discounts and promotions to entice a broader audience base.
These measures are anticipated to bolster the proliferation of cinema halls, facilitate easier access to Saudi films, and ultimately drive higher footfalls to cinemas nationwide. They form a crucial part of the Film Commission's broader strategy to advance the Kingdom's film industry, aiming to elevate the economic contributions of sector entities while nurturing cultural and creative diversity.
Abdullah Al-Qahtani, CEO of the Film Commission, emphasized the commission's dedication to fostering a vibrant film culture within the Kingdom. He underscored the importance of incentivizing private sector participation and increasing the visibility of Saudi productions across cinemas. The reduction in license fees and ticket prices, he noted, aligns with international standards and is poised to bolster the sector's sustainability and growth.
As the driving force behind the Kingdom's film sector, the Film Commission is committed to enhancing infrastructure, fostering a conducive regulatory environment, attracting investment, nurturing local talent, and facilitating global collaboration. Through such strategic initiatives, Saudi Arabia aims to cement its status as a leading regional powerhouse in the realm of cinema.