The Saudi government is seeking social and economic development by using the untapped potential of the non-oil economy. Lifting the 35-year ban on the cinema industry, as part of the overarching Quality of Life program, was one of the actions taken by the government to achieve related Vision 2030 objectives, opening up prospects for domestic, regional, and global cooperation and investments in the cinema industry.

This report aims to explore the future of the industry in the Kingdom through desk research and one-on-one interviews conducted with stakeholders in the Saudi film industry. We examine the potential of the industry in Saudi Arabia, the support it receives, industry patterns, challenges and factors that will drive growth. The report also discusses incentive schemes for film production, such as tax credits and rebates, by highlighting worldwide experiences/ evidence.

We summarise insights gathered through our interviews with Saudi stakeholders in the industry in the areas of film production, screenwriting, and academic research. These interviews offer additional insights and perspective into the future of Saudi film industry.