It increasingly evident that Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a stake in the global film industry, and the Kingdom is making significant strides in achieving this goal.

With JAX Film Studios and other exciting ventures into the industry, Saudi Arabia is taking bold steps toward becoming a major player in the global film industry. By integrating advanced technology, strategic partnerships, and local talent development, the Kingdom is set to redefine film production in the Middle East. As the facility nears completion, it promises to be a game-changer for filmmakers, both locally and internationally.

Announced the Saudi Film Commission at the at the 78th Cannes International Film Festival, where Saudi Arabia’s pavilion attracted strong interest from international filmmakers, producers, and industry leaders, it was confirmed that JAX Film Studios would be completed by the end of 2025. The Kingdom’s presence at Cannes underscores its commitment to fostering global partnerships and expanding its influence in the film industry.

JAX Film Studios, Riyadh

JAX District Riyadh via ig 1

JAX Film Studios via SPA

A state-of-the-art production complex in Riyadh, this facility is set to become one of the leading film and media production hubs in the region, reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to building a competitive and connected cinematic ecosystem. Spanning over 7,000 square meters, JAX Film Studios is designed to meet global production standards, offering advanced technology and world-class amenities.

Strategically located in the heart of Riyadh's growing arts district, this new film-focussed complex will provide visitors with easy access to local hotels, a short drive to the capital's international airport, and a growing network of industry professionals. Local filmmakers will undoubtedly also benefit from proximity to crew, equipment, and post-production services, all within a 20-minute radius.

And the studio’s virtual production capabilities, powered by Sony’s latest innovations, will provide limitless creative possibilities, allowing filmmakers to produce high-quality content with cutting-edge technology.

Some of its key features include:

Two 1,500-square-meter soundstages for high-quality film production

A virtual production stage powered by Sony’s latest screen technology, enabling filmmakers to create immersive digital environments

A private cinema, production prep areas, meeting rooms, dining spaces, and a VIP lounge for industry professionals

Saudi's Growing Love for Film

Film Desert via unsplash 4 jakob-owens

Photo by Darren Arthur/Getty Images for Red Sea International Film Festival

Photo by Darren Arthur/Getty Images for Red Sea International Film Festival

Red Sea Film Festival Al Balad Jeddah via GettyImages-2184202491

Saudi Arabia is rapidly positioning itself as a global centre for film and television production, with significant investments in cinematic infrastructure and industry expansion across AlUla, NEOM, and the wider Kingdom.

The launch of JAX Film Studios is a key milestone in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global hub for film and media production. According to Abdullah Al-Qahtani, CEO of the Saudi Film Commission, the facility is designed to empower Saudi creatives while attracting international filmmakers: "Jax Film Studios represents a cornerstone of our strategy to develop a world-class film infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. As we become one of the region’s premier production hubs, this facility is built to meet the highest international standards—empowering local creatives while attracting global talent.”

With internationally acclaimed film festivals garnering attention from around the world, and Saudi-produced films making their global debut reflect this growing influence. AlUla, famed for its stunning desert landscapes and historical significance, is drawing major international productions through initiatives such as Film AlUla and the newly launched AlUla Studios. At the same time, NEOM, the visionary megacity, is emerging as a cutting-edge media hub, boasting state-of-the-art soundstages and production facilities designed to attract leading filmmakers from around the world.

And most recently, Film AlUla announced a strategic partnership with The MBS Group, a globally recognised studio operator.

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