Cinema is one of the world’s leading hubs of film production, developed till it became an essential part of the entertainment industry. In this article we are going to show the cinema in Saudi Arabia and what it hides from distinct secrets that change the entertainment map in the Kingdom.
History of cinema in Saudi Arabia
The cinema started its journey in Saudi Arabia in 2006 with a film called “Kaif Al Hal?”, at a time when movie theaters were still banned. Despite this restriction, Saudi filmmakers continued producing films, even though they could not be screened domestically.
This situation persisted until 2018, when the cinema ban was removed, then, the film industry became a priority and an important entertainment element. At that time, one billion SAR were allocated to create 1,000 jobs in filmmaking and production.
All of these elements made the cinema one of the Major Entertainment Projects in Saudi Arabia.
The next Chapter of Cinema in Saudi
After these great transformations, this sector witnessed establishment of over 45 cinemas in all over the Kingdom until 2020. As well as, some cinemas shined and achieved widespread popularity, such as Vox Cinema.
Continuing with this great success, numerous Saudi films have been produced to compete with the international ones. By 2025, box office revenues from film screenings had reached approximately 127 million SAR.
First movie theater in Saudi Arabia
The first cinema in Saudi was opened on 18/April/2018, in the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh. This cinema was established after a ban extended for 35 years.
This came with an event for “AMC Entertainment” before its grand opening, with “Black Panther” movie serving as the Kingdom’s inaugural preview screening.
Also read about: The Cultural Events of Saudi Arabia.
Movie screening technologies in Saudi cinemas
Cinemas in Saudi use the most developed screening technologies and keep pace with advancements in the sector. Some of the technologies that are used include:
Regal Technology
A traditional cinema screening technology. It does not feature additional enhancements such as surround sound or large screens, as the ticket prices for these theaters are usually lower than other types of screenings.
IMAX
One of the prevalent technologies in cinema, offering a highly immersive cinematic experience, with 4K quality visuals on a massive and curved screen that ensures clear viewing from every seat.
3D Technology
3D screening technology works by projecting two images onto a single screen, one horizontally and the other vertically. When viewed with special glasses, these images merge to create a three dimensional effect.
This technology enhances realism and depth, improves visual perception up to eight times, enabling it to be combined with moving seats, wind mist to create a fully immersive 5D experience.
How many cinema halls are there in Saudi Arabia?
Compared with other movie theaters all over the world, Saudi Arabia’s cinema industry is still in its infancy. In 2025, the development of this industry consisted of establishing 66 halls and cinema, but the prominent ones are:
- VOX Cinema: one of the most widespread cinemas in Saudi, including theaters that are located throughout various shopping centers.
- Movie Cinema: A prominent Saudi brand that spread all over the country.
- AMC: The first cinema in Saudi and spread into many Saudi cities.
In the end, Cinema in Saudi Arabia is just a cornerstone of a new entertainment industry that serves futuristic visions. Through Bayut Blog, you can track all the new coming plans and projects of entertainment and embrace the unique experiences.
