Saudi Arabia to open cinemas for first time in 35 years

The National -- Saudi Arabia said that cinemas are expected to open early next year for the first time since their ban in the 1980s.

"As the industry regulator, the General Commission for Audiovisual Media has started the process for licensing cinemas in the Kingdom," Minister of Culture and Information Awwad bin Saleh Alawwad said in a statement.

"We expect the first cinemas to open in March 2018.”

The move comes as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, which includes a range of economic and social reforms — including allowing women to drive in the kingdom as of June 2018.

“This marks a watershed moment in the development of the cultural economy in the kingdom,” Dr Alawwad said.

“Opening cinemas will act as a catalyst for economic growth and diversification. By developing the broader cultural sector, we will create new employment and training opportunities, as well as [enrich] the kingdom’s entertainment options.”

The General Commission for Audiovisual Media will announce more details on the licensing and regulations in the coming few weeks.

Dubai-based Majid Al Futtaim and VOX Cinemas lauded Saudi Arabia's decision to reintroduce cinemas, adding that they are excited to collaborate with the kingdom in the coming months.

"In line with the spirit of Vision 2030, today’s announcement will mean the creation of thousands of job opportunities and support the growth of creative industries across the country," said Majid Al Futtaim in a statement.

"These are exciting times and will work with the Kingdom to extend the footprint of our VOX Cinemas brand to Saudi Arabia in the months ahead.

"We look forward to building on this collaboration in support of Saudi Arabia's domestic economic goals while providing great moments for everyone, every day."

VOX Cinemas said on Monday that it looks forward to introducing their movie theatres to Saudi Arabia "in the months and years ahead".

"Today’s announcement will mean the creation of thousands of job opportunities for Saudi Nationals through the creation of another new leisure industry in Saudi Arabia and we look forward to playing an active role," it said.