After a 35-year cinema ban, Saudi Arabia's film industry is rapidly evolving, marked by the success of the Red Sea International Film Festival.
This transformation was celebrated when Roula Dakheelallah, star of *My Driver and I,* received the Chopard Emerging Saudi Talent award on Thursday.
“My heart is attached to cinema and art; I have always dreamed of a moment like this,” said Dakheelallah, reflecting on her journey from volunteering in small productions to her first major film role.
Saudi Arabia's cultural shift began in 2018 with the reopening of cinemas, ending a ban imposed under ultraconservative religious influence. The kingdom has since invested heavily in its film sector, building cinemas and launching programs to support local talent.
The Red Sea International Film Festival, launched in 2019, showcases Saudi films and international productions, attracting stars like Viola Davis and Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
These developments align with Vision 2030, a reform initiative aimed at reducing the kingdom's reliance on oil. As part of the plan, Saudi Arabia aims to construct 350 cinemas with over 2,500 screens. By April 2024, 66 cinemas were already operating in 22 cities.
The industry’s growth includes the opening of Al Hisn Studios near Riyadh, a production hub with film studios and workshops for carpentry, blacksmithing, and fashion. “These facilities will stimulate filmmakers,” said actor Mohammed Elshehri, emphasizing that creators now have the resources to bring their visions to life.
Media company Telfaz11, a key player in this transformation, has partnered with Netflix to produce original Saudi content. Films like Mandoob (Night Courier) and Naga explore sensitive social issues, marking a shift in Saudi storytelling. “When you tell your story naturally, it will resonate globally,” said Elshehri.
Some films like “The Goat Life” remain unavailable domestically. Even “My Driver and I, a story about a Sudanese driver caring for a girl, initially faced resistance due to its sensitive themes.
Filmmaker Ahd Kamel and Dakheelallah represent a growing number of women shaping Saudi cinema. “I see the change in Saudi cinema, a very beautiful change,” Dakheelallah remarked. “We need to guide the truth of this artistic movement at a steady pace.”
