Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority issues 4,500 licenses

The GEA was established in line with the Saudi Vision 2030 plan to develop the entertainment sector in the Kingdom. (File/AFP)
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Updated 06 September 2023
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Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority issues 4,500 licenses

  • More firms now offer sales management, talent development, crowd control, live entertainment

RIYADH:  Since its establishment in 2016 to help grow the industry, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority has issued licenses for more than 4,500 companies and venues to organize events and provide services in more than 100 cities.

There are 1,579 licensed restaurants and cafes that offer live performances, 257 facilities specializing in entertainment centers, and 17 dedicated to amusement parks. 

On the support and services side, there are 645 establishments offering operational backup, 128 platforms for ticket management and sales, 537 specializing in talent development, and 393 focused on crowd management. Additionally, several companies assume multiple roles across various areas within the entertainment and related sectors.

With its diverse projects, the GEA has attracted investment in the domestic industry, with more than 70 foreign companies having obtained licenses to operate in the country. 

The GEA was established in line with the Saudi Vision 2030 plan to develop the entertainment sector in the Kingdom, which would help diversify the economy and grow small- and medium-sized businesses.


Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

Updated 11 January 2026
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Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

  • It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content

TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.

The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.

It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.

Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.

The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.

Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.