RIYADH: Saudi Arabia unveiled Al-Hisn Big Time Studios in Riyadh, a groundbreaking facility aimed at boosting the television and film production industry across the Middle East.
Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority Turki Al-Sheikh inaugurated the facility west of the Saudi capital.
Al-Hisn Big Time Studios, built in a remarkably short period of 120 days, features seven studio buildings covering an area of 10,500 sq. meters.
The total project area covers 300,000 sq. meters and includes a production village with metalworking and carpentry workshops, as well as costume design facilities.
Additional amenities include luxurious suites for VIPs, offices for film production, and fully equipped editing rooms, all creating an ideal work environment that enhances production efficiency.
Al-Sheikh said: “Al-Hisn Big Time Studios will become a stronghold for producing Arab and international content, particularly Saudi productions.”
He further emphasized the importance of local content consumption, saying: “Approximately 65 percent of the content consumed in the region is from Saudi Arabia.”
Al-Sheikh also highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, mentioning that productions will take place at various locations, including Diriyah Jax, Sony Studios, AlUla, and MBC Studios in Al-Nargis.
He added: “We constructed these state-of-the-art facilities in just four months, showcasing our commitment to rapid development.”
Minister of Information Salman Al-Dossary remarked on the opportunities presented by Al-Hisn Big Time Studios, saying: “You will not find a better place than this in the Arab world.”
He praised the integration of government agencies, stating: “Our collective efforts ensure the success of the project, positioning it as a beacon for the film industry.”
The studios aim to provide a comprehensive platform for film and television production, offering creative resources in one location.
“This integration will not only reduce costs and save time but also provide access to cutting-edge global technologies,” Al-Sheikh said, highlighting the studio’s potential to enhance competitiveness in the international market.
In the studios, visitors can explore a museum featuring vintage cameras alongside films shot with them. There are also costume rooms where fashion designers craft outfits for various productions.
Additionally, a dedicated building is set aside for pre-production work. The facility has several production studios, with many Saudi companies collaborating on site, from camera manufacturers to actors, all working together to bring creative visions to life.
Nawaf Almutairi, a founding partner of One Shot drone company, is one of the industry professionals using the studios. He expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities presented by Al-Hisn, saying: “This facility allows us to push the boundaries of aerial photography and filmmaking.”
His company has completed various projects in Saudi Arabia, notably contributing to the third installment of the film “Welad Rizk” with their custom-built drones.
Almutairi said: “We are excited to create innovative content that showcases the beauty of our country."
Abdulrahman Alnafisah, general manager and co-founder of Nebras Films, said: “Saudi Arabia has seen significant advancements in the media and film production sector, fostering growth both locally and regionally. In this transformative landscape, Nebras Films played a key role in the launch of Al-Hisn Big Time Studios, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of Saudi cinema.
“This initiative underscores Nebras Films’ commitment to bolstering the Saudi film industry and nurturing local talent by creating a professional environment that aligns with international standards.”
