New filmmaking initiative in AlUla aims to boost Saudi creative talent

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The program offers training courses and workshops covering all stages of film production, from scriptwriting and directing to cinematography, editing, and post-production. (SPA)
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The program offers training courses and workshops covering all stages of film production, from scriptwriting and directing to cinematography, editing, and post-production. (SPA)
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Villa Hegra runs educational and interactive programs for children to develop their talents and enhance their creative abilities. (SPA)
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Villa Hegra runs educational and interactive programs for children to develop their talents and enhance their creative abilities.
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Villa Hegra runs educational and interactive programs for children to develop their talents and enhance their creative abilities.
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Updated 15 December 2025
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New filmmaking initiative in AlUla aims to boost Saudi creative talent

  • Efforts aim to support young talent, contribute to growth of Kingdom’s film sector

ALULA: Villa Hegra, in collaboration with Film AlUla, has launched a specialized filmmaking program to develop cinematic skills and support creative talent, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The initiative reflects Villa Hegra’s commitment to strengthening cultural and cinematic activity while fostering an inspiring environment for content creators and film enthusiasts.

The program offers training courses and workshops covering all stages of film production, from scriptwriting and directing to cinematography, editing, and post-production.

These efforts aim to support young talent and contribute to the growth of the Kingdom’s film sector, the SPA added.

Villa Hegra also runs educational and interactive programs for children to develop their talents and enhance their creative abilities.

The programs include workshops that simplify scientific concepts and integrate them with modern artistic practices, creating a learning environment that encourages discovery and innovation.

They have attracted strong student participation across the governorate due to their hands-on, interactive approach, which enhances children’s thinking and creativity.

The initiatives are implemented in collaboration with French and Saudi institutions, reflecting cultural diversity and international partnerships while improving the quality of educational content for younger generations.

Villa Hegra is the first joint Saudi-French cultural foundation based in AlUla. Launched in October, it supports the region’s cultural scene by providing educational platforms that develop skills among Saudi children and youngsters, while strengthening AlUla’s presence on the international cultural stage.


Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport reaches record 50 million passengers in 2025

Updated 15 December 2025
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Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport reaches record 50 million passengers in 2025

  • New milestone marks the highest number ever recorded by a Saudi airport 
  • Lucky 50-millionth passenger was a French national arriving from Paris on a Saudia flight

JEDDAH: King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah recorded a new historic milestone on Sunday with the arrival of the 50-millionth passenger for year 2025.

The 50 million milestone marks the highest number ever recorded by a Saudi airport since the launch of civil aviation in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. 

It also placed KAIA among the world’s mega airports in terms of passenger numbers. The figure represents a 1.83 percent growth from 49.1 million passenger arrival recorded in 2024.

“This achievement reflects the qualitative transformation at KAIA and its growing status as a regional hub and national gateway connecting the Kingdom to the world,” the report said.

The lucky 50-millionth passenger was a French national arriving from Paris on a Saudia flight to participate in a sports tournament hosted in Jeddah. (SPA)

It also underscores the airport’s vital role in enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a global tourist destination and a gateway to the Two Holy Mosques by facilitating the movement of visitors, Umrah performers, and pilgrims.

KAIA serves as a gateway to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah by facilitating the movement of visitors, Umrah performers, and pilgrims.

The lucky 50-millionth passenger was a French national arriving from Paris on a Saudia flight to participate in a sports tournament hosted in Jeddah.

She was welcomed by JEDCO’s leadership, who greeted her and presented a commemorative gift to mark the occasion.

JEDCO Chief Executive Officer Mazen Johar said that reaching 50 million passengers reflects the airport’s high operational readiness and marks a pivotal milestone in preparations to double this figure in the coming years.