ALULA: Backed by government incentives and long-term investment, the Kingdom is reshaping itself into a global production hub. At the center of this shift is Film AlUla, which is helping channel international production budgets into the local economy while building a sustainable creative sector.
According to the Saudi Film Commission, 65 production companies now operate in Saudi Arabia, generating more than $288 million (SR1.08 billion) in local spending through incentive programs.
A key driver is the Kingdom’s 40 percent rebate, designed to attract foreign productions and encourage them to spend locally, from hiring crews to securing locations and services.
That spending is spreading across a growing network of production hubs. Alongside Neom, new facilities such as Jax Film Studios and PlayMaker Studios are expanding the country’s capacity to host large-scale shoots.
Film AlUla has emerged as a key gateway for international filmmakers looking to combine financial incentives with visually striking locations.
Set against the dramatic landscapes of AlUla, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Kingdom, Film AlUla blends natural scenery with production infrastructure. Since launching, it has hosted more than 1,500 production days, according to its statements.
Each production brings spending on accommodation, transport, catering, local crews and technical services.
“Film AlUla has moved from primarily being a filming location to becoming a fully integrated production partner,” Acting Executive Director Zaid Shaker told Arab News. “We offer rebate incentives, facilities and global-standard support, while continuing to build a complete ecosystem.”
That ecosystem is designed to retain more value within the Kingdom. International productions are increasingly hiring Saudi crews, training young professionals and investing in long-term capabilities rather than simply filming and leaving.
One example is “Chasing Red,” part of a multi-film partnership between Film AlUla and international production company Stampede.
Based on the young adult web novel by Isabelle Ronin, the film stars Madelaine Petsch (“Riverdale”) and Gavin Casalegno (“The Summer I Turned Pretty”).
The project demonstrates how global intellectual property can translate into local economic activity. While the story is set in Arizona, filming in AlUla allowed producers to benefit from incentives while showcasing the region’s versatility.
“The film showcases the capacity of AlUla to represent different regions,” Shaker said. “Locations are always a character in a film, and AlUla’s landscapes are unmatched in their ability to double for different environments.”
Beyond visuals, productions like this are also driving skills development. Through training programs developed with international partners, Saudi talent is gaining hands-on experience on set, from internships to full-time roles.
“By having a custom training program designed by Stampede, the producers, to be able to provide youth with opportunities to train, shadow, and be on set for the film,” he added.
“We have a select group that has received training from the experienced crew, that had chances to be interns on set, and others that landed contracts to work on the set.”
“Creating a local crew base is essential,” Shaker added. “It generates jobs, supports knowledge transfer and contributes to cultural progression.”
This focus on workforce development aligns with the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and create new industries. In filmmaking, that means building a pipeline of local talent capable of supporting sustained growth.
The more productions Saudi Arabia attracts, the more money circulates within the country, strengthening both the industry and the broader economy.
Film AlUla’s role in this strategy is increasingly central. By offering end-to-end production support, including permits, visas, logistics and incentives, it reduces barriers for international studios choosing where to film.
At the same time, its diverse landscapes are expanding the types of projects Saudi Arabia can host. From action and suspense to romance and science fiction, AlUla’s terrain can stand in for multiple global settings, giving filmmakers both creative flexibility and financial advantages.
