RIYADH: The General Entertainment Authority announced that entertainment events and activities across the Kingdom attracted 45.7 million visitors during the first half of 2026, reflecting the continued growth of Saudi Arabia’s entertainment sector.
During the first half of 2026, the GEA continued to strengthen the regulatory framework of the entertainment sector by issuing more than 2,500 licenses for entertainment and supporting activities. According to the press release, these efforts also contribute to providing a flexible regulatory environment that enables operators to conduct their activities in accordance with the highest approved standards.
The GEA conducted more than 8,500 compliance inspections across entertainment activities throughout the Kingdom to verify adherence to regulatory requirements, ensure the quality of services provided, and enhance safety and operational standards, thereby reinforcing the confidence of visitors and investors in the sector.
It issued 1,127 classification certificates during the first half of 2026 as part of implementing its approved classification framework for entertainment activities.
The number of companies operating in the entertainment sector exceeds 7,200, as entertainment activities across the Kingdom expand.
In terms of performance measurement, the GEA recorded a 96 percent overall satisfaction rate for the entertainment activities included in its assessment program.
According to the press release, the authority prepared more than 900 visitor satisfaction and experience reports, and handled 586 complaints during the second quarter of 2026.
Majed Alghurabi, chief regulatory affairs officer at the GEA, said: “These results reflect the role undertaken by the General Entertainment Authority in building an integrated regulatory ecosystem that extends beyond licensing to include the development of regulations, enhancement of service quality, strengthening of compliance and oversight, performance measurement, and investor enablement.”
Alghurabi continued: “Together, these efforts contribute to reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing entertainment markets while enhancing the sector’s competitiveness as a key driver of the national economy and quality of life.”
He added: “GEA continues to establish an enabling regulatory environment that provides the private sector with the support needed to enrich the entertainment sector through a diverse range of events and entertainment activities. These efforts contribute to achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, strengthen the sector’s appeal to domestic and international investors, and expand economic activity in ways that deliver lasting positive impact for the Kingdom.”
