Industry

The MENA cinema market is experiencing a massive expansion, primarily driven by Saudi Arabia’s substantial investments in entertainment infrastructure. According to a November 2024 report by Omdia, the region's cinema revenue is projected to soar from $900 million in 2024 to $1.5 billion by 2029. This growth highlights Saudi Arabia’s role, projected to contribute nearly two-thirds of the region’s revenue by then(SAUDI CiNEMA)(META Cinema Omdia Novem…).
Saudi Arabia is set to lead the region in screen count, with 803 screens by the end of 2024, followed closely by the UAE. The region has added approximately 1,000 new screens since 2019, showcasing the growing demand for cinema across MENA. This cinema infrastructure expansion is part of a broader strategy that also prioritizes local content production and film festivals, notably the Red Sea Festival, which supports Saudi projects. Further incentives, including up to 40% cash rebates, aim to attract both local and international filmmakers(SAUDI CiNEMA)(META Cinema Omdia Novem…).
Omdia’s Maria Rua Aguete notes the significance of streaming platforms in the region, which are offering alternatives for films that might not reach cinemas due to limited screens or high costs. However, as Arab film culture continues to evolve, there is a growing need for more diverse cinema offerings and venues to reflect the region’s tastes. Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s recent moves to support locally produced films are seeing returns. Notably, the Saudi action-comedy Sattar ranks as one of the highest-grossing films in Saudi box office history, earning $10.7 million(SAUDI CiNEMA).
Beyond cinema, MENA's online streaming market is also on a growth path, with revenue expected to reach $2.7 billion by 2029. This hybrid entertainment ecosystem reflects the evolving preferences of MENA audiences, who are embracing both traditional theaters and digital streaming(META Cinema Omdia Novem…).
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia is reshaping MENA’s cinema landscape through investments in infrastructure, support for local productions, and incentives for international filmmakers, contributing to a diverse and dynamic entertainment ecosystem.