For decades, Saudi Arabia was known for its conservative approach to public entertainment, including the complete absence of movie theatres. However, in recent years, the kingdom has undergone significant cultural transformations, with cinema emerging as a prominent part of this change. So, the answer to the question is complicated, but I’ll do my best to explain everything.
A Cinematic Void: Pre-2018 Restrictions
For much of the 20th and early 21st centuries, public cinemas were banned in Saudi Arabia due to concerns over the influence of Western media and a desire to maintain conservative cultural values.
Cinematic content, particularly foreign films, was seen as potentially problematic due to depictions of violence, romance, and lifestyles at odds with traditional Saudi norms.
As a result, Saudis seeking the movie-going experience had to travel to neighbouring countries like Bahrain or the UAE.
https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4474055489327117 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});At home, movie fans turned to DVDs and satellite channels to watch films. Despite the restrictions on public cinema, there was always an underground love for movies in the kingdom.
People would host private screenings or watch films on personal devices, and the demand for Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional Arab films never truly disappeared.
A Cultural Shift: The 2018 Reopening of Cinemas
In 2018, Saudi Arabia’s movie landscape changed dramatically as part of Vision 2030, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s ambitious plan to modernize the country and diversify its economy away from oil dependence.
This reform movement led to the lifting of the cinema ban, marking the first time in over 35 years that public movie theatres would operate in Saudi Arabia.
The reopening of cinemas in 2018 was symbolic of a broader cultural renaissance in the kingdom. On April 18, 2018, AMC Theatres opened Saudi Arabia’s first public cinema in Riyadh, with a screening of “Black Panther”.
Since then, multiple global and regional cinema chains, including VOX Cinemas and Muvi Cinemas, have established theatres across the country.
A Growing Film Industry
In addition to welcoming global films into Saudi theatres, the kingdom has also begun to nurture its own film industry. Saudi filmmakers like Haifaa Al-Mansour, who directed the critically acclaimed “Wadjda” (2012)—the first Saudi film directed by a woman—are gaining recognition internationally.
With the reopening of cinemas, local filmmakers now have a platform to showcase their work at home, contributing to a blossoming Saudi film industry.
Moreover, the establishment of film festivals, such as the Red Sea International Film Festival, has provided a space for creative exchange between local filmmakers and international cinema professionals
. Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in its creative sector, with the government offering funding and training opportunities for aspiring filmmakers.
Regulations and Censorship
While movies are now allowed in Saudi Arabia, there are still regulations and censorship measures in place to ensure that the films align with cultural and religious values.
The General Commission for Audiovisual Media (GCAM) is responsible for regulating what is shown in cinemas. Movies with explicit content, such as strong language, intimate scenes, or political themes deemed sensitive, are subject to editing or complete banning.
https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4474055489327117 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});Saudi audiences can still enjoy a wide array of films from Hollywood, Bollywood, and the wider Arab world, but the final cut may differ from versions shown in other countries.
Despite these restrictions, the variety of films available continues to grow, and more Saudi citizens are embracing the cinematic experience.
A Bright Future for Cinema in Saudi Arabia
The question of whether movies are allowed in Saudi Arabia has evolved into a much broader conversation about the country’s cultural and social reforms.
Since 2018, the cinema industry has grown rapidly, with numerous theatres operating across major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
This change reflects the kingdom’s efforts to become a cultural hub in the Middle East, encouraging the consumption of films and the production of Saudi and Arab content.
https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4474055489327117 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its entertainment sector, cinema has become an essential part of the country’s social fabric, providing a space for entertainment, discussion, and artistic expression.
Conclusion – Are movies allowed in Saudi Arabia?
Movies are not only allowed in Saudi Arabia but also flourishing as part of the kingdom’s broader push for modernization and cultural expansion.
Although there are still some content restrictions, the reopening of cinemas and the development of the Saudi film industry signal a significant shift in the country’s entertainment landscape.
For Saudis, cinema is more than just entertainment—it’s a symbol of progress and a window to the world.
As the kingdom continues on its path of reform, the future of cinema in Saudi Arabia looks promising, with more opportunities for both global and local films to be enjoyed by an eager audience.
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