JEDDAH: Since the news about the reopening of cinemas in Saudi Arabia broke on Monday, directors, producers and actors are rejoicing and cannot contain their excitement on the new chapter the Kingdom is going through. It is no secret that there is a small, up-and-coming film industry in the Kingdom. It just has not seen the light of day on the domestic front.
Many participate on an international level, but now things are turning around and many are hopeful and enthusiastic about what is coming up next.
Sara Taibah, a young Saudi actress who played Zaina in Nada Mojadidi’s “Zaina’s Cake,” which recently won the Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC) best short film award at Sharjah International Children’s Film Festival (SICFF), was excited with Monday’s news.
“This is our time now. The announcement is going to open doors for all potential actors and actresses that want to get into this field.”
“There’s a passion to it and I have had the privilege to experience it. Now others can too. Acting is another level of talent and there are so many talented Saudis here that want to show it,” she said.
As an actress, she said she would like directors and producers to make movies that are less intense and more toned down in the messages they convey.
“I hope that there’ll be more real social stories,” she said. “We all know of the major issues we have in the Kingdom, and I am not undermining them, but what about the real issues? How about going into people’s homes and telling the stories of us, to us, for us? That would be refreshing.”
Yasser Hammad, a writer and director and soon-to-be a graduate of the prestigious NY Film Academy in Los Angeles, said his dream is finally coming true.
“I’ve been wanting this since I was a child. People would always discourage me and tell me to keep dreaming. Well, the dream has finally come true.
“With the introduction of cinemas, an industry will surely happen. I’ve worked so hard to achieve my dream and my goal is to come back and throw myself into the game as soon as I can and be a part of the movement. I want people to view our films on the big screen and see how much we can give and appreciate the message we’re relaying on screen. Nothing is impossible now.”
He said with the growth of the industry, Saudi filmmakers would surely learn from the experiences of their neighbors like from their Egyptian counterparts.
He understands that it is going to be new and is still in its initial phases but the information is out there to organize and generate a system to make it easy for film casters, creative producers, cinematographers, etc. to do their job in the most efficient manner.
Nahar Alhamrani, creative director of “The Crew KSA Productions” and a major movie enthusiast, felt the news was a great milestone for the budding industry.
He told Arab News: “We don’t have the know-how of creating a full-fledged film but we’re learning along the way. It’s an experience for everyone taking part.
“Yesterday’s announcement was the best thing I’ve heard in a long time. I booked a ticket to Dubai this morning just to watch ‘Star Wars: The Last Jedi,’ that’s how dedicated I am... You could imagine how it’d be if we had cinemas in the Kingdom. People would flock to them and finally enjoy the experience.”
As a movie enthusiast, Alhamrani feels that cinemas bring people together, sharing one experience together, reacting to the same movie scene together. “You laugh, you cry and you show fear all together as a collective. That is an experience you can never have at home. The naysayers can complain all they want but they can never deny that they too watch movies on their TV screens, so why not give it a try on the big screen?”
It is also a fact that many, like Alhamrani, are giving it all they have got to produce the highest quality of work they can. As mentioned, they are still learning along the way, but it is something to look forward to in the future.
Upcoming filmmakers, actors determined to build a Saudi film industry
Upcoming filmmakers, actors determined to build a Saudi film industry
Kuwait’s crown prince meets foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations
- Meeting takes place on sidelines of 46th extraordinary meeting of GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers discuss developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza
RIYADH: The crown prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, met the Saudi minister of foreign affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and the foreign ministers of other Gulf Cooperation Council member states at Bayan Palace in Kuwait City on Thursday
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 46th extraordinary meeting of the GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers and other officials discussed the latest developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza.
They stressed the need to uphold Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the aftermath of the fall of President Bashar Assad’s regime this month, and condemned Israeli authorities for their attacks against Syria and Lebanon.
They also affirmed the GCC’s support for the Palestinian people and called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faith
- Hira Cultural District has books, gifts and special cuisine
- ‘Revelation Exhibition’ focuses on messages to prophets
MAKKAH: As winter arrives, the Hira Cultural District in Makkah, a landmark destination combining history, knowledge and services for tourists, has emerged as a hub for residents and visitors seeking cultural and recreational experiences.
At the heart of the district lies the “Revelation Exhibition,” which vividly narrates the story of divine messages to the prophets. It features a section focused on the life of Prophet Muhammad and the significance of Hira Mountain.
Using cutting-edge audiovisual technology, the exhibition is an immersive and enriching journey through Islamic history, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The district’s cultural library offers a treasure trove of information on the history of Makkah and Madinah, the life of the prophet, and the legacy of Hira Mountain and its surrounding areas.
This knowledge can be explored through books, scientific references, and interactive displays.
Beyond its historical and educational appeal, the cultural district constitutes a vibrant destination for leisure and commerce.
Restaurants and cafes serve a mix of local dishes inspired by Makkah’s heritage alongside international cuisine, while shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs reflecting the district's identity.
The Saudi Coffee Museum adds a distinctive flavor to the experience. Here guests can savor traditional Saudi coffee while learning about its regional variations and preparation methods.
For those seeking adventure, the district provides access to the Cave of Hira via a specially paved pathway, allowing visitors to connect with the site’s spiritual and historical significance.
A visitors’ center provides comprehensive information on the district’s features, services and cultural offerings.
Saudi attorney general holds talks with Turkish counterpart in Makkah
MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s attorney general, Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib, praised the strong relationship between the Kingdom and Turkiye as he welcomed a delegation led by his Turkish counterpart, Muhsin Senturk, to Makkah on Thursday.
The officials discussed legal collaborations between their nations and affirmed their desire to enhance judicial cooperation to serve common interests, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Indulge in the magical wizarding World of Harry Potter at Riyadh Season
- The pop-up experience offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles
RIYADH: Harry Potter: A Riyadh Season Adventure is one of the many enthralling and enchanting experiences on offer at Riyadh Season this year.
The pop-up experience, brought to life by Warner Bros., offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles.
Set in the vibrant Boulevard City, the area is designed to showcase some of the most iconic locations from the beloved film series, such as Hogwarts and others.
Interactive technology plays a significant role in the experience. Guests can take part in a Great Hall Sorting Experience, where they find out which Hogwarts house they belong to, and engage in Quidditch activities, as well as practice their Quaffle skills on the pitch.
There is also a zone where visitors can try wands and cast magical words they learned from the film series, like “Expecto Patronum.”
For those looking to take a piece of the magic home, the Wizarding World Shops offer exclusive merchandise, ranging from wands to house scarves, and the Three Broomsticks Food Hall offers refreshing drinks, cupcakes and other desserts.
Costumes are a big part of the fun experience, and there is a dedicated area for shopping, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect outfit to enhance their visit.
Maram Al-Ruwaili, a passionate fan dressed as a Slytherin, shared her excitement: “I’ve been a Potterhead since 2003. Now at 31, I still consider myself a big fan. I’ve tried one Harry Potter experience before, but not in Saudi Arabia.
“This time, sitting in the Great Hall, surrounded by sound effects from the films, made it feel like we were true Hogwarts students. The atmosphere, especially with the Dementors and Christmas sounds, was magical.”
The event has attracted a diverse crowd, including international visitors.
Nanditha Krishnakumar, an enthusiastic attendee from India, expressed her love for the experience: “I’ve adored Harry Potter since childhood, and this is truly amazing. It feels so lifelike and brings my dreams to life. I love Slytherin; it might seem like an evil house, but it’s one of my favorites. I can’t wait to see what else is in store.”
Aisleen de Asis, a nurse who has lived in Saudi Arabia for almost a decade, shared her perspective: “Harry Potter is a significant part of my childhood. I heard about this experience from friends and colleagues who enjoyed it, and I had to check it out myself. Being here brings back so many nostalgic memories.”
The Harry Potter experience at Riyadh Season also celebrates community and shared passion.
Fans from various backgrounds are coming together to relive the magic of their childhood, creating connections through their love for the series.
The excitement is palpable, as visitors share their stories, dress up as their favorite characters, and take part in the interactive activities that bring the magic of the books and films to life.
Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the series, the magical experience is not to be missed.
Misk Foundation celebrates NGO graduates
RIYADH: The Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, also known as Misk, celebrated the graduation of the fourth cohort of the Misk Initiatives Incubator and Impact Accelerator programs at a ceremony held recently at Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City in Riyadh.
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Al-Swaha and Misk Foundation CEO Badr Al-Badr, along with representatives of government agencies, NGOs and donors, attended the ceremony.
During the event, 11 youth initiatives were transformed into nonprofit organizations with the support of the Misk Initiatives Incubator program. Four NGOs were empowered through the Impact Accelerator program, contributing to achieving the objectives of the nonprofit sector and enhancing the role of young people in development.
Fifteen NGOs took part in the two programs, benefiting 177 people. They were provided with more than 2,000 hours of mentorship and financial grants exceeding SR7 million ($1.86 million) to support the implementation of projects serving young people. The ceremony also featured inspiring success stories, highlighting future projects aimed at amplifying social impact.
