Saudi Arabia’s NEOM to become next filming hub

 

Saudi Arabia’s NEOM to become next filming hub

In just four years since its inception, NEOM’s state-of-the-art film studios have hosted over 40 productions, marking a rapid rise for a newly established facility in Saudi Arabia.

Located just one kilometer from the Red Sea, NEOM’s sprawling media complex is at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s drive to become a major player in the global entertainment industry. With multiple productions already completed and many more in the works, the facility is setting the stage for an exciting future in filmmaking.

During an exclusive tour with Al Arabiya English, the studios were alive with activity, as crews moved between sound stages and production offices.

“We have two sets of film studios—one at NC1, and another at Bajdah, which is about an hour away in the desert,” explained Michael Lynch, NEOM's Head of Media, Entertainment, and Culture. “We offer a strong set of options for filmmakers, whether for films, television series, or anything else, thanks to the unique attributes of our location.”

 

Read More          "Within Sand": First Saudi film shot in Neom pays tribute to Bedouin heritage

 

The facilities are strategically positioned, offering filmmakers a wide variety of stunning and diverse landscapes to choose from.

“We can recreate the moon, stars, and nearly anything else you need in terms of locations here,” said Lynch, emphasizing the area’s dramatic mix of pristine coastline, desert terrain, and mountain ranges.

Since opening, NEOM’s studios have attracted productions from Hollywood, Bollywood, the Arab world, and within Saudi Arabia itself. Lynch noted, “That is a formidable range.” He added that NEOM has a healthy pipeline of productions lined up for the next three years, along with multi-year partnerships. “For example, the upcoming Hollywood production Desert Warrior, a collaboration with MBC, was filmed entirely at NEOM. That’s a major milestone for the studio’s use and showcases the potential of this location.”

A Growing Filmmaking Hub

NEOM is rapidly becoming a key player in the regional content market as well.

“We have high-rated television series that are immensely popular across Saudi Arabia and the GCC, many of which are returning for second or third seasons,” said Lynch. “We’re also gearing up for some exciting new series later this year, aimed specifically at the Saudi and GCC audience.”

Lynch explained that NEOM’s unique offerings make it an attractive destination for filmmakers from all over the globe.

“We’re very open to productions from Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional Saudi filmmakers. Whatever story you want to tell, we have the resources to make it happen here.”

One of NEOM’s standout features is its accessibility, despite its relatively remote location. Lynch pointed out, “We can reach about 40 percent of the world within six hours, which makes it an appealing option for filmmakers looking for proximity to major cities, performers, and other industry hubs.”

 

Read More          Red Sea International Film Festival and NEOM renew their strategic partnership

 

The region’s natural beauty is another strong draw for filmmakers.

“I’ve never seen water as vibrant as the Red Sea, or witnessed the incredible fish and coral life here,” said Lynch.

The facility provides access to 468 kilometers of unspoiled coastline, pristine reefs, lush valleys, vast desert landscapes with sweeping orange dunes, and snow-capped mountains in the winter.

The all-encompassing nature of NEOM’s facilities also sets it apart from competitors.

“It’s a contained environment,” Lynch said. “The studios, accommodation, and other facilities are all here, making it a truly special offering.”

Beyond Film: NEOM's Vision for Gaming

Beyond its focus on film production, NEOM is also committed to advancing Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing gaming sector. As part of the Kingdom's National Gaming and Esports Strategy, NEOM is fostering the growth of the gaming industry through initiatives like the Level Up Accelerator, which provides funding and mentorship to startup gaming companies.

In December 2024, NEOM launched its Publishing Partner Network, a program designed to connect gaming startups with global publishing companies, helping to expand NEOM’s media portfolio.

NEOM is also focused on inclusivity and talent development within the gaming sector, with initiatives like She Jams, which promotes female participation in gaming, and the Game Dev Challenge, a program aimed at teaching game development to high school students across the Kingdom.

 

Read More          Saudi NEOM and the Korean Film Council (KOFIC) join hands to nurture filmmaking talent

 

Saudi Arabia’s gaming industry is already worth over $6 billion, and NEOM is working to position itself as a regional hub for talent, creativity, and business opportunities in this space.

Developing Local Talent

A key goal of NEOM is to develop local talent in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Since partnering with the UK’s National Film and Television School in 2020, NEOM has trained over 1,000 Saudis, with more than 350 placements and internships. The program continues to expand through collaborations with regional media leaders and international partners.

NEOM integrates Saudi interns into all film and television projects produced at its studios, providing them valuable hands-on experience with top-tier media companies.

Lynch emphasized the importance of developing local creatives, technicians, and actors: “By cultivating Saudi talent, we can share Saudi stories through film, television, gaming, and digital publishing—key components of why this project is so vital for the Kingdom’s future.”

World-Class Facilities

The media village at NC1 features four operational sound stages, including two large 2,400-square-meter stages, one 1,200-square-meter stage, and one 750-square-meter stage. The Bajdah Studios include two stages, each measuring 3,000 square meters. The expansive backlots—Oasis, Fort, and Arabic Villages—provide ample space for diverse production needs.

Additionally, the resort-style accommodation can host up to 350 cast and crew members, providing an ideal environment for world-class productions.

To further incentivize international productions, NEOM offers a competitive cash rebate of over 40% for various types of film and media projects, from feature films to commercials.

Lynch is confident that NEOM’s reputation in the global film industry will continue to grow. “The fact that people are returning to work here is the best indication that it’s working,” he said, adding that the quality of the facilities and the ease of production are key drivers of NEOM’s success in this competitive industry.

Source: Alarabiya