Decades after imposing a blanket ban on cinema, Saudi Arabia will allow its population into theatres from next year. Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman has passed a resolution allowing licences to be granted to commercial cinemas. The latest move is part of the reform that is expected to result in easing up of several restrictions (including lifting a ban on women driving) from next year. Authorities in Saudi Arabia are confident that the economy, hit hard by low oil prices, will benefit hugely from the growth of the entertainment industry. According to estimates by the Saudi government, cinemas alone would contribute more than 90 billion riyal (Dh88.14 billion) to the economy and create more than 30,000 jobs by 2030. A total of 300 cinemas with 2,000 screens will be built in that time.
The silver screen is not new to Saudi Arabia, though. The kingdom used to have cinemas in all its major cities about half-a-century ago, but under pressure from conservative elements, the government was forced to shut them down during the 1980s. However, all that is set to change under a new plan, which aims to herald a new cultural renaissance in Saudi Arabia. By fully developing the broader cultural sector, the kingdom is looking at creating new employment and training opportunities for its people. From 2018, concerts and other forms of entertainment will be brought back for the country’s youth, which make up the majority of the population.
Any social engagement specifically in an artistic milieu, that includes theatre, literature and performing arts, is important for human survival. It is exciting to witness these positive changes unfolding in Saudi Arabia.
