Saudi Arabia has lifted a 35-year ban on cinemas in one of the surprising social modernization decisions taken by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The decision is part of “Vision 2030” spearheaded by the young Prince with a view to “open up the country, diversify the economy and make the Kingdom a global destination for business and tourism.”
Cinema firms are already starting to prospect market opportunities with IMAX planning to open up to 20 theatres in the conservative country within three years.
Saudi disposable income is set to lure in cinema giants to the Kingdom, presenting ideal opportunities for more premium cinema experiences.
The Saudi Government says the opening of movie theatres will contribute more than 90bn riyals to the economy and create more than 30,000 jobs by 2030.
