Saudi Arabia Launches Major Qiddiya City Film Studio to Boost Global Production Hub Ambitions

Saudi Arabia has officially opened a massive new film studio complex. PlayMaker Studios is now operational in Qiddiya City, outside Riyadh. The launch marks a significant expansion of the Kingdom’s growing production infrastructure.

The studio’s first major project is already underway. Pre-production has begun on the historical action film Unbroken Sword, directed by veteran filmmaker Alik Sakharov. This move solidifies Saudi Arabia’s aggressive push to become a top destination for international filmmakers.

State-of-the-Art Facility Anchors Vision 2030 Megaproject

PlayMaker Studios spans over 50 acres on the edge of the desert. It currently features two large, purpose-built soundstages. The facility also includes extensive workshops, production offices, and backlots.

Two more stages are already under construction. They are scheduled for completion by 2026. Post-production, VFX, and music studios are also planned for the site soon.

The studio is a core part of the Qiddiya City development. This “city of play” is a flagship project of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic plan. According to Reuters, such investments are central to diversifying the nation’s economy beyond oil.

Epic First Film and Regional Production Boom

The first feature to use the new studio, Unbroken Sword, will begin filming in early 2026. Over 200 crew members are already on site in preparation. The production will utilize the dramatic Tuwaiq Mountains as a natural backdrop.

Producer Richard Sharkey praised the facility’s ambition and unique setting. The scale and support offered at Qiddiya City are seen as major draws for international productions like this one.

PlayMaker joins other new Saudi studios like AlUla Studios and NEOM’s facilities. Together, they create a network of modern production hubs. Saudi Arabia now offers a competitive 40% cash rebate to attract global projects.

The launch of PlayMaker Studios represents a concrete step in Saudi Arabia’s plan to be a global film production hub. This new facility provides world-class infrastructure for major international shoots. It signals the Kingdom’s serious commitment to becoming a powerhouse in the creative industries.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What is the first movie filming at PlayMaker Studios?

The first major production is *Unbroken Sword*, a historical action film. It is directed by Alik Sakharov, known for *Game of Thrones*. Filming is scheduled to begin in early 2026.

Q2: Where exactly is the new Saudi film studio located?

PlayMaker Studios is located within Qiddiya City. This is a massive entertainment megaproject situated about 45 miles southwest of Riyadh. The studio uses the nearby Tuwaiq Mountains as a natural filming backdrop.

Q3: What incentives does Saudi Arabia offer filmmakers?

Saudi Arabia offers one of the world’s most attractive cash rebates. It is a 40% rebate on qualified production expenditures. This incentive is accessible through studios like PlayMaker and NEOM.

Q4: Are there other new film studios in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, Saudi Arabia is developing several new studios. Key facilities include AlUla Studios and NEOM’s Media Village. This forms a growing network of modern production infrastructure across the Kingdom.

Q5: Why is Saudi Arabia building these film studios?

The studios are a key part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic plan. The goal is to diversify the economy and develop new industries. Building a creative and entertainment sector is a major focus of this strategy.