Riyadh, December 28, 2025 (Agencies) – Saudi Arabia marked International Cinema Day on Sunday, highlighting the Kingdom’s growing focus on film, cultural heritage and the creative economy. Observed annually on December 28, the day celebrates cinematic heritage, including efforts to preserve and digitally restore classic films.
The occasion featured a range of cultural and training activities across the Kingdom, including free or discounted film screenings, panel discussions, workshops with directors and filmmakers, and showcases aimed at promoting emerging talent. These initiatives are designed to increase public engagement with cinema while supporting skills development within the sector.
The Saudi Film Commission said its ongoing efforts are focused on building a competitive national film industry by regulating the sector, empowering local talent, developing infrastructure, attracting domestic and foreign investment, and promoting Saudi content. Officials noted that these measures are contributing to the expansion of the creative economy and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s cultural presence regionally and globally.
Saudi Arabia now hosts several major local and international film festivals each year. Among them is the Red Sea International Film Festival, the largest film festival in the Kingdom and one of the most prominent in the Middle East, featuring films from more than 70 countries across categories including feature films, documentaries and animation.
Other key events include the Saudi Film Festival, the Saudi Film Confex and the Film Criticism Forum. These platforms play a significant role in highlighting local talent, celebrating Saudi cultural identity and encouraging international collaboration, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and promote cultural industries.