Cinema ticket prices are set to plummet in Saudi Arabia as the Film Commission slashes licensing fees for operating cinemas.
Under the leadership of Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah, the Board of Directors of the Film Commission has approved significant reductions in licensing fees. These reductions apply to licenses for permanent and temporary cinemas, as well as specialized needs cinemas.
The revised costs for cinema licenses are as follows:
License for operating permanent or temporary cinemas or specialized needs cinemas:
. Permanent cinema: Reduced to SR25,000 in "A" cities, SR15,000 in "B" cities, and SR5,000 in "C" cities.
. Temporary cinema: Reduced to SR15,000 in "A" cities, SR10,000 in "B" cities, and SR5,000 in "C" cities.
The commission has also decreased fees for operating cinemas to show one or more films on a permanent or temporary basis:
. Permanent cinema: Reduced to SR3,000 per branch in "A" cities, SR2,000 in "B" cities, and SR1,000 in "C" cities.
. Temporary cinema: Reduced to SR500 per branch in "A" cities, SR500 in "B" cities, and SR500 in "C" cities.
Additionally, the commission has streamlined the licensing process and initiated financial compensation discounts for cinema ticket revenues and fees. This aims to incentivize the private sector to lower ticket prices and offer promotions, leading to the expansion of cinema screens and increased screenings of Saudi films.
These measures align with the Film Commission's strategic goals of boosting the Saudi Arabian box office, enhancing economic contributions from the film sector, and fostering cultural diversity in cinema. CEO Eng. Abdullah Al-Qahtani emphasized the commission's commitment to stimulating the film industry by encouraging discounts, promoting Saudi films, and ensuring sustainability and growth in the sector.
These initiatives position Saudi Arabia as a prominent hub in the regional film industry, attracting investment, and improving the cinematic experience for audiences.
