Saudi entertainment industry now boasts 4k firms thanks to Vision 2030 – top official
Saudi Arabia's entertainment industry has expanded dramatically, now comprising 4,000 companies, up from fewer than 10, all thanks to the ambitious Vision 2030 plan, according to a senior official.
During the Saudi Media Forum, held on February 21 in Riyadh, General Entertainment Authority CEO Faisal Bafarat noted that more than 150,000 jobs have been generated locally since the initiative began in 2016.
He highlighted the sector's rising competitiveness, increased investment, and the need for diverse entertainment offerings.
The General Entertainment Authority, established as part of Vision 2030, aims to cater to various entertainment preferences across the Kingdom's population. In 2023, the media sector's contribution to the GDP was SR14.5 billion ($3.86 billion), with a target of SR16 billion set for this year.
Ahmed Al-Mehmadi, General Entertainment Authority's executive director of operations, emphasized media's critical role in the field of entertainment and the value of local and regional partnerships for industry growth. He also spoke of the authority's efforts to invigorate its platforms and reach diverse audiences.
The third Saudi Media Forum was held from February 19-21, attracting 2,000 specialists and presenting innovations from over 200 companies.
Initiatives to advance the communication sector include the Media Zone project and the launch of the Hajj and Umrah Mediathon to enhance coverage of these significant religious events, along with the Hajj Media Hub designed for media professionals.
He highlighted the sector's rising competitiveness, increased investment, and the need for diverse entertainment offerings.
The General Entertainment Authority, established as part of Vision 2030, aims to cater to various entertainment preferences across the Kingdom's population. In 2023, the media sector's contribution to the GDP was SR14.5 billion ($3.86 billion), with a target of SR16 billion set for this year.
Ahmed Al-Mehmadi, General Entertainment Authority's executive director of operations, emphasized media's critical role in the field of entertainment and the value of local and regional partnerships for industry growth. He also spoke of the authority's efforts to invigorate its platforms and reach diverse audiences.
The third Saudi Media Forum was held from February 19-21, attracting 2,000 specialists and presenting innovations from over 200 companies.
Initiatives to advance the communication sector include the Media Zone project and the launch of the Hajj and Umrah Mediathon to enhance coverage of these significant religious events, along with the Hajj Media Hub designed for media professionals.