NEOM, December 11, 2024 – In a landmark move that further accelerates Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a global media powerhouse, NEOM Media and Hakawati Entertainment have announced a transformative strategic partnership aimed at reshaping the Kingdom’s film industry. This collaboration is set to produce up to nine feature films and establish a world-class production services division within NEOM, positioning the region as a leading destination for creative content and entertainment production in the international landscape.
According to a press release issued by NEOM, the partnership with Hakawati Entertainment, a renowned Saudi-based company specializing in film, television, and literary management, will focus on localizing all future productions created in NEOM. The collaboration will leverage NEOM Media’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, which includes high-tech soundstages, a variety of shooting locations, and extensive production support services. This cutting-edge environment will foster the creation of high-quality films that meet global standards.
A pipeline of nine productions has already been identified, with two feature films slated for production in the first half of 2025. Several additional projects are under review, further cementing NEOM’s reputation as a prime filming location in the Kingdom. This initiative highlights NEOM’s growing influence in the global entertainment industry, combining world-class resources with a deep commitment to supporting local creative talent and innovation.
As part of this partnership, Hakawati Entertainment plans to establish a fully operational production services division within NEOM's rapidly expanding media hub. This division will cater to the diverse needs of international, regional, and local productions and will be bolstered by Hollywood-level talent and significant financial backing. The division will draw on Hakawati’s extensive network across the Kingdom, connecting local filmmakers with new opportunities for collaboration and growth, while streamlining the execution of complex projects and ensuring the highest standards in production quality.
The partnership also seeks to elevate the filmmaking industry in Saudi Arabia by fostering creative industries, promoting talent development, and establishing a sustainable and dynamic media ecosystem. A central aspect of this initiative is the creation of training programs and workshops designed to provide intensive training, job placements, and shadowing opportunities for both local and international media professionals. These efforts aim to upskill the Saudi workforce, enabling a new generation of filmmakers, producers, and technicians to take their place in the burgeoning global entertainment scene.
Michael Lynch, NEOM’s Sector Head of Entertainment, Culture, and Media, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing that it marks a critical milestone in the Kingdom’s pursuit of global media prominence. "This partnership with Hakawati marks a key moment in advancing Saudi Arabia's media industry. NEOM Media has rapidly become a top-tier production destination in the region, offering exceptional support, state-of-the-art facilities, and a skilled workforce. This collaboration strengthens our position as a center for innovation and creative growth in the entertainment sector,” said Lynch. He added that the partnership is poised to unlock significant opportunities for the Kingdom, propelling Saudi Arabia’s creative ambitions forward.
Osama Al Khurayji, CEO of Hakawati Entertainment, also shared his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with NEOM, a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at fast-tracking the growth of Saudi Arabia’s entertainment industry. This partnership goes beyond film and television production – it is about building a sustainable, world-class filmmaking ecosystem that will fuel the Kingdom’s rise as a global leader in entertainment and media. Together, we are committed to fostering creativity, innovation, and long-term success in the region’s rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.”
As part of the broader strategy to grow Saudi Arabia’s creative industries, the partnership will also focus on developing local talent. In early 2025, a Hakawati community will be established at NEOM in collaboration with NEOM Media’s Industry Learning Department to support talent development through a variety of hands-on programs. Additionally, a working group will be formed to implement at least three new training programs by the end of 2025, ensuring that creative Saudi professionals are continuously provided with opportunities to excel in the media and entertainment sectors.
This partnership between NEOM Media and Hakawati Entertainment represents a powerful step forward in Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global hub for film and media production. By combining world-class infrastructure with a strategic focus on local talent and sustainable practices, the Kingdom is poised to transform into a leading player in the global entertainment industry, contributing to the nation’s broader vision of economic diversification and cultural transformation.