The first cinema to open in Riyadh this month

Saudi Arabia's residents will be invited to attend the first movie show in Riyadh by next April 18, as the first cinema house opens its doors after a 35-year hiatus.

The sector's regulator, Culture Ministry, has granted the first cinema operation license to a joint venture of Public Investment Fund (PIF) and US-based AMC to inaugurate cinemas around the Kingdom.

With a population of over 32 million, Saudi Arabia can become the largest market for movie-goers in the GCC region.

Last December, Saudi Culture Ministry lifted a 35-year ban on cinemas, allowing show providers to commence activity as of 2018.

The decision is part of radical social and economic reforms under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia plans to open up to 350 theatres and over 2500 screens by 2030.