After how many years were cinema houses reopened in Saudi Arabia following their long ban?

Cinema houses in Saudi Arabia were reopened after a long ban of 35 years, marking one of the most significant cultural shifts in the country’s modern history. The cinema ban, introduced in the early 1980s, reflected the conservative social environment at the time, when public entertainment spaces were limited and cultural activities were heavily restricted. For decades, movie enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia relied on home entertainment, satellite TV, and online platforms to watch films.

The turning point came under Vision 2030, an ambitious national transformation plan launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This reform agenda aims to diversify the economy, reduce dependence on oil, and modernize the social fabric of the country. Reopening cinemas was a central part of enhancing the entertainment sector and creating new opportunities for tourism, employment, and investment.

In December 2017, Saudi Arabia officially lifted the cinema ban, and by April 2018, the first public cinema screening took place in Riyadh. This moment symbolized a new era, not only in entertainment but also in cultural openness and global engagement. The return of cinemas also encouraged the growth of the Saudi film industry, giving local filmmakers a platform to showcase their work and share Saudi stories with the world.

Since the reopening, global cinema chains have entered the Saudi market, and dozens of modern theaters have been built across major cities. The move has been widely welcomed by the younger population, who make up a large portion of the country’s demographics.