How This Saudi Port City Is Embracing a Cultural Revival

Once a bustling hub for maritime trade for centuries, the coastal city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia is now enticing international visitors for an entirely new reason: cinema. Originating as a fishing village about 2,500 years ago and evolving into a significant trade gateway in the 7^th century for the holy cities of Makkah and Al Madinah, Jeddah’s strategic position has always bolstered its commercial significance. As the Kingdom welcomes tourists, Jeddah is redefining itself as a global destination.

Thanks to significant changes in public funding and legislation, Jeddah is transforming dramatically, aiming to become the Cannes of the Middle East. Film enthusiasts will find numerous opportunities to catch a glimpse of the exciting future awaiting this coastal city.

A New Horizon

Over the decades, as policies evolved, Saudis demonstrated an unquenchable thirst for the arts, enjoying foreign films from the comfort of their homes while a new generation of Saudi filmmakers pursued their education overseas. Gradually, social norms began to relax, and in 2012, filmmaker Haifaa al-Mansour made history with Wadjda (The Green Bicycle), the first feature-length film filmed entirely in Saudi Arabia.

As global audiences experienced the country through her lens, a new wave of filmmakers emerged, including local talents like Lina Malaika and Yaser Hammad, along with the creative team behind AlMaha Films. Each of them honed their craft in the United States before returning to contribute to Jeddah's cinematic landscape.

For Malaika, co-directing her debut short film marked a significant step in her personal journey to define what it means to be a Saudi woman today. Hammad brings a multicultural perspective, showcased in his work as the writer of Roll’em, a feature film where Jeddah plays a pivotal role, along with his various short films. Meanwhile, AlMaha Films focuses on producing genre pieces like the historical epic Born a King, aiming to present modern interpretations of Saudi statehood to broader audiences.

With hundreds of cinemas opening across the country, Jeddah emerges as a prime destination for film enthusiasts eager to experience the flourishing Saudi film scene—and it all kicks off with the Red Sea International Film Festival.

A Celebration of Cinema

Launching in 2021 with the premiere of Joe Wright’s Cyrano, the Red Sea International Film Festival showcases hundreds of local and international films over ten days each December. Organized by the independent, non-profit Red Sea Film Foundation, which supports film labs, fellowships, and panels, the festival is a key player in shaping the future of Saudi cinema by funding filmmakers eager to share their unique stories.

Naturally, the festival highlights Jeddah’s most beloved spots, with the Jeddah Corniche standing out as the most picturesque. Officially opened in 2017, this scenic seaside promenade stretches over 2.5 miles and features various attractions, including the iconic King Fahd Fountain, the tallest of its kind in the world, sandy beaches, islands, and the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, site of the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. During the 2022 festival, events and screenings took place at the seaside Ritz-Carlton, VOX Cinemas at the adjacent Red Sea Mall, and right on the promenade itself.

A Living Film Set

Swapping the glitz of the Jeddah Corniche for centuries of rich history, the old town of Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore a different aspect of Jeddah and its 7^th-century origins. With its museums, bustling markets, and intricately designed architecture made from coral and latticed wood, this neighborhood allows visitors to see the city’s roots up close.

Cinema as a Gathering Place

In partnership with the Red Sea Film Foundation, Hayy Cinema debuted in late 2022. As part of the new Saudi branch of the internationally renowned Hayy Jameel Arts Center, this audio-visual venue, designed by the architecture firm waiwai, is the nation’s first of its kind, hosting year-round retrospectives, discussions, and exhibitions. Visitors can enjoy free access to the center from Wednesdays to Sundays. Check their website for details on specific film screenings.

What Lies Ahead?

By melding its rich, multicultural history with a strong commitment to developing its film industry, Jeddah is truly a thrilling place for filmmakers and film enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia. As artists continue to find their voices, Jeddah is poised for tremendous growth, making it a must-visit for art and cinema lovers alike.