Saudi Arabia Entertainment Market Size and Forecast by Content Type, Delivery Platform, Revenue Model, and End User: 2019-2033

Saudi Arabia Entertainment Market Outlook

A Strategic Transformation into a Global Cultural Hub

The Saudi Arabia entertainment market is undergoing a rapid evolution, driven by a national vision to transform its oil-centric economy into a diversified knowledge and leisure-based society. As of 2024, the industry is valued at approximately US$ XX.58 billion, and is expected to reach US$ XX.72 billion by 2033, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.72% during the 2025–2033 period. This growth trajectory reflects the Kingdom’s deliberate shift toward a vibrant lifestyle economy in alignment with Vision 2030.

Strategically developed under the stewardship of government entities and financially backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the entertainment sector has recorded exceptional gains since its liberalization in 2016. Institutions such as the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN) have been instrumental in crafting a structured ecosystem that supports live events, digital platforms, cinema infrastructure, and theme-based attractions. According to DataCube Research, from 2019 to 2023, the sector grew at an average CAGR of X.1%, underpinned by increasing demand for premium content, relaxed regulatory norms, and expanded entertainment zones across major cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.

Regulatory Synergy, Infrastructure Expansion, and Technology Push

The momentum behind the Saudi Arabia entertainment sector is strongly influenced by a blend of regulatory agility and large-scale infrastructure development. The Events Investment Fund (EIF) launched in January 2023 is a cornerstone initiative aiming to channel US$7.5 billion in foreign direct investment by 2045. The fund is tasked with building event-ready infrastructure in high-density zones like Riyadh and Taif, thereby ensuring venue accessibility and operational efficiency.

Edge computing is being introduced in parallel with fiber broadband rollout to improve streaming latency and platform performance, supporting high-definition content delivery even during live events. This technology integration has significantly enhanced the user experience across platforms such as Shahid, Netflix Arabia, and StarzPlay. Meanwhile, GEA's regulatory framework, with licensing protocols and quotas for local content, ensures a balance between global access and national identity preservation.

Government-backed entities such as SEVEN are currently developing over 20 entertainment destinations across key cities, each featuring cinemas, amusement parks, and mixed-use spaces. This infrastructural ambition is not only reshaping the leisure economy but also creating long-term employment opportunities, driving private sector confidence and investment inflow.

Content Economics, Income Patterns, and Media Trade Dynamics

A core strength of the Saudi Arabia entertainment ecosystem lies in the country's increasing ability to export culturally resonant content. With rising investment in cinematic and televised productions, local studios are beginning to attract international licensing deals and co-production agreements. Saudi Arabia is actively seeking content trade partnerships through events such as the Red Sea International Film Festival, where regional creators gain exposure to international buyers.

Rising disposable incomes—with the average urban household income reaching US$42,300 in 2024—have empowered consumers to invest more in entertainment services. Consequently, production budgets have scaled accordingly, with local feature films averaging between US$700,000 to US$1.2 million per project. This financial commitment reflects both the audience’s growing content expectations and the government’s push for global-standard storytelling.

Furthermore, streaming infrastructure has witnessed unprecedented modernization. Key players have invested in robust content delivery networks (CDNs), allowing simultaneous local and global releases. In 2024, Amazon Prime Video and Netflix reported Saudi viewership growth of 38% and 42%, respectively, indicating rising international appetite for Saudi-produced content.

Youth-Centric Demand and Digital Behavior Shaping Market Trends

End-user behavior in the Saudi Arabia entertainment industry is predominantly shaped by its youthful population, with over 65% under the age of 35. This tech-savvy demographic is highly engaged in digital content, with individuals spending an average of 3.8 hours daily consuming entertainment via smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

Subscription models dominate the digital content space. Over 68% of users prefer bundled SVOD options, and price sensitivity remains a challenge—prompting platforms to offer localized, flexible payment plans. Platforms such as Shahid VIP, Netflix, and OSN+ have optimized their pricing strategies and curated regional content to strengthen engagement and retention.

Youth-focused live events such as MDL Beast Soundstorm, attended by 700,000+ participants in 2023, highlight the growing preference for experiential entertainment. This blend of physical and digital consumption reflects a unique hybrid demand, pushing producers and organizers to adapt content strategies accordingly.

Competitive Dynamics and Strategic Moves in a Reformed Market

The competitive landscape of the Saudi Arabia entertainment market is witnessing diversification, with both local and international firms adopting market-specific strategies. Domestically, entities like SELA, Riyadh Season, and MDL Beast—all under the umbrella of PIF—are implementing large-scale live events, concerts, and sports experiences. SEVEN, in contrast, focuses on infrastructure and permanent entertainment venues.

On the global front, AMC Theaters, Cirque du Soleil, and Six Flags have collaborated with Saudi developers to build experiential assets. These partnerships bring expertise in content delivery and venue management, aiding knowledge transfer and reducing market entry friction.

In 2024, AMC Theaters expanded to 14 cities with a focus on hybrid programming—featuring both Hollywood blockbusters and Arabic films—marking a significant step in audience diversification. Similarly, Netflix partnered with local production house Telfaz11 Studios to produce a six-film anthology exploring Saudi society, culture, and youth aspirations.

Distribution strategies have evolved beyond traditional broadcasting. OTT platforms are leveraging AI-driven analytics to segment audiences and customize viewing experiences, resulting in a 22% improvement in user engagement across SVOD platforms in 2024. Moreover, partnerships with telecom operators such as STC and Mobily allow bundled subscriptions with 5G data plans—broadening user access across income tiers.

Conclusion: From Vision to Global Stage

The Saudi Arabia entertainment industry is not merely expanding—it is being systematically reengineered to compete on a global stage. Supported by progressive policy design, strategic capital investments, and technology-led infrastructure, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a regional hub for entertainment, culture, and digital media.

As entertainment becomes a pillar of economic diversification, the sector is attracting investors, creators, and audiences from across the globe. With a carefully structured roadmap extending through 2033, Saudi Arabia is on track to redefine not only its national identity but also the broader Middle East entertainment paradigm.

Author: Joseph Gomes (Head – Media and Entertainment)

*Research Methodology: This report is based on DataCube’s proprietary 3-stage forecasting model, combining primary research, secondary data triangulation, and expert validation. [Learn more]

Saudi Arabia Entertainment Market Segmentation