Film AlUla, the Royal Commission for AlUla’s film agency, has partnered with global media company Stampede Ventures, led by founder and CEO Greg Silverman, to bring 10 productions to AlUla over the next three years. This groundbreaking deal, finalised at the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, represents a USD 350 million investment and aims to elevate AlUla into a world-class hub for the film and creative industries.
This first-of-its-kind partnership involves Film AlUla offering rebates and incentives, facilitating Stampede Ventures to produce ten projects in AlUla over the next three years. The collaboration aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and foster cultural development.
Amr AlMadani, chief executive officer of the Royal Commission for AlUla, commented:
“Our partnership with Greg Silverman’s Stampede Ventures is a first-of-its-kind in the region and underscores Saudi Arabia’s investment potential as a film and creative hub. Over the past three years, Film AlUla has steadily and sustainably built a film economy that is capable of hosting productions from around the world. We are nearing completion of a 30,000 sq. m studio complex and are upskilling Saudis to assume leading roles in front of and behind the camera. A partnership of this scale will accelerate our growth and increase our global visibility.”
Greg Silverman’s vision for AlUla
Greg Silverman, founder and CEO of Stampede Ventures, is a veteran of the entertainment industry known for his extensive track record at Warner Bros. During his tenure there, he oversaw the production of over 125 films, including the Harry Potter series, Chris Nolan’s Batman trilogy, and Todd Phillips’ Joker. His creative and commercial instincts, combined with his global network and experience, have made him a key player in the industry.
Silverman said:
“We are thrilled to have this groundbreaking partnership with Film AlUla which will further develop their infrastructure for international productions, creating opportunities for the local economy and people, and add scope and nuance to our slate. Perhaps more importantly, the cultural exchange between US and Saudi filmmakers will make for better films and better understanding, the kind of connection that can only come through extended collaboration in the creation of art.”
Advancing Saudi Arabia’s film industry
Film AlUla has played a pivotal role in developing Saudi Arabia’s film industry. Since 2020, the agency has hosted over 700 days of filming, including productions like Kandahar starring Gerard Butler, the Russo brothers’ drama Cherry starring Tom Holland, and Saudi filmmaker Tawfik Alzaidi’s debut feature Norah, the first Saudi feature film to be shot in AlUla. TV productions filmed in AlUla include the British series Expedition with Steve Backshall and Nat Geo documentaries, along with commercials, promos, photo shoots, and short films.
In addition to hosting productions, Film AlUla is bolstering its on-ground infrastructure. Phase one of a world-class production facility, spanning 30,000 square feet, is nearing completion. This facility includes a soundstage, backlot, production support buildings, workshops, warehouses, a recording studio, and more. The soundstage will be just 14 minutes from the Film AlUla Residence, a purpose-built crew facility with 300 high-quality accommodation units and film-friendly office spaces.
Nurturing talent for industry growth
Film AlUla is committed to nurturing talent and accelerating industry growth. Initiatives include funding for Saudi and regional filmmakers, skills training hosted by international experts from Creative Media Skills at London’s Pinewood Studios, and comprehensive mentoring programmes like AlUla Creates. Supported by an esteemed group of talent, including fashion icons Eva Herzigova and Helena Christensen, Saudi trailblazers Haifaa Al Mansour and Mila Al Zahrani, and the award-winning outfit Vertigo Films, AlUla Creates aims to empower future generations in film, the arts, and fashion.
To learn more about Film AlUla, visit: https://filming.experiencealula.com/
