The rise of IMAX in Saudi Arabia: A cinematic revolution
A new era for moviegoers
In a groundbreaking move, Muvi Cinemas, the largest exhibitor in Saudi Arabia, has partnered with IMAX Corp to install four IMAX with Laser systems across the Kingdom. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Saudi cinema landscape, promising an unparalleled viewing experience for movie enthusiasts.
Expanding horizons: The new IMAX locations
The new IMAX systems will be strategically placed in key cities: two in the capital city of Riyadh, one in Jeddah’s Mall of Arabia, and the first-ever IMAX system in Dhahran. Three of these locations are set to open by the end of 2024, with the final one debuting in 2025. This expansion is part of a broader vision to enhance the cinematic experience in Saudi Arabia, making it a hub for high-quality film screenings.
IMAX’s growing footprint in Saudi Arabia
Currently, IMAX operates 10 locations in Saudi Arabia, with plans to open an additional 22, including those under the Muvi agreement. IMAX estimates that the country has the potential to support at least 50 locations, reflecting the growing demand for premium movie experiences. This partnership with Muvi Cinemas means that IMAX is now collaborating with the top four exhibitors in Saudi Arabia, solidifying its presence in the region.
Box office triumphs: A testament to IMAX’s appeal
Recent releases have demonstrated the immense popularity of IMAX in Saudi Arabia. The filmed-for-IMAX release ”Oppenheimer” has become the highest-grossing IMAX title ever in the country. Additionally, last month’s “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” has secured a spot among the top five IMAX titles. These successes underscore the strong market for IMAX Hollywood releases, as well as local language content from India and Japan.
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A record-breaking future: The 2025 global film slate
Looking ahead, the 2025 global film slate is set to feature a record 14 filmed-for-IMAX releases. This ambitious lineup promises to captivate audiences worldwide, further cementing IMAX’s reputation as a leader in the cinematic industry.
Muvi Cinemas: A home-grown success story
Established in 2019 with its headquarters in Riyadh, Muvi Cinemas has quickly risen to prominence as the first home-grown cinema brand in Saudi Arabia. With the highest screen count in the Kingdom, Muvi Cinemas is committed to providing exceptional cinematic experiences. “At Muvi Cinemas, we always strive to provide the best cinematic experiences to our guests and maintain our positioning as the market leader,” said Adon Quinn, CEO of Muvi Cinemas.
The untapped potential of the Saudi market
“Saudi Arabia is a market where the IMAX footprint has grown dramatically in recent years, and yet so much untapped potential still lies before us,” said Rich Gelfond, CEO of IMAX Corp. This statement highlights the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for both IMAX and the Saudi cinema industry.
Reflecting on the future of cinema in Saudi Arabia
As Saudi Arabia continues to embrace the magic of cinema, the partnership between Muvi Cinemas and IMAX Corp represents a significant step forward. With state-of-the-art technology and a commitment to excellence, the future of cinema in the Kingdom looks brighter than ever. The anticipation for upcoming releases and the expansion of IMAX locations is palpable, promising a new era of cinematic experiences for audiences across Saudi Arabia.
In this rapidly evolving landscape, one can’t help but wonder what other innovations and collaborations will shape the future of cinema in Saudi Arabia. The journey has just begun, and the possibilities are endless.