Omar Al-Jasser: Saudi cinema is experiencing a true boom and has a promising future
The Secretary-General of the Arab Artists Union, Dr. Omar Al-Jasser, affirmed that Saudi cinema is currently experiencing a genuine and unprecedented period of prosperity, emphasizing the importance of the bridges of communication between pioneers of the arts and the new generation of creative talents. Al-Jasser explained that Saudi youth today possess an open and creative artistic vision, which has contributed to opening up creative horizons that were absent from the scene in previous decades.
These statements were made during his interview with Al-Youm newspaper while attending the King Abdulaziz University Student Film Festival
Historical shifts in the cinematic landscape
This vibrant artistic movement is a direct reflection of the major cultural transformations taking place in Saudi Arabia since the launch of Vision 2030, which has given significant attention to the culture and arts sector. Since the reopening of cinemas and the establishment of the Film Commission, the Kingdom has become an attractive destination for filmmakers, providing a fertile environment for local and co-productions, thus paving the way for young talents to emerge and compete.
In this context, Al-Jasser said, “ The Saudi film industry is experiencing a true boom, and the future is very promising. Our young filmmakers are now participating not only in local festivals, but have also made their mark in Arab and international events, winning prestigious awards.” He added that the significant support from the government, universities, and specialized academies represents a golden opportunity that must be seized.
A qualitative development in the King Abdulaziz University Festival
The Secretary-General of the Arab Artists Union expressed his great satisfaction with the level reached by the King Abdulaziz University Film Festival 2025, stressing that the festival is witnessing rapid growth year after year, both in terms of professional organization and the quality of participating artworks.
He noted that the festival achieves remarkable distinction with each edition, as the screenplays have become more profound and the directing more professional, confirming that student productions have become a vital source of qualified and creative talent for the Saudi film industry. He commented, "The festival introduces Saudi cinema to wonderful and creative young talents, and I hope these festivals continue for their pivotal role in discovering and developing talent.".
The impact of soft power and intergenerational communication
These events hold strategic importance that transcends the artistic realm, contributing to the Kingdom's soft power and showcasing Saudi cultural identity to the world. Empowering young people to tell their stories through cinema strengthens Saudi Arabia's cultural presence regionally and internationally, and fosters a sustainable creative industry that contributes to the national economy.
Speaking about the nature of the works presented, Dr. Al-Jasser explained that the new ideas offered by young people represent a real addition to the cinematic scene, saying with the humility of an elder: “Young people are presenting visions and ideas that we had not thought of before. In fact, we, as an older generation, are learning from them. They have reached new areas in presentation and treatment, and this necessitates that we understand their way of thinking and get closer to their visions so that we can support them better.”.
Dr. Al-Jasser concluded his speech by giving essential advice to male and female students, calling on them to make the most of student clubs in universities, describing them as “the real environment and the first laboratory for discovering and refining talents, whether in artistic, cultural or scientific fields.”.
