Turki Al-Sheikh inspects preparations for the biggest Arab film, Khalid Ibn Al-Walid
In a move reflecting the accelerating pace of development in the entertainment and film sector in Saudi Arabia, Advisor Turki bin Abdulmohsen Al-Sheikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), conducted a strategic inspection visit today to Al-Hosn Studios ("Big Time") and the studios of the massive Qiddiya project. The visit aimed to gain firsthand insight into the latest developments and logistical and technical preparations underway for the epic historical film about the life of the esteemed companion of the Prophet and renowned military commander, Khalid ibn al-Walid, a project poised to become the largest production in the history of Arab cinema.
During his field visit, Al-Sheikh, accompanied by a number of experts and filmmakers, reviewed the intricate details of the production process. He and the creative teams examined the prototypes of the historical environments, meticulously designed to recreate the geography and architecture of the Arabian Peninsula and the Levant in the 7th century AD. The review included a thorough examination of the artistic designs of military and civilian costumes, the types of weapons used, and the complex engineering of the major battle scenes. These elements underwent extensive historical research for over a year to ensure their accuracy and adherence to historical facts.
Khalid ibn al-Walid: A military genius who inspired history
This step acquires exceptional importance that transcends the artistic dimension, given the weight of the central figure it portrays. Khalid ibn al-Walid, nicknamed "The Drawn Sword of God," is a unique military phenomenon in human history, having never been defeated in over a hundred battles, both before and after his conversion to Islam. Portraying the life of a commander who led the Muslim armies in the Ridda Wars and was the architect of the immortal victory at Yarmouk requires a dramatic and production approach of international standards, capable of showcasing the strategic genius that continues to be studied in military academies around the world to this day.
Vision 2030: Localizing the film industry and competing globally
This massive project is a practical embodiment of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to diversify income sources and enhance soft power through the culture and entertainment sector. The Big Time studios and the Qiddiya project, which are home to this work, represent a qualitative leap in Saudi Arabia's cinematic infrastructure, equipped with the latest global technologies in filming and visual effects. This initiative underscores the Kingdom's ambition to become a regional and international hub for film production, leveraging the Big Time investment fund launched by Turki Al-Sheikh to support and elevate Arabic content to compete with Hollywood productions.
The visit concluded with Advisor Turki Al-Sheikh stressing the need to adhere to the highest standards of quality and professionalism, emphasizing that this film is not merely an entertainment work, but a visual document that aims to reintroduce Islamic and Arab history in a manner befitting its greatness, and by the hands of Saudi and Arab talents capable of making a difference.
