Nestled in a tranquil desert landscape adorned with magnificent rock formations, AlUla, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has emerged as a sought-after location for international filmmakers. Drawing the attention of both local creatives and big-budget Hollywood productions, AlUla's potential as a film destination was highlighted by Charlene Deleon-Jones, Executive Director of Film AlUla, during a fireside chat at the 76th Cannes Film Festival.
Deleon-Jones expressed the remarkable transformation AlUla has undergone, evolving from a place where cinema was not a prominent aspect to a destination that embraces and supports filmmaking from around the globe. Film AlUla has made significant investments in the local film infrastructure, including the provision of 150 self-contained villas for visiting crews, set to expand to 300 by October. Additionally, two state-of-the-art soundstages are set to launch in October, enhancing AlUla's production capabilities.
With the generous allocation of vast surrounding land, AlUla offers potential for backlot development, fostering a favorable environment for filmmakers. However, Film AlUla is dedicated to ensuring compliance and efficient utilization of government resources, while simultaneously making the filmmaking process as accessible as possible to interested parties.
To streamline the process, Film AlUla has assembled a specialized team to assist with pre-production stages, location scouting, and the provision of visual materials aligned with script treatments and storyboards. They also offer support with necessary visas and paperwork.
"Kandahar," an upcoming blockbuster featuring Gerard Butler, was primarily shot in AlUla, marking the first Hollywood production to be filmed entirely in Saudi Arabia. As a gesture of appreciation, Film AlUla organized a community screening exclusively for Saudi Arabia-based cast and crew members, including those involved in transportation and catering services during the production.
AlUla is set to serve as a captivating backdrop for a diverse range of local and international productions, including projects from the United States, Bollywood, and the Korean film industry. Film AlUla aims to strike a balance between supporting domestic and regional productions while remaining accessible to international ventures.
Collaborating closely with the Red Sea Film Foundation and Festival, Film AlUla embraces the development of homegrown talent from the Middle Eastern and African perspectives. The organization has facilitated various labs and initiatives, nurturing creativity and supporting filmmakers from these regions.
AlUla's rise as a global film destination signifies its commitment to fostering a thriving film ecosystem, attracting diverse productions and cultivating local talent. With its awe-inspiring landscapes and dedicated support systems, AlUla is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.