Film AlUla partners with MBS MENA Limited to run AlUla Studios
Film AlUla, the film agency under the Royal Commission for AlUla, has signed a major agreement with MBS MENA Limited, the newly established regional arm of global studio powerhouse The MBS Group, to exclusively operate and manage the cutting-edge AlUla Studios in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration marks a first-of-its-kind partnership in the region, aligning Saudi Arabia's flagship production hub with one of the world's major studio operators.
Operating under the new brand 'AlUla Studios Powered by MBStudios', the facility becomes part of The MBS Group's global network of more than 50 elite production campuses, which include Hollywood landmarks such as Manhattan Beach Studios—home to the Avatar franchise—as well as Culver Studios, Raleigh Studios, and top-tier facilities in London, Ireland and Canada.
Jason Hariton, Chief Studio & Real Estate Officer at The MBS Group, said: 'We are grateful for the opportunity to expand our international presence into the growing MENA region. We see AlUla as a premier destination for global content creators. The city offers proximity to remarkable landscapes and first-class accommodation—and some of the industry's best financial incentives for filmmakers.'
MBS MENA Limited will work in close collaboration with Film AlUla to develop a robust production pipeline and ensure smooth studio operations—maximising occupancy, streamlining production schedules, and managing leasing for both local and international projects. This partnership also marks The MBS Group's first operational presence in the MENA region, bringing its high standards in studio management and technical innovation to a market that is rapidly emerging as a global player in entertainment. Alongside its operational role, MBS will introduce advanced production technologies over time, including virtual production and volumetric stages, ensuring that AlUla Studios remains at the forefront of global filmmaking.
The deal aligns closely with Film AlUla's mission to create a thriving, locally rooted film industry. MBS MENA Limited will prioritise hiring Saudi nationals, particularly residents of AlUla, for a range of operational and support roles at the studio. In addition, the partnership will deliver training and development programmes to help local talent acquire world-class skills in studio operations and film production.
Local businesses and artisans will also benefit from the agreement, with sourcing and collaboration opportunities built into the operating model to reflect the region's cultural identity and economic goals.
The newly operational AlUla Studios is a full-service, state-of-the-art facility designed to accommodate productions of all sizes. It features two soundstages of over 25,000 sqft each, supported by nearly 18,000 sqft of production buildings, prop shops, costume spaces and construction workshops.
In addition to its core production infrastructure, the complex boasts world-class audio capabilities, including a recording studio designed to accommodate a 32-piece orchestra with advanced acoustic treatment. Complementary facilities include training and rehearsal spaces, administrative offices and event areas.
Zaid Shaker, Acting Executive Director of Film AlUla, added: 'Partnering with MBStudios to operate AlUla Studios is a strategic leap forward in our mission to position AlUla as the premier production hub in the region. Their unmatched global experience brings the operational excellence needed to anchor long-term industry growth, attract high-calibre productions, and build local capabilities. We're proud to mark this new chapter by welcoming the very first production into our state-of-the-art studios—an important step in realising our vision for AlUla as a global centre for film.'
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