Jeddah has a new spot for film lovers to explore – Cinema Al Balad, a venue dedicated to showcasing local, regional, and international cinema. The newly opened art house cinema is breathing new life into the city’s historic relationship with film, offering an experience that blends nostalgia with contemporary storytelling.

Inspired by Saudi Arabia’s first open-air theatre, Al-Jumjum Cinema, Cinema Al Balad pays tribute to the early days of cinema in Jeddah. Back then, moviegoers would gather in the historic district for open-air screenings. Fast forward to today, and Cinema Al Balad is continuing that legacy in a modern, curated setting.

 

The programme includes shorts, features, and documentaries by both emerging and established filmmakers. Upcoming screenings include Hobal and Thank You for Banking With Us, both set to draw audiences interested in bold, original storytelling.

Cinema Al Balad is designed as a community hub for film lovers. The space will host talks and workshops featuring industry professionals – from directors and producers to screenwriters, cinematographers, and composers. The goal is to connect audiences with the people behind the camera, and to give voice to Saudi and regional talent.

 

This opening is part of a broader transformation in Saudi Arabia’s film scene. After a 35-year pause, cinemas reopened in 2018 with the premiere of Black Panther. Since then, the Kingdom has seen a steady rise in cinema culture, with venues ranging from multiplexes to boutique cinemas like this one. Jeddah also hosts the annual Red Sea International Film Festival, welcoming global filmmakers to the city each year.

With Cinema Al Balad, Jeddah continues to position itself as a cultural hub for art house films, offering thoughtful programming and a space to engage with cinema in a meaningful way.