AlUla Shortlisted for ‘City of Film’ at the 2026 Global Production Awards
In a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning creative economy, AlUla has been officially shortlisted in the prestigious “City of Film” category for the 2026 Global Production Awards. Organized by Screen International, the recognition acknowledges AlUla’s rapid transformation into a premier destination for high-end international cinema and television production.
Executive Summary
- Global Recognition: AlUla is a finalist for the “City of Film” award at the 2026 Global Production Awards in Cannes.
- Strategic Infrastructure: The nomination highlights the success of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s (RCU) integrated studio complex.
- Economic Impact: The move aligns with Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy through the media and film sectors.
- Production Hub: AlUla continues to attract major international studios with its unique mix of historical heritage and modern facilities.
The final winners will be announced during the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, one of the most influential gatherings in the global film industry. The Global Production Awards celebrate excellence in production infrastructure, filming locations, and the sustainable growth of cinematic cities.
From Heritage Site to Global Backlot
AlUla’s inclusion on the shortlist is no coincidence. The ancient city, known for its dramatic sandstone landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage sites, has successfully pivoted into a functional, world-class filming destination. By offering a “natural open-air studio” alongside high-tech facilities, the Kingdom is competing with long-established filming hubs in Jordan, Morocco, and Europe.
The “Film AlUla” initiative, spearheaded by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), has been the driving force behind this evolution. With a fully integrated studio complex, the initiative provides end-to-end production services—from pre-production logistics and talent sourcing to state-of-the-art post-production capabilities.
Vision 2030 and the Creative Economy
This nomination serves as a testament to the Kingdom’s massive investment in its creative infrastructure. Under the umbrella of Vision 2030, the film sector is viewed as a critical pillar for economic diversification and job creation. By establishing AlUla as a regional hub, Saudi Arabia is not only exporting its culture to a global audience but also building a sustainable local ecosystem for media professionals and News related to technological advancements in the region.
As AlUla prepares for the awards in Cannes, the focus remains on blending its deep historical legacy with future-forward technology, ensuring the Kingdom remains a central character in the global story of modern cinema.
