Planning a movie night soon?
In the heart of Jeddah’s historic district, a bold new chapter in Saudi cinema is unfolding. Say hello to Cinema AlBalad, the city’s first independent cultural cinema located inside a UNESCO World Heritage site! Running until June 15, this vibrant venue is proving that cinema isn’t just about movies, it’s about community, culture, and creativity.
What is Cinema AlBalad?
Cinema AlBalad is more than just a place to watch films. It’s a cultural experience tucked inside the iconic Haret Al-Mazloum, right where history and heritage meet. Launched with the support of the Ministry of Culture and part of the annual “Balad Al-Fann” initiative, the cinema reimagines how films can be enjoyed, open-air, fully air-conditioned, and styled in classic Hijazi architecture.
From award-winning Arab films to world cinema classics, Cinema AlBalad offers exclusive and specific screenings every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Sundays are for aspiring filmmakers, with hands-on workshops led by local creatives. Mondays? A throwback to old-school Arab cinema, suitable for all ages. Moving away from the idea of a classic indoor cinema, Cinema Albalad is more about learning the culture, meeting the people, and connecting with both.
Hijazi Vibes All Over
On top of a great movie lineup and a fun atmosphere, Cinema AlBalad adds a cool twist by bringing in Hijazi culture. They serve popcorn seasoned with local spices and offer traditional Hijazi dishes for guests to enjoy during the film. The whole experience has a vibe of its own, warm, immersive, and definitely worth trying at least once.
A Tribute to History
Before it was Cinema AlBalad, the site was known as Hosh Al-Jamjoom (Al Jamjoom Grounds), one of the earliest spaces for public film screenings in Jeddah in the 1950s. Now, with a fresh look and modern equipment, this historic spot is being brought back to life for a new generation of movie lovers.
Local Talent on the Big Screen
The opening night featured the short Saudi film Hadi Al-Eis by director Abdullah Saharti, a touching visual tribute to local culture. The film has received nods and applause from the Saudi Film Festival and the Sharjah Film Festival, proving that Cinema AlBalad is also a platform for rising voices in Saudi film.
Part of a Bigger Vision
Cinema AlBalad is one piece of Saudi Arabia’s larger cultural puzzle. Supported by the Ministry of Culture and aligned with Vision 2030, it’s helping turn Jeddah’s old town into a global cultural destination. It’s about preserving history, yes, but also about fueling innovation in arts and entertainment.
Whether you’re into films, a culture explorer, or just curious about what’s happening in Jeddah, Cinema AlBalad is a must-visit. The event runs through mid-June, and there’s something happening almost every day. So grab a seat, try the local popcorn, and enjoy a movie night like no other.
Explore more
Cinema AlBalad is just one of many exciting initiatives in the Kingdom that spotlight local talent. Another recent highlight is the success of Saudi winners at ISEF 2025, proudly representing the country on a global stage, read more about it here.
