RIYADH: This month, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority marks its 10th anniversary after a decade of spearheading cultural transformation.
Since its launch in May 2016, the GEA has focused on regulating entertainment activities, issuing licenses, empowering investors and strengthening coordination between stakeholders to build a sustainable entertainment ecosystem, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
It has also invested in developing national talent through specialized programs that prepare Saudi professionals for leadership roles in the sector.
Among its most notable achievements is the launch of six editions of Riyadh Season beginning in 2019, which has grown into one of the world’s leading entertainment events and a globally recognized brand.
The season’s brand value is estimated at $3.2 billion, reflecting its rapid growth and international appeal.
The Joy Awards have also become one of the sector’s flagship annual events, attracting major Arab and international stars and drawing widespread public and media attention.
As part of its expansion efforts, Saudi Arabia launched the entertainment city “Beast Land” in collaboration with renowned content creator MrBeast, reflecting its ambition to create innovative global entertainment experiences.
The authority’s chairman, Turki Alalshikh, posted on X on Wednesday to thank King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their support in growing the country’s entertainment sector.
“Over 10 years of continuous work, the entertainment ecosystem in the Kingdom has evolved through more than 39 seasons and 21 entertainment programs, offering diverse experiences that have reached over 320 million visitors and contributed to cementing the Kingdom’s global presence in the entertainment sector,” he wrote.
Today, the GEA continues its journey with a forward-looking vision, building on a decade of progress through expanding initiatives and evolving projects that shape the future of the Kingdom’s entertainment sector.
