Saudi Arabia’s Film AlUla Targets Music Industry As It Expands Studios With Recording Studio

Saudi Arabia’s Film AlUla has announced the construction of a state-of-the-art recording studio, within its recently launched studio complex.

Set to open in June 2024, the facility will comprise a 190 sq m (2045 sq ft) studio space, 47sq m (505 sq ft) control room and two Iso booths, as well as catering facilities and a rack room.

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Film AlUla said it had worked with industry experts to design the facilities, which will provide the latest audio and recording equipment.

This development sees Film AlUla enter the music space for the first time as it continues its drive to become a full-service creative hub.

Saudi Arabia has a burgeoning music scene which includes everything from EDM to opera, following the launch of the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Culture, General Entertainment Authority and Music Commission to oversee the development of its music sector.

The country hosts a raft of concerts and festivals featuring locally and internationally renowned artists. AlUla is part of this scene, hosting the annual Azimuth festival annually, which in 2023 was headlined by Peggy Gou, R&B singer Jorja Smith and Egyptian rock sensation Cairokee.

It is also home to Maraya, a multi-purpose venue that has hosted concerts by the likes of Alicia Keys, Andrea Bocelli and most recently James Blunt.

Saudi Arabia also has its own established and up-and-coming music talent, with artists such as Sawsan Albahiti, The Saudi Arwa, Zena Emad, Aedh Yousef and Dalia Mubarak.

“Following the successful launch of our film studios last year, we are continuing to strategically expand the complex and become a one-stop destination for creatives, with the recording studio being a natural next step in this vision,” said Film AlUla Executive Director Charlene Deleon-Jones.

Situated in northwest Saudi Arabia, the heritage region of AlUla is currently being developed as a major creative and tourist centre under the country’s 2030 Vision strategy aimed at moving the economy away from a reliance on oil.

“We are delighted to welcome artists from June this year, who we have no doubt will be inspired by the magnificent surroundings and heritage that AlUla has to offer while making the most of our cutting-edge facilities to create magic.”

Phase One of Film AlUla’s studio complex includes two soundstages and production building housing hair and makeup rooms, wardrobe facilities, office spaces, board rooms, and dressing rooms.

There are also workshops and RV parking areas for each stage, an administration building, the sound recording studio, kitchen and events space and 61,500 sq ft backlot for additional temporary infrastructure and set builds.

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