MBS MENA LIMITED, PART OF THE MBS GROUP TO OPERATE ITS STATE-OF-THE-ART STUDIOS

Film AlUla, the film agency of the Royal Commission for AlUla, has signed a landmark agreement with MBS MENA Limited, the newly established regional entity of The MBS Group, the world’s leading studio operator and production services provider, to exclusively manage and operate the state-of-the-art AlUla Studios.

This strategic partnership marks a first-of-its-kind collaboration in the region, pairing Saudi Arabia’s premier production hub with a globally recognised premium studio brand—elevating AlUla as a new benchmark for production infrastructure and management across the Middle East.

‘AlUla Studios Powered by MBStudios’ introduces the MENA region’s newest production campus to The MBS Group’s unparalleled global network of 50 best-in-class facilities across the world’s major production markets. This includes renowned sites such as Manhattan Beach Studios—the company’s namesake and home to James Cameron’s AVATAR franchise—Amazon’s Culver Studios, Netflix’s Raleigh Studios, Radford Studio Center, Kaufman Astoria Studios, Eastbrook Studios London, Vancouver Film Studios, and Ardmore Studios Ireland.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to expand our international presence into the growing MENA region,” said Jason Hariton, Chief Studio & Real Estate Officer at The MBS Group. “We see AlUla as a premier destination for global content creators. The city offers proximity to remarkable landscapes and first-class accommodation—and some of the industry’s best financial incentives for filmmakers.”

MBS MENA Limited will work in close collaboration with Film AlUla to develop a robust production pipeline and ensure smooth studio operations—maximising occupancy, streamlining production schedules, and managing leasing for both local and international projects. This partnership marks The MBS Group’s' first operational footprint in the MENA region, introducing the same high standards seen at its flagship facilities in the US, UK, EU, and Canada. As the region’s first premium, internationally renowned studio operator, The MBS Group introduces global best practices and elite operational capabilities to a market poised for rapid growth in the entertainment sector.

In addition to its operational mandate, as the industry leader in LED and production lighting technology The MBS Group brings deep technical expertise that can scale alongside the evolving needs of the industry. Their global experience positions AlUla Studios to integrate cutting-edge innovations over time—including future capabilities such as volumetric stages and next-generation virtual production infrastructure—ensuring the facility remains at the forefront of technological advancement.

The deal supports Film AlUla’s core mission to develop a sustainable film ecosystem by creating economic opportunities and engaging the local workforce. As part of its operational mandate, MBS MENA Limited will prioritise hiring Saudi nationals, particularly AlUla residents, for studio operations and support roles. This initiative will also include training and development opportunities for local talent to build skills in studio management and production services. The Studios will support local businesses by sourcing goods, services and operational needs using AlUla-based suppliers where feasible and collaborating with local artisans and craftspeople to integrate regional aesthetics and cultural identity into productions.

Through the partnership, MBS MENA Limited will facilitate technical and managerial training programmes for AlUla locals, bringing its unparalleled global expertise to creating a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to support Saudi Arabia’s growing film industry.

‘AlUla Studios Powered by MBStudios’ is a full-service, state-of-the-art facility designed to support film and television productions of all scales.

The complex features two fully equipped soundstages, each spanning 25,828 sq. ft., and supported by 17,761 sq. ft. of dedicated production buildings. Designed as a full-service production ecosystem, the studio includes construction workshops, set offices, prop shops, wardrobe and costume spaces, catering facilities, and expansive backlot areas offering near-limitless potential for bespoke set builds.

In addition to its core production infrastructure, the complex boasts world-class audio capabilities, including a recording studio designed to accommodate a 32-piece orchestra with advanced acoustic treatment. Complementary facilities include training and rehearsal spaces, administrative offices, and event areas.

Zaid Shaker, Acting Executive Director of Film AlUla, said: “Partnering with MBStudios to operate AlUla Studios is a strategic leap forward in our mission to position AlUla as the premier production hub in the region. Their unmatched global experience brings the operational excellence needed to anchor long-term industry growth, attract high-calibre productions, and build local capabilities. We’re proud to mark this new chapter by welcoming the very first production into our state-of-the-art studios—an important step in realising our vision for AlUla as a global centre for film.”