Ahead of the festival’s third edition, which kicks off in Jeddah on November 30, the Red Sea Film Foundation has announced NEOM as its primary sponsor. The collaboration is in line with the shared goal of promoting a flourishing and dynamic film industry in the area and powers several festival features, such as the Red Sea Souk and Talent Days program.
In the last eighteen months, NEOM Media Industries has solidified its standing as a leading regional media center and reliable international collaborator. The largest purpose-built facility for screen production, game development, and film and television vocational training in the Middle East and North Africa is located in NEOM.
As of right now, NEOM Media Industries has helped and sponsored over 35 productions in Hollywood, Bollywood, and the Arab world, ranging in size and genre. Additionally, it has been crucial in promoting talent development, industry education, innovation, and startup activities, as well as supporting local Saudi features and defining new industry standards.
The Red Sea Souk and Talent Days are a wonderful fit with NEOM’s mission to develop Saudi and Arab talent and provide them with employment possibilities to develop into the future workforce for the film industry. Over a thousand young Saudis have been successfully directed by NEOM through industry-focused learning programs. The organization provides post-graduation support in the form of internships, placements, and, eventually, full-time industry positions.
Mohammad Al-Turki, CEO of the Red Sea International Film Foundation, said: “Our partnership with NEOM is significantly accelerating the growth of the local industry. NEOM not only opens doors to a diverse array of opportunities for filmmakers, both locally and on the global stage, but it has established itself as a creative and collaborative central hub for the region’s industry. NEOM shares our deep commitment to championing home-grown talent within the region, and we look forward to further strengthening the foundations of our flourishing industry with their invaluable support.”
Wayne Borg, managing director of media industries, entertainment, and culture at NEOM, said: “We are thrilled to be part of the third edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival. This year, we have expanded our support to encompass the entire festival, having been part of the Red Sea Souk since its first edition. Empowering creativity and supporting talent is central to our mission. Through strategic partnerships and a dedicated focus on nurturing the next generation, we pave the way for a thriving media ecosystem in the region, amplifying opportunities to provide the industry-ready workforce of the future. The souk is a great reflection of the fast-evolving screen industry in the Kingdom, particularly its dynamism, vibrancy, and creative energy, and we are very proud to be the principal sponsor supporting it.”
