Saudi Box Office Hits $83M High in Q2: Local IP Reigns Supreme Saudi Arabia’s cinema sector has recorded its strongest performance of 2025 in the second quarter, generating SR311.9 million ($83 million) in revenue. According to new data from the Saudi Film Commission, this surge was not driven by Hollywood blockbusters alone, but by the massive commercial appeal of local content during the Eid al-Fitr window. The standout performer was the second installment of the "Shabab Al-Bomb" series, proving once again that established local IP is becoming the dominant force in the Kingdom’s theatrical market. The momentum from Eid saw April revenues hit SR94.7 million, peaking in June at SR118.5 million—the highest monthly total of the year. For distributors and exhibitors, the data reveals a stark seasonality that defines the Saudi market. While Q1 was sluggish (SR136.2 million) due to pre-Ramadan slowdowns, the summer season in Q3 remained robust at SR296.5 million, supported by international hits like the Brad Pitt-led Formula 1 movie. However, the "Back to School" effect in September caused an immediate sharp decline in ticket sales. With H1 revenues totaling SR448.1 million across 9.1 million tickets, and screen capacity now reaching 635 screens across 20 cities, the market is maturing rapidly. The clear takeaway for 2026 planning? The Saudi audience prioritizes hyper-local, culturally relevant franchises during peak holiday seasons over global tentpoles.
