Saudi Arabia’s Film AlUla has signed a deal with The MBS Group, which comprises Manhattan Beach Studios – home to James Cameron’s “Avatar” sequels – which will exclusively manage and operate their state-of-the-art AlUla Studios.
Under the deal MBS Group’s newly established regional unit, 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,” MBS Group and Film AlUla said in a joint statement.
The partnership marks MBS Group’s’ first operational footprint in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, adding to its global network of roughly fifty facilities. Besides Manhattan Beach Studios, which are the company’s namesake, these include Amazon’s Culver Studios, Netflix’s Raleigh Studios, Radford Studio Center, Kaufman Astoria Studios, Eastbrook Studios London, Vancouver Film Studios, and Ardmore Studios Ireland.
Film AlUla is the film commission for the swathe of northwest Saudi Arabia roughly the size of Belgium that also comprises a lush oasis and vast sandstone canyons. Its filmmaking facilities include two large soundstages, each spanning 25,828 sq. ft., a backlot, and production support buildings.
The AlUla complex also comprises a recording studio designed to accommodate a 32-piece orchestra, training and rehearsal spaces, administrative offices, and event areas.
The statement underlined that The MBS Group’s know-how will allow Film AlUla to scale-up as needed going forward. “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,” it said.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to expand our international presence into the growing MENA region,” said Jason Hariton, chief studio and real estate officer at The MBS Group. “We see AlUla as a premier destination for global content creators,” he added, noting that “The city offers proximity to remarkable landscapes and first-class accommodation — and some of the industry’s best financial incentives for filmmakers.”
Commented Zaid Shaker, acting executive director of Film AlUla: “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,” he added.
The deal envisions supporting Film AlUla’s core mission to develop a sustainable film ecosystem by creating economic opportunities and engaging and training the local workforce.
