Imax has struck a deal with Muvi Cinemas, Saudi Arabia’s biggest exhibitor, to open four new Imax With Laser locations (its most advanced offering) at some of the biggest commercial centers in the country including two in Riyadh, the capital and most populous city, and and one in Jeddah’s Mall of Arabia.
Another location will be the first Imax system in Dhahran.
Three of the new locations are scheduled to open by the end of this year, the fourth in 2025.
“IMAX is the most immersive cinematic experience in the world, and we’re grateful to join forces with them,” said Muvi CEO Adon Quinn. “We always strive to provide the best cinematic experiences to our guests and maintain our positioning as the market leader. This partnership with IMAX underscores our commitment to delivering unparalleled, world-class experiences to our audiences.”
Imax CEO Rich Gelfond said the company has grown its footprint in Saudi Arabia dramatically over the past few years but sees much untapped potential still. “This is a country with a passionate moviegoing audience that has embraced diverse fare in IMAX ranging from Oppenheimer to Bad Boys to international films, and by partnering with a premier, nationwide exhibitor like muvi — we are strengthening our ability to meet that strong demand.”
Imax said Saudi Arabia has consistently ranked among the company’s top 20 countries worldwide since its first full year of commercial operation in 2019.
Oppenheimer is the highest grossing Imax title ever in Saudi Arabia and last month’s Bad Boys: Ride or Die is among the top five. It continues to be a prime market not only for Imax Hollywood releases, but also local language content from India and Japan, the company said, noting that the 2025 global film slate will feature a record 14 “Filmed for IMAX” releases.
Imax currently has 10 open locations in Saudi Arabia, with another 22 slated to open inclusive of its partnership with Muvi. It estimates it can open at least 50 locations in the country. With the Muvi agreement, IMAX now is in partnership with the top four exhibitors in Saudi Arabia.