Turki Al-Sheikh, head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), unveiled the “Big Time” investment fund dedicated to revolutionizing Arabic film production, distribution, and manufacturing. With the participation of leading names in the Arab entertainment world, the fund signifies a major push to elevate the quality of Arabic content on the global stage.

The GEA will serve as the primary sponsor of “Big Time”, joined by the Ministry of Culture and specialized companies. The initial phase will focus on investing in high-profile Saudi, Gulf, and Arab films.

Al-Sheikh’s commitment to boosting the film industry is already evident. For instance, he recently pledged $3 million to improve production quality and film scenes of “Sons of Rizk: The Judge” (ولاد رزق: القاضية), with some external filming taking place in Riyadh Boulevard.

Additionally, a groundbreaking $35 million collaboration between Mohamed Diab and Al-Sheikh is shaping up. Drawing from his own artistic workshop alongside talented Saudi youth, Diab will direct a thrilling zombie-themed series set in Riyadh Boulevard. Each episode or two will feature a different director, creating a dynamic viewing experience and fostering local Saudi heroes. This innovative series will transform into an immersive Boulevard experience.

Al-Sheikh also surprised fans with the news that Lebanese superstar Nancy Ajram will make her acting debut alongside Karim Abdel Aziz in the Mustafa Saqr-penned, Mohamed Shaker-directed film “Work Cairo” (شغل كايرو).

With “Big Time”, at least fifteen ambitious film projects are in the works, including:

• “El -Sett” (الست): Mona Zaki stars as legendary singer Um Kulthum in this biopic by Ahmed Murad and Marwan Hamed.
• “El Feil El Azrak” (الفيل الأزرق): Karim Abdel Aziz returns in this anticipated thriller.
• “She3ar El Kahera” (شعار القاهرة): Another collaboration between Karim Abdel Aziz and Nancy Ajram, directed by Mohamed Shaker.
• “Lesa Hetta” (لسه حتة): Ahmed Helmy brings his comedic talents to this project.
• Untitled collaboration: Mohamed Mamdouh and Amina Khalil reunite for an exciting new film.
• “Al Bahs 3an Fdeha” (البحث عن فضيحة): Karim Mahmoud Abdel Aziz and Hana El Zahed lead the cast.
• “Al Shanab” (الشنب): Featuring star turns by Leila Eloui, Lebleba, Sawsan Badr, and Eiten Amer.
• “W feha ehh ya3ny” (و فيها إيه يعني): Ghada Adel and Maged Al Kadwani co-star.

Al-Sheikh is poised to transform the industry further with projects showcasing Ahmed Ezz, Mohamed Henedi, Chico, and Amr Youssef in the lineup. Negotiations are even underway with Ahmed El-Sakka for multiple starring roles.