Turki Al-Sheikh announces five new Saudi film projects to be produced in Riyadh
RIYADH — Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), has announced five new high-profile Saudi film projects set to be produced to international standards at Riyadh's Big Time Studios. Leading the slate is Battle of Yarmouk (Khalid Ibn Al-Walid), an English-language epic chronicling the life of the legendary Arab commander Khalid Ibn Al-Walid, with a focus on the pivotal Battle of Yarmouk. The film will feature a blend of international stars to deliver a sweeping historical narrative. The second project, produced in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense, centers on the Saudi military and is inspired by true events. Aimed at global audiences, the film will portray the bravery and determination of Saudi armed forces. Also in the lineup is a film tackling the Kingdom's fight against drugs. Produced in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, the movie will highlight real-life stories from Saudi Arabia's battle against drug trafficking, showcasing the challenges and the people at the forefront of the fight. Al-Boulevard, directed by Saudi filmmaker Mohammad Al-Mulla, will spotlight modern Saudi culture through a locally grounded narrative. Featuring a cast of Saudi talent and international production quality, the film is positioned to bring authentic Saudi storytelling to a global audience.
Rounding out the list is Palace of Mist, a Saudi horror film blending local and international talent. The film is set in a mysterious palace and is expected to offer a new cinematic experience for horror enthusiasts both in the Kingdom and abroad.
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The forum celebrated four Jordanian literary figures: translator Prof. Dr. Mohammad Al Bakhit, critic Dr. Nabil Haddad, academic and critic Mahmoud Al Shalabi, and poet Mohammad Samhan. The forum is held in line with the directives of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah to honour literary figures who have significantly contributed to contemporary Arab culture. This marks the fifth time the forum has taken place in Jordan, having previously recognised 16 Jordanian creatives in earlier editions. 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A civilisational initiative Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Professor Dr. Mohammad Al Bakhit began his speech by saying: 'This is the fifth time that His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi has honoured a group of Jordanian intellectuals who have contributed to Arab culture in the modern era. Over the years, His Highness has graciously honoured many figures across the Arab world.' He continued: 'On behalf of myself and my fellow honourees, I extend our sincere gratitude to His Highness, the Ruler of Sharjah, for his noble civilisational initiative to recognise those who have served culture in their communities, countries, and among their audiences—particularly in these challenging times facing the Arab world and its intellectuals. These circumstances call for creative initiatives capable of transforming reality and overcoming obstacles, so that intellectuals may play an active role in enriching civilisational life.' Al Bakhit added: 'Once again, we thank the Ruler of Sharjah for this initiative. Our thanks also go to the organisers of this event and to the staff of the National Library, which preserves our national memory, images, and cherished aspirations.' Snapshots of the honourees Dr. Mohammad Adnan Al Bakhit , translator and President of the Jordanian Academy of Arabic Language, holds a BA in Arts/History from the American University of Beirut (1963), an MA in Islamic History from the same institution (1965), and a PhD in Islamic History from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London (1972). Dr Al Bakhit is proficient in Arabic, English, and Turkish, and has had a long academic career in research and translation. He founded the Centre for Documents and Manuscripts at the University of Jordan and has published numerous studies and books. Dr. Nabil Youssef Haddad , born in Beisan in 1948, holds a post-doctoral certificate in writing and editing from the University of Missouri-Columbia (USA), sponsored by Yarmouk University, and a PhD in modern Arabic fiction from Ain Shams University (Egypt). Among his publications are The Novel in Jordan: Spaces and Foundations , Writing with the Pains of the Present: Textual Studies in Jordanian Fiction , Perspectives on the Egyptian Novel , Journalism in Jordan , and several works on journalistic styles, skills, and issues. Mohammad Samhan is a poet, critic, historian, writer, and journalist who has actively worked in these fields for more than fifty years. His published poetry includes Two Melodies on a Broken String , Hymns of the Canaanite Knight , and Trinities , among other works and unpublished manuscripts. His poetry has been translated into English, Serbian, Swedish, and Spanish. Dr. Mahmoud Al Shalabi , critic and academic, was born in Danna/Beisan in 1943. He holds an MA and PhD in literature and criticism from Al-Azhar University in Egypt. Warm atmosphere The honouring ceremony was attended by the families of the honourees, who came to share in the celebration. Their presence added a unique human touch to the event, filling it with warmth, pride, and heartfelt gratitude. Attendees expressed their joy at this recognition, viewing it as a well-earned reward for the honourees' dedication and cultural mission. In addition to the strong family turnout, university students and representatives from local cultural institutions were also present to celebrate the honourees. Many expressed appreciation to Sharjah for its consistent focus on writers, who are seen as mentors and guiding figures for future generations. Certificates of recognition At the end of the ceremony, Abdullah Al Owais, Mohammed Al Qaseer, Hamad Al Matroushi, and Nidal Al Ayasrah presented certificates of recognition to the four honourees. These were signed by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah as a tribute to their literary and intellectual contributions to the Arab cultural scene. Documentary tribute Attendees viewed a short documentary highlighting the personal and creative journeys of the four honourees. The film offered glimpses into their achievements and lasting impact in the fields of culture and creativity, portraying their careers as missions of purpose that transformed challenges into opportunities—making them truly deserving of celebration. The audience found the screening an opportunity to learn more about the honourees, both culturally and personally. Publications on display The honouring ceremony was accompanied by an exhibition showcasing a range of publications from the Sharjah Department of Culture. Among the featured titles were Sharjah Cultural Magazine , Al Rafid , Al Qawafi , Theatre Magazine , Al Heera from Sharjah , and a collection of books across various literary genres. The exhibition attracted a large audience, with many keen to browse and acquire these culturally rich titles.
