Imax Joins Forces With Muvi CinemasTo Expand Movie Magic In Saudi Arabia

Imax Corporation and Muvi Cinemas, Saudi Arabia's largest cinema chain, have announced their first collaboration. They plan to install four advanced Imax with Laser systems in major commercial centres across the country.

Currently, Imax operates 10 locations in Saudi Arabia, with plans to open another 22, including those under the new agreement with Muvi. The partnership will see two Imax systems introduced in Riyadh, one in Jeddah's Mall of Arabia, and the first Imax system in Dhahran. Three of these locations are expected to open by the end of 2024, with an additional location scheduled for 2025.

Image Courtesy: imax/Instagram

Expansion Plans

Since its first full year of operation in 2019, Saudi Arabia has become one of Imax's top 20 markets globally. Recent releases like "Oppenheimer," which became the highest-grossing Imax title in Saudi Arabia, and "Bad Boys: Ride or Die," which ranks among the top five, highlight the country's significance for Imax. The 2025 global film slate will feature a record 14 "Filmed for Imax" releases.

Rich Gelfond, CEO of Imax, commented on the partnership: "Saudi Arabia is a market where the Imax footprint has grown dramatically in recent years, and yet so much untapped potential still lies before us. 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."

Technological Advancements

The new locations will feature Imax with Laser technology. This advanced projection system delivers crystal clear images and precision audio. The 4K laser projection system includes a new optical engine, custom-designed lenses, and proprietary technology. It offers brighter images with higher resolution, deeper contrast, and the widest range of colours available exclusively in Imax theatres.

Adon Quinn, CEO of Muvi Cinemas, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: "Imax is the most immersive cinematic experience in the world, and we're grateful to join forces with them to bring Imax with Laser to key locations across Saudia Arabia, including the first Imax location ever in Dhahran. At Muvi Cinemas, 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."

Saudi Arabia remains a key market for both Hollywood films and local content from India and Japan. With this new agreement, Imax is now partnered with the top four cinema exhibitors in Saudi Arabia. The company projects it can open at least 50 locations across the country.

This collaboration between Imax Corporation and Muvi Cinemas marks a significant step forward for both companies. It aims to enhance cinematic experiences across Saudi Arabia through state-of-the-art technology and strategic expansion plans.