Riyadh, 23 April 2025 (25 Shawwal 1446H)

The Film Commission concluded in Riyadh the second edition of the "Filmathon" hackathon, one of its leading initiatives aimed at empowering young Saudi talent and stimulating innovation in the film industry, as well as developing digital and technical solutions that raise the efficiency of the national film ecosystem toward regional and global leadership.

Record Numbers and Impressive Outcomes

The hackathon registered more than 1,500 participants, of whom 350 competitors across more than 70 competing teams qualified, working to present innovative cinematic ideas and solutions across two main tracks:

  1. Business solutions track: focused on marketing, distribution, production and digital transformation.
  2. Cinematic innovation track: highlighting future tools in filmmaking.

After 36 hours of intensive hands-on training and 40 hours of mentorship, the projects underwent judging by 12 experts in innovation, art and entrepreneurship, with 12 winning teams honored in an enthusiastic atmosphere attended by leading industry figures.

A Platform to Accelerate Film Industry Growth

Mishari Al-Khayyat, general manager of strategy and regulations at the commission, affirmed that "Filmathon" is a practical extension of the commission's strategy to develop a sustainable film industry built on:

  • Local innovation and creativity.
  • Stimulating cultural entrepreneurship.
  • Empowering young talent to enter the job market.

He noted that the initiative reflects the commission's ambition to build an integrated creative ecosystem that supports economic and cultural transformation in the Kingdom and strengthens its position as a regional hub for filmmaking.

Institutional and Community Support

More than 9 partners and supporters from various government and private entities contributed to the initiative's success, through technical support, professional mentorship and hands-on training, making "Filmathon" a comprehensive innovation platform that offers competitors real opportunities to turn their ideas into applicable prototypes.