Pursuant to its values of transparency and knowledge sharing, the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) announced that it has publicized the Entertainment Draft Law, inviting stakeholders and professionals from the public and private sectors to view the draft law and its details and contribute their opinions and suggestions.

The proposed law, available through the National Competitive Center’s Public Consultation Platform “Istitlaa”, aims to develop and regulate the entertainment industry in line with the Kingdom’s cultural identity, and introduce modern development mechanisms that fulfill the expectations of stakeholders and align with the targets of Saudi Vision 2030.

The draft law also complements GEA’s regulatory role to ensure the entertainment sector adopts the best international practices and presents an attractive environment for entertainment projects, ultimately increasing investment, supporting local content, and stimulating SMEs.

Through its seven chapters and 20 articles, the draft law categorizes entertainment activities as: digital entertainment, the building and operation of theme parks and entertainment centers, and various entertainment destinations, and event organization including live shows, festivals, theatrical performances, musical concerts, and entertainment expos.

Moreover, the draft law identifies nine licenses and permits and two accreditation certificates that cover different categories of entertainment events. It also offers streamlined procedures for the issuance, renewal, modification, and cancellation of such licenses and offers information on the requirements for licenses issued by other entities.

The draft law emphasizes the role of the licensee in observing the laws and regulations in their general conduct, and preserving the national identity and social norms, while refraining from any practices that offend public morals or violate order. It also gives GEA the authority to monitor entertainment activities to ensure consumer protection while clarifying violations that result in the suspension of licenses.

Additionally, the draft law addresses further investment opportunities, including a proposal to dedicate land plots for building entertainment facilities and activities.

GEA invites entities and individuals from the public and private sectors to view the draft law and share their feedback via GEA’s page on Istitlaa website at https://istitlaa.ncc.gov.sa/ar/Tourism/gea/EntertainmentSystem/Pages/default.aspx