Saudi Arabia has lifted its ban on movie theaters and the public showing of films. Last weekend, two family-oriented films ("The Emoji Movie" and "Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie") were screened at the Culture and Arts Society in Jeddah. The structure of new theaters, i.e. separate viewing areas for men and women, is still being discussed, as well as the implementation of a ratings system.

Today, Vue International announced a deal to build 30 multiplex cinemas in Saudi Arabia. Tim Richards, Vue's founder, said "This is a huge moment in the history of global cinema development for the exhibition industry."