JAKARTA – Saudi Arabia has introduced a cutting-edge film production complex located just outside Riyadh, where preliminary work has commenced on an ambitious historical drama titled “Unbroken Sword,” helmed by acclaimed director Alik Sakharov, known for his work on iconic series including “The Sopranos” and “Game of Thrones.”

State-of-the-Art Production Facility

The newly established PlayMaker Studios is situated within the Qiddiya entertainment district, nestled on the slopes of the renowned Tuwaiq Mountains, approximately 40 minutes southwest of Riyadh. The broader Qiddiya development will feature luxury theme parks, motorsport venues, and a safari park, with ambitions to draw millions of international visitors.

The production complex covers more than 50 acres and includes two specially constructed soundstages equipped with advanced audio technology. According to official statements, the facility offers comprehensive production capabilities designed to accommodate large-scale international projects.

Comprehensive Production Infrastructure

The studio complex features extensive production offices and high-quality on-site facilities, creating an integrated environment that supports every phase of filmmaking. The development includes specialized post-production and visual effects departments, along with dedicated music recording studios.

Filmmakers utilizing PlayMaker Studios will benefit from convenient access to Saudi Arabia’s competitive 40% production incentive program. Officials describe the complex as both a creative hub and a fundamental component of Qiddiya City’s broader entertainment vision.

‘Unbroken Sword’ to Inaugurate Facility

Principal filming for “Unbroken Sword” is scheduled to commence in early 2026, making it the inaugural production at PlayMaker Studios. A production team exceeding 200 personnel is already working on-site, according to official sources. The project receives backing from Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and Riyadh Season, with Sela serving as the production company.

The substantial-budget epic is set in 7th-century Arabia and chronicles a legendary warrior who commands an outnumbered Muslim military force across unexplored desert landscapes to confront both the Roman and Persian empires.

British producer Richard Sharkey serves as executive producer on “Unbroken Sword.” His extensive portfolio includes work on “House of the Dragon,” “Marco Polo,” “The Fifth Estate,” and “The Lord of the Rings” film series.

Vision for Global Film Industry Hub

Abdullah Aldawood, managing director of Qiddiya Investment Company, emphasized the studio’s significance in Saudi Arabia’s expanding creative sector. He described PlayMaker Studios as a crucial element in the Kingdom’s objective to establish a premier international destination where innovation, culture, and entertainment converge, offering the global film industry a new base in Saudi Arabia.

Producer Richard Sharkey expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating that bringing “Unbroken Sword” to PlayMaker Studios represents the beginning of a truly transformative development.

Part of Saudi Vision 2030

Qiddiya represents one of several massive infrastructure initiatives funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, aligned with Vision 2030—Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s strategic plan to diversify the economy beyond oil dependency and generate employment opportunities for the Kingdom’s youth population.

The announcement was made during Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Film Festival, which continues through December 13, underscoring the country’s growing commitment to establishing itself as a significant player in the global film industry.

Original Article:

Variety.com. (2025, December 8). Saudi Arabia’s New PlayMaker Studios Launch With Production Underway on High-End Epic ‘Unbroken Sword’ Directed by Alik Sakharov.  Retrieved from https://variety.com/2025/film/global/saudi-arabia-playmaker-studios-epic-unbroken-sword-1236601122/