Licensing regulations of the Entertainment sector in KSA
Sports & Events Management Focus
Bandar AlHamidaniPartner,Corporate Commercial,Sports & Events Management
Lana AlShinifiAssociate,Corporate Commercial,Sports & Events Management
The entertainment sector in Saudi Arabia has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, reflecting the country's broader ambitions under Vision 2030. Vision 2030, introduced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to diversify the Saudi economy, reduce its dependency on oil, and develop various sectors, including entertainment, tourism, and culture. As part of this transformation, the regulation and supervision of the entertainment sector have become crucial for ensuring its sustainable growth and alignment with the Kingdom's cultural and religious values.
The introduction of Vision 2030, there has been a concerted effort to expand the sector. The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) was established in 2016 (Cabinet Resolution No. (230) dated 05/02/1440H), to oversee the development of entertainment activities in the Kingdom. This body is responsible for regulating and supervising entertainment events, theme parks, concerts, theater productions, and other leisure activities.
To operate within the entertainment sector, businesses and event organizers must obtain the necessary licenses from the GEA. The licensing process is designed to ensure that all activities comply with Saudi Arabia's legal, cultural, and religious standards. We will discuss various licenses covered under the GEA regulations.
Entertainment Facilities refer to the core entertainment venues and activities, which are integral to the sector's offerings. This category includes the following licenses:
License for Amusement Parks: These are stand-alone entertainment venues featuring a variety of areas, open entertainment spaces, and an array of entertainment games. These games may include mechanical, water-based, electronic, electrical, technical, or physical attractions. Some amusement parks are based on specialized themes, such as cartoon characters, movies, or animals. A license for amusement parks ensures that these venues meet safety, operational, and thematic standards set by the Authority.
License for Entertainment Centers: These are either stand-alone entertainment venues or parts of larger facilities, featuring various entertainment corners. Entertainment centers may include different types of games, showrooms, or specialized rooms for activities like mazes and puzzles. Additionally, these centers often have areas dedicated to hobbies and entertainment activities aimed at providing enjoyment to visitors. A license for entertainment centers guarantees that these venues are safe and appropriately managed.
Entertainment Events are a key component of the entertainment sector, involving the organization and execution of various live activities. This category includes the following permits:
Permit to Organize an Entertainment Event: These are events held at a specific time and place, often with the participation of an audience. The events may include a wide range of shows or activities aimed at entertainment, such as live performances, festivals, concerts, singing and chanting performances, theatrical plays, entertainment exhibitions, and more. A permit to organize entertainment events ensures that all aspects of the event, from content to safety, comply with the Authority’s regulations.
Permit to Hold an Entertainment Show: These are live shows organized at a specific time and place for the purpose of entertainment. They can include independent shows with limited attendance, accompanying events authorized by other government entities, or shows held in commercial centers. The permit for holding entertainment shows ensures that the performances are suitable and adhere to cultural norms.
Permit to Hold Live Shows in Restaurants and Cafes: This permit is necessary for restaurants and cafes that wish to host live entertainment shows, such as music performances, singing shows, musical coordination, and improvisational comedy shows. This permit ensures that such activities are appropriate for the setting and comply with the regulations.
Support Activities are essential for the smooth operation of entertainment facilities and events. These activities include a range of services that support the entertainment sector, and the following licenses and accreditation certificates are necessary:
License for Managing Artistic and Entertainment Talent: This involves managing talents who perform in entertainment shows at events, live performances, or within entertainment facilities. It includes developing and training artists, performers, actors, and other talent to ensure high-quality entertainment experiences. A license for managing artistic and entertainment talent ensures that talent management practices are professional and comply with the Authority’s standards.
License for Operating Entertainment Facilities: This license is required for entities that manage and operate entertainment facilities, such as amusement parks, entertainment centers, and venues for entertainment events. It includes providing qualified technicians to operate the facility’s attractions and managing music and theatrical performance halls. This license ensures that the facilities are operated efficiently and safely.
Accreditation Certificate for Crowd Management and Control: This involves providing crowd planning and management services at events or entertainment facilities. It includes organizing visitor movement, guiding and assisting them, and conducting evacuation and emergency operations in coordination with relevant authorities. An accreditation certificate for crowd management and control ensures that these services are delivered by trained professionals.
Accreditation Certificate for Booking and Selling Tickets: This accreditation certificate is necessary for entities providing ticket sales services for events or entertainment facilities. It includes selling tickets electronically or through non-electronic sales outlets, marketing events, and providing the ability to select, book, and choose seating locations. This certificate ensures that ticket sales are conducted transparently and in compliance with the Authority’s regulations.
As the sector continues to evolve, these regulations will play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and integrity of entertainment experiences across the Kingdom.
For further information,please contact Bandar AlHamidani and Lana AlShinifi.
Published in October 2024
