In a move that will spur the development of the entertainment sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority Turki Bin Abdulmohsen Al Sheikh is set to launch the Entertainment Industry Forum — Joy Forum19 — on Oct. 13-14 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel here. The forum is part of a push to put the Kingdom on the international map as an entertainment industry leader enriching the lives of citizen by bringing delight and stimulating the private sector by building and developing the leisure industry. It is all part of Vision 2030, a massive plan to develop a vibrant society, a thriving economy and an ambitious nation. Entertainment is just one aspect enabling the Kingdom to become an international center for mega entertainment events, an important base for businesses and talents associated with the entertainment and an attractive investment environment for building strong partnerships to create, develop and invest all of the related platforms, which include infrastructure and utilities. A turning point for the future of entertainment development in Saudi Arabia, the conference will host a selection of speakers, experts, CEOs, international academics, and companies involved in knowledge-based entertainment sectors from within and outside the Kingdom. A-list Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities are also set to attend. The conference agenda includes topics covering a series of international case studies on successful entertainment sectors, design strategies, and the ability to implement change. In addition to growth opportunities for the local economy, the role of social behaviors, interaction with innovation and technology and the creation of joy, happiness, and wellbeing are also set for discussion. A number of events are scheduled including an entertainment exhibition workshop that brings together researchers, designers, developers, and businessmen who are interested in designing, developing, evaluating and marketing events for the local Saudi market. The CEO of the General Entertainment Authority Amr Bin Banaja has stressed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is moving forward with confident steps towards building a competitive entertainment industry where local talent and business will intersect with international talent and business, all of it setting the stage for a first-rate regional entertainment industry hub. Joy Entertainment Industry Forum 2019 is a sector-development initiative organized by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA). The Forum aims to create a solid platform to build and develop the entertainment industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as well as develop new entertainment opportunities, and exchange international experiences in various prospects of the field. — SG
