Empowering the Next Generation of Saudi Filmmakers
RDS Training Initiative: 1,500 Talents | 3 Years | Global Standards
Training
RDS, in collaboration with world-class production partners and global studios entering the Saudi market, proudly announces a groundbreaking film industry training program. Designed to equip Saudi talents with world-class skills, this program aims to train 1,500 individuals over three years, with the goal of integrating at least 30% of graduates into RDS productions and those of our international partners.
Program Objectives
•Train 1,500 Saudis (men and women) across key disciplines in filmmaking.
•Increase national employment in high-quality film productions by at least 30% of graduates.
•Support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by building a sustainable, skilled film workforce.
•Establish a globally competitive talent pool that can serve both local and international film markets.
Program Overview
•Duration: November 2025 – October 2028
•Trainees: 500 per year (selective admission process)
•Structure:
•3-month foundation training
•6-month hands-on apprenticeships on live productions
•Ongoing mentorship and career placement support
Training Programs
Inspired by international film academies such as the BFI Film Academy (UK) and the Sundance Co//ab Program (US), the training includes:
•Directing and Cinematography
•Production and Line Producing
•Script Supervision and Development
•Art Direction and Costume Design
•Sound Design and Post-Production
•Production Management & Budgeting
•Film Marketing and Distribution
•Safety, Compliance & On-Set Protocols
Each year will offer 8–10 specialized programs, aligned with industry needs and RDS’s upcoming productions.
Execution Plan
Phase 1: Launch & Recruitment – November 2025 to January 2026
•National campaign to attract emerging talents
•Selection of first 500 trainees via portfolio and interview
Phase 2: Core Training – February to April 2026
•Intensive workshops taught by global experts and veteran professionals
•Training conducted in Riyadh, Jeddah, and via hybrid platforms
Phase 3: Apprenticeships – May to October 2026
•On-set training with RDS and partner productions (local & international)
•Real-time mentorship with executive producers, DOPs, and showrunners
Phase 4: Employment Pipeline – October 2026 onward
•30% of trainees onboarded to RDS or RDS partner films
•Support with portfolio building, IMDb credits, and agency representation
Expected Impact by 2028
•1,500 Saudis trained in critical film industry roles
•450+ hired into major productions (RDS and partners)
•100+ Saudi-led departments within international productions
•RDS becomes a regional talent hub supplying trained professionals across MENA
Why This Program Matters
•Saudi Arabia is attracting the world’s biggest studios: from Hollywood to Europe, with RDS at the heart of this ecosystem.
•We leverage our global production relationships to bring in real opportunities for Saudi talent—not just workshops, but real-world experience.
•Studios working in Saudi will have access to a skilled workforce trained to international standards.
Key Partnerships
This program is supported by our network of production studios, talent agencies, training institutes, and global platforms. RDS is proud to collaborate with:
•Big Time Studios (strategic partner)
•International post-production houses
•Global directors and producers filming in Saudi Arabia