Saudi Arabia to reopen movie theaters after 35-year ban

A 35-year ban on movie theaters in Saudi Arabia is over, as the government announced Monday that a Hollywood-style entertainment complex could open early next year.


The decision to lift the ban is part of an ambitious plan called "Vision 2030" from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, by which the kingdom intends to reduce its dependence on oil revenues and modernize its economy.

The opening of theaters, like the recently announced overturning of prohibitions against female drivers, is a part of the plan. Commercial theaters have been banned in Saudi Arabia since the mid-1980s, when Saudi officials demanded stricter religious adherence in response to a wave of Islamic fervor in the region.
 [upi.com]
 11/12/17