'Game Of Thrones' Director to Launch 'Unbroken Sword' at Saudi Arabia's Qiddiya City PlayMaker Studios

Alik Sakharov, known for his work on Game of Thrones, will direct the Saudi-backed epic Unbroken Sword, centered on the legendary Arab commander Khalid ibn Al-Walid and the decisive Battle of Yarmouk. This project marks the inaugural production at PlayMaker Studios, the new film and television hub in Qiddiya City, the large-scale entertainment and tourism development near Riyadh.

The development surrounding PlayMaker Studios includes the upcoming Six Flags amusement park, a Formula One-grade racetrack, and the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, set to be a main venue for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Unbroken Sword is supported by Saudi Arabias General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and Riyadh Season, and produced by entertainment holding Sela. Saudi Arabia is also advancing other major film projects, such as Adil El Arbi & Bilall Fallahs 7 Dogs, currently in post-production, and a Philip Noyce-directed anti-drug film in pre-production.

The launch of PlayMaker Studios is considered a milestone in Saudi Arabias goal to establish itself as a leading film and TV center in the MENA region, following the 2017 lifting of a 35-year cinema ban, as part of the broader Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the economy.

Unbroken Sword is currently in pre-production, with principal photography scheduled to start in early 2026. The production will employ over 200 crew members, utilizing PlayMaker Studios advanced soundstages and the dramatic landscapes of the Tuwaiq Mountains in Qiddiya City.

PlayMaker Studios spans more than 50 acres, featuring purpose-built soundstages, flexible workshops, full production facilities, modern offices, and premium on-site amenities. With high demand for studio space, two additional state-of-the-art soundstages are under construction and expected to be completed in 2026.

Qiddiya Investment Company provides an experienced team for hands-on support with permits, logistics, and operations. PlayMaker Studios also offers access to Saudi Arabias 40% production rebate, one of the most competitive incentives globally. Long-term plans include dedicated post-production, visual effects, volumetric, and music studios to strengthen the Kingdoms production infrastructure.

Abdullah Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company, said, PlayMaker Studios represents a cornerstone of Qiddiya Citys vision, reflecting Saudi Arabias growing creative industries. It is an important step in creating a world-class destination where innovation, culture, and entertainment intersect, giving the global film industry a new home in the Kingdom.

Producer Richard Sharkey, known for House of the Dragon and The Lord of the Rings franchise, added, Launching Unbroken Sword at PlayMaker Studios is the beginning of something truly groundbreaking. Being the first production here is both an honor and a responsibility. The scale, ambition, and support at Qiddiya City, combined with the Tuwaiq Mountains, offer an unparalleled cinematic canvas. We are excited to contribute to this new era of filmmaking in Saudi Arabia.

Author: Jackson Miller