Saudi Arabia has lifted a ban on cinemas after more than three decades.
The ministry of culture and information said it would begin issuing licences immediately, with the first cinemas expected to open in March next year.
The move is part of a liberalising reform drive – led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman - that has already opened the door to concerts, comedy shows, and women drivers over the past year.
Cinemas were banned in the early 1980s under pressure from Islamists as Saudi society turned towards a particularly conservative form of the religion.
In January, Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al al-Sheikh warned that allowing cinemas would corrupt morals.
But in a ground-breaking statement on Monday, the ministry of culture said reopening cinemas would act as a “catalyst for economic growth and diversification”.
"By developing the broader cultural sector we will create new employment and training opportunities, as well as enriching the Kingdom’s entertainment options," it said.
Los Angeles-based Saudi director Haifaa Al Mansour reacted with joy, saying: “It is a beautiful day in Saudi Arabia!”
Authorities in the Middle Eastern country also began sponsoring pop concerts this year, with US rapper Nelly set to perform in Jeddah on Thursday.
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