Aurora Media Worldwide, a multi-award-winning production house providing content services across live and non-live channels, has announced its expansion to Saudi Arabia and the opening of its new office, facilitated by AstroLabs, a leading expansion platform in the Gulf.

Expanding from the UK to the kingdom, this strategic move with AstroLabs underscores Aurora's commitment to delivering cutting-edge, high-end content across live, original, branded, and digital formats.

This expansion aligns perfectly with the kingdom’s ambitions for growth in the sports, entertainment, and major events sectors, projected to be worth $1.17 billion by 2030, a statement said.

Aurora has already made significant strides in Saudi Arabia through various live and non-live productions, including host broadcasts for major events like Formula E, Extreme E, E1 Series, and Supertri, held in Riyadh, Jeddah, and NEOM, as well as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup in AlUla.

Beyond live broadcasts, Aurora has been actively engaged in producing original, branded, and digital content for the region.

This includes collaborations with the Royal Commission for AlUla on short-form originals and digital branded content during festival seasons, as well as programming for the Fursan and Camel Cup.

Additionally, Aurora has produced digital content for Nike and created a short-form documentary for the Saudi Surfing Federation, which aired on Shahid.

The new Riyadh office will be led by James Pearce, who will serve as Managing Director, MENA. Pearce has played a pivotal role in driving Aurora’s expansion into the Middle East over the past few years

Alex Nicholls, Director of Expansion at AstroLabs, said: "We are thrilled to support Aurora Media Worldwide in its growth within the Saudi entertainment and sports content market.

“Aurora's focus on delivering top-tier content will undoubtedly elevate the viewing experience for audiences across the kingdom.”

James Pearce, MD MENA Aurora, said: "I am honoured to lead Aurora's expansion in the Middle East.

“The region is brimming with talent and opportunity, and we are eager to contribute to its flourishing media landscape. AstroLabs has been instrumental in guiding us through the expansion process into the kingdom."

The rapid growth of Saudi Arabia's sports and entertainment sectors is fuelled by a digitally-savvy talent base. – TradeArabia News Service