Saudi Arabia's thriving entertainment industry has attracted more than 45,000 participants in an entertainment programme launched over a year ago, according to the head of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority (GEA). 

The demand for entertainment is evident among both the private and government sectors, as well as the younger generation, who recognize the potential of the entertainment industry. 

The GEA's "Happiness Makers" Initiative, including the "Entertainment Fellowship" overseas scholarship programme, has played a significant role in training and equipping young Saudis for specialized roles in the entertainment sector. 

The initiative aims to qualify 100,000 Saudi men and women through comprehensive training courses in crowd management and entertainment center operations. 

Saudi Arabia's commitment to expanding its entertainment industry has resulted in the staging of concerts, cinema screenings, theatrical shows, and competitions that have attracted large audiences from within and outside the kingdom. 

The General Entertainment Authority continues to drive the diversification of Saudi Arabia's economy, moving away from oil dependency.