'Game of Thrones' Director Alik Sakharov Leads 'Unbroken Sword' in KSA

PlayMaker Studios — a new production hub in Qiddiya City — will begin its first feature with 'Unbroken Sword', a historical epic directed by Alik Sakharov, best known for his work on 'Game of Thrones'. The film will be the first to shoot at the 50-acre studio complex.

The historical action feature is in pre‑production on site, with more than 200 crew preparing for principal photography scheduled to begin in early 2026. The production will utilise the facility’s new stages and the Tuwaiq Mountains backdrop that frames the studio development on the edge of the desert.

'Unbroken Sword' is produced by Sela’s film arm and is backed by the General Entertainment Authority and Riyadh Season. The epic centres on Khalid ibn Al‑Walid and the Battle of Yarmouk. Casting has yet to be announced. Sakharov’s credits also include 'Ozark' and 'Marco Polo'.
The project signals a shift in Saudi Arabia’s film ambitions, positioning Qiddiya as a site for global-scale productions rather than a location-only destination. Sakharov joins the film as an Emmy-winning director with credits spanning international series and feature work.

PlayMaker Studios was built to handle large, high-budget productions, offering sound stages, backlot space and modern production infrastructure. With 'Unbroken Sword' entering pre-production, the studio expects to attract local and international crews as filming begins in early 2026.