VOX Cinemas, the Middle East’s leading exhibitor and the cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim, today announced a landmark collaboration with legendary Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer. Zimmer is crafting an exclusive, signature soundscape designed to become synonymous with the VOX Cinemas brand, creating a more immersive and emotionally resonant experience for moviegoers across Saudi Arabia and the region. This unique sonic identity will debut across VOX Cinemas touchpoints starting mid-May 2025.
Recognizing the profound impact of sound on the cinematic experience, VOX Cinemas sought a composer capable of capturing the magic of movies while resonating with the diverse cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Hans Zimmer, renowned for his emotionally powerful and globally recognized film scores, was the definitive choice. The collaboration will result in a unique composition that blends Zimmer’s iconic orchestral style with subtle regional musical influences, creating a sound that is both universally appealing and locally resonant.
The commission for Hans Zimmer to compose a unique sonic identity for VOX Cinemas coincides with the legendary composer undertaking other significant cultural projects within the Middle East. Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority has asked Zimmer to work on a new version of the Kingdom’s national anthem. Discussions included rearranging the Saudi national anthem with different instruments, part of several potential future projects aimed at enhancing the Kingdom’s cultural landscape. This engagement on a project of national significance parallels his bespoke creation for VOX Cinemas, showcasing how Zimmer’s unique talent for crafting powerful, emotive soundscapes is being sought after to define identity – both for a nation and for the region’s premier cinema brand aiming to deepen its connection with audiences.
Ignace Lahoud, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, stated: “Sound is intrinsically linked to the emotions and memories we create in cinema. Partnering with Hans Zimmer allows us to craft a truly iconic and instantly recognizable sound for VOX Cinemas – one that does not just identify our brand, but elevates the entire moviegoing journey for our guests in the Kingdom and the Middle East. This signature score is part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and creating unforgettable entertainment experiences across the diverse markets we serve”.
Legendary composer Hans Zimmer commented: “Saudi Arabia and the Middle East hold a special place in my heart, as does cinema; it is what truly moves me. I was genuinely excited to collaborate with VOX Cinemas, and with their commitment to creating magical moments for guests and the idea of creating a unique sound for the brand resonated as it beautifully illustrates how cinema connects us all. It is at the heart of so many unforgettable moments, ones that are passed down through generations, just as VOX has done over the years”.
Audiences in Saudi Arabia and the region will begin to experience Hans Zimmer’s exclusive score for VOX Cinemas starting mid-May 2025. It will be integrated across multiple touchpoints, including new pre-show experiences within the cinemas, online platforms, and customer service interactions, creating a cohesive and enhanced brand presence designed to enrich the customer journey.
Hans Zimmer is one of Hollywood’s most influential composers, honored with two Academy Awards, three Golden Globes, five Grammys, and numerous other accolades. His iconic scores for films such as Dune, The Lion King, Gladiator, Inception, and the Pirates of the Caribbean series have profoundly shaped contemporary film music and captivated audiences worldwide.
