Riyadh’s vibrant cityscape serves as the backdrop for “Esaaf” (Ambulance), a Saudi action-comedy that has now arrived on the global streaming giant Netflix. The film, released this week, brings a fresh blend of humor and suspense to international audiences, marking another step in the growing presence of Saudi Arabian cinema on world-class streaming platforms. This debut is a significant development in the ongoing narrative of Saudi film making its mark.
The Story Unfolds
The narrative centers on Lina, an Egyptian expatriate residing in Riyadh, portrayed by Egyptian actress Basma Dawood in her first leading cinematic role within Saudi Arabia. Lina’s seemingly ordinary life takes an unexpected and chaotic turn when she inadvertently becomes entangled in a high-stakes kidnapping plot. Her fate becomes intertwined with that of two ambitious paramedics, Omar, played by popular Saudi actor and comedian Ibrahim Al-Hajjaj, and his partner Khaled, brought to life by Mohammed Al-Qahtani. What begins as a routine day for the paramedics quickly escalates into a perilous adventure as they find themselves in over their heads, navigating treacherous situations with wit and resilience.
Behind the Lens and On Screen
Guiding this engaging story is British filmmaker Colin Teague, known for his extensive work in television and film. Teague, whose credits include contributions to acclaimed series like “Doctor Who” and “Torchwood,” brings a dynamic directorial vision to “Esaaf.” The ensemble cast is further bolstered by a strong supporting lineup, featuring familiar faces from the Saudi entertainment scene, including Hassan Al-Asiri, Faisal Al-Doukhi, Ahmed Fahmy, Latifa Al-Mogren, Fahad Al-Butairi, Nermin Mohsen, Mahdi Al-Nasser, and Banderita. This collaborative effort highlights a diverse range of talent contributing to the production.
The screenplay for “Esaaf” is penned by Alberto Lopez, who crafts a narrative designed to balance thrilling action sequences with comedic moments. The film’s production is a collaborative effort, involving Al-Hajjaj’s House of Comedy, Saudi producer Talal Anazi’s Black Light Operations, and former MBC Studios chief Peter Smith, working in tandem with Saudi Media Company. This marks a significant venture for these production houses.
Expanding Horizons for Saudi Cinema
The release of “Esaaf” on Netflix signifies more than just the availability of a new film; it represents a broader trend of Saudi cinema finding a wider audience through streaming services. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has seen a renaissance in its film industry, with more productions gaining international recognition. Platforms like Netflix are crucial in democratizing access to diverse cinematic voices, allowing viewers worldwide to explore stories originating from different cultures and perspectives. Previously, Saudi movies such as “From the Ashes” have also achieved global traction on Netflix, indicating a growing appetite for content from the Kingdom. The availability of “Esaaf” on this global streaming platform further cements this trend.
A Blend of Entertainment
“Esaaf” aims to deliver a package of entertainment that appeals to a wide demographic, skillfully blending the elements of action, comedy, and suspense. The film’s genre fusion is designed to keep audiences engaged, offering both laugh-out-loud moments and thrilling plot developments. While the film had earlier theatrical releases in the region, including Saudi Arabia in April 2025 and the UAE and Bahrain in May 2025, its arrival on Netflix brings it to an even broader, more accessible international stage.
The streaming debut of “Esaaf” is a noteworthy piece of news for the entertainment industry, underscoring the increasing global reach of Saudi movies. As streaming continues to redefine how audiences consume films, “Esaaf” stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of Saudi storytelling and its potential to captivate viewers across the globe.
