Archive · 11 Jun 2025
Manga Productions CEO Talks Saudi Animation Growth, Japanese Ties
Manga Productions, led by CEO Essam Bukhary, is a Saudi Arabian company that makes anime and games.
It started with a vision to teach young people in Saudi Arabia about animation and has grown into a big business, working with Japanese companies.
They made a movie called 'The Journey' with Japan, which was a first for Arab cinema.
Manga Productions also created shows and games.
Now they handle the distribution and licensing of anime and games in the Middle East, bringing in a lot of money and helping Saudi Arabia become a leader in the animation world.
Manga Productions CEO Essam Bukhary discusses the company's growth, Japanese ties, and future plans.
The company, a subsidiary of the Misk Foundation, was established to cultivate youth learning and leadership in animation.
Manga Productions co-produced 'The Journey' with Toei Animation, the first Arab movie to achieve several milestones.
The company has trained over 4,000 Saudi talents and introduced 3.5 million students to anime.
Manga Productions has expanded into IP utilization, distribution, and game publishing.
- Who
- Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions.
- What
- Manga Productions' CEO discussed the company's origins, growth, and future plans.
- When
- The interview took place before and during the Annecy International Film Festival in France.
- Where
- Manga Productions is based in Saudi Arabia, with the CEO frequently in Tokyo and other locations.
- Why
- To discuss the company's journey, partnerships, and goals for the animation industry.
- CEO
- Essam Bukhary
- Parent Company
- Misk Foundation
- Headquarters
- Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Established
- 2017
- 'The Journey' Release Year
- 2021
- Training Program Graduates
- Over 4,000