There’s a saying that life is a stage, but in Saudi Arabia, it’s quickly turning into the biggest arena you’ve ever seen. Over the last few years, the Kingdom has embarked on a transformation so grand that even those who thought they had Saudi Arabia figured out are now doing double takes. Gone are the days of quiet evenings and limited entertainment options; today, it’s concerts, mega-events, and cinemas everywhere you look. If you haven’t been keeping up, you might want to sit down because Saudi Arabia’s entertainment boom is as real as it gets—and yes, it’s making a lot of money.
So, what’s behind this whirlwind of entertainment and fun? Two words: Vision 2030. The Kingdom has decided that oil, while great and all, shouldn’t be the only star of its economic show. Diversification is the new mantra, and entertainment is one of the brightest jewels in Saudi Arabia’s ambitious crown. Now, you might be thinking, “Wait, isn’t Saudi Arabia more about quiet reflection than pop concerts?” And you wouldn’t be alone. But these days, things are shifting faster than you can say “Riyadh Season.”
Let’s start with cinemas, the humble beginning of Saudi Arabia’s entertainment revolution. Back in 2018, cinemas reopened after a 35-year hiatus. Yes, you read that right—35 years without movie theaters. Imagine having to drive to another country just to catch the latest blockbuster. But with the stroke of a pen, the ban was lifted, and cinemas began popping up everywhere. Companies like AMC and VOX wasted no time setting up state-of-the-art theaters, and Saudis, many of whom had been waiting for this moment their whole lives, flocked to see movies on the big screen. Box office revenues soared, and the cinema quickly became a staple of the new entertainment scene.
But Saudi Arabia didn’t stop at movies. Oh no. It was time to bring in the big guns: concerts. Enter Justin Bieber, BTS, Mariah Carey, and even Andrea Bocelli—performing in Saudi Arabia, to sold-out crowds. Just a few years ago, the idea of international superstars performing in Riyadh or Jeddah would’ve been met with a polite chuckle and a shake of the head. But now, it’s practically expected. These aren’t just concerts; they’re massive, highly polished productions that rival anything you’d see in London or New York. And the crowds? Let’s just say Saudi fans know how to show their appreciation.
Then there’s Riyadh Season, the crown jewel of Saudi Arabia’s entertainment calendar. If you’re not familiar, think of it as a mega-festival on steroids. Over the course of several months, Riyadh transforms into a playground of music, art, food, gaming, and more. Fireworks light up the sky, world-class performers take the stage, and theme parks spring to life. In 2022, Riyadh Season attracted over 10 million visitors, pumping billions of riyals into the economy. It’s not just a success—it’s a phenomenon.
But let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: this rapid entertainment boom hasn’t been everyone’s cup of tea. Saudi Arabia has long been seen as a bastion of tradition and religion, home to Mecca and Medina, the holiest sites in Islam. For many, the Kingdom’s identity is deeply tied to its role as a spiritual leader. So, when pop stars start performing on Saudi stages, and cinemas begin showing Hollywood blockbusters, some people can’t help but wonder if this transformation is moving too fast—or too far.
Critics argue that Saudi Arabia’s entertainment boom risks overshadowing its religious heritage. For decades, the Kingdom was synonymous with quiet devotion and a way of life centered around Islamic values. To these critics, the influx of concerts, international festivals, and modern amusements feels like a dramatic shift from the country’s traditional image. There’s also concern that the younger generation might lose touch with their cultural and religious roots amid the glamour of modern entertainment.
The government, however, insists that this isn’t about erasing the past but about building a future where tradition and modernity can coexist. And to their credit, many entertainment events do make a point of celebrating Saudi culture. From showcasing traditional crafts and local cuisine to hosting exhibitions that honor Islamic art, there’s a conscious effort to blend the old with the new. Riyadh Season, for example, often includes events that highlight Saudi heritage alongside its contemporary attractions. But striking that balance isn’t always easy. Imagine trying to combine a concert by a global pop star with a display of traditional Najdi architecture—it’s not an obvious pairing, but somehow, Saudi Arabia is making it work. The result is a cultural experiment unlike anything else in the world: a place where you can attend a Formula 1 race in Jeddah one day and visit a centuries-old UNESCO heritage site in AlUla the next.
And while some people might remain skeptical, the numbers tell a different story. The entertainment sector is booming, creating thousands of jobs and generating billions in revenue. For Saudi youth, the industry represents not just a source of fun but a wealth of career opportunities. From event planning and marketing to sound engineering and performance, the possibilities are endless. The General Entertainment Authority has even launched training programs to help young Saudis develop the skills needed to thrive in this fast-growing sector.
Of course, we can’t forget about the tourists. Saudi Arabia is pulling out all the stops to attract international visitors, and entertainment is a big part of the draw. Events like Riyadh Season and the Diriyah E-Prix are designed to showcase the Kingdom’s ability to host world-class experiences, while also giving visitors a glimpse into its unique culture. And let’s be honest: when you combine top-tier events with Saudi hospitality, you’re bound to leave a lasting impression.
So, what’s next for Saudi Arabia’s entertainment industry? The answer is simple: more. Projects like Qiddiya, a massive entertainment and sports city, are already underway, promising even more attractions in the years to come. And with the government’s continued investment, it’s safe to say the show is far from over.
Saudi Arabia’s entertainment boom is more than just a series of events—it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that the Kingdom is ready to embrace change while honoring its roots, to innovate while preserving its identity. It’s not always easy, and it’s not without controversy, but it’s undeniably fascinating to watch. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or observing from the sidelines, one thing is certain: Saudi Arabia is putting on a show like no other. And it’s only just getting started.
