In a move that has raised eyebrows both domestically and internationally, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is investing billions of dollars in entertainment projects, including a $10 billion “Zombie City” in Riyadh. These initiatives, part of the broader Riyadh Season entertainment festival, are part of the Crown Prince’s vision to transform Saudi Arabia into a global entertainment hub. However, critics argue that this extravagant spending on theme parks, video games, and studio complexes diverts essential funds away from addressing pressing social and economic issues, such as rising poverty, inflation, and job scarcity.
The $10 Billion “Zombie City”
As announced by Turki Al Sheikh, bin Salman’s advisor on entertainment, the $10 billion “Zombie City” will be constructed in Riyadh’s Boulevard City. The project is intended to be a horror-themed entertainment park featuring zombie-themed sculptures, games, and attractions, catering to fans of horror and fantasy genres. However, the high entry prices of such attractions make them inaccessible to the average Saudi citizen, sparking concerns that these developments do little to benefit the local population.
In addition to concerns about access, the project has also come under fire for its lack of job creation for Saudis. Most of the high-tech attractions, games, and management systems will be imported from abroad, and foreign workers are expected to operate and maintain the park. Economists have voiced their concerns, arguing that the project is a missed opportunity to generate local jobs and boost the economy in a meaningful way.
Expensive Gaming Investments with Few Returns
The Crown Prince’s passion for video games and electronic entertainment has translated into substantial investments. Recently, the Public Investment Fund’s subsidiary, Savvy Games Group, signed multi-billion-dollar deals with Niantic (the developer of Pokemon Go) and Xsolla to establish a gaming academy in Saudi Arabia. This deal is estimated to be worth around $3 billion, as part of an initiative to position Saudi Arabia as a gaming and e-sports hub.
While these investments aim to diversify the economy, critics point out that they are not yielding immediate returns. Additionally, cybersecurity experts warn that integrating Saudi landmarks, like Al-Ula and Abha, into Pokemon Go could expose sensitive locations, creating potential national security risks. Despite spending an estimated $8 billion in the electronic gaming sector, critics argue that these investments are driven more by personal interest than by a strategic economic vision.
The $5 Billion Studio Complex in Boulevard City
In Boulevard City, bin Salman has also invested in a $5 billion media complex that includes facilities for music recording, podcasting, and video production. The studio is equipped with state-of-the-art audio and video technology, offering spaces for rehearsals, video editing, and electronic music production. The complex is expected to serve a niche audience and benefits mostly international artists, rather than addressing the broader needs of Saudi citizens.
While the Crown Prince envisions these investments as part of a strategy to transform Saudi Arabia into a global center for arts and media, many Saudis see them as disconnected from their everyday struggles. Critics argue that the funds allocated to such high-end entertainment complexes could be better spent on infrastructure, healthcare, or job creation, especially as many Saudis face high living costs and economic insecurity.
Social Challenges Amid Extravagant Spending
The lavish spending on entertainment projects comes at a time when Saudi Arabia faces significant socio-economic challenges. Reports indicate that over 13,000 families in Riyadh are grappling with hunger and rely on charitable organizations for basic necessities. Meanwhile, inflation continues to rise, and unemployment remains a major concern for young Saudis seeking stable careers. Many are questioning why the Crown Prince’s government is pouring billions into entertainment and “Zombie Cities” when fundamental needs like food security and job creation remain unmet.
Critics have pointed out that Saudi Arabia’s investments in entertainment seem more focused on bolstering the Crown Prince’s global image than on addressing the immediate needs of the population. This image-building strategy has extended to digital partnerships as well; recently, the Saudi Pro League signed a $4 million partnership with TikTok, making it the official digital partner for the 2024-2025 season. This partnership is intended to enhance fan engagement by providing exclusive content and behind-the-scenes access, but it has done little to quell concerns about misplaced priorities.
Calls for Accountability and Change
The Crown Prince’s spending choices are stirring calls for greater accountability, with many questioning why more resources are not allocated to critical social services, infrastructure, and job creation. Economists and social commentators argue that these lavish entertainment projects will not address the rising poverty and unemployment affecting everyday Saudis. As Mohammed bin Salman continues to pour billions into the entertainment sector, the gap between the government’s priorities and the people’s needs grows more apparent, intensifying calls for meaningful reforms and a more balanced approach to economic development.
