In recent years, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MBS, has been accused of mismanaging Saudi Arabia’s resources by prioritizing grandiose entertainment projects and events. These ventures, largely overseen by Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, have been criticized as costly distractions from the nation’s pressing economic and social challenges. Critics argue that these expenditures are part of a broader effort to revamp Saudi Arabia’s global image while ignoring the needs of its citizens.
Extravagant Spending on Entertainment
Under the leadership of Turki Al-Sheikh, Saudi Arabia has become a hub for extravagant entertainment events that critics say offer little return on investment. One such example is Al-Sheikh’s reported offer of $700 million to boxing legend Mike Tyson for a rematch with YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The deal raised eyebrows globally, with observers questioning the rationale behind spending such a staggering sum on an exhibition fight. According to sources, Al-Sheikh justified the offer as a way to enhance Saudi Arabia’s reputation in the global sports arena, but many view it as yet another example of reckless spending.
Similarly, the Red Sea International Film Festival, hosted in Saudi Arabia, reportedly cost nearly 1 billion riyals ($266 million). This included expenses for travel, accommodations, and prizes for attendees, with over 125 films from 50 countries showcased. Critics argue that such events, while culturally significant, fail to justify their exorbitant costs, especially when millions of Saudis are struggling with rising living expenses.
Cultural Shifts and Controversies
Mohammed bin Salman’s tenure has seen sweeping changes in Saudi society. Reforms such as allowing women into sports stadiums, lifting the ban on cinemas, and easing gender segregation in public spaces have been widely publicized as efforts to modernize the kingdom. However, these changes have been met with mixed reactions. While some celebrate the reforms, others argue that they undermine the country’s traditional values. The government’s heavy investment in entertainment is seen as an attempt to divert attention from pressing issues like unemployment and poverty.
The one-week run of the play S.S. Hanem, featuring Egyptian actress Esaad Younis, is a case in point. Costing 10 million riyals, the play was criticized for clashing with Saudi cultural norms and offering little value to the public. Many viewed it as another example of wasteful spending aimed at distracting citizens from deeper societal problems.
Economic and Financial Fallout
The economic impact of these ventures is alarming. Reports from reputable outlets such as The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times highlight the financial risks posed by Saudi Arabia’s simultaneous mega-projects. Initiatives like the $500 billion Neom city and a $100 billion investment in microchips and electronics are cited as unsustainable. Critics argue that these projects, which are yet to yield significant results, drain resources that could be better used to address poverty and unemployment.
Turki Al-Sheikh’s lavish spending is not limited to events and festivals. In the early days of his appointment, he purchased a $4.8 million Bugatti Chiron sports car, drawing criticism for his apparent disregard for the kingdom’s economic challenges. This purchase occurred at a time when the government was implementing austerity measures, raising taxes, and cutting subsidies for citizens to reduce the strain on the national budget.
Entertainment as a Strategic Diversion
Observers have accused Mohammed bin Salman of using entertainment to distract from his political and economic shortcomings. Critics allege that these events are designed to improve the Crown Prince’s international reputation following allegations of human rights abuses and economic mismanagement. Events like the deal with satirical media personality Bassem Youssef, reportedly worth $6 million, reinforce this narrative. Youssef’s public criticism of Saudi policies in the past only underscores the inconsistency of the kingdom’s strategy to win favor through entertainment.
The Price of Distraction
While the kingdom spends billions on entertainment, millions of Saudis face economic hardships. Reports indicate that 13,000 families in Riyadh alone rely on charity organizations for basic sustenance. Infrastructure projects that could improve living conditions, such as flood prevention systems and public healthcare, are neglected in favor of headline-grabbing entertainment ventures.
A particularly striking example is the construction of a “zombie city” as part of Riyadh Season, with a price tag of $10 billion. Critics argue that such projects offer little value to citizens and serve primarily as spectacles to attract foreign attention.
A Nation at a Crossroads
The long-term consequences of these policies are becoming increasingly apparent. Foreign investments in Saudi Arabia have dropped significantly, with a reported 85% decline in 2022. This lack of investor confidence reflects global skepticism about the sustainability of Mohammed bin Salman’s vision for the kingdom. Analysts warn that unless there is a shift in priorities toward sustainable development and citizen welfare, Saudi Arabia risks further economic and social decline.
In conclusion, Mohammed bin Salman’s focus on entertainment and grand projects, spearheaded by Turki Al-Sheikh, has come at a high cost. While these initiatives may improve the kingdom’s international image temporarily, they do little to address the underlying issues facing Saudi citizens. As poverty and unemployment rise, the gap between the government’s priorities and the needs of its people continues to widen.
