As countries worldwide have prioritized improving healthcare systems in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Saudi Arabia under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has taken a different path. Instead of focusing on bolstering essential public services, particularly healthcare, the Crown Prince has directed billions of dollars towards luxury projects and entertainment ventures, leading to widespread criticism and growing concerns about the well-being of Saudi citizens.
Recent reports from within the Saudi Ministry of Health indicate a significant decline in healthcare services, with thousands of citizens lodging complaints about inadequate care in hospitals across the kingdom. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority has also received 1,172 reports from frustrated citizens due to the lack of medical equipment and essential supplies. Notably, some of the most complained-about hospitals include the Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Hospital for the National Guard in Medina, the King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Riyadh, and the King Khalid Hospital in Tabuk.
As healthcare services falter, Saudi Arabia is also grappling with a surge in mental health issues among its population. Cities like Riyadh, Medina, Mecca, and others have seen an alarming rise in depression and anxiety disorders. According to a medical study, the most common mental health issues in the kingdom include generalized anxiety, social environment problems, and marital relationship difficulties. Experts attribute these rising mental health challenges to the growing financial pressures and unemployment that have worsened under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership. Additionally, the inability to freely express opinions and the fear of repression have contributed to the deteriorating mental health landscape.
Despite these pressing issues, the Crown Prince has continued to pour vast sums of money into extravagant projects. One such venture is the $2.13 billion luxury hotel and royal equestrian and polo club in Diriyah, part of a broader plan that includes a $2.07 billion multi-use development in northern Diriyah. These projects are funded by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is directly controlled by Mohammed bin Salman. Furthermore, the PIF has taken on the responsibility of developing luxury hotels and resorts in the Jazan region, with an estimated cost of $8 billion.
In addition to these projects, the Crown Prince has authorized the construction of a private palace for himself within a tourist resort, funded by the PIF. The Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN), fully owned by the PIF, has also announced plans to build its fifth entertainment destination in the Asir region at an investment of over 1.3 billion Saudi Riyals. This new complex will cover an area of 64,000 square meters, featuring family entertainment centers, virtual reality experiences, and indoor golf courses.
SEVEN is currently executing a grand plan to develop 21 entertainment destinations across the kingdom, with an estimated budget exceeding 50 billion Saudi Riyals. These projects are part of the Crown Prince’s broader vision to transform Saudi Arabia into a global entertainment hub.
However, critics argue that this focus on luxury and entertainment is coming at the expense of essential public services. The billions being spent on these projects could be better utilized to address the healthcare and mental health needs of Saudi citizens, who are facing increasing challenges in accessing quality care. The declining state of public services, combined with the Crown Prince’s lavish spending, has led many to question the priorities of the Saudi leadership.
Since Mohammed bin Salman ascended to the role of Crown Prince, there has been a noticeable shift towards extravagant projects that do not directly benefit the average Saudi citizen. This trend of spending has become a hallmark of his leadership, raising concerns about the long-term impact on the kingdom’s economy and the well-being of its people.
As Saudi Arabia continues to pursue its Vision 2030 plan, aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on oil, it is crucial to ensure that the needs of its citizens are not overshadowed by the allure of luxury developments. The kingdom’s future success will depend not only on its ability to attract international investments but also on its commitment to providing high-quality healthcare and ensuring the mental well-being of its people.
