Critics Say Riyadh Comedy Festival Serves as Political Whitewashing Tool

Critics Say Riyadh Comedy Festival Serves as Political Whitewashing Tool
—————————–
The 2025 Riyadh Comedy Festival, promoted as the world’s largest comedy event, was held with the participation of around 50 international comedians from Western and English-speaking countries, according to reports viewed by Shia Waves Persian. The Saudi government reportedly spent close to $40 million on the festival as part of its broader campaign to present a modern and culturally vibrant image of the kingdom.

Despite the extensive publicity surrounding the event, critics argue that the festival functioned primarily as a political branding exercise for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman rather than a cultural service to Saudi citizens. In a recent episode of “Fasadistan” published on the YouTube channel “Yaqdha,” commentator Salem al-Qahtani said the festival’s main purpose was to polish the Crown Prince’s image internationally.

Al-Qahtani noted the contradiction between hosting a high-profile comedy showcase and the imprisonment of local satirists such as Abdulaziz al-Mazini, detained for criticizing the government. Media analysts similarly argue that such festivals serve as public-relations tools for the leadership, contributing to budget strain and subsidy cuts.

Human rights activists warn that these large-scale entertainment projects restrict domestic free expression while strengthening state legitimacy. Independent media reports also link similar festivals to rising economic pressure and social dissatisfaction.

According to al-Qahtani and other critics, the Riyadh Comedy Festival illustrates how art and entertainment are being used for political image-building rather than genuine cultural development.