Riyadh Comedy Festival Sparks Backlash Among Saudi and Global Activists

Riyadh Comedy Festival Sparks Backlash Among Saudi and Global Activists
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The Riyadh Comedy Festival, held as part of the Riyadh Season 2025, has drawn criticism from Saudi and international activists who accused authorities of using entertainment events to divert attention from restrictions on free expression. Commentators said the festival, which hosted several international comedians, comes amid the continued detention of dissenting voices and tight limits on political freedoms.

Critics argued that such events aim to polish the government’s image abroad under the banner of openness and reform. Social media users also questioned the participation of Western performers who advocate for free speech at home while appearing in a country accused by rights groups of suppressing basic freedoms.

Analysts noted that the Kingdom’s heavy investment in entertainment under Vision 2030 reflects an attempt to shift focus from domestic issues, including arrests and death sentences against activists. The controversy emerges just days before the launch of the sixth Riyadh Season, billed by authorities as the largest to date.