Saudi Arabia: Crackdown on nightlife, music lounges closed; is MBS losing to Taliban…?

New Delhi: The Saudi Arabian government is cracking down on nightlife. Several music lounges are being closed in major cities, such as Riyadh and Jeddah. Nighttime music and entertainment events are being limited. Musical events have gained a significant following in recent years in Saudi Arabia, angering the far right and conservatives. The government reportedly took action after growing opposition from these groups.

Has Crown Prince bowed down to conservatives?

According to a Financial Times report, Saudi Arabia has closed at least two dozen music lounges in Riyadh and Jeddah in recent weeks. Officials cited serious violations of public health and hygiene standards as the reason. However, as reported, the real reason is the conservative reaction to these activities. This has raised questions about whether Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who often advocates liberalism, has caved in to conservatives.

Complaints surface

Singer Falah al-Masredeh reported a lounge near his apartment in eastern Riyadh in a viral Snapchat video last month. He said he was ignored when he went to the police, but the police referred him to the relevant municipality. He stated in the video that women were seen entering the lounge, which is situated in front of the men’s homes in a residential area.

Before Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman came to power, shisha cafes were not allowed to open in populated areas. Over the years, MBS opened Saudi Arabia to music concerts, games, competitions, and even rave parties. Riyadh Boulevard was constructed, featuring a complex of restaurants, music halls, and other attractions.

Balancing act

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has formed a new unit to crack down on “immoral acts” following protests. The closure of several lounges appears to be an attempt to strike a balance between Saudi society’s demand for openness and the dictates of conservatives. Experts say that MBS is trying to create balance in society.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Crackdown on nightlife, music lounges closed in Saudi Arabia.
• Several music lounges are being closed in major cities.
• Nighttime music and entertainment events are being limited.
• Saudi Arabia has closed at least two dozen music lounges in Riyadh and Jeddah in recent weeks.

Officials cited serious violations of public health and hygiene standards as the reason. However, as reported, the real reason is the conservative reaction to these activities. This has raised questions about whether Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who often advocates liberalism, has caved in to conservatives.