Saudi Arabia’s high-profile entertainment festivals, meant to polish its global image, backfired as performers and critics condemned the regime’s human rights abuses, repression, and extravagant spending.

Tensions between Egypt and Saudi Arabia have escalated sharply over political, financial, and regional power struggles, including disputes over strategic islands, U.S. military plans, and Saudi Arabia’s growing role in Middle East diplomacy.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman offers exiled dissidents amnesty to return, but skepticism remains over the lack of reforms and ongoing human rights issues.

Tensions in the Middle East escalate as Saudi Arabia seeks joint naval exercises with Iran amidst mutual military strikes between Israel and Iran, raising significant geopolitical concerns.

Saudi Arabia's NEOM project faces financial struggles, key departures, and forced displacements, fueling doubts about its feasibility and ethical implications.