Story perspectives

MDLBEAST Festival in Saudi Arabia Sparks Human Rights Debate

10/10/2025

49 4

Summary

Story summary

Riyadh will host the MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2025 festival on December 11–13 in the Banban desert.
The lineup includes Post Malone, Kaytranada, and Ava Max.
Critics say the festival risks artwashing Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses because of censorship, repression, and political restrictions.
Recent events, including the execution of journalist Turki al-Jasser, have intensified scrutiny.
Observers will watch whether performers acknowledge Saudi human rights issues.

1 of 1

Story summary

Riyadh will host the MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2025 festival on December 11–13 in the Banban desert.
The lineup includes Post Malone, Kaytranada, and Ava Max.
Critics say the festival risks artwashing Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses because of censorship, repression, and political restrictions.
Recent events, including the execution of journalist Turki al-Jasser, have intensified scrutiny.
Observers will watch whether performers acknowledge Saudi human rights issues.