Saudi Arabia’s entertainment landscape is undergoing a transformation. After embracing Western music festivals, the kingdom is now exploring its own heritage to attract tourists and strengthen national identity.
Terhal, a flagship production in Riyadh, showcases this cultural turn. A performer wearing a traditional red-and-white headdress rides a white horse across the stage, narrating a journey through Saudi Arabia’s landmarks. The performance combines traditional music, chants, and attire with high-tech lighting and special effects.
The story centers on Saad, a young Saudi exploring his country, with 100 artists, including 55 Saudis, performing acrobatics, trapeze, and dance. Following past festival controversies, the show underscores a shift toward family-friendly, culturally rooted entertainment.
While local traditions are highlighted, Riyadh Season will retain high-profile acts such as MDL Beast. Turki Alalshikh explained the majority of the program will feature Saudi and Gulf musicians.
The move illustrates Vision 2030’s strategy of cautious experimentation. Sebastian Sons of CARPO comments, “Vision 2030 is about testing limits; if two steps are too much, you take one step back.”
By merging tradition, technology, and tourism, Saudi Arabia is redefining entertainment, appealing to both local audiences and global visitors.
