Music establishments in Saudi Arabia are currently under closure - what's the cause?

To access the lounge, there's a$21 fee, exclusively for men. Once inside, you can indulge in music and hookah.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 19 . 10:57 AM

2 min read

Saudi Arabia Shuts Down Music Venues: An Examination of the Occurrence

Music establishments in Saudi Arabia are currently under closure - what's the cause?

In the heart of major Saudi cities, a new wave of entertainment venues known as 'launches' has emerged, causing a stir among those uncomfortable with the rapid modernization of the country. These establishments, which offer live music, shisha, and affordable entertainment, represent a stark contrast to the Saudi Arabia of a decade ago, where unrelated men and women were hindered from interacting in public places and cinemas were banned.

The rise of these launches can be traced back to the reign of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who, since his ascent to power, has shifted the Saudi Arabian government's stance on entertainment and social norms. In 2016, the crown prince stripped the religious police of its powers, paving the way for a more open society.

The capital's authorities, in their efforts to promote economic growth and openness, built the Riyadh Boulevard - a complex of restaurants, music halls, and other attractions. This development, in turn, led to the emergence of more entertainment venues, including launches.

However, the authorities seem to be seeking a balance between maintaining openness and mitigating potential issues. Over the past few weeks, at least two dozen launches have been shut down, with officials citing security concerns and tightening public event regulations. Organizers must now seek official permits for mass public gatherings, effectively limiting such entertainment venues.

Indoor smoking is permitted in launches, despite alcohol still being banned in the kingdom. Interestingly, only men pay the entry fee, while women and mixed couples enter for free. This policy has sparked debate, with some viewing it as a step towards gender equality, while others see it as a potential threat to traditional values.

Some launches are styled like upscale nightclubs, attracting a diverse crowd, including families with children. One such establishment, located in the capital's diplomatic quarter, bills itself as 'Riyadh's first nightclub.' However, these venues have drawn criticism from local conservatives, who view them as embodying the swift decay of social norms.

The existence of launches highlights the ongoing tension between those advocating for change and those upholding traditional values. As Saudi Arabia continues to modernize, it remains to be seen how this balance will be struck and whether these entertainment venues will continue to play a role in the country's cultural landscape.