In recent years, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a global cultural and entertainment hub, welcoming a flood of international celebrities as part of its Vision 2030 initiative. The Kingdom’s progressive shift has not only transformed its economy but has also opened doors to a multitude of high-profile events, star-studded gatherings, and unprecedented performances. Here are some of the top moments that international celebrities have had in Saudi Arabia since its transformation began:
Alicia Keyz Preforming Alongside a Ardha Band
Alicia Keys captivated the audience at Saudi Arabia’s AlUla with a stunning performance at the mirrored Maraya concert hall on Friday. Fans were treated to a night of her greatest hits, including "If I Ain't Got You," "Girl on Fire," and "New Day." However, the highlight of the evening came when she joined the Dar Al Ula band, performing alongside them as they infused her songs with a traditional Saudi Ardha dance, creating a unique cultural blend on stage.
Swizz Beats Running His Camel Race Team:
Saudi Bronx
Swizz Beatz, born Kasseem Dean, has made history as the first African American and westerner to own a competitive camel racing team in Saudi Arabia. His journey began during his visit to the Kingdom for the MDL Beast festival in 2019. After a few days of traveling through various regions, he developed a deep appreciation for the country—and the rest is history.
His camel-racing team, named Saudi Bronx, consists of 12 camels and honors a cherished tradition in Saudi Arabia that originated as a desert sport among the Bedouins. The sport is governed by the Saudi Camel Racing Federation, which is currently organizing several racing tournaments across the country.
Mariah Carrey Performing at The Opening of Bayan Tree in Al-Ula
Singing sensation Mariah Carey dazzled a packed audience at Maraya Hall in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, on Friday evening.
The iconic singer performed live as part of a special VIP event celebrating the grand opening of Banyan Tree, the newest luxury resort in the historic mountainous region. The star-studded evening brought together an elite guest list of dignitaries, VIPs, and international celebrities, all of whom enjoyed a night of remarkable celebrations to mark the occasion.
Will Smith Attending the Camel Cup in Al-Ula
Hollywood star and multi-award-winning actor Will Smith spent an exciting day exploring the ancient desert city of AlUla and attended the inaugural AlUla Camel Cup, the pinnacle event in camel racing.
On his first visit to Saudi Arabia, the renowned actor and avid traveler took the opportunity to explore Hegra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the "FAME: Andy Warhol in AlUla" exhibition at the iconic mirrored Maraya arts building.
Smith capped off his trip by watching the thrilling final day of the four-day AlUla Camel Cup, accompanied by celebrity friend and music producer Swizz Beatz, Mohammed Al Turki, CEO of the Red Sea International Film Festival, and Phillip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer of the Royal Commission for AlUla.
Gunna Shutting Down His Live Show
Rapper Gunna delivered an electrifying performance to an energetic crowd in Riyadh, thrilling fans with smash hits like "F***youmean," "Drip Too Hard," and more. This performance marked a significant moment, as it was Gunna's first-ever show in Saudi Arabia.
Neymar Embracing Saudi Culture in a Perfume Commercial With his Wife
Al Hilal superstar Neymar made a splash in a new commercial for the perfume brand Ibrahim Al Qurashi, appearing alongside his girlfriend Bruna Biancardi. The couple donned traditional Saudi garments and rode in an iconic red 1980s GMC pickup truck, a beloved classic in the Kingdom considered an antiquity. Adding to the charm of the ad, Biancardi threw in some Saudi slang, creating an unforgettable moment that resonated with local culture.
DJ Khaled and Mike Tyson Performing Umrah
DJ Khaled shared a heartfelt video on Instagram on Friday, capturing a special moment with former professional boxer Mike Tyson in Saudi Arabia’s holy city of Makkah.
In the video, Khaled and Tyson are seen praying in front of the Holy Kaaba and performing Umrah together. The clip concludes with Khaled expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to share "this beautiful experience" with his friend Tyson.
Eminem watching Fury Vs Ngannou Ring Side in Riyadh
Eminem and the Shady Team flew to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to witness the highly anticipated "Battle of the Baddest" boxing match between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou, held at the Kingdom Arena on October 28, 2023.
Eminem was joined by his entourage, including manager Paul Rosenberg, Bad Meets Evil partner Royce 5’9, and hypeman Mr. Porter. During the event, after Eminem admired the WBC watches gifted to the fighters, British boxer Amir Khan surprised the rapper by presenting him with his very own watch, adding a special touch to the evening.
Ronaldo and Anthony Joshua Watching a Boxing Match
Two-time world champion Anthony Joshua arrived at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on Saturday night, taking his seat alongside football legend Cristiano Ronaldo and the head of the General Entertainment Authority, Turki Al Sheikh, ahead of the historic undisputed showdown.
Ronaldo, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus star, has been a regular presence at boxing events in Saudi Arabia since joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in January 2023, often seen alongside prominent figures like UFC star Conor McGregor at previous matches.
This time, Joshua joined Ronaldo ringside, with the two spotted deep in conversation during the undercard action.
Fat Joe and Napoleon (Mutah Beale) Eating Dinner in Riyadh
Mutah Beale, better known as Napoleon, a former member of Tupac Shakur's legendary rap group Outlawz, has since embraced Islam and now resides in Saudi Arabia. He operates several businesses in Riyadh, including MW Café, OKLA, and Smokey Beards.
In 2022, Mutah reconnected with an old friend, none other than rapper Fat Joe, who was visiting the Kingdom. Joined by Rashed Belhasa (Money Kicks) and former Bad Boy rapper Loon, the hip-hop trio reminisced about their past in the heart of Riyadh, sharing memories and catching up on old times.
Jhonny Depp Hanging Out in Al Ula
Johnny Depp was recently spotted enjoying his time in AlUla, marking his first-ever visit to Saudi Arabia. The trip follows the Red Sea Film Festival’s announcement of its support for Depp's upcoming film.
In celebration of the actor’s visit, the Minister of Culture and Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla, Badr bin Al Saud, shared a selfie on Instagram with the *Pirates of the Caribbean* star, captioning the moment with, "Happy Times."
Tyga and Rick Ross Opening Up for Amir Khan Vs Billy Dib
On July 16, 2019, world champion Amir Khan defeated Australian boxer Billy Dib in Saudi Arabia’s first-ever boxing league of its kind. Adding to the excitement, rap giants Tyga and Rick Ross kicked off the event with electrifying performances, entertaining the crowd with their hit tracks. Their appearance marked one of the first major rap performances in Saudi Arabia, making the night a groundbreaking moment for both sports and entertainment in the Kingdom.
Ronaldo, Mane and Other Football Stars Dancing Ardha
Al-Nassr Club released a special video in celebration of Saudi National Day, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and other stars dressed in traditional Saudi attire. The players captivated audiences with a mesmerizing Ardha dance performance, a traditional Saudi sword dance. In the video, Ronaldo stands out as he dons the traditional Saudi clothing while proudly wielding a sword, joining in the festive spirit and showcasing his connection to Saudi culture.
Swizz Beats Opening a Roller Rink in Al Ula
AlUla Moments, in partnership with Swizz Beatz and his business partner Noor Tahe's creative agency, Good Intentions, organized Saudi Arabia’s first immersive roller rink experience, "AlUla on Wheels." Held at an all-boys school in the Al Jadidah arts district, the neon-lit rink invited visitors to enjoy roller-blading under the open sky, capturing the retro vibe of the 1970s. Open to all skill levels, the event featured lessons and DJ sets from international artists. Swizz Beatz also performed a set, adding a fresh energy to the unique desert venue.
Alicia Keyz Hosting a Private Women to Women panel with Saudi Industry Leaders
Alicia Keys hosted an intimate "Women to Women" discussion in AlUla on Saturday, where industry leaders gathered to share their experiences against the stunning backdrop of the historical site. The conversation was moderated by Hala Al-Hedaithy, a lawyer and performance poet.
Joining Keys on the panel were trailblazing Saudi women, including Rasha Alkhamis, Saudi Arabia’s first female boxer; Mashael Alobeidan, a professional rally driver; and Hafsa Alkhudairi, a writer and arts and culture initiatives lead at the Royal Commission for AlUla.
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