It is estimated that the Saudis and other Arab Gulf nationals spend over $20 billion while vacationing overseas. Despite this contribution to the Western economy, they face untold segregation and bad treatment. To encourage citizens to spend their vacations at home, the Saudi government has established the General Authority for Entertainment. The authority will be in charge of defining a clear vision for the evolution of the entertainment industry. This involves organizing recreational centers consistent with the customs and traditions of the country and to increase local tourism activities. So far, this mission has faced many hurdles from certain sections of the society who criticized its creation under many pretexts. Probably, construction of the physical foundation for the entertainment and recreational facilities is the easiest part of the whole process. And the most difficult part is to shake-up the cultural scene and to prepare the intellectual infrastructure to market the very idea of entertainment. The idea is in the core of the Saudi Vision 2030 and its success would be an indicator for the success of the whole vision. Surveys show that the idea is plausible and popular among the young generations. I dare to say that the Saudi people are unique in their understanding and appreciation to leisure and enjoyment in their own styles. However, things are different when talking about another concept of entertainment to transform social life from individual entertainment to entertainment industry. Recently, the Authority organized several events to propagate the idea. From my observations, I believe they are focusing on quality and not quantity. This is very important because people see to themselves the true meaning of the expected entertainment. It goes without saying that the free press and the social media play a very crucial role in this respect. They are subjecting the agency to immense pressure. Many of them are openly against this project while others are supportive. What these people forget is that the authority is working in accordance with a well-structured plan that was approved by higher authorities. In addition, the initiative will improve the investment climate to attract foreign funds and reduce the export of capital. The Authority is to work in collaboration with the private sector to reduce the burden of government spending. Another goal is to create job opportunities for the young. This will definitely bring life back to the economic circle in the country. Therefore, any delay in implementing this big project will have negative consequences. I want to point out that this Authority is part of the Saudi society. It combines the status quo with the required future. It addresses the minds before the sentiments. It is true that the entertainment that we are looking for is not an international marketing entertainment like Dubai or Turkey or the UK. We do not want the Arabian Gulf citizens to come and entertain themselves here. What we want is that our countrymen find recreational places inside their country. If they find what they hope for, this will be well and fine, otherwise, they are free to go to whatever place they want in this open world. Dr. Talal AlHarbi
