Saudi Arabia religious chief says legalising cinemas risks 'mixing of sexes' and 'rotten' influence
Government is planning cultural reforms under the Vision 2030 banner
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Saudi Arabia's religious authority has said the legalisation of cinemas and concerts could lead to the "mixing of sexes" and "atheistic or rotten" influences in the conservative Islamic kingdom.
Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al al-Sheikh made the statements on his weekly television programme as the Saudi government prepares to begin cultural and economic reforms known as Vision 2030.
The head of the General Authority for Entertainment, Amr al-Madani has raised the potential for opening cinemas and holding concerts as early as this year.
Public cinemas have been illegal in the country since the 1980s.
The Grand Mufti said: "I hope those in charge of the Entertainment Authority are guided to turn it from bad to good and not to open doors to evil.
"Motion pictures may broadcast shameless, immoral, atheistic or rotten films.
"There is nothing good in song parties, for entertainment day and night and opening of movie houses at all times is an invitation to mixing of sexes."
Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz launched Vision 2030 last year.
He said the plans include increasing the private sector share in the economy from 40 per cent to 60 per cent, reducing unemployment from 11 per cent to 7.6 per cent and growing non-oil income.
The prince said Saudi Arabia had a "dangerous" reliance on oil.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments