MrBeast Unleashes “Beast Land” in Riyadh as Saudi Arabia Ramps Up Entertainment Push

Saudi Arabia drew global attention on Thursday when YouTube superstar MrBeast opened “Beast Land” in Riyadh. The temporary amusement park is part of Riyadh Season. It runs from November 13 to December 27. It mirrors the challenge-style stunts that made him a global sensation.

MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, said he wanted to do something special for his Middle Eastern fans. He noted that most of his viewers live outside North America. Many are in this region. He said it was time to bring a major project closer to them. He shared a video of the entrance, shaped like a giant blue tiger head. Its lightning-bolt eyes glow. Neon lights flash across the rides. He called the park “the craziest thing” he has ever done.

The launch fits Saudi Arabia’s wider plan to grow its entertainment sector. The country has one of the youngest populations in the world. More than 75 percent of Saudis are under 35. Smartphone use is above 98 percent. Internet access is nearly universal. Analysts say Saudis are among the most active media consumers globally. That makes the kingdom a prime market for creators like MrBeast.

His influence continues to rise. Time magazine named him one of the world’s most influential people in 2023. Forbes estimated his net worth at roughly $500 million.

Saudi Arabia is also building huge leisure projects. One of them is Qiddiya near Riyadh. It will feature theme parks and a motorsports track. However, human rights groups accuse the kingdom of using celebrity events to soften criticism of its record. They point to its high rate of executions.

Even so, Riyadh Season keeps attracting global stars. MrBeast is now one of its biggest names. His new park adds fresh energy to Saudi Arabia’s push to become a global entertainment hub.