Tamer Hosny’s Saudi Debut Sparks a Dance‑Defying Debate
Picture this: the world’s biggest pop star from Egypt, Tamer Hosny, lands in the desert city of Jeddah for his very first Saudi concert. Fans line up, ready to shake it to the rhythm of his hits. But what they find tucked into the ticket? A stern warning that “no dancing or swaying” is allowed.
The Ticket’s Tiny Instruction
The little text on the back of each ticket reads:
“Ladies and gentlemen, please fasten your seat belts.
The corridors and seats will be equipped with sway detectors.
Anyone who thinks about swaying will be kicked out.”
So much for a spirited night out. The crowd’s reaction was… hilariously awkward.
Social Media’s Take‑Off
- One Twitter user quipped: “Ladies and gentlemen, please fasten your seat belts,” mocking the see‑through security.
- Another commentator joked, “No dancing or swaying in a concert! It’s like putting ice under the sun and asking it not to melt.”
- And a third tossed out, “The corridors and seats will be equipped with sway detectors. Anyone who thinks about swaying will be kicked out.” – just a reminder that the humor is in the absurdity itself.
What Went Wrong?
The Saudi entertainment ministry did not answer our request for clarification. The country, long known for its conservative stance, is pushing a bold cultural makeover. New concerts by artists like Lebanon’s Hiba Tawaji and famed Greek composer Yanni set the stage for a liberalized music scene.
Men and women, who once watched from the safety of their chairs, are now letting loose in ways that seemed impossible a couple of decades ago.
The Economic Angle
With oil prices falling, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is looking for a way to keep Saudis spending – not in the western heavyspending of Dubai’s malls, but at home, inside the kingdom’s own entertainment venues.
While religious hardliners resist, the reform is becoming a bit of a balancing act: reduce lavish subsidies, increase domestic ticket sales, and keep the local economy lively.
Bottom Line
So, next time you’re eyeing a ticket for an event in Saudi Arabia, double‑check the fine print. You might end up at a concert where you’re advised to stay still, but still you’ll get to shout along to your favorite tunes. After all, a little dancing is always the best souvenir from a night out.
