Saudi Arabia's ban on movies is coming to an end, with the premiere of Marvel's superhero film "Black Panther". Saudis will also have public concerts and a fashion week, and women will soon be allowed to drive. What next? Pork chops?
It's all part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's so-called Vision 2030, a blueprint for a more open Saudi Arabia, "one that is open for tourism, business, and less dependent on oil". The 32-year-old crown prince, who was made heir to the throne last year, wants to consolidate his hold on power and appeal to a younger audience, what with the majority of the 32-million Saudi population under 30.
"Black Panther" wouldn't have been my choice of a first movie but still it looks like I left too soon. And just as I was thinking back to Saudi Arabia, by some strange coincidence this email arrived, "Kaif halak? I am Abdul-rahman Abdulhameed Mofarrij could you send your phone number please my dad asked about it."
His dad, Sheikh Abdulhameed, is not known for making courtesy calls, so what does he want? Last time he rang, he offered me a job again at the BDEI office in Avenue Kléber in Paris. What with Saudi Arabia opening up, maybe this time he just wants an old copy of "Debbie Does Dallas".
