Rapper Cardi B went viral in Saudi Arabia after performing at Riyadh’s MDLBEAST Soundstorm festival
Rapper Cardi B went viral in Saudi Arabia over the weekend, where she performed at Riyadh’s MDLBEAST Soundstorm festival and expressed admiration for the kingdom in a series of widely shared social media posts.
The artist greeted fans with the traditional Muslim salutation, “Salam alaikum,” and frequently used the Arabic word “mashallah,” meaning “God has willed it,” to praise the country.
During her visit, Cardi B noted the modernity and luxury she observed, calling Saudi Arabia “brand new” and highlighting its opulent shopping and vibrant culture.
In a departure from her usual stage persona, she adopted a more restrained tone during her performance and wore a modest outfit covering her from neck to toe.
Saudi Arabia has increasingly hosted international artists as part of an ambitious economic and cultural reform agenda, attracting global attention while raising questions about human rights and freedoms.
Cardi B’s visit follows a growing trend of high-profile celebrities engaging with the Gulf region, including Jennifer Lopez, Celine Dion, and Eminem.
Beyond entertainment, such visits reflect the power of cultural exchange to bring people together, foster dialogue, and inspire curiosity about different societies, while reminding audiences of the complex intersections between fame, influence, and social responsibility.
Cardi B turns heads in Saudi Arabia
Cardi B shared moments from her first night on Instagram. (Instagram)
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Updated 13 December 2025
Arab News
December 13, 2025 11:38
DUBAI: Cardi B was in Saudi Arabia this week, ahead of her performance in Riyadh, and shared glimpses of her time in the Kingdom.
The Grammy-winning rapper announced her arrival on Instagram, writing, “Hello Saudi Arabia … Halal B has arrived,” accompanied by a green heart and the Saudi flag emoji.
In the video she posted, Cardi B wore an all-black, floor-length dress with a high halter neckline, styled with long black gloves and a matching hood draped over her shoulders.
She was later spotted by fans shopping at Solitaire Mall in Riyadh wearing the same outfit, with clips circulating online of her greeting supporters.
She had teased her visit earlier this month on X, telling fans: “Imma shop down in Saudi Arabia aaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhh … I can’t wait!”
Cardi B later shared moments from her first night on Instagram Stories, including a dessert bearing the message “Welcome Cardi B” served at a restaurant.
During a live broadcast on Friday, she spoke about her stay, saying: “This country is luxurious … I got my own gym in my own room right here. I am going to work out to be ready for tour.”
She also mentioned going shopping, adding that she picked up a few items at the mall.
Reflecting on her interactions, she said: “The little kids know me (here), everybody knows me, the grown-ups know me. These people out here are very polite … they are very kind. These are one of the nicest people.”
Cardi B will perform today at MDLBeast’s Soundstorm 2025, held from Dec. 11 to 13.
Topics: Cardi B Saudi Arabia
Amira Al-Zuhair joins Bulgari as ‘Friend of the House’
Updated 10 sec ago
Arab News Adil Salahi
December 18, 2025 12:24
DUBAI: Saudi French model Amira Al-Zuhair has joined Italian luxury fashion house Bulgari as a “Friend of the House,” she announced on Instagram.
Founded in 1884, the brand is known for its jewellery, watches, fragrances, accessories, and leather goods. It is headquartered in Rome.
“I am delighted to announce that I have officially joined the Bulgari family as a Friend of the House. Looking forward to sharing more of our journey together — stay tuned!” Al-Zuhair said on social media, alongside a carousel of images.
In one of the images, taken at a Bulgari party, the model shows off a soft pink gown by Lebanese fashion house Georges Hobeika.
The event celebrated the Polychroma High Jewelry Collection, which was launched at May’s Met Gala in New York.
Al-Zuhair, born in Paris to a French mother and Saudi father, has made her mark on the fashion world and appeared on the runway for an array of renowned fashion houses.
She has walked for Missoni, Maison Alaia, Brunello Cucinelli, Balmain, Dolce & Gabbana, Giambattista Valli, Giorgio Armani, Elie Saab and many more.
In addition to her runway appearances, Al-Zuhair has featured in campaigns for high-profile brands including Prada, Chanel and Carolina Herrera.
Al-Zuhair also made a runway appearance in May when she walked in Louis Vuitton’s high jewelry collection show, held at Bellver Castle on the island of Majorca, Spain.
In late May, Al-Zuhair also reflected on her recent campaign with Balmain, sharing photos from the Resort 2025 collection shoot. “Had so much fun shooting inside the Eiffel Tower herself!” she wrote in the caption.
It was not Al-Zuhair’s first collaboration with Balmain. She previously walked for the brand during Paris Fashion Week in September.
