By Comfort Asemota
US rapper Cardi B has captured global attention with her recent performance in Saudi Arabia, where she headlined the MDLBEAST Soundstorm festival in Riyadh. Taking to social media, the artist praised the kingdom in a series of viral videos, highlighting the country’s modernity and luxury.
“Everything is brand new, honey. This country looks like it was just opened up yesterday,” Cardi B said in an Instagram video that quickly circulated online.
Saudi Arabia has increasingly invested in high-profile celebrity appearances as part of its ambitious economic reform and rebranding efforts, aiming to attract non-oil investment and reshape its international image.
During her performance, Cardi B greeted the audience with the traditional Muslim salutation, “Salam alaikum,” and frequently used the Arabic term “mashallah”, meaning “God has willed it,” to praise her surroundings. Known for her explicit lyrics, the rapper opted for a more restrained approach on stage, wearing a flowing outfit that covered her from neck to toe—a departure from her usual revealing style.
Leading up to the show, Cardi B explored Riyadh’s luxury malls, donned a hijab, and praised the city’s opulence while joking about American taxes. “The shopping is great, mashallah!” she said. “I’m somebody over here… I do recommend coming over here for vacation. There’s no alcohol, but some of y’all don’t need to be drinking and having S-E-X.”
Her appearance in Saudi Arabia comes shortly after she was cleared of an assault charge in a $24 million civil trial, where she faced accusations of slashing a woman’s face with her fingernails.
Cardi B joins a growing list of international celebrities performing in the Gulf region, including Jennifer Lopez, Celine Dion, and Eminem, despite criticism over human rights concerns. Celebrities, athletes, and influencers are drawn by lucrative contracts, but their visits often spark debate about performing in countries with controversial policies.
Her Riyadh performance highlights the kingdom’s growing appeal as a global entertainment hub and cements Cardi B’s reputation as a boundary-pushing artist willing to explore new markets.
