The Thinking Muslim Is the Kaaba safe in Saudi Hands? | Omar Abdulaziz
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Nov 7, 2025 Omar Abdulaziz, a Saudi dissident and activist, shares his experiences challenging the Saudi regime and its human rights abuses. He reveals the threats to the Kaaba's safety under current leadership and critiques Vision 2030 as a facade for consolidating power rather than genuine reform. The conversation delves into the regime's manipulation of religious narratives, the repression of dissent, and the chilling effects of surveillance, including his own experience with Pegasus spyware. Despite these challenges, Omar expresses hope for change and the possibility of returning to Saudi Arabia.
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Pilgrimage Won't Protect Critics
- Visiting Mecca or Medina no longer guarantees safety if you criticise the Saudi regime.
- Omar Abdulaziz warns critics and many activists are banned or arrested despite pilgrimage status.
Entertainment As Political Strategy
- Vision 2030's entertainment push serves political goals beyond economic diversification.
- Omar argues shows and celebrity events are tools to secure MBS's rule and international favor.
Controlled Religion Shields The Ruler
- The regime protects a version of religious authority that forbids criticizing the ruler.
- Omar calls the promoted Madkhali/Jami stance a tool to silence dissent and legitimize absolute leadership.