Soundstorm 2025 boosts Saudi music scene

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Soundstorm 2025, the Kingdom’s flagship music festival organized by MDLBEAST, is putting sustainability, accessibility, and the development of Saudi Arabia’s creative economy at the forefront. 

The festival, running until December 13, combines live performances, talent programs, and international collaborations aimed at growing the country’s music ecosystem, according to Arab News. 

Ramadan Alharatani, CEO of MDLBEAST, explained that Soundstorm is more than a weekend of entertainment. “The festival plays a crucial role in the creative economy by creating jobs, attracting international talent, and providing local artists with major performance opportunities,” he said. 

Alharatani added that the organization is also investing in long-term initiatives, including training programs, music production support, and creative development projects that extend beyond the festival itself.

This year, the festival has prioritized accessibility and sustainability. Organizers have improved transportation, redesigned the venue layout for easier navigation, and introduced enhanced recycling and energy management systems. 

Inclusion has been emphasized, with dedicated spaces and experiences designed to welcome diverse audiences.

Soundstorm 2025 continues to cultivate emerging talent through XP Music Futures and other year-round MDLBEAST Foundation programs. 

Through partnerships with regional and international labels, these initiatives provide mentorship, technical training, and performance opportunities for young artists. 

Alharatani highlighted support for music technology, sound design, and creative production, encouraging experimentation and innovation in emerging talent.

The festival itself has expanded, offering more stages, a broader variety of music genres, and increased international collaborations.

Fans can now explore areas dedicated to live music, hip-hop, regional talent, and up-and-coming performers, alongside the main stages hosting global acts. 

These enhancements reflect Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing music scene and increasing interest from international artists.

Nada Alhelabi, General Manager of the MDLBEAST Foundation and founder of XP Music Futures, emphasized the foundation’s role in creating career pathways for young professionals in the music industry. 

“We are expanding educational and professional programs to provide clear routes into music careers, including workshops, mentoring sessions, and hands-on training in sound engineering, event production, artist management, and creative business,” she said.

Alhelabi noted that the creative industry in Saudi Arabia has matured quickly, with more venues, studios, and festivals generating demand for skilled professionals. 

“Young people now see music as a real industry with multiple career paths beyond performing. XP Music Futures connects talent, executives, startups, and educators, giving emerging creatives access to guidance, networking, and practical learning,” she added.

The MDLBEAST Foundation’s key initiatives are producing tangible results. Programs like Hunna continue to advance female talent, while XPERFORM helps emerging artists expand their audiences and secure new opportunities. 

A recent partnership with Shahid, the leading regional streaming platform, allows XPERFORM participants to reach broader audiences. Additionally, Sound Futures supports music-tech startups, many of which are launching or testing their innovations in the market.

Alhelabi concluded that these programs demonstrate the value of year-round support and highlight how the MDLBEAST Foundation is shaping the next generation of Saudi creatives while strengthening the country’s cultural and economic footprint.