Saudi Arabia Taps Hans Zimmer for Anthem Reimagining

Saudi Arabia has enlisted Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer to create a new version of its national anthem as part of the country's efforts to modernize its global image. Turki Alalshikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, confirmed that Zimmer has agreed to the broad outlines of the project, which involves rearranging the anthem with different instruments. The current anthem, 'Aash Al-Malik' (Long Live the King), was originally composed in 1947 by Egyptian composer Abdul Rahman Al-Khateeb. In addition to the anthem, Zimmer is in talks to work on other projects in Saudi Arabia, including a musical titled 'Arabia,' a large concert, and the soundtrack for a film about the Battle of Yarmuk. This partnership highlights Saudi Arabia's broader push to diversify its economy beyond oil and improve its cultural presence globally. However, some activists criticize these efforts as superficial, given the country's ongoing restrictive policies and human rights issues.