Name: Waheeb bin Saleh Al-Sheikh
Field of Work: Media personality, presenter of educational programs, activist in religious and social issues
Date of Arrest: March 2023
Current Place of Detention: Unknown (Forcibly disappeared for almost 730 days)
Violations:
- Enforced Disappearance: For two years, no information has been provided regarding his whereabouts or condition.
- Arbitrary Detention: He has not been presented to trial or formally charged.
- Threats and Intimidation: Before his arrest, he was threatened by Saudi security forces and ordered to stop posting on social media.
Who is Waheeb bin Saleh Al-Sheikh?
Waheeb bin Saleh Al-Sheikh is a young Saudi media figure in his twenties, holding a Master’s degree in Creed and Religions from Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University. He was known for his eloquent and engaging style in discussing religious and social issues through his educational programs. He was the presenter of the “Sharah” podcast and “Broadcast Raf”, where he addressed moral and societal issues.
Waheeb was a well-respected figure known for his love of poetry, his melodious voice in recitation, and his role as an Imam leading prayers at his local mosque. However, like many other influential voices in Saudi Arabia, he was targeted in an ongoing crackdown against those who hold significant social influence.
When Will His Fate Be Revealed?
Today, after 730 days of enforced disappearance, his family and followers remain in complete darkness, unaware of his condition or whereabouts. This official silence is yet another confirmation that the Saudi regime fears even the most moderate voices with real societal influence.
While the world applauds Saudi Arabia for its so-called “reforms and openness”, the kingdom continues to imprison and silence intellectuals and media figures, turning the country into a prison for thought and talent.
FIFA, which granted Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup, and Expo 2030, which is preparing to do the same—where are you in the face of these violations? How can you endorse a country that systematically enforces disappearances, arrests influential figures without charge or trial, and suppresses free expression? Is this the kind of nation that deserves to host the world’s biggest international events?
We demand the immediate disclosure of Waheeb bin Saleh Al-Sheikh’s whereabouts, his release if no charges exist against him, and an end to the enforced disappearance policy that robs families of their loved ones and society of its brightest voices.