The documentary reveals devastating figures regarding the laborers building Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s futuristic cities. It reports that from countries like India, Bangladesh, and Nepal have died in Saudi Arabia since the launch of Vision 2030 in 2017. Additionally, an estimated 100,000 workers have "disappeared" during the construction of these projects. Key findings regarding labor rights include:
The emotional core of the documentary is the exclusive interview with "Jamil," a former Saudi intelligence officer who defected. His testimony is chilling. He provides a rare, insider’s look at how the state’s machinery of fear operates, detailing how loyalty is bought and how those who step out of line are neutralized. It moves the film from political analysis to a human rights exposé.
The documentary also highlights the from their ancestral lands to clear the way for NEOM. Members of the Huwaitat tribe, who have lived in the region for centuries, were violently displaced, with at least one person – Abdul Rahim al‑Huwaiti – reportedly killed for protesting the removal of his village. The United Nations expressed alarm at the “risk of execution” facing tribe members arrested for opposing The Line’s construction. Kingdom.Uncovered.Inside.Saudi.Arabia.2024.1080...
The final act feels slightly rushed. It attempts to cover the geopolitical shift regarding Saudi-US relations and the normalization talks with Israel, but these complex topics almost deserve their own segments. The film is at its best when it focuses on the individual human stories rather than the macro-politics.
: Secrets are captured through hidden cameras, showing illegal working conditions at "mega-projects" like Labor Exploitation Key findings regarding labor rights include: The emotional
Explore the hidden gems of Saudi Arabia, from ancient archaeological sites to modern cities, and experience the Kingdom's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Workers speak to Noura of 16‑hour shifts, seven days a week, often for weeks without a single day off—far exceeding the kingdom’s own legal maximum of 60 hours per week. Many report that their passports are confiscated upon arrival, a practice that transforms a migrant worker into a de facto indentured labourer with no means to leave. One harrowing sequence shows workers protesting unsafe conditions, while the film’s narration reminds viewers that these protests are illegal and that those who organise them face deportation or worse. It moves the film from political analysis to
Comparisons and context
: The documentary features rare, smuggled footage from inside the Saudi detention system, showing overcrowded cells and harsh environments for those waiting out political charges. 4. Global Geopolitics and Complicity