Riyadh: Riyadh Season 2024 began on Saturday night with boxing, musical performances by hip-hop moguls Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliott, and Ciara, and a luxury-prize giveaway.

The season’s opening was led by Turki Al-Sheikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, at the Kingdom Arena.

He expressed his gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering support of the entertainment sector and Riyadh Season, which has garnered worldwide recognition.

A member of the audience was selected to win a Mercedes-Benz G-Class, presented by Al-Sheikh, during the opening ceremony.

Joseph Makhuvele, from South Africa, told Arab News that he was excited by Riyadh Season every year, adding: “I can't wait for tonight … Riyadh Season is the best. I look forward to it every year, and I’ve always enjoyed it.”

Makhuvele expressed excitement about seeing Busta Rhymes again, just three weeks after attending his concert in South Africa, saying: “I can’t wait for the three artists who will be performing: Missy Elliott, Ciara, and Busta Rhymes.”

Taif Ibrahim Albayahi, a Saudi local, said she attended the opening ceremony to enjoy a night of musical performances.

She said: “Music has been a really big part of my life, especially with my mom. Everything we do has to involve music. Any music-related events, I’m always there.”

Al-Sheikh also crowned Russian boxer Artur Beterbiev as the undisputed world light heavyweight champion.

Beterbiev, who already held the IBF, WBC, and WBO titles, defeated Russian Dmitry Bivol in the IV Crown Showdown to capture the WBA belt.

Riyadh Season’s grand opening was a dazzling spectacle featuring captivating performances, vibrant fireworks, and a stunning drone show.

The season’s logo was illuminated in the night sky above Boulevard World, one of the largest and most popular destinations in the city.

Riyadh Season 2024 features 14 entertainment zones, 11 world championship events, and 10 exhibitions and festivals.