Saudi Arabia Near the Bottom of 2025 Press Freedom Index: 19 Journalists Imprisoned and Independent Media Absent

In its annual report marking World Press Freedom Day, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) ranked Saudi Arabia 162nd out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, placing it among the worst nations globally for media freedom.

The report highlights that 19 journalists remain imprisoned in the Kingdom, while independent journalism is virtually nonexistent. Government censorship controls all forms of media, including social platforms and even journalists based abroad.

Despite official rhetoric promoting “social reforms,” RSF states that ongoing arrests and violations against journalists persist, with journalism reduced to a propaganda tool of the state. Even private outlets operate under strict government oversight, primarily directed by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). Newspapers are divided along political lines: Okaz and Al-Watan represent a domesticated liberal front, while Al-Riyadh echoes conservative, pro-regime messaging.

Self-censorship is the norm, according to RSF. Those who do not praise Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are implicitly treated as suspicious, while criticism of government policy can lead to accusations of treason or incitement—charges often brought under broad and vague laws like the Anti-Terrorism and Cybercrime statutes. These laws are routinely exploited to silence dissent and jail journalists on accusations such as “inciting disorder” or “tarnishing the state’s image.”

Economically, most media outlets remain state-owned or affiliated with the ruling elite, undermining journalistic independence. Channels like MBC play a major role in polishing the government’s image, especially through sports and entertainment, which are used to project a progressive image internationally—while domestic repression continues unabated.

RSF also warns of growing digital repression, with Saudi authorities employing advanced spyware to surveil journalists—even those in exile. State-backed “electronic brigades” are also active in conducting online smear and intimidation campaigns to silence critics and neutralize dissenting voices.

The report paints a bleak picture of media freedom in Saudi Arabia, exposing the widening gap between official narratives and the grim reality faced by journalists on the ground.