Essam Al-Zamel: Nine Years Behind Bars for His Economic Views

These days mark the ninth anniversary of the arrest of economist Essam Al-Zamel, who has entered his ninth year behind bars since his arrest on 12 September 2017 upon returning from an international economic conference in the United States. Al-Zamel was arrested over his economic views and criticism of government policies.

In October 2020, the Specialized Criminal Court sentenced him to 15 years in prison based on tweets expressing his views and criticizing economic policies, in addition to vague charges including “communicating with a Qatari figure,” “membership in a banned group,” and “tarnishing the reputation of the state.” During his detention, Al-Zamel has faced serious violations, including prolonged solitary confinement, restrictions on his family’s ability to travel, media smear campaigns, and denial of a fair trial.

Al-Zamel is known for his academic and professional achievements. He received prestigious awards, including the Prince Salman Award for Young Businesspeople in 2009 and the State Alumni Achievement Award in 2014. Forbes magazine also ranked him among the most influential Saudi figures.

SANAD Human Rights Organization states that Dr. Essam Al-Zamel’s continued detention since 2017 constitutes a grave violation of his fundamental rights, including his rights to freedom of expression, a fair trial, and communication with his family. SANAD calls on Saudi authorities to release him immediately and unconditionally and ensure that he receives appropriate compensation upon his release.