MrBeast, the world's most followed YouTuber with over 450 million subscribers, opened a temporary amusement park in Riyadh on Thursday, the latest celebrity drawn to Saudi Arabia as it aspires to become a major entertainment hub.

Eager for a chance to meet the social media star, families and teenagers gathered at "Beast Land", a venue featuring obstacle course-like challenges similar to those in his popular videos where contestants compete for massive pay days.

Hani Abu al-Naja said he travelled all the way from the city of Khobar, around 400 kilometres (250 miles) east of Riyadh, with his four children and four nephews for the opening.

"It was a surprise for them," the 42-year-old Palestinian told AFP, beaming with joy.

MrBeast's park will be open until December 27 as part of Riyadh Season, a major annual festival launched to........

© Al Monitor