Analysing Crowd Behaviour and Management at Music Festivals Case Study MDLBEAST Soundstorm Festivals in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This dissertation invistigates crowd behaviour and management at Soundstorm Music Festivals in Saudi Arabia, spotlighting the importance of effective strategies for safety and enriched festival experiences in the evolving Middle Eastern festival culture. Utilising a mixed-methods approach, the study scrutinizes crowd dynamics in Soundstorm 2022 and its progression since inception. Through quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with attendees and organisers, it uncovers insights into crowd behaviour, and the impact of crowd management initiatives. The study explores technology's role, demonstrated by real-time CCTV monitoring and mobile applications in modern crowd management. It fills a notable research gap in crowd management within the Middle Eastern music festival context, shedding light on the advancements in Soundstorm 2022's crowd management and persistent gender-based safety concerns. The RESPECT initiative by MDLBEAST and the MDLBEAST App signify progress, yet gaps in awareness and effectiveness of these measures indicate areas for further improvement to ensure a safer and more enjoyable festival ambiance. This dissertation not only contributes to the broader dialogue on safety and attendee experience in large-scale events but sets a precedent for subsequent research in this realm.