Manama: Saudi Arabia security authorities have launched an investigation into a fake poster purporting to offer belly dancing classes for men and women.
The poster claimed that the training will be conducted in the Red Sea city of Jeddah by famous Egyptian belly dancer Fifi Abdou.
The sessions will cost SR3,000 and the successful participants will be given certificates of merit, the poster purports.
A picture of the poster went viral on social media, triggering shock, suspicion and condemnation among users.
Officials from Makkah Province dismissed the poster as a hoax and insisted that the claims totally lacked credibility, Saudi daily Okaz reported on Wednesday.
Those behind the hoax and the rumours will be prosecuted under national anti-cybercrime laws, the officials warned as the probe was launched.
Those found guilty of cybercrime can face imprisonment for up to five years and a fine that could reach SR 3,000,000.
Several online users speculated that the poster could have been published by members of society who oppose the country’s trajectory towards modernisation as envisioned and set out by Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman.
“They are attempting to create tension and animosity to counter or slow down efforts to open up society and make it more vibrant and help Saudi men and women become more content and lead more fulfilling lives,” one user posted.
