ʽUlaysha Prison

ʽUlaysha Prison, located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is operated by the secret police agency Mabahith and is known for its role in the arbitrary detention of political prisoners and activists. The prison gained notoriety during the 2011 Saudi Arabian protests, particularly for holding Khaled al-Johani, who became a symbol of dissent. Reports from human rights organizations highlight the prison's harsh conditions, including allegations of torture and incommunicado detention. Notable prisoners include academics and founding members of the Umma Islamic Party, who were detained for advocating for democracy and human rights. The prison's history reflects broader issues of human rights in Saudi Arabia, making it a point of interest for researchers and tourists exploring the country's political landscape.