Saudi Arabia has asked Hans Zimmer to rework the national anthem. This initiative accompanies broader reforms aimed at diversifying the economy, though it faces scrutiny over persistent human rights issues.

According to Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, Hans Zimmer is in talks with them about the potential re-arrangement of the Saudi national anthem

Alalshikh met with Zimmer to discuss “various projects” the famed film composer could work on, including re-creating the anthem—currently “The Chant of the Saudi Nation,” written by Egyptian composer Abd al-Rahman al-Khatib in 1947—with “different instruments.

The musician, who has worked on hit films including The Lion King and Gladiator, is said to have agreed on the "broad outlines" of a number of projects with officials in the country.

Hans Zimmer was also presented with the concept of composing an original piece titled Arabia, which would celebrate the nation's cultural heritage

Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer just branched out into unchartered territory. According to a post on X shared by Turki Alalshikh, chairman of General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia, the renowned musician has been recruited to reimagine the kingdom's national anthem in a bid to honour its legacy.

Saudi Arabia is in talks with composer Hans Zimmer to reimagine its national anthem using various instruments. Additional projects include a musical piece inspired by the country and composing for the film The Battle of Yarmouk.

Because Hans Zimmer has agreed to work on the track, here are your afternoon links: East New York is getting a Lidl, Fire Island residents forced to deal with frozen ferry route, everyone's favorite chore simulator and more.