It's a headliner comedy festival that has copped significant backlash for what one human rights organisation says is "whitewashing" of a "brutal repression of free speech". b

The Riyadh Comedy Festival, taking place this September and October in Saudi Arabia, stars a blockbuster list of A-list comedians.

But others have been left "disgusted, and deeply disappointed".

Here's what you need to know.

What is the Riyadh Comedy Festival?

The festival is a two-week celebration in Saudi Arabia's capital, boasting a stacked line-up of international comics.

The A-list names include former SNL star Pete Davidson, popular British comedian and host Jimmy Carr , and film star Chris Tucker.

Others like Bill Burr, Kevin Hart, Jimeoin and Jack Whitehall will also appear.

Louis CK — who f

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