Shakira’s 5-Show El Salvador Residency Boosts Bukele Image

Singer-songwriter and global superstar Shakira held a five-concert residency in San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, marking one of the biggest international music events the country has hosted in recent years.

The sold-out concerts took place at the National Stadium Jorge “El Magico” González as part of her “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour.” Shakira originally planned three shows, but after tickets sold out in less than 24 hours, President Nayib Bukele publicly celebrated the demand on X and encouraged organizers to extend the residency.

Shakira quickly responded online, confirming two additional dates, turning the visit into a rare five-show run. Most major artists who have performed in El Salvador recently — including Bad Bunny (2022) and Karol G (2024) — usually perform only one concert before moving on.

El Salvador’s Image Shift

The concerts are seen as part of Bukele’s broader effort to reshape El Salvador’s global image — from once being considered among the world’s most violent countries to becoming one of the region’s safest.

El Salvador has hosted other major international events in recent years, including international surfing tournaments and the Miss Universe competition two years ago.

Security Crackdown and Controversy

Many locals and visiting fans say the improved security is the main reason such large events are now possible.

El Salvador’s security turnaround has been driven by a government crackdown on criminal gangs under a state of emergency that has been in place for nearly four years. Under this policy, some constitutional rights — including access to a lawyer — are suspended.

The government has arrested more than 91,000 people, often without due process. Human rights groups in El Salvador and abroad have criticized the measures, and hundreds of detainees have died in prison without being convicted of a crime.

Despite criticism, the crackdown has gained strong public support inside El Salvador and admiration from neighboring countries facing gang violence.

Tourism and Economic Impact

El Salvador’s Tourism Minister Morena Valdez said hotels in the capital were operating at full capacity due to the concerts. Many visitors booked stays in nearby beach areas or other cities.

Officials estimate the five-show residency could generate around $55 million in economic impact.

Fans Praise Safety

Many fans traveled from across Central America to attend the concerts. A visitor from Costa Rica said it was their first time in El Salvador and they planned to return because the country’s security is now “fashionable.”

Another family traveled from Guatemala City and planned to stay for three days to visit the beach and a nearby volcano, saying they felt safe traveling freely without fear of gang violence.

Bukele’s Message

Bukele has strongly defended his approach, saying he values results over criticism. He has repeatedly dismissed accusations from opponents and international critics, insisting his priority is public safety.