Category: General

Raghadan Forest in Al-Baha transforms into a stunning winter landscape with foggy trees and scenic views, attracting visitors as part of Saudi tourism

Traditional wooden doors and gypsum carvings from Hail draw crowds at the Handicrafts Festival, highlighting Saudi craftsmanship and Vision 2030 cultural heritage goals.

The seventh Saudi relief plane, operated by KSrelief, arrives at Damascus Airport with food, shelter, and medical supplies for Syria, reinforcing the Kingdom’s humanitarian commitment.

The aromatic arta plant (Calligonum comosum) resurfaces in Wadi Arar after near-extinction, thanks to Saudi environmental laws and natural reserves.

International flights at Damascus International Airport resumed on January 7, 2025, after a one-month suspension. Flights to UAE and from Qatar restore regional connectivity.

KSrelief delivers food and shelter aid to Syrian village of Nasib, Daraa Governorate, as part of Saudi relief airlift and land bridge. Learn about this humanitarian effort.

Saudi Ambassador Abdulaziz Al-Raqabi met Mauritanian Minister Sidi Yahya Cheikhna Lemrabott to enhance bilateral cooperation in Islamic affairs, supporting Vision 2030 diplomacy.

King Salman issues Royal Order appointing 81 members to Saudi Public Prosecution as investigative lieutenants, reinforcing judicial reform and Vision 2030.

Governor of Taif Prince Saud bin Nahar received Kenyan Consul General Aden Mohamud Mohamed to discuss mutual interests, enhancing Saudi-Kenya cooperation in line with Vision 2030.

KSrelief distributed food and shelter aid to 200 families in Douma, Syria, on January 7, 2025, in coordination with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian commitment.

King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Madinah receives ISO 41001:2018 certification for facility management, enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability under Vision 2030.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman chairs Cabinet session in Riyadh, approving international agreements and reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional stability and Vision 2030 development.

Diriyah Company awards SAR426.3 million contract for Boulevard District design, advancing Vision 2030 goals in Saudi Arabia’s historic Diriyah project.

GCC Secretary General Jasem Albudaiwi met UK Ambassador Neil Crompton in Riyadh to advance free trade agreement negotiations and discuss regional developments.

The Ministry of Tourism participates as an official partner in the third Saudi Tourism Forum in Riyadh, showcasing investments and supporting Vision 2030 tourism goals.

The Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025 opens January 13 at Jeddah Superdome, featuring 130+ speakers, 50 workshops, and innovations for pilgrims under Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s NCVC earns ISO 9001 certification for quality human capital management, boosting environmental sustainability and Vision 2030 goals.

Saudi Stock Exchange main index gains 8.60 points to close at 12,113.29 on January 7, 2025, with total trading value of SAR7.7 billion, driven by Vision 2030 reforms.

The National Debt Management Center announces $12 billion international bond offering with $37 billion in orders, underscoring investor confidence.

Riyadh will host the eighth Arab Union of Electricity conference from February 11-13, 2025, focusing on sustainable energy for the Arab world.

The Revelation Exhibition in Makkah’s Hira Cultural District offers immersive experiences on prophets’ lives and the first revelation, supporting Saudi Arabia’s cultural tourism goals.

Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief Supervisor General met Canadian Minister Ahmed Hussen in Riyadh to enhance humanitarian cooperation, highlighting Vision 2030 global role.

KSrelief concludes a pediatric surgery volunteer project in Djibouti, performing 59 successful surgeries. The mission highlights Saudi Arabia’s global humanitarian efforts.

KSRelief’s Masam Project cleared 1,151 mines in Yemen during the first week of January 2025, including anti-tank mines and unexploded ordnances, supporting civilian safety.

A KSrelief medical team performed 66 cochlear implant surgeries in 20 hours in Reyhanli, Türkiye, benefiting Syrian children. Part of Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian missions.

KSrelief concludes Saudi Noor Volunteer Program in Aden, Yemen, performing 1,507 eye surgeries to combat blindness. A key humanitarian initiative by Saudi Arabia.

KSrelief provides healthcare services to Syrian refugees and host community in Arsal, Lebanon, treating 12,676 patients in October 2024 as part of Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian efforts.

Saudi Development Program for Yemen and Children with Disability Association sign a cooperation memorandum to assist Yemenis with disabilities and build rehabilitation capacities.

KACST successfully localizes blue LED technology, boosting energy efficiency by 80% and aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 for industrial leadership and sustainability.

AC Milan defeated Inter Milan 3-2 in the Italian Super Cup final in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event supports Vision 2030 and highlights the Kingdom’s sports hosting.

Riyadh Season will host the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble, the first time the event is held outside North America, as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

The seventh Saudi relief plane, operated by KSrelief, departed for Syria with food, shelter, and medical supplies, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian commitment.

The National Center for Meteorology forecasts heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds for Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah on Tuesday. Temperatures to drop in the north.

A 7.1-magnitude earthquake hit Tibet near Nepal on Jan 7, 2025. No damage or injuries reported. Saudi Press Agency shares details.

Czech President Petr Pavel left Jeddah on January 7, 2025, concluding an official visit to Saudi Arabia that strengthened bilateral ties and cooperation.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior stresses ban on unauthorized sharing of security camera footage, with SAR20,000 fine for violators, reinforcing privacy and security laws.

A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck Iran’s Bushehr province on January 7, 2025, with no reported damage or casualties, highlighting regional safety concerns.

AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 will be held from January 7 to February 5, 2027, across eight stadiums in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar, supporting Vision 2030.

The Hasawi bisht, a traditional Saudi cloak from Al-Ahsa, gains global recognition for its craftsmanship and cultural significance, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

The 18th Al-Jouf International Olive Festival in Sakaka features 43 farmers and five companies, showcasing olive products with strict quality testing, supporting Saudi food security and Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s PIF completes $7 billion inaugural murabaha credit facility with 20 global institutions, boosting Vision 2030 investment capacity.

Discover how Tihama farms in Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia, showcase agricultural diversity and sustainable practices, supporting Vision 2030’s economic diversification and food security goals.

The 18th Al-Jouf International Olive Festival in Sakaka boosts Saudi tourism and economy, featuring global participants, quality testing, and cultural heritage.

Riyadh Governor Prince Faisal bin Bandar receives Sierra Leone’s new Ambassador Mohammed S. Barrie, discussing mutual interests and strengthening bilateral ties. Read more.

Saudi Red Crescent raises readiness in Makkah Region after heavy rain warnings, deploying 1,420 personnel and 149 vehicles for emergency response.

Saudi Reef Program launches Reef Village event in Riyadh, showcasing cultural and natural riches to boost rural tourism and support Vision 2030.

Sixty Saudi relief trucks crossed into Syria on January 6, 2025, as part of KSrelief’s humanitarian land bridge, delivering food, shelter, and medical aid.

Diriyah Company inaugurates two SEC substations—1707 MVA and 200 MVA—to power Diriyah and Wadi Safar development, supporting Vision 2030 goals.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a phone call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss regional developments and diplomatic efforts.

Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh met Palestinian Ambassador Mazen Ghoneim in Riyadh, discussing support for Palestinians through Hajj programs.

Saudi Stock Exchange main index closes higher at 12,104.69 points on January 6, 2025, with SAR6.4 billion trading value, reflecting investor optimism under Vision 2030.

GCC Secretary General Jasem Albudaiwi received Canadian Minister Ahmed Hussen in Riyadh to discuss cooperation in development, investment, education, and renewable energy.

NCM spokesperson confirms Rabigh waterspout as strongest recorded, reaching the beach for the first time. Study planned by NCM Research Department.

Saudi Music Commission hosts first Marvels of Saudi Orchestra concert in Riyadh Jan 16-18, 2025, at King Fahd Cultural Center, featuring global tour highlights and Vision 2030 cultural goals.

NCVC held a workshop in Riyadh on drought indicators and calculation methods to enhance Saudi Arabia’s drought preparedness using DrinC, QGIS, and SNAP software, supporting Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.

MCIT, KAUST, and Hello Tomorrow launch a Deep Tech Report outlining a roadmap for building a deep tech ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030.

Saudi Minister of State Adel Al-Jubeir received Canadian Minister Ahmed Hussen in Riyadh to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and regional developments.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud offers condolences to Greece’s President on the passing of the former Greek prime minister, strengthening bilateral ties.

HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sends condolences to Greece’s President on the passing of former Prime Minister Costas Simitis, reinforcing Saudi diplomatic ties.

Saudi Ministry of Justice and Sports Arbitration Center approve procedural framework for enforcing arbitration awards, boosting legal clarity and investor confidence in sports.

The 9th Citrus Festival in Al-Hariq opened with 300 pavilions, over 170,000 visitors, and 20 citrus varieties, highlighting Saudi agricultural diversity and Vision 2030 goals.

King Faisal Prize will announce 2025 laureates on January 8 in Riyadh, covering archaeology, Arabic literature, cellular therapy, and physics, with judges from 16 countries.

Saudi Minister of Finance approves the 2025 Annual Borrowing Plan, covering SAR139 billion in funding needs, including budget deficit and debt repayments, aligned with Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia hosts the 5th WAFF U17 Girls Championship in Dammam from Feb 7-16, 2025. Six teams compete, marking a first for the Kingdom in women’s football.

The Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia wraps up the 10th Kings’ and Princes’ Cups Festival in Riyadh with over SAR7.7 million in prizes, celebrating equestrian heritage.

Syria’s Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Fadi Al-Qassem met with KSrelief in Damascus on January 5 to coordinate humanitarian aid delivery and civil society cooperation.

The Saudi Press Agency captures the cultural and economic vibrancy of the traditional handicrafts market in Laynah Village, showcasing Saudi heritage and artisan skills.

Saudi Arabia hosts the Italian Super Cup final between Inter Milan and AC Milan at Al-Awwal Park Stadium, showcasing sports diplomacy and Vision 2030 goals.

Syrian Health Minister Dr. Maher Al-Sharaa meets KSrelief in Damascus to discuss healthcare aid, highlighting Saudi humanitarian support under Vision 2030.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met U.S. Envoy Amos Hochstein to discuss regional issues and stability efforts in Lebanon.

Saudi Minister Faisal Alibrahim met BlackRock Vice Chairman Philipp Hildebrand in Riyadh to discuss global economy and Vision 2030 investment opportunities.

The National Center for Meteorology forecasts thundershowers, hail, and possible light snow across Saudi Arabia on Monday. Detailed wind and sea conditions included.

The Saudi Red Crescent Authority’s Madinah branch responded to over 123,000 emergencies in 2024, treating 90,913 patients and surpassing response time targets by 110%.

The Salam Project for Cultural Communication celebrated the graduation of the seventh batch of its Youth Leaders Program, with 432 graduates trained in diplomacy and global engagement.

A 4.5-magnitude earthquake struck Yonaguni, Japan, per SPA citing USGS. No casualties reported. Learn about Japan’s seismic activity and global resilience efforts.

Japanese stocks declined on January 6, 2025, with Nikkei and TOPIX falling. SPA reports on market trends and implications for Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030.

The ninth Al-Hariq Citrus Festival attracts over 170,000 visitors by day four, boosting local agriculture and economy through citrus exhibits, workshops, and cultural activities.

Saudi Coffee Company launches second edition of Saudi Sip of Excellence Competition in the Southern Region, empowering farmers and boosting global coffee reputation with SAR240,000 in prizes.

The Saudi Ministry of Commerce announced a 67% increase in new commercial registrations in Q4 2024, reaching 1.6 million active records, driven by Vision 2030 sectors.

King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah set a record with over 49 million passengers in 2024, a 14% increase. The milestone supports Vision 2030 and Saudi Arabia’s aviation growth.

NWC announced SAR 1.6 billion water supply projects in Makkah to serve 3 million beneficiaries, enhancing infrastructure and supporting pilgrims under Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia, through KSrelief, gifts 100 tons of dates to Pakistan in a humanitarian gesture, strengthening bilateral ties and supporting Vision 2030 goals.

GCA President Dr. Hussam Alangari met with Philippine Commission on Audit Chairperson Gamaliel A. Cordoba in Riyadh to enhance audit cooperation under Vision 2030 and ASOSAI.

GASTAT launches a Micro Data Center to provide accurate statistical data for decision-makers, researchers, and policymakers, supporting Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s first humanitarian land bridge convoy of 60 trucks, managed by KSrelief, arrives at Jordan’s Jaber Border to deliver food and medical aid to Syria.

Saudi Stock Exchange main index closed lower on January 5, 2025, losing 32.73 points to 12,069.82, with SAR4.2 billion in trades. Parallel market NOMU gained.

Discover how Saudi Arabia’s Qassim region is turning desert truffles into a cultural and economic treasure, supporting Vision 2030 through sustainable agriculture.

ZATCA urges businesses in Saudi Arabia to submit December withholding tax forms by January 10, 2025, to avoid a 1% monthly penalty.

KSrelief announces registration for the AMAL program, a Saudi initiative providing critical emergency and medical services to Syrians, supporting Vision 2030 humanitarian goals.

Registration opens for the second Global Labor Market Conference in Riyadh, Jan 29-30, 2025. Over 200 speakers from 50 countries to discuss the future of labor markets.

Saudi Heritage Commission signs MoU with Japan’s Motoko Katakura Foundation to boost cultural heritage research, preservation, and community engagement.

The Aseer Winter Season officially begins at Aseer Waterfront, offering three months of cultural shows, folk performances, a Saudi Coffee exhibition, and family activities boosting regional tourism.

King Salman sends a cable of condolences to King Abdullah II of Jordan on the passing of Princess Majda Ra’ad, highlighting deep Saudi-Jordan ties.

HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman extends condolences to King Abdullah II of Jordan on the passing of Princess Majda Ra’ad, reaffirming Saudi-Jordan ties.

Inter Milan and AC Milan coaches and players held a press conference in Riyadh ahead of the Italian Super Cup final, highlighting their readiness and respect for sport in Saudi Arabia.

Samri Night, held at Mohammed Abdo Arena, showcases Saudi traditional folk art. Part of Riyadh Season, it highlights cultural preservation and Vision 2030 goals.

KSrelief delegation met UNHCR officials in Damascus to enhance humanitarian aid for Syria, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s global relief role.

The AlManshiyah Carnival in AlUla offers unique activities blending heritage and modernity, boosting tourism and supporting Vision 2030 goals.

KSrelief signs agreement for sixth phase of mobile clinics in Yemen’s Saada and Hajjah, benefiting 52,124 individuals and strengthening healthcare access.

KSrelief-funded ambulance service in Lebanon’s Miniyeh District completes 53 emergency missions, transporting patients and injured individuals. Learn more about this humanitarian initiative.