Category: Science

KAUST celebrates 290 graduates from its Specializations Program, advancing Saudi talent in AI, cybersecurity, renewable energy, and water sustainability.

Saudi Arabia sends 12 students to the 21st International Standards Olympiad in Goyang City, South Korea, joining 13 participating nations.

The Perseid meteor shower peaks over Saudi Arabia on August 12 and 13, with northern regions offering optimal viewing conditions.

GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej outlines Saudi Arabia’s two-track strategy for adopting AI in aviation, pairing rapid innovation with safety oversight.

The Eastern Region Municipality unveiled the new identity of its City Operation Picture Center, reinforcing data-driven urban management and smart-city goals under Vision 2030.

Saudi Press Agency reported at least 41 injured in Japan as a linear rainband brought heavy rains to the Tokai region, forcing hundreds to evacuate.

Riyadh hosts UNESCO’s Global Forum on the Ethics of AI 2026 from September 14 to 17, the first Arab-hosted edition, drawing global leaders and experts.

SDAIA evaluates AI Professional Badge applicants, certifying specialised competencies to support Saudi Vision 2030 and national data and AI goals.

The Perseid meteor shower will peak in Saudi Arabia between August 12 and 13, 2026, with optimal viewing conditions due to no moonlight.

The Perseid meteor shower will peak over Saudi Arabia from Wednesday night until dawn on Thursday, August 13, 2026.

UNESCO Director-General Professor Khaled El-Enany welcomes Saudi Arabia’s leadership on ethical AI ahead of the Global Forum on the Ethics of AI in Riyadh.

The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority publishes a study documenting Griffon Vulture breeding, with 82 active nests.

Saudi Arabia’s Communications Ministry will host the fourth Frontier Leaders Forum 2026 in Silicon Valley, focusing on AI, deep tech and venture capital.

The Moon appeared in conjunction with the Beehive Cluster over Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders Region, offering skywatchers a rare view of M44 at Wadi Arar.

King Salman Science Oasis reached over 120,000 beneficiaries across Riyadh, Makkah, and Northern Borders during International Youth Day 2026.

The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Nature Reserve features diverse plant species including Pulicaria crispa and lavender.

The King Salman Science Oasis reached over 120,000 visitors across Riyadh, Makkah, and the Northern Borders for International Youth Day 2026.

Umm Al-Qura University is conducting its second international student exchange program in clinical medicine with City St George’s, University of London.

The Kingdom serves as a safe passage for migratory birds from Africa due to its area of more than two million square kilometers.

Umm Al-Qura University is conducting its second international student exchange program in clinical medicine with City St George’s, University of London.

Umm Al-Qura University is implementing the second edition of a clinical medicine exchange program with City St George’s, University of London.

Umm Al-Qura University is implementing the second edition of a clinical medicine exchange program with City St George’s, University of London.

Umm Al-Qura University students are undertaking clinical training at City St George’s Hospital in the UK to enhance medical and professional skills.

Saudi Arabia increased the disposal rate of ozone-depleting substances to 69% during the first half of 2026.

Saudi Arabia reduced ozone-depleting substances by 69 percent in the first half of 2026, according to the National Center for Environmental Compliance.

Saudi Arabia achieved a 69% elimination rate of ozone-depleting substances in the first half of 2026, according to NCEC data.

Saudi Arabia increased the elimination rate of ozone-depleting substances to 69% in the first half of 2026.

The desert cobra plays a key role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining ecological balance in the Northern Borders region.

The black cobra, or desert cobra, plays a role in regulating organism populations in the Northern Borders Region.

The Sarah Al-Sudairi Center at PNU serves as a national research hub focusing on women’s empowerment and scientific research.

CST holds session on capability development products for space sector startups, launching support programs with MCIT and NTDP to accelerate entrepreneurship.

Saudi Arabia’s Mawhiba opens registration for the 2026 World Robot Olympiad. Young talents aged 8-22 can register to compete in robotics and innovation.

KAUST-led study reveals $2.3 trillion potential in seagrass carbon credits, offering climate finance to boost marine conservation and Saudi Arabia’s blue economy.

Discover how chameleons in Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve demonstrate unique adaptive abilities, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s biodiversity and Vision 2030 conservation efforts.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve concludes photography program, training residents to document conservation, aligning with Vision 2030.

European seas hit record highs due to climate change, raising alarms for ecosystems and coastal communities. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 highlights sustainability.

Deputy Governor of Al-Baha meets with National Center CEO to discuss vegetation development and desertification combat, advancing Vision 2030 sustainability.

Jeddah Astronomy Association clarifies ‘false lunar eclipse’ is inaccurate, urging use of ‘penumbral lunar eclipse’ to describe the phenomenon accurately.

SDAIA’s session on generative AI reveals how the technology is reshaping creative content production, empowering Saudi talent and supporting Vision 2030 goals.

European capitals, 18 August 2026 (SPA) – Wildfires continue to sweep across several European regions, consuming hectares of land and forcing numerous evacuations, according to reports from official authorities. The blazes, exacerbated by dry conditions and strong winds, have prompted a coordinated response from emergency services across the continent. Context and Background The ongoing fire […]

The Saudi National Center for Meteorology issues daily weather forecast: thunderstorms in Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha; heat in Eastern Province, Riyadh; winds affect visibility.

Najran University wraps up its Summer Research Capacity Development Program, enhancing researchers’ skills in AI, publishing, and collaboration for societal impact.

SDAIA convened experts in Riyadh to discuss AI’s impact on creative content, highlighting generative AI’s potential to empower creators and align with Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia observes a stunning crescent moon and Venus conjunction, offering a celestial spectacle for astronomers and stargazers.

In a rare astronomical moment, the crescent moon and Venus appeared together in the evening sky of Saudi Arabia on August 16, 2026. This conjunction marked the start of Rabi al-Awwal and captured public attention.

Saudi Arabia’s Jazan region is home to the colorful Nile Sunbird, a sign of ecological richness. Learn about its habitat, behavior, and conservation significance.

The Indian (purple) sunbird has been observed in Jazan, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich biodiversity and ecosystem. Learn how this supports Vision 2030’s environmental goals.

The Nile Sunbird has been observed in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, showcasing rich biodiversity. Learn about its habitat and the positive impact of Vision 2030 on conservation.

Tabuk hosts iGOVTHON 2026 hackathon with 50 teams to develop digital solutions for public services, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s digital transformation goals.

Saudi Press Agency reports moderate to heavy rain and hail in Bani Malik, Maysan Governorate, leading to stream flows and benefiting the region’s water resources.

King Salman Science Oasis and Savvy Games Group conclude the Next Gen Games Camp, training Saudi youth in game design and development, aligning with Vision 2030.

Saudi Press Agency Academy invites government officials to explore AI Camp outputs, showcasing student projects on national achievements. Learn how this supports Vision 2030.

Qassim University advances over 100 places in the 2026 Shanghai Ranking, now in 701-800 bracket, marking its fourth consecutive year in top 1,000 globally.

Mawhiba presents two papers on AI in education and high-ability development at the 20th ECHA Conference in Dublin, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role in global gifted education.

Saudi Arabia’s Mus’haf Haramain app offers a comprehensive digital Quran experience with recitations, tafsir, memorization tools, and multi-language support, aligning with Vision 2030.

The Saudi NCA, with the Ministry of Education, launched the second edition of cybersecurity awareness campaign ‘We Return to School from a Safe Door’ to protect students online.

Heavy rains fell on Saudi Arabia’s Jazan region on August 15, 2026, affecting several governorates. The rains are expected to benefit agriculture and water resources, with authorities ensuring public safety.

On August 16, 2026, China launched a new batch of internet satellites, the 24th, from Hainan. Learn about the mission and its implications for global connectivity and Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s astronomy enthusiasts anticipate the appearance of star Suhail, marking seasonal change and cultural heritage. Discover its significance and ties to Vision 2030.

Taif University advances 219 places in the 2026 Shanghai Ranking, now 408th globally, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s educational progress under Vision 2030.

Two women die and two infants injured in severe flooding in northwest Spain. The incident highlights climate change impacts, with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 promoting climate resilience.

Saudi Arabia’s Turaif witnesses a stunning moon-Venus conjunction, visible to the naked eye, highlighting the Kingdom’s commitment to science and Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s team earns silver, bronze, and merit at IOI 2026 in Uzbekistan, marking first-ever silver medal for the Kingdom.

Jazan University secures a spot in the 2026 Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities, placing among top 14 Saudi universities for the third consecutive year.

In August 2026, Al-Baha received blessed rainfall, replenishing valleys and boosting agriculture. Discover a positive sign of Vision 2030’s environmental stewardship.

Saudi Arabia’s Turaif witnessed a stunning crescent Moon-Venus conjunction on August 15, 2026, visible to the naked eye, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to science and Vision 2030.

Monsha’at and SDAIA concluded the AI Week, featuring 17 exhibitors, 78 meetings, and over 3,900 participants, part of Saudi Arabia’s Year of AI 2026.

Catania Airport resumes flight operations after Mount Etna alert level lowered. Passengers advised to check with airlines. Updated schedules at 00:14 local time.

Saudi Arabia’s Environment Fund releases 2025 annual report, showcasing support for 24 initiatives, 123 investment opportunities, and alignment with Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s advanced digital infrastructure and global partnerships position it as a world leader in AI investment, with data centers growing six-fold and top rankings in ICT.

Le croissant de Rabi’ Al-Awwal sera visible ce soir en Arabie Saoudite, offrant une occasion d’observer la lumière cendrée et de marquer le début du mois islamique.

Two people died in a light aircraft crash near Trawsfynydd, North Wales. AAIB investigates. Saudi Arabia follows aviation safety under Vision 2030.

PIF and Formula E launch enhanced ‘Driving Force’ platform, expanding STEM education for youth globally. Program benefits 111,200 students in Saudi Arabia, US, and UK, supporting Vision 2030.

PIF and Formula E launch enhanced Driving Force platform, expanding STEM education to more youth globally. Learn about the initiative’s impact and Vision 2030 alignment.

Saudi Arabia announces tonight’s clear view of Rabi Al-Awwal crescent moon after sunset. Learn about earthshine and Islamic lunar significance.

At least eight people died in heavy rains in eastern Japan. The JMA issued highest-level warnings for Chiba Prefecture. Learn about the impact and Vision 2030 relevance.

Record rains in Japan’s Chiba Prefecture cut transport links, leaving 7,000 stranded at Narita Airport. Learn how Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 enhances infrastructure resilience.

Monsha’at and SDAIA conclude AI Week 2026, empowering SMEs across Saudi Arabia with AI knowledge and tools. Over 3,900 individuals benefited.

The NCM forecasts thunderstorms, hail, and active winds across several Saudi regions on Friday, with high temps in the East and dust storms in Madinah and Mecca.

Heavy rains in Chiba, Japan, cause 4 deaths, 1 missing, 5 injured. Record rainfall, evacuations, and power outages. Saudi Vision 2030 emphasizes disaster resilience.

Aid from KSrelief arrives in Gaza as part of Saudi campaign to relieve food insecurity. Distribution expands, benefiting thousands.

A passenger train derailed near Lewes, East Sussex, UK. No injuries reported. Saudi Press Agency confirms. Emergency services on scene.

The Perseid meteor shower was observed from AlUla’s Gharameel Nature Reserve, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to astro-tourism and Vision 2030.

Learn about DRA’s collaborative training on data regulation and privacy, involving 40+ professionals, GDPR, and AI, supporting Vision 2030.

SpaceX launches 24 Starlink satellites, boosting global internet coverage. The Falcon 9 mission is among 94 launches this year, advancing low-orbit connectivity.

World Bank ranks Saudi Arabia among top 10 nations for private AI investment, citing SDAIA’s data integration and talent attraction. Vision 2030 drives AI leadership.

World Bank ranks Saudi Arabia among top 10 countries for private AI investment, highlighting SDAIA’s data integration model and talent attraction.

Mayor Aljubair presents advanced remote sensing research at IGARSS 2026, highlighting Dammam’s urban monitoring and Vision 2030 alignment.

SDAIA announces AI as key for SME growth and competitiveness in Saudi Arabia during AI Week, supporting Vision 2030.

Mayor of Eastern Region Eng. Fahad Aljubair presents research on remote sensing for urban planning at IGARSS 2026, highlighting Vision 2030 tech goals.

King Salman Center continues economic empowerment program in Gaza, training over 1,000 vulnerable individuals in vocational skills, aligning with Vision 2030.

SDAIA joins Youth Forum 2026 to discuss AI’s impact on youth skills and job readiness, aligning with Vision 2030’s digital transformation goals.

SDAIA highlights AI as a key driver for SMEs in Saudi Arabia during AI Week, aligning with Vision 2030 and the Year of AI 2026.

Saudi National Institute emphasizes measuring teacher training impact on students, aligning with Vision 2030 education goals.

Portugal experiences its first total solar eclipse since 1912, visible in Montesinho Natural Park. The event offers scientific opportunities and boosts tourism.

Moroccan newspapers covered by SPA report ceasefire violations in Gaza and Lebanon, Yemeni strikes in Marib, summer rain damage, and Colombia earthquake aftermath.

SpaceX launched 29 Starlink satellites aboard a Falcon 9 from Florida, expanding the largest satellite constellation as Saudi Arabia advances its space goals.

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck 45 km southeast of Naalehu in Hawaii at a depth of 7.2 km, the USGS reported, with no tsunami warning issued.

The Perseid meteor shower peaks over Saudi Arabia on August 12-13, 2026, with the Northern Borders region offering prime dark-sky viewing conditions.

Australia releases a government-commissioned report on AI agent risks and governance controls, offering a framework relevant to global AI oversight and Saudi Vision 2030.