Stories from Riyadh · Saudi Arabia

Russia and Saudi Arabia will implement a visa-free regime starting May 11. The source noted the agreement was signed in December 2025. This execution comes as the country attempts to present a more liberal image to the international community. The report described the event as extremely grave. Saudi Arabia's real Gross Domestic Product grew by approximately 3 percent in the first quarter of the current year. The Ministry of Hajj also confirmed that obtaining Hajj permits is an integral part of maximizing the sanctity of the Holy Sites. Services for pilgrims are being provided through Medina International Airport. The Riyadh investment forum, Tart Smart, has also commenced operations. Non-oil activities grew by 2.3 percent during this period. Non-oil activities also saw a 2 percent increase according to the General Authority for Statistics.

The World Bank predicts economic activity in countries outside of Iran within the Gulf region could slow to one percent. Energy-demanding countries are facing difficulties accessing energy, while energy-exporting Gulf nations are struggling to sell their supplies.

Saudi Arabia will withdraw its multi-billion dollar backing of the Live Golf series at the end of this season. Previously, PIF leaders stated they measured returns in decades without immediate profit requirements. Projections for the golfing sector involved in these discussions are estimated at a minimum of $5 billion, with some reaching $7 billion to $8 billion. The shift in approach is being driven by the economic pressures of the conflict. The league was established in 2022 to compete with the PGA Tour. Brodie Miller of The Athletic provided details on the shift in funding. LIV Golf, the Saudi-backed professional men's golf league, has lost investment from the Saudi Public Investment Fund. The LIV Golf league is transitioning to attract new private investment after the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced its withdrawal from funding the league beyond 2026.

Al Hilal secured a 2-0 victory against a rival to reach 20 consecutive wins, a streak dating back to January. Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the 76th minute following a corner kick assisted by João Félix. The team also scored again in the 90th minute to secure the win. Al Hilal currently leads the Saudi championship by 8 points. The team has guaranteed a place in the Asian Champions League 2 final. The squad, managed by Jorge Jesus, has guaranteed a presence in the AFC Champions League 2 final. Al Hilal secured a 3-0 victory against Al Hazm in a Saudi League fixture. The match concluded with a clean sheet for the winning side.

Cristiano Ronaldo and French player Kingsly Coman scored goals to lead Al Nassr to a 2-0 victory against Al Ahli in the 30th round of the Saudi Roshn League. The win places Al Nassr at the top of the standings with 970 points. The Al Nassr captain is expected to undergo treatment over the coming weeks, which may impact his availability for the upcoming match at Allianz Arena next Wednesday. The match took place at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. This win moves Al Nassr to the top of the standings with 79 points from 30 matches, establishing an 8-point lead over their closest competitor. Kingsley Coman scored the second goal for Al Nassr. This win strengthens Al Nassr's position at the top of the league standings. The match featured the defending champions of the last two AFC Champions League Elite editions. Al Hilal currently holds 29 matches played.

The Saudi Public Investment Fund will withdraw all financing from LiveGolf at the conclusion of the current season. Following this news, LiveGolf announced it is postponing an event in New Orleans originally scheduled for June 25 to June 28.

Julian Alvarez secured a one-all draw for Atletico Madrid against Arsenal during the first half of their Champions League match. The game is being played at the Riyadh Air Metro stadium.

Saudi Aramco remains the largest shareholder in SABIC with a 70 percent ownership stake. The company's market value currently reaches 130 billion riyals. Asset sales occurred during the recent period despite reported losses.

SABIC recorded a net profit of 13.2 million riyals during the first quarter of 2026. The company's performance reflects a shift toward internal restructuring.

The Saudi Fisheries Company received approval from the Tadawul stock market to increase its capital through a rights issue worth 344,900,000 riyals. This increase will bring the total capital to 400,920,000 riyals.