Stories from Riyadh · Saudi Arabia

Consumers are advised to report defects in goods like mobile phones and cars immediately upon discovery. Failure to retain invoices can hinder proof of purchase, though alternative confirmations like email receipts are accepted. Sellers are obligated to disclose all defects, whether the item is new or used, and any misleading information constitutes fraud. If a seller conceals a defect, the buyer has the right to cancel the sale or seek compensation. Products that are counterfeit or defective but presented as genuine are considered commercial fraud.

Saudi Arabian home ownership increased from 63,416 families in 2019 to 851,387 families in 2025. Saudi Arabia's home ownership rate has reached 66.24 percent, according to a report on the Council of Ministers' economic development vision. This figure represents a increase from previous years when ownership levels did not exceed 7.40 percent. The announcement follows the implementation of new regulations and electronic systems aimed at market organization and Vision 2030 goals. Saudi household home ownership reached 6.60% according to a recent report. The report indicates the achievement reflects government housing policies and efforts related to the Saudi Vision 2030 goals. The average price per square meter was recorded at 1,330 riyals last week. The household home ownership rate reached 66.24%, surpassing the 2025 target of 65%.

Real estate transaction values in Saudi Arabia exceeded 4.841 billion riyals over the past week. In Riyadh's Al-Andalus district, 26 operations were recorded totaling 7.8 million riyals. In Al-Muznib, 12 operations were valued at 200,010 riyals. Additionally, 12 operations in Hail involving land or real estate outside district boundaries were valued at 4.6 million riyals. The General Authority for Real Estate announced that the deadline for the first in-kind settlement for 43 real estate plots in nine neighborhoods of Al Wajh governorate in the Tabuk region ends today, Wednesday, April 29. Property owners within these scopes are being called to complete the process. Food and beverage transactions accounted for 52 million of these operations. Hotel transactions exceeded 800,000 operations during the same period.

Princess Nora University in Riyadh has launched the Next Generation Forum under the theme 'Innovation Without Borders.' The event is hosted by the university's Innovation Center and will continue through tomorrow. The forum includes 12 specialized workshops focusing on the innovation economy, including topics such as artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, research, and technology. Various leadership figures are participating in the discussions. Topics include entrepreneurship, research, technology, and artificial intelligence.

Security forces and all related security sectors are discussing the burial and unification of the situation.

The Saudi Ministry of Culture has launched the 'Museum Riddle Challenge' in partnership with the Museums Commission and the Labeeb platform. The initiative targets primary and middle school students to encourage interactive exploration of museums across various regions of the Kingdom. The program aims to introduce students to unique cultural exhibits and experiences.

Saudi Arabia anticipates $37.8 billion in development costs related to the 2030 World Cup. The expansion targets Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and Neom. This infrastructure development is part of the nation's bid to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The Jeddah Literature Forum's current edition features a theme directly linked to the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Abdullah addressed the importance of this thematic integration during the session. Reports indicate that some sessions attracted over 1,000 attendees. Other sessions recorded attendance exceeding 2,050 participants. The forum is described as a key destination for intellectuals and culture enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia. Riyadh currently holds 6,040,924 rooms, followed by Al Khobar with 21,116, Jeddah with 13,447, and Neom with 1,920. Al Khobar provides 10,500 rooms, while Abha is estimated to have 751 rooms.

Saudi Arabia's urban development is a result of comprehensive efforts based on a strategic vision and a water policy aimed at achieving sustainable development and improving citizens' quality of life. These achievements are presented as evidence of the country's economic growth and improved living standards for citizens and residents. Saudi Arabia has launched Aquarabia, its largest water destination, located near Riyadh in the Al-Qiddiya area. The park aims to meet the growing demand for recreational activities, especially with the arrival of summer. Aquarabia features international-standard attractions, including the first double water coaster, the tallest water slide, and the largest water game in the world. The park is designed with eight themed zones, offering various activities and relaxation facilities.

A lecture titled 'Arab Rhetoric and the New Generation' was presented by Dr. Mohammed Hassanein Abu Musa. The event was organized by the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies as part of the Faisal Cultural Program, attended by Prince Turki bin Faisal, Chairman of the Center's Board of Directors.

Social specialist Taghreed Al-Tassem discussed solutions for traffic congestion in Saudi Arabia. It explored the idea of a complete human striving to realize their essence. Saudi Arabia has announced a new system for implementing government initiatives and resolving financial misappropriation cases. The authority stated that the decision includes all unpaid violations recorded before November 1, 2024. A 60-day period will be available for objections to observed traffic violations. Saudi Arabia's air defense forces announced they intercepted at least four drones belonging to the Houthi movement. Saudi Arabia has sent a new shipment of food baskets to Gaza. The National Center for Non-Profit Sector Development approved the formation of a board for the Al-Sanmal Association for its second term.