Stories from Riyadh · Saudi Arabia

Al-Riyadh football club experienced a significant loss, impacting their standing in the league. This defeat is particularly detrimental as it affects their position relative to rivals like Al-Khaleej, Al-Fath, and Al-Shabab, who are competing closely in the standings. Saudi Arabia has sold the Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal as part of a broader effort to modernize and diversify its economy through tourism. The sale follows a statement from the country's sovereign wealth fund, the PIF, regarding a focus on more sustainable investments. The Kingdom is scheduled to host the World Cup in 2034. Critics have accused the nation's sports investments of being an attempt to improve its human rights reputation through sports washing.

Joint field campaigns by Saudi land, sea, and air customs and border security forces resulted in the detention of over 12,000 individuals for violating residency and labor laws. The crackdown occurred over the course of one week. This enforcement action aims to strengthen border security and regulatory compliance within the Kingdom. The Saudi Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of individuals involved in crimes involving more than 2 billion riyals. These crimes are described as threatening national unity and community security. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Interior. The Ministry of Hajj said that all types of visit visas do not authorize the holder to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that compliance with Hajj permits is required to respect the sanctity of the Holy Sites.

The Minister of Investment has officially launched a regional program focused on digital trade and e-commerce across the Middle East and North Africa. The initiative aims to bolster cross-border digital transactions and economic integration in the region.

Saudi Arabia has reported an increase in its non-oil exports as part of a strategic effort to maintain economic stability. Saudi Arabia possesses strong energy resources and a capable youth population. The youth are described as aware, ambitious, educated, and possessing good values, contributing to the nation's vision. The Saudi non-oil sector has reached 2.89 percent of the national Gross Domestic Product. Engineer Salem Al-Mazrou, head of the ports authority, previously stated that Saudi ports have become a key part of the global supply chain. Non-oil economic growth in Saudi Arabia reached 1.7 percent during the first quarter of 2026. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development reported performance on its Qiwa platform during this period. This figure represents an increase of 4.40 percent since the start of the Vision program.