Stories from Riyadh · Saudi Arabia

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.

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.