Stories from Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has halted construction on its ambitious $1 trillion 'The Line' project, a planned linear city of skyscrapers. The project was intended to span 170 kilometers with dual skyscrapers. The decision marks a shift in the development plans for the futuristic urban area. The reasons for the halt are not immediately clear. The decision comes as the project faces challenges and a revised scope. This halt raises questions about the future of NEOM's ambitious urban development plans. This project was a key component of the NEOM smart city initiative. The decision comes amid a reassessment of the kingdom's mega-projects and their economic viability. The halt is due to challenges in achieving the project's ambitious goals. The project aimed to house millions in a linear urban environment.

Russia and Saudi Arabia are set to hold discussions regarding an energy forum. The meeting will include discussions on potential issues with communication at the forum. The meeting focused on cooperation in the energy sector. Both nations are key players in global energy markets.

FIFA acknowledges heat risks during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, with reports of a fan dying from heatstroke in 2023 and a Taylor Swift concert in Brazil also experiencing heat-related issues. FIFA states it is providing extra water and cooling stations, but questions remain about match scheduling and player welfare. Thirteen hundred people may die from heat during the pilgrimage, according to a heat researcher. Health officials are highlighting heat risks for pilgrims during the Hajj. Authorities are said the risks associated with extreme heat during the Hajj pilgrimage, urging participants to take necessary precautions. The pilgrimage is taking place in Mecca. Extreme heat conditions are posing risks to pilgrims participating in the Hajj. Heat-related risks are being said during the Hajj pilgrimage, with pilgrims advised to take precautions against high temperatures.

Saudi Arabia purchased 500 upgraded Toyota Land Cruisers equipped with mobile heavy mortars from a Spanish arms company. The vehicles were described as a 'bruiser of a vehicle' after their upgrade.

British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua is scheduled to fight Christian Mbilli in Riyadh in July. This bout is part of a larger event featuring multiple boxing matches. Joshua has been preparing for this bout, aiming for a strong performance. The bout is part of a major boxing event planned for the Saudi Arabian capital. Details regarding the date and venue within Riyadh are expected to be announced soon.

Saudi Arabia's wholesale and retail trade revenues increased by 7.3% in the first quarter. The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) reported the figures. This growth indicates a positive trend in the kingdom's trade sector.

Hadi resigned as president in 2022 and had reportedly been living in virtual house arrest in Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia is taking measures to ensure the safety of millions of people. The country is focused on preventing panic and ensuring security. The specific details of these safety initiatives were not immediately provided. Saudi Arabia has signed normalization agreements with Israel and Jordan. The specific countries involved were not named. The details of these deals and their implications for regional relations are being closely watched.

The role of Saudi Arabia within the Islamic world is being discussed, particularly concerning its religious and political influence.

Saudi Arabia is experiencing heightened regional tensions, with officials expressing concern over potential attacks. The geopolitical situation in the Middle East remains volatile.