Stories from Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabian authorities executed three Ethiopian men in April for transporting khat plants. The men reportedly traveled from Ethiopia through Yemen to reach the country. Khat leaves are prohibited in Saudi Arabia due to their stimulant effects.

Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Al-Khulaif met with Turkish counterparts to discuss enhancing cooperation in mining sectors. The meeting focused on developing mining value chains to support global mineral security.

A 62-year-old victim was defrauded in Makkah through a scheme involving fraudulent Hajj permits and hotel accommodations. The victim met a local suspect at a restaurant in 2024 and was enticed by offers for pilgrimage permits and lodging for the Hajj and Umrah seasons.

Gulf Cooperation Council countries met in Saudi Arabia to decide on accelerating early warning system projects against ballistic missiles. The meeting addressed security concerns following recent attacks. The decision aims to bolster regional defense capabilities among member states. The meeting also noted that recent attacks have shaken confidence in Iran among Gulf nations. The move is described as a response to the need for self-protection from a military perspective. The decision follows discussions regarding how these countries will protect themselves against ballistic missile threats. Member states also reached a consensus on strengthening military integration. The decision follows concerns regarding the impact of attacks on trust in Iran among GCC member countries. The meeting took place during a period involving US President Donald Trump's visit to the region.

French energy group TotalEnergies announced the restart of the Safani refinery in Saudi Arabia for mid-April. The facility had been offline following strikes that damaged part of the installation located in Jubail near the Gulf.

Regional escalations are complicating potential negotiations between the United States and Iran. Negotiations are described as an impasse where Iranian power is not being crushed by American influence.

Badr Hospital provided more than 13,000 emergency services during the first quarter.

Authorities in Hail conducted 12 operations targeting illegal animal slaughtering.

The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture has introduced an investment opportunity in the Al-Jouf region. The project aims to develop the Al-Jouf water tower and surrounding lands in the city of Sakaka.

Kidana Development and Development, a subsidiary of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites, has completed the second phase of a project to build rest areas for pilgrims. The project is located along the Mashaaer Mashaa paths. The initiative aims to improve service quality and the experience for pilgrims.