Stories from Saudi Arabia

Leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) convened for an extraordinary consultative summit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The discussions focused on regional tensions and recent aggression involving Iran and Jordan. GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi stated that leaders are seeking a diplomatic path to resolve the crisis. Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi stated that leaders addressed tensions in the region, specifically regarding Iranian aggression against certain nations and Jordan. The summit is described as a consultative process to consolidate the bloc's stance. The summit aims to address shared interests and consolidate the GCC's stance on current regional matters. A statement from the leaders confirmed they will take all necessary measures to protect the sovereignty and stability of the council states.

The Esports World Cup Foundation has revealed expansion plans for its Club Partner Program to connect clubs, publishers, and fans. Faisal bin Hamran, the foundation's CEO, stated the program has attracted approximately 40 clubs from around the world in recent years. The initiative aims to drive broader commercial and regulatory horizons for the sector.

The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council issued a statement following a meeting in Jeddah. The statement said the direction of the GCC leaders to accelerate the completion of requirements for all joint Gulf projects.

The Saudi Chinese Women's Forum is scheduled to launch tomorrow at Princess Nourah University in Riyadh. The event follows a previous meeting held in Jeddah. A statement from the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council noted the meeting was held in response to an invitation from King Salman bin Abdulaziz. The forum serves as an international platform for female leaders from Saudi Arabia and China to promote dialogue and knowledge exchange. The event aims to expand scientific cooperation and highlight the role of Saudi women in international cooperation. The Invest Saudi 2026 forum has launched in Riyadh to connect promising startups with investors and supporting entities. The event is organized in strategic partnership with the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology. Government activities reportedly grew by 1.5 percent year-on-year.

Technical and vocational training colleges in the Al-Jouf region held a graduation ceremony for 715 students across various technical disciplines.

The market power of OPEC+ and its member nations has been reduced to zero regarding global oil market influence. The current state of the global oil market no longer depends on OPEC+ statements.

Saudi Minister of Municipalities and Housing Majed Al-Hogail confirmed that housing units have been delivered. The announcement comes as the Gulf Cooperation Council legislative meeting convenes in Jeddah.

Saudi Arabia has requested that OPEC members continue to follow established production guidelines. The source noted that exporters typically seek to raise prices through established quotas. Saudi Arabia, the leader of OPEC, is facing a potential leadership withdrawal that could weaken the organization. The group currently controls approximately 40% of global oil production. Energy researcher Yvan Klisch from the University of Montreal noted that the situation in Iran has caused a energy shock and is destabilizing the global economy. The shift is described as a major turning point for the organization. Saudi Arabia's Council of Ministers issued a written message to preserve the capabilities of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism and its center. The ministry said the need to strengthen support through sustainable resources.

Lower oil prices are placing increased pressure on the Saudi Arabian budget. Saudi Arabia has historically favored lower production levels to maintain higher prices, creating tension with the UAE. The potential for sustained low prices could have far-reaching economic consequences for the kingdom. Oil prices have risen to the $110 level following recent market decisions. Prices had previously dipped as low as $88 in April amid hopes for a ceasefire. The current price movement follows a period of volatility. The price increase follows reports regarding the White House criticizing a peace proposal, according to CNN. Tehran has stated it is facing collapse and requested the immediate opening of Hormuz, according to social media posts from Donald Trump. Oil prices fell on Tuesday. Brent crude prices were reported to have dropped in the markets.

The Saudi Minister of Municipalities and Housing announced that Al-Baha has received certification as a disability-friendly city from the World Federation of the Deaf. Al-Baha is the first Saudi city to earn this accreditation and ranks sixth globally. The municipality stated the certification is a step in developing urban services and environments for people with disabilities. The accreditation follows a visit from a team representing the international organization to evaluate the region against strict standards. Alib Mohammed Al-Sawab, Secretary of the Al-Baha Region, noted the achievement is on both a local and global level. The announcement was made during a broadcast on SBA Radio Riyadh.