Stories from Saudi Arabia

During the previous Hajj season, the app recorded approximately 3 million entries. The multi-language platform provides more than 100 services to facilitate Hajj pilgrimage. It is also used to send awareness messages to pilgrims. During the last Hajj period, the application recorded approximately 3 million logins. The Nusuk application has reached over 51 million users, according to SBA Radio Riyadh. The Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Hajj and Umrah are providing enriched services to pilgrims, including multilingual guidance and instructional content. These services aim to enhance the religious experience for pilgrims upon arrival in Medina. The initiative is designed to reflect the sanctity of the city.

Leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) held an extraordinary consultative meeting to discuss regional developments. The meeting follows news regarding the impact of UAE's decision to leave OPEC Plus on the global economy. OPEC currently accounts for 36% of global oil production and controls nearly 80% of the world's proven reserves. The meeting aims to discuss Iranian attacks and align the bloc's response amid fragile negotiations. Saudi Arabia's public investment fund may pull support for the live golf series in the future. The potential move follows the country's five-year expenditure plan outlined last week, which contained no mention of sports. Sources indicate this shift could adversely affect spectator numbers. The plan includes considerations for water reuse systems in various countries.

A new airport to be inaugurated in the eastern part of a new city is expected to receive 12 million domestic and international visitors annually through 2034. Visitors can reach Dilzan city in less than 30 minutes from the airport using high-speed trains and electric vehicles. The city will feature an extensive bus network connecting all areas. The project includes the integration of electric vehicles and high-speed rail infrastructure.

The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) has nominated nine projects and initiatives for the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prize. Leading the nominations is a project to provide accreditation for AI service providers and an AI ethics label. The initiative aims to encourage entities to adopt ethical AI standards. The announcement was made in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The Nusuk application has reached over 51 million users, according to Ahmed Al-Humaid, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The app provides more than 100 services for pilgrims. Al-Humaid described the platform as a artery for both regional and global economies. The application provides services for pilgrims, including a simulation of the Prophet's migration journey. The project aims to enhance the quality of services provided to visitors in Mecca and Medina. The Nusuk application has contributed to an increase in Umrah visitors from 3.8 million to over 13 million. Officials noted that 16 million Umrah pilgrims have visited within a short period. Development of the application continues to support these numbers.

Riyadh is discussing developments regarding the situation in light of Pakistani mediation. The discussions include exchanging views on the future foreign policy of Gulf states toward Iran. An advisor to UAE President Anwar Karagash criticized the weak position of allied nations. The discussions are taking place in light of Pakistani mediation, according to German news reports citing Gulf sources. Anwar Karjash, an advisor to the UAE President, criticized the perceived weak position of allied nations regarding maritime navigation.

The Saudi Arabian Sports Federation has formed a new board of directors. Prince Khalid bin Al Waleed will serve as the chairman of the board. The move aims to increase physical activity rates across the country.

The General Directorate of Prisons and Mini Training Company signed an agreement in Riyadh to provide specialized training programs. The initiative will offer diplomas in artificial intelligence and human resources for employees and their families. The agreement was signed at the Directorate's headquarters. The agreement also includes qualifying programs to enhance the professional skills of inmates to facilitate their social reintegration.

The number of real estate transactions in Saudi Arabia fell by 39.15% compared to the same day last week. The average price per square meter reached 2.84 riyals, with Jeddah recording the highest average price per square meter. In Riyadh, the average price per square meter was 3.696 riyals. The Saudi Council for Economic Affairs and Development reviewed these figures as part of the Vision 2030 updates. The General Authority for Real Estate has also released a draft model for usufruct rights via the Istitlaa platform.

The Saudi General Authority for Real Estate has released a draft model for usufruct rights in the real estate register via the Istitlaa platform. The project aims to boost regional economies and tourism, specifically benefiting Turkey. The initiative aligns with visions to establish the Middle East as a central economic hub. The proposed network would branch from the Gulf through Saudi Arabia into Jordan, then split toward Egypt, Syria, and Turkey. Technical studies for the connection are reportedly nearing completion. The General Authority for Real Estate has approved new regulatory frameworks for real estate marketing and advertising. The regulations aim to organize advertising practices, enhance transparency, and protect market participants. The new rules mandate obtaining specific licenses for marketing activities.