A high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia led by His Excellency Faisal F. Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning, will travel to Lisbon to represent the Kingdom at the sixth session of the Saudi-Portuguese Joint Committee to enhance economic, and trade cooperation between the two countries.   The session has a broad two-day agenda exploring key investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia, as well as recent achievements in bilateral cooperation.   HE Alibrahim will give the opening and closing remarks at the meeting, alongside his Portuguese counterpart HE António Costa Silva, Minister of Economy and Maritime Affairs. Additionally, HE Alibrahim will deliver the opening remarks at the Saudi-Portuguese Investment Forum, hold bilateral meetings with senior government officials and sign agreements aimed at ......read more

The Uruq Bani Ma'arid Reserve is the Kingdom’s first UNESCO Natural Heritage Site and joins six other UNESCO Heritage Sites in Saudi Arabia  Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 20 September, 2023: The Uruq Bani Ma‘arid Reserve in Saudi Arabia has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, as announced by His Highness Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Saudi Minister of Culture, Chairman of the National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, and Chairman of the Heritage Commission. The decision was taken during the extended 45th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Riyadh between the 10th and 25th of September. The successful nomination of the site marks Saudi Arabia’s very first UNESCO Natural Heritage Site and celebrates the Kingdom’s continued efforts to protect ......read more

 RCU to showcase its ambitious regreening and rewilding projects as Premium Sponsor of the 10th World Conference on Ecological Restoration, serving to bolster global biodiversity  RCU has successfully integrated over 100,000 seedlings into the wild with a 90 per cent survival rate, with plans to introduce a further 400,000 by 2024   AlUla, Saudi Arabia, 19 September 2023: The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) will showcase its extensive environmental regeneration projects at the upcoming Society for Ecological Restoration's 10th World Conference (SER2023) in Darwin, Australia. RCU’s participation as a Premium Sponsor of the event will amplify its transformative efforts in AlUla, highlighting its emerging leadership role in the sustainable conservation of natural and cultural landscapes and the ......read more

 Two recently published studies detail nature and significance of apparent ceremonial offerings in mustatils, Neolithic structures where deposits of horns and skull parts suggest a sophisticated expression of deeply rooted beliefs  Research is supported by Royal Commission for AlUla as part of globally significant fieldwork   Inaugural AlUla World Archaeology Summit to gather a wide range of leaders starting Sept 13   AlUla, Saudi Arabia, 11 September 2023: Results of two recent archaeological excavations supported by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) demonstrate that the Neolithic inhabitants of north-west Arabia conducted “complex and sophisticated ritual practices” in the late 6th millennium BCE. The unprecedented findings open unsuspected horizons for a broader understanding ......read more

The tragic earthquake that has struck Morocco has devastated significant parts of the country and killed and injured thousands of people. As part of the international relief effort, the aviation industry is playing a vital role, in the rapid delivery of humanitarian aid to Morocco. IATA’s Regional Vice-President for Africa-Middle East, Kamil Al-Awadhi, expressed condolences of the aviation community to the people of Morocco. "The heart-breaking impact of this tragedy in Morocco has been felt worldwide. On behalf of IATA's member airlines, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to all those affected,” he said. “Our thoughts remain with the communities impacted by this devastating event. We commend the exceptional work of rescue teams, and the important role aviation is playing in facilitating immediate ......read more

H.E. Al-Fadhli: The establishment of the Global Water Organization underscores the Kingdom's commitment to the sustainability of global water resources   Riyadh: 7 September 2023 - His Excellency Engineer Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Mohsen Al Fadhli, Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, stressed the Kingdom's leadership in tackling water issues regionally and globally, commending the decision by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to establish the Global Water Organization. The organization will contribute to strengthening cooperation between countries and stimulating a collective response to water challenges. Commenting on the announcement, His Excellency Al Fadhli said: "The announcement demonstrates the Kingdom's firm ......read more

This Saudi National Day, be creative with Garnier Green and Snap Inc. for a good cause while making a permanent mark across Panda stores Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 7 September 2023: Calling out design aficionados for a one-of-a-kind opportunity powered by Garnier Green and Snap Inc. Snapchatters now have a chance to inspire the design of the next Garnier Tote and create for a noble cause while at it. Set to run till September 27, the Shop Greener, because Saudi Deserves Green initiative is in support of Garnier Green Beauty’s latest campaign that aims to engage with communities across the Kingdom to encourage sustainable beauty choices.  Hop on to the trend by using the Green Beauty Lens this KSA National Day exclusively on Snapchat by flipping the camera to engage with an AR powered customizable tote bag ......read more

• MoU includes exploring collaboration opportunities on cross listing, fintech, ESG, and more  • MoU intends to bolster the growth of capital markets in Saudi Arabia and China   Riyadh, 4 September 2023 – Today, Saudi Tadawul Group announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Shanghai Stock Exchange to promote mutual development and cooperation between the two exchanges. The MoU was signed by Eng. Khalid Al Hussan, CEO of the Saudi Tadawul Group, and Mr. Cai Jianchun, President of the Shanghai Stock Exchange during the Shanghai Stock Exchange high delegation’s visit to Saudi Arabia.   As part of the MoU, the two Exchanges will explore opportunities in Cross-listing, Fintech, ESG, data exchange, and research, as well as promote diversity and inclusion in both ......read more

August 30, 2023:  The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed today a generous contribution of US$6.8 million from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), to support its operations in Jordan. This funding will provide much-needed support to Syrian refugees residing in camps and arrives just in the nick of time to avert imminent further cuts in food assistance.  The agreement was signed between Engineer Ahmed Al Baiz, Assistant Supervisor General of Operations and Programs, KSrelief and Mageed Yahia, WFP Representative to the GCC.  “As part of KSrelief strategic partnership with WFP, we are pleased to announce an important financial contribution to assist vulnerable Syrian refugees in Jordan,” said Eng. Albaiz. “With great ......read more

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — Bab Rizq Jameel Company, a company that is supported by Community Jameel Saudi Foundation and aims to empower Saudi youth to acquire advanced skills that are required by the labor market, has announced its collaboration with the “Metavisionaries, a company that aims to provide trainees with advanced competencies that are utilized in the space and technology sectors and the labor market of the future, through a number of programs that are administered through its virtual academy, space innovation centers, and extended network with industry leaders.  In alignment with Community Jameel Saudi’s recent strategic expansion, this collaboration falls within its latest area of development, “Supporting Science and Technology”. In this initiative, Bab Rizq Jameel will sponsor ......read more

Witnessed the launch of the Global Initiative on Digital Health  Riyadh:  During the G20 Health Ministers’ Meetings in India on August 19, Saudi Health Minister Fahad Aljalajel stressed the importance of leveraging the access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator Initiative, one of the outputs of the G20 summit held in Saudi Arabia 2020.  He added, Saudi Arabia supports global efforts to confront any health public emergencies in the future. Aljalajel was also invited by the Indian presidency to the summit's inaugural ceremony of the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH). He shed light on Saudi Arabia’s contributions to Cutting-edge technologies like AI in healthcare applications.  The Minister reaffirmed joint efforts to achieve universal health coverage and accessibility.  In ......read more

Fines for unlicensed advertising in public hospitals  Riyadh:  Saudi Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel authorized on Wednesday, August 2nd, a decision to fine a pharmaceutical company for violating the Breast Milk Substitutes BMS code. Saudi Health explained that a specialized committee approved those penalties with fines reaching $67k. The company's representatives were found distributing leaflets about BMS to mothers inside a hospital in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia, which is a violation of the fifth article of the BMS code, which bans the advertising and promotion of any form of BMS and infant formula. Saudi Arabia issued in 2004 a breast milk substitute code, aligned with the 1981 International Code for Marketing BMS.

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• Bupa Global’s Eco-Disruptive program helps develop solutions to confront the effects of climate change. • Financial support and marketing expertise provided to 18 startups. • Group CEO Iñaki Ereño: Our sustainability strategy prioritizes human health and the environment. • 400 guests and sustainability pioneers participated in the Bupa event.   Jeddah:   Bupa Global selected 18 sustainability-focused startups worldwide that qualified in the finals of the Bupa Eco-Disruptive Live event. Held in London recently, the event attracted over 400 attendees, with 20 speakers discussing the importance of startups leading sustainable innovation.   Bupa Global CEO Iñaki Ereño expressed the company’s commitment to supporting sustainability startups in ......read more

• First global sport organisation to partner with UNICEF’s global climate fund nears target of benefitting 3 million children and young people in three years • UNICEF’s climate programmes, as part of the Safe and Healthy Environment Fund, target those most affected by and at risk to climate change impacts  • Programmes include training, education and initiatives that ensure services such as schools, health centres, water and sanitation facilities are resilient to climate and environmental shocks.   Riyadh, Dubai, London. 24 July 2023: Formula E and UNICEF today announced their ground breaking partnership has benefitted more than 2.5 million children and young people globally since the partnership began in 2021.  Formula E, the world’s first sport to be certified net zero ......read more

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, 5 July 2023: In collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, Community Jameel Saudi Foundation launched a new edition of the Tanweer Jameel programme. Two international trips will be sponsored in July to honor and recognize outstanding students who have demonstrated exceptional talent, commitment, and academic performance throughout the academic year. Each year, 40 outstanding male and female students aged between 13 and 18 years from orphanages across the Kingdom get the chance to visit unique destinations chosen by the Ministry and Community Jameel Saudi. This year, the boys will visit Thailand while the girls will explore Japan.   The trip includes cultural, educational, and recreational activities, providing the orphans with an unparalleled opportunity to learn about ......read more

Summer pilgrimage season witnesses rising temperatures  Riyadh:  Following alerts received from the National Meteorological Center, Saudi Health issued a warning to pilgrims on Monday, June 26, about the possibility of heat stress due to direct exposure to the sun, as this year's Hajj is coinciding with the summer season. The ministry recommended using an umbrella, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding unnecessary physical activities during daylight hours.

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A Pilgrim's Journey in the Saudi medical caravan  Riyadh:  The 78-year-old Moroccan pilgrim Mohamed Hammou did not realize that a broken leg, would enable him to live an experience he will never forget. Hammou who was taking a walk near the Prophet's mosque on Sunday, June 18, suffered a sliding accident that resulted in a fractured femur, which required urgent surgery to stabilize it. Upon recovery from the operation, medical staff reassured Hammou that he had been selected to join the special medical convoy, which travels 400 km from Madina to hospitals in the Arafat area, enabling sick pilgrims to complete their sacred journey on an ambulance with medical supervision. The medical convoy includes 27 specialized medical transport vehicles accompanied by oxygen trucks and technical support units.

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• Saudi is making it easier than ever before for travelers to visit through an expansion of the e-visa program. • New instant e-visa options will facilitate UK, US, and Schengen visas holders, as well as permanent residents of UK, US, and any EU country to obtain tourist e-visas to Saudi. • This is part of a range of initiatives to provide a seamless traveler experience, including the recently announced Stopover visa.    Riyadh, 12 June 2023 – Saudi announces new instant e-visa options that from today, will facilitate UK, US, and Schengen visas holders, as well as permanent residents of UK, US, and any EU country to obtain tourist e-visas to Saudi through www.mofa.gov.sa. Saudi has previously extended regulation to provide visas on arrival to the six categories, this is just the latest step ......read more

From right to left: Munirah Abanomy, Director General of Marketing Partnerships for the Middle East and Africa, Saudi Tourism Authority, and Kamel Ajami, Vice President, Operations, KSA, Egypt & Levant, Hilton     Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 24 May 2023: Global hospitality leader Hilton (NYSE: HLT), announced it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) towards exploring cooperation opportunities between the two entities and developing creative content, with the aim of attracting visitors from key markets across the Middle East and Africa to the Kingdom.   Signing this MoU comes as part of the STA's ongoing commitment and efforts to forge strong partnerships with key players in Saudi Arabia’s tourism ecosystem, working closely with ......read more

- Tal Nazer: Orphan care is key to Bupa Arabia's social responsibility activities. - Bupa Arabia has donated gifts worth SR700,000 for the marriage of 49 orphan girls. - Kiswat Aisha appreciates Bupa Arabia's initiatives in empowering orphans   Jeddah:  Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance launched their annual CSR campaign to support orphan girls’ marriage in Jeddah by gifting electrical appliances worth SR700,000.   Under the corporate social responsibility (CSR) campaign, Bupa Arabia provides maximum care for orphans, enhancing their skills and abilities, improving institutional and family care, and creating a healthy community environment.    It is part of Bupa Arabia’s ongoing commitment to caring for and supporting orphans by providing high-quality healthcare ......read more

Nora Altwaijri has a passion for using technology to empower young people to make a positive impact in their communities. Nora Altwaijri is a member of Generation17, a partnership between Samsung and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), empowering young people around the world who are contributing to the Global Goals.  Nora Altwaijri thinks a lot about the future of Saudi Arabia, a future in which sustainability is part of everyday life. She has an unwavering belief that her country — and the world — will get there, especially because of the passion and energy of her generation.  “Young people have a fresh eye for today’s challenges,” says the 25-year-old, who studied software engineering and now works in management consulting. “They’re more eager than ever to ......read more

Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues facing our planet today.  According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise at the current rate, the Earth's surface temperature is expected to reach 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2030. The increasing concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, largely caused by human activity, has led to a rise in global temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, and rising sea levels. To limit global warming, experts have concluded that greenhouse gas emissions must peak by 2025 and be reduced by 43% by 2030, reports IPCC.  As we move towards a cleaner and more sustainable future, there is an urgent need to transform the way we produce and consume electricity. This is where Electricity ......read more

Riyadh - Thursday 9 March 2023: The Saudi Tourism Authority welcomes the expansion of the GCC residents visa which now is open to all professions for those wanting to apply for a tourist visa.  Announced today by the Ministry of Tourism the visa allows visitors to enjoy Saudi’s diverse tourist destinations and perform Umrah throughout the year. This is the latest in a series of announcements across the Saudi tourism eco-system that aim to attract regional tourists and provide more activities for visitors coming from GCC countries. People wishing to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia can view more information and apply for a visa on www.visa.visitsaudi.com. The Visit Saudi app also provides a gateway for travelers to discover all the events, international festivals, inspiring tourism experiences, and enjoy the ......read more

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Minister of Economy and Planning, signs an agreement with the Republic of Bulgaria to establish a joint committee during an official visit by His Excellency to the country’s capital Sofia.  His Excellency Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim signed the agreement with Bulgarian Minister of Economy and Industry, His Excellency Nikola Stoyanov. The signing establishes a joint committee to implement the General Agreement on Cooperation between the Kingdom and the Republic of Bulgaria.  The joint committee will develop and strengthen bilateral economic relations between both countries and identify new development opportunities in economic fields. Following the signing, next steps were discussed in addition to the implementation of initiatives and targets. During his visit, His ......read more

On February 27, the Kingdom’s Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP) launched the Food Ecosystems in Arid Climate Challenge in collaboration with the World Economic Forum’s UpLink and the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.   Anchored in collaboration, the challenge is a global call for food entrepreneurs, start-ups, social ventures, and small to medium-sized enterprises to submit solutions that incorporate low or high technologies.   The winning team will be eligible to receive CHF100,000 to implement and scale their venture in regions with arid climates, in addition to accessing strong networking opportunities.   Dr. Hosam Rowaihy, Head of the Decision Support Unit and Senior Advisor to the Minister of Economy and Planning, delivered the opening remarks at the launch, where he said: ......read more

Riyadh, Feb 12, 2023: At today’s Saudi Capital Market Forum in Riyadh, Adena Friedman, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Nasdaq, heralded Saudi Arabia’s vision and leadership as key success factors in building a globally competitive capital market: “This region is one of the fast-growing in the world. Saudi has done a tremendous job of bringing capabilities into the market so they can compete with global mature markets. It’s a testament to amount of focus, energy and leadership in the country.” As a result, she noted that the IPO environment is vibrant in Saudi Arabia, echoing earlier comments from H.E. Mohammed El Kuwaiz, Chairman, Capital Market Authority, who revealed that there are 23 companies on the runway for IPO in 2023, having been approved by the Capital Market Authority, with almost 80 files ......read more

• The Stopover Visa is offered to passengers traveling to their final destination on national air carriers, SAUDIA and flynas • Stopover Visa is open to all leisure, business and religious travelers and welcomes visitors to stopover for up to 96 hours and includes one complimentary night hotel stay    • First Stopover visa to be digitally integrated with an airline booking engine and can be obtained in three minutes    Riyadh, 31 January 2023 – Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism (MT), Ministry of Interior (MOI), the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MOHU), Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), SAUDIA and flynas, has announced the launch of a new Stopover Visa.    The free-of-charge Stopover Visa is open to a wider number of countries ......read more

• EIF will be capitalized with SAR14 (over $3.7) billion to directly develop more than 35 world class venues across the Kingdom. • The fund will further raise capital by providing lucrative high-return opportunities to the private sector and financial institutions. • EIF is critical to the delivery of the Kingdom’s ambitious event calendar  • The direct GDP impact will be SAR28 (around $7.5) billion by 2045.     Riyadh, January 17, 2023: His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Events Investment Fund (EIF), has announced the launch of EIF, a fund that aims to develop a sustainable infrastructure for the culture, tourism, entertainment and sports sectors across the Kingdom. The fund also aims to create ......read more

16, January 2023 – Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, “Misk,” a non-profit established by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz, is bringing the Youth Majlis back to the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland.  One of the only youth-focused pavilions at the Swiss alpine destination, Misk will unite delegates under the theme of Generation Transformation – a mindset that harnesses the unique strengths of all generations to create lasting positive change. The Youth Majlis will provide a platform for forward-looking dialogue, serving as a catalyst to explore collaborative solutions to solve some of the world's most pressing issues – from inclusive economic growth to ambitious climate action. “In a world that is becoming increasingly ......read more

Dubai, UAE – December 26, 2022: Hisense, one of the largest home appliance and consumer electronics company, has signed a partnership deal with Saudi Arabia’s United Matbouli Group (UMG), one of the most prestigious consumer electronics distributors in the Kingdom, thus opening a new pathway to of business opportunities for Hisense in the Saudi market. Through this partnership, Hisense intends to expand its commercial business network as well as reach out to its end-users in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia providing best of technology and products. As an officially appointed distributor of Hisense in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UMG will support the brand with business networking capabilities and their expertise of distribution, warehousing, after-sales-services and develop connection in the retail space for sales. The ......read more

• A memorandum of understanding signed with the Saudi Tourism Development Fund (TDF) will see Hilton support it in developing family-friendly leisure destinations incorporating Hilton-branded hotels across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  • An agreement signed with Diriyah Gate Development Authority will see the opening of Waldorf Astoria Diriyah at the heart of the masterplan • Hilton and Alshaya Group have signed agreements to open a Canopy by Hilton in Al Khobar and a Hampton by Hilton in Hafr al-Batin   Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 15 December 2022 – As part of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit in Riyadh, Hilton has announced a strategic partnership with the Saudi Tourism Development Fund (TDF) – as well as agreements with several public and private developers for new ......read more

Strengthening of GCC unity focus of 4th GCC Economic and Development Affairs Authority meeting The Ministerial Preparatory Committee of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Economic and Development Authority concluded its fourth meeting in Riyadh today, with a focus on strengthening the economic unity of Gulf countries, Under the chairmanship of His Excellency Minister of Economy and Planning, Faisal F. Alibrahim the meeting was attended by Their Excellences from the GCC countries to discuss a number of common issues in the field of economy and development, including the GCC Economic Unity projects overseen by the Economic and Development Affairs Authority. In his speech during the meeting, His Excellency Alibrahim reiterated Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to strengthen GCC economic unity and support the economic integration of ......read more

Saudi Arabia’s GDP rises by 8.6%, the Ministry of Economy and Planning reveals in Q3 2022 report  Saudi Arabia’s GDP rises by 8.6%, the Ministry of Economy and Planning reveals in Q3 2022 report  The global economy is facing one of the most tumultuous periods in recent history. As the likelihood of a global recession has increased, according to a new report from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP).  Volatility continues to gather momentum, creating downward pressure in global markets including China, the EU, the UK, and the US. Despite a slowing economic growth outlook, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia registered real GDP growth of 8.6% y/y in the third quarter of 2022. Inflation was also contained at 2.9% – one of the lowest rates among the G20 nations. This is according ......read more

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: 3 October 2022 - The Saudi Arabia Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP) and the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance the use of data in the development of economic policies. The MOU establishes a framework for data and knowledge sharing between the two partners, as well as sharing enhanced statistical, scientific, and economic analysis.   The agreement was signed by His Excellency Eng. Ammar Nagadi, the Vice Minister of Economy and Planning, and Dr. Fahad Aldossari, President of GASTAT.   Commenting on the MOU, His Excellency Faisal Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning and Chairman of GASTAT said “Both the Ministry and GASTAT are committed to supporting the public and private sector in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. A ......read more

OUT OF THIS WORLD!   Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 30 September 2022: GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS (GWR), the global authority on record-breaking achievements, announces that GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS 2023 (GWR2023) is available in stores and online across the Arab World and globally today.    The new 2023 edition reveals the latest and greatest Guinness World Records achievements on Earth and in Space, with brand new photography and graphics, plus special features to bring this year’s astonishing records to life.     Around 50 records from the Arab World have been featured in the new edition that is now distributed in 1.8m copies worldwide. In fact, this is enough printed to blanket 18 football pitches or 11 Trafalgar Squares.   Guinness World Records™ said over ......read more

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia looks to improve nationwide fire safety and industrial security regulations, the Kingdom’s demand for fire prevention and safety implementation systems is forecast to continue its upward trajectory during the next three years. Market consultancy firm 6WResearch has forecast the Kingdom’s fire safety systems and equipment market – the largest in the GCC – will register 5.5 per cent compound annual growth by 2025, reaching a cumulative value of US$402m. Growth is being driven in part by government regulation of compulsory installation of fire safety, detection, and alarm systems in buildings and the recent strengthening of the remit of Saudi Arabia’s High Commission for Industrial Security (HCIS). In August this year, Saudi Arabia’s higher authorities granted the HCIS ......read more

Makkah:  The video highlights the organization of Hajj for pilgrims from all over the world this year, after being limited to local pilgrims only during the past two years, due to the pandemic, enabling this year the largest number of Muslims around the world to perform Hajj and Umrah, and visiting the Prophet's Mosque in an atmosphere of spirituality and tranquility. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had announced earlier that the number of pilgrims from inside and outside the Kingdom for this year's Hajj season has been increased to 1 million, in accordance with quotas allocated to different countries. In the video, viewers will see scenes from the previous Hajj seasons comprising a large number of pilgrims assembled at the Grand Mosque, with their hearts full of piety, standing in front of their Lord, and praying ......read more

• Mobility company SYSTRA to complete design studies in  2023, with the tramway’s carriages resembling those from the historic Hijaz railway • Low-carbon and experiential system will call at some of AlUla’s most important locations and landmarks, with stations acting as public transport hubs for surrounding areas • The tram network will be developed over two phases spanning more than 50km from Hegra in the north to AlUla International Airport in the south   AlUla, Saudi Arabia, 05 JULY 2022: The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has announced plans to develop a new tram system connecting all of AlUla County’s most important landmarks, archaeological sites, tourist destinations, urban areas, and transport infrastructure. The first phase of the system will be designed by the ......read more

• With the aim of attracting and motivating private sector companies to participate in such innovative awards • Two new categories introduced, with meetings held across GCC countries to discuss the Awards' participation terms and requirements   13, June 2022:  The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) begins an orientation tour across the GCC countries to introduce two categories of the Sharjah Excellence Award, the Sharjah Gulf Excellence Award and the Sharjah Gulf Localization Award, with the aim of attracting and motivating private sector companies to participate in such innovative awards.   The Sharjah Excellence Award tour began in Riyadh, the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The delegation for the tour included Nada Al Hajri, General Coordinator of the Sharjah Excellence ......read more

Curatorial Team from left to right: Sumayya Vally, Dr. Julian Raby, Dr. Saad Alrashid, Dr. Omniya Abdel Barr, Diriyah Biennale Foundation 23 January to 23 April 2023 Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, 6 June 2022: The Diriyah Biennale Foundation (DBF) is proud to announce that the inaugural edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale will take place at the iconic Hajj Terminal in Jeddah from 23 January to 23 April 2023. A distinguished international multidisciplinary team will curate the Biennale under the theme of Awwal Bayt (First House).  The world’s first-ever Islamic Arts Biennale will be located in the prestigious Canopy Terminal, which was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill in 1981 and was the recipient of the 1983 Aga Khan Award for Architecture. There will also be a purpose-built 70,000 square meter venue with ......read more