Al-Baha, March 13, 2026, SPA -- Al-Baha Region witnessed scattered light to moderate rainfall today across several governorates and villages, causing valleys and streams to flow and rainwater to spread across the landscape, creating a natural scene that reflects the region's diverse topography and seasonal beauty. Al-Baha Region frequently experiences seasonal rainfall throughout the year due to its geographical location and elevation above sea level. This precipitation contributes to the continuous flow of its valleys and the revitalization of pastures and vegetation across various natural areas of the region. Relevant authorities urged the public to exercise caution, stay away fr ......read full article

Geneva, March 12, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Health, alongside other Saudi healthcare entities, is participating in the 51st Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions, held from March 11 to 15, with a national pavilion showcasing 20 innovative projects that highlight the Kingdom’s growing healthcare innovation ecosystem. These innovations aim to enhance the sustainability of healthcare services and improve the patient experience, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to build a more efficient, prevention-focused, and innovation-driven healthcare system that promotes quality of life. The ministry stated that this participation reflects the progress of healthcare innovatio ......read full article

Makkah, March 12, 2026, SPA -- The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has launched a smart guidance initiative, installing 15 interactive signs throughout the Grand Mosque's courtyards to assist visitors in navigation. These signs use a color-coded system for route identification and feature QR codes that link directly to an interactive digital map, allowing Umrah performers to pinpoint their location and navigate efficiently between facilities on their smartphones. By leveraging these modern technologies, the authority aims to streamline crowd movement, reduce travel time, and enhance the overall experience for Umrah perf ......read full article

Cannes, March 14, 2026, SPA -- Saudi Arabia concluded its participation in MIPIM in Cannes, France, under the “Invest Saudi” umbrella, with support from the Saudi Investment Promotion Authority (SIPA). During the event, the Kingdom’s investment ecosystem showcased promising opportunities in the real estate sector, which is undergoing rapid transformation and growing attractiveness for investors. This reflects Saudi Arabia’s rising position as a global investment destination, supported by regulatory and legislative reforms, including a system that allows non-Saudis to own real estate. The Saudi pavilion featured several government entities and major companies, inclu ......read full article

13 March 2026 (Lima) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched DG Digital, IATA's digital Dangerous Goods Declaration solution, as a feature of DG AutoCheck. The new tool fully digitalizes the creation and approval of shippers' declarations for more than 3,800 dangerous items—from lithium batteries to explosives and chemicals. This results in faster document sharing, improved safety, and a significant reduction in rejected shipments. Today, 95% of Dangerous Goods Declarations are still received in paper format. These declarations must be scanned, converted into a PDF document, then uploaded into DG AutoCheck to be validated. With DG Di ......read full article

This Eid Al Fitr, Mercato and Town Centre Jumeirah invite residents and visitors to celebrate the festive season with exciting shopping rewards, vibrant entertainment, and memorable family experiences from 12 to 18 March 2026. Bringing the spirit of Eid to life, both malls will offer shoppers the opportunity to win AED 5,000 every day. Visitors who spend AED 200 or more at Mercato or Town Centre Jumeirah can simply scan their PrivilegePLUS app to enter the daily draw and stand a chance to walk away with fantastic cash prizes. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Mercato Mall will transform into a lively hub of Eid celebrations, featuring daily family entertainment, captivating live perfor ......read full article

Riyadh, March 12, 2026, SPA -- The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) has announced the release of the IoT Landscape Map of Internet of Things (IoT) service providers in Saudi Arabia. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the diversity of IoT services, attract global investments, and promote local investments by identifying and classifying service providers within a comprehensive framework that reflects the growth of the Saudi market. The map features the IoT market service providers in the Kingdom, including IoT connectivity, IoT platform, IoT solutions, IoT devices, and IoT systems integration. The map is linked to many related documents, such as the IoT Regulatio ......read full article

Madinah, March 11, 2026, SPA -- Taibah University participated in the 51st edition of the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva, held in Switzerland as part of the Kingdom’s delegation, presenting the university’s innovation system and several distinguished inventions developed by its staff. The university’s participation included showcasing electromagnetic sensing technology for measuring the electrical properties of materials, as well as a tetravalent vaccine for the dengue virus, reflecting the university’s ability to integrate scientific research with practical innovation to serve society and industry. The university’s participation in such int ......read full article

Al-Baha, March 11, 2026, SPA The Ramadan Nights Festival held at Souq Al-Balad is attracting large numbers of residents and visitors who come to enjoy the Ramadan atmosphere and the diverse activities offered by the festival, reflecting the vibrant social and cultural movement in the region during the holy month. The festival includes several sections showcasing traditional products, handicrafts, and popular foods, in addition to the participation of producer families offering traditional dishes and handmade crafts that reflect the region’s identity and heritage, drawing notable interaction from visitors. The organization of the festival comes as part of the efforts of Al-Baha Re ......read full article

Jeddah, March 13, 2026, SPA -- Saudia has added 20 flights between Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Red Sea destination during Eid Al-Fitr, in cooperation with the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and the Red Sea destination, as part of a partnership aimed at promoting tourist destinations and supporting the development of the Kingdom’s tourism sector. This brings the total number of flights in both directions to 44. The long-term partnership between Saudia and STA aims to provide suitable flight options and a distinctive onboard experience, supporting the Kingdom’s goal of attracting 150 million tourists by 2030. ...read full article

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, March 12, 2026:  H.E. the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Ports Authority “Mawani”, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al‑Jasser, launched the Logistics Corridors Initiative in the presence of H.E. the Governor of the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), Eng. Suhail bin Mohammed Abanmi, and the President of Mawani, Eng. Suliman bin Khalid Al‑Mazroua, along with a number of officials from government entities and the logistics sector. The initiative aims to provide operational corridors dedicated to receive containers and cargo redirected from ports in the Kingdom’s Eastern Region and ......read full article

12 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is advancing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in air cargo with three initiatives to improve operational efficiency, strengthen safety and compliance, and accelerate innovation across the global air cargo value chain: Making publications more efficient: IATA is launching an AI Subject Matter Expert (AI SME), a mobile and web-based application that helps operational teams quickly find information in IATA cargo and safety publications by asking questions in plain language. The tool provides accurate answers within seconds. This supports faster operational decision-making, strengthens comp ......read full article

CASIO G-SHOCK unveils the GA-2100K series, a bold interpretation of the iconic GA-2100 design inspired by the atmosphere of music-driven nightlife and the vibrant pulse of late-night culture. The series captures the shadowy thrill of nightclubs and music festivals, where laser lights cut through the rhythm of midnight sound. At the heart of the design is a newly developed surface finish on the dial, delivering a clean and modern look that enhances the streamlined silhouette of the GA-2100. A glossy finish and rich color scheme create a striking visual depth reminiscent of piano black, giving the watch a sleek and sophisticated presence. The design further comes to life through layer ......read full article

Riyadh, March 11, 2026, SPA -- The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques continues its mission to preserve the Kingdom’s architectural heritage by restoring Al-Qalaah Mosque in Hawtat Bani Tamim, Riyadh Region. Built in 1250 AH (1834 CE), this historic landmark is situated within the fortress of Second Saudi State founder Imam Turki bin Abdullah. The mosque is a prime example of traditional Najdi architecture, featuring stone foundations, mud walls constructed using molded brick techniques, and a roof of tamarisk trunks and palm fronds supported by stone-bead cylindrical columns. Through the current renovation, the mosque’s area has ex ......read full article

Jizan, March 12, 2026, SPA -- Jazan University is participating in the 51st edition of the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva 2026, with three innovative scientific inventions in the health, pharmaceutical, and medical fields, reinforcing its presence in international scientific forums. This participation extends the university's previous successes at the same exhibition, having competed in two editions and won four international awards, including two gold and two silver medals, reflecting the quality of its research and innovation capabilities. Through this participation, Jazan University reaffirms its commitment to innovation and scientific research in support of Saudi ......read full article

Riyadh, March 12, 2026, SPA -- The Roads General Authority has affirmed the full preparedness of the Kingdom’s road network to serve citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries as part of RGA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional connectivity and provide a safe and comfortable travel experience for all. The RGA said these efforts reflect Saudi Arabia’s leading global position in the road network connectivity index and its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety across the national road network. Saudi Arabia’s road infrastructure has witnessed significant development, the RGA emphasized, noting that the Kingdom’ ......read full article

Makkah, March 12, 2026, SPA -- The Holy Makkah Municipality completed the installation of the tallest Saudi flagpole in Makkah, standing at over 80 meters on Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road in celebration of Saudi Flag Day, observed annually on March 11. The initiative reflects the status and national symbolism of the Saudi flag and expresses pride in the banner of monotheism that represents the Kingdom’s identity and its deeply rooted values. The installation coincided with a national event organized by the municipality titled “A Flag Bearing the Message of Monotheism and the History of a Nation” at Makkah Yard. The event featured interactive activities and accompany ......read full article

11 March 2026 (Lima, Peru) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today released a report, showing air cargo’s vital role in sustaining global trade and supporting economic growth in 2025 amid severe trade policy uncertainty. Two key report findings are that: Air cargo enabled the frontloading of $157 billion US imports in the first quarter of 2025. Air cargo transported more than two thirds of global AI-related goods in 2025. These activities supported global trade growth of 2.4% in 2025—well above initial forecasts by the World Trade Organization. Global GDP also expanded by 3.2% despite significant policy headwinds. “Air cargo is a ......read full article

11 March 2026 (Lima) - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities for the global air cargo industry: Accelerating digitalization Strengthening global standards Enhancing safety and security "Air cargo plays a critical role in connecting businesses to global markets and keeping supply chains moving, even as the operating environment becomes more complex. With so many external events impacting global supply chains—including the tariff and geopolitical shocks—it is important that we work on building resilience in areas we can control or influence. Working together to strengthen digitalization, global standards, and supply ......read full article

Bupa Arabia for Cooperative Insurance continues to advance its efforts to support and empower women, while strengthening their representation across different organizational levels.This commitment is driven by a comprehensive institutional strategy for diversity, equity and inclusion built on three main pillars: inclusive leadership, diverse practices, and inclusive culture. This approach reflects the growing global interest among organizations in promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, as well as the company's efforts to transform women's empowerment into a structured operational framework based on measurable policies and practical programs that enhance women's parti ......read full article

Riyadh, March 10, 2026, SPA -- President of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) Dr. Abdullah bin Sharaf Al-Ghamdi expressed appreciation to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister and Chairman of SDAIA’s Board of Directors, following the Cabinet’s decision to designate 2026 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence in the Kingdom. Al-Ghamdi said the decision reflects HRH the Crown Prince’s vision to strengthen the Kingdom’s global standing in advanced technologies. He described it as an important step toward crea ......read full article

Dammam, March 09, 2026, SPA -- Tourism activities in Jubail Industrial City have witnessed increased economic and recreational momentum during Ramadan, particularly through iftar cruises that have enhanced the activity of local marinas and highlighted the city’s beaches as attractive destinations for relaxation and leisure. Several organizers told SPA that Fanateer Marina and Dareen Marina serve as the main departure points for these cruises, which travel along the coast. The boats offer a comprehensive experience that includes traditional iftar meals and a variety of menu options catering to different preferences. A marine tourism operator noted that the growing demand extends b ......read full article

Taif, March 11, 2026, SPA -- The first preparatory meeting of the organizational committees for the Rose and Aromatic Plants Global Forum 2026 was held in Taif to discuss work plans and approve the event’s organizational strategies. The meeting, held at Iridium Hotel, brought together representatives from all forum committees, including the scientific and tourism committees, public relations and media, as well as the organizing and reception, and events and programs committees. Participants reviewed the forum’s organizational structure and coordination mechanisms among the committees, aiming to ensure the event is managed to high standards and to further strengthen Taif’ ......read full article

Jazan, March 11, 2026, SPA -- More than 10,000 Saudi flags adorned the streets of Jazan and its governorates as part of preparations by the Jazan Municipality and its affiliated municipalities to celebrate Saudi Flag Day, observed annually on March 11. The displays reflect feelings of pride in the national identity and loyalty under the banner of Tawhid. The municipality decorated major roads, public squares, and open spaces with more than 10,000 Saudi flags. Digital screens and roadside billboards were also activated, and several sites were illuminated in green, highlighting the symbolism of the national flag and its place in the history of Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Souq Al-Awaleen is ......read full article

0 March 2026 (Geneva) – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2025 Annual Safety Report demonstrating a solid year of safety performance with the following highlights: The all-accident rate of 1.32 per million flights (one accident per 759,646 flights) was better than the 1.42 recorded in 2024 but slightly above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 1.27. There were 51 accidents in 2025 among 38.7 million flights. That is fewer than the 54 accidents among 37.9 million flights in 2024, but above the 2021-2025 five-year average of 44 accidents. There were eight fatal accidents in 2025. That is more than the seven fatal accidents record ......read full article

Saudi Arabia Leads Banking Cyber Readiness in the Middle East and Africa     A recent technical report revealed a significant escalation in cyber risks facing financial institutions across the Middle East and Africa, driven by the accelerating pace of digital transformation and the expanding reliance on cloud infrastructure and advanced technologies.   The report indicated a global increase of 1300% in fraud operations based on Deepfake technology during 2024, with a growing trend toward targeting digital banking services and mobile banking through phishing attacks and AI-driven digital identity impersonation. External Parties The report titled "Cyber ......read full article

Makkah, March 10, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has advised visitors to the Grand Mosque to follow the approved Tawaf guidelines, helping maintain smooth flow in the Mataf and enabling Umrah performers to complete their rituals with ease and calm. The ministry clarified that the ground floor of the Mataf has been designated exclusively for Umrah performers, facilitating smooth Tawaf and enabling worshippers to perform their rituals comfortably. Worshippers are urged to adhere to the designated Tawaf pathways, though Tawaf is also available on the upper floors according to capacity limits and approved operational arrangements. Key guidance to help maintain the flow include ......read full article

Riyadh, March 08, 2026, SPA -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in empowering women in the data and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors, aiming to elevate their global competitiveness as part of Saudi Vision 2030. Numerous initiatives have increased the participation of Saudi women in advanced technologies, with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) offering specialized programs and workshops in partnership with global technology leaders. In just one year, over 666,000 Saudi women received training in data and AI, positioning the Kingdom first globally in women’s AI empowerment, according to the 2025 AI Index by Stanford University. ......read full article

Riyadh, March 10, 2026, SPA -- SDAIA Academy announced the launch of the Applied Artificial Intelligence Bootcamp, aimed at equipping national talents with advanced skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and enabling participants to design, analyze, and build agentic AI systems. The initiative seeks to support labor market needs and enhance national capabilities in advanced technologies. The bootcamp focuses on developing participants’ skills in agentic software engineering through building full-stack applications using Python, mastering APIs and version control systems (Git), and enhancing capabilities in machine learning and data engineering by designing integrated machine learnin ......read full article

Jeddah, March 10, 2026, SPA -- The House of Islamic Arts in Jeddah Park serves as a distinguished cultural platform showcasing rare Islamic coins and artifacts that documenting the economic, political, and cultural history of the Islamic world across centuries. The museum offers visitors a rich educational experience through thousands of Islamic coins spanning from the early Islamic state through the Umayyad and Abbasid periods to successive Islamic dynasties, reflecting the evolution of monetary systems and the diversity of civilizational centers that flourished across the Islamic world. The museum uses modern display methods blending knowledge and visual appeal, allowing visitors to ......read full article

9 March 2026 (Amman) -- The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 edition of IATA Focus Africa Conference will convene under the theme 'Elevating Aviation Safety, Connectivity, and Operational Efficiency in Africa' in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29-30 April 2026, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines. "Aviation has the potential to do much more to enable Africa's economic and social development. Improving safety, harmonizing regulations, and reducing costs while increasing operational efficiency are at the top of the agenda for this edition of the IATA Focus Africa Conference. The demand to support 3-4% growth annually is there. Fo ......read full article

Riyadh, March 08, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi Stock Exchange main index ended trading higher today, gaining 230.87 points to close at 11,007.19 points. The total value of trading reached SAR5.6 billion. The Saudi Parallel Market Index (NOMU) also ended higher, gaining 113.33 points to close at 22,610.31 points. The trading value on NOMU reached SAR11 million, with over 1.3 million shares traded. ...read full article

Farasan, March 09, 2026, SPA -- The Farasan Islands, located in Jazan Region and known for their pristine nature, rich biodiversity, sandy beaches, and the Farasan Islands Protected Area, are attracting growing numbers of residents and visitors with the launch of the Ramadan market held alongside the “Layali Ramadan” (Ramadan Nights) events, creating a festive atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the holy month. The market features a variety of stalls offering traditional foods and Ramadan beverages, as well as dedicated spaces for families working in the cottage industry and entrepreneurs to showcase handmade crafts and local heritage products, including handicrafts, textil ......read full article

Makkah, March 09, 2026, SPA -- During Ramadan, life in Makkah takes on a unique rhythm where deep spiritual devotion blends with long-standing traditions. While millions of worshippers gather daily at the Grand Mosque, the city’s neighborhoods quietly reflect another dimension of Ramadan: the spirit of solidarity and compassion. For decades, the Grand Mosque has been the center of daily life for residents during Ramadan. Locals flock there to perform the five daily prayers and attend Qiyam and Taraweeh, sharing the sacred atmosphere with Umrah performers and visitors. Across the mosque’s courtyards and halls, circles of Quran recitation and religious lessons bring together Mus ......read full article

Madinah, March 09, 2026, SPA -- The Madinah Bus Project, supervised by Al Madinah Region Development Authority, has begun extending the operating hours of its shuttle service during the last ten days of Ramadan to facilitate the movement of worshippers and visitors to and from the Prophet’s Mosque and Quba Mosque. The project stated that the service will operate daily starting at 3:00 PM and continue until half an hour after the Tahajjud prayer through several routes and stations distributed across Madinah, helping worshippers and visitors reach places of worship during these blessed days. The extension of service hours comes as part of efforts to enhance the experience of visitors ......read full article

The Sultanate of Oman continues to closely monitor the ongoing regional developments. The competent authorities affirm that the situation within Oman remains stable, and all airports and Omani airspace are operating normally in accordance with approved regulations and international safety standards. Limited adjustments to certain flight schedules have been made due to temporary airspace closures in parts of the region. However, air traffic to and from Oman continues to operate smoothly. National carriers are maintaining their services with minor schedule updates in line with aviation safety requirements. The Sultanate reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of vis ......read full article

Makkah, March 05, 2026, SPA -- The storyteller event revitalizes a traditional folk art that has historically provided education and entertainment. As part of the Hira Ramadan nights, the Hira Cultural District celebrates this heritage in a vibrant atmosphere, drawing families and children. The event showcased essential Arabic oral traditions through stories rooted in folk narratives that highlight human values. Delivered interactively, the performance engaged the audience, reminiscent of traditional gatherings where storytelling was vital for education and social connection. This initiative enriches the cultural experience for Makkah visitors and promotes heritage arts in today’ ......read full article

Taif, March 5, 2026, SPA -- Some residents who are fasting in Taif Governorate choose to have iftar at open natural sites among mountains and highlands. Sunset moments blend with stillness and clear air. The Ramadan experience pairs the setting’s spirituality with the natural beauty that distinguishes the governorate. One citizen said Taif’s mountain highlands, including “Dakkah Al-Halwani,” are a favorite destination for those who want to have iftar away from home. He said the area offers scenic terrain, wide views and milder temperatures than those in lower-lying areas. The setting gives people who are fasting an experience that combines worship with enjoying the ......read full article

Riyadh, March 05, 2026, SPA -- The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has urged establishments subject to withholding tax to submit their tax forms for February 2026 no later than March 10, 2026. Submissions must be completed via the official website (zatca.gov.sa) to avoid late penalties, which are calculated at 1% of the unpaid tax for each 30-day delay. Withholding tax applies to payments made from Saudi sources to non-resident entities without a permanent local establishment, as per the rates defined in the Income Tax Law. ...read full article

Madinah, March 07, 2026, SPA -- The Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque continues its efforts to educate visitors about the rulings and etiquette of visiting the Prophet’s Mosque through specialized awareness programs, which promote religious knowledge and proper conduct during visits and reflect the mosque’s mission of guidance and service. These efforts are intensified during Ramadan as the number of visitors and worshippers increases. Awareness and guidance programs are delivered in several languages to serve diverse visitor groups and help them worship in a calm and reverent atmosphere. ...read full article