Riyadh, February 05, 2026, SPA -- The Esports World Cup Foundation announced the launch of the international qualification program for the championship, titled “Road to the Esports World Cup 2026.” The program includes more than 230 tournaments held across various regions and levels of competition worldwide, forming a unified pathway that runs throughout the season and culminates in the highly anticipated global event in Riyadh, scheduled from July 6 to August 23. The program aims to unify qualification systems across multiple games under a single global calendar, providing clear pathways for amateur and professional players and clubs to compete on the world’s largest es ......read full article

Riyadh, February 5, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Sport and Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee President Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal is heading the Kingdom’s delegation for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The opening ceremony is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Friday at San Siro Stadium in Milan, Italy. Prince Abdulaziz emphasized that the Kingdom’s participation reflects the generous support the sports sector receives from the leadership. He said that support has driven marked progress across sports, including winter sports, which have seen rapid growth in recent years in organization, practice, and international representation. He said the Olympic part ......read full article

Riyadh, February 5, 2026, SPA -- Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Education and Training Evaluation Commission Dr. Khalid Al-Sabti received World Bank Vice President for the People Vice Presidency Mamta Murthi, who oversees the Human Capital Project (HCP), at the commission’s headquarters in Riyadh. During the meeting, Murthi reviewed the Saudi model for quality assurance and control in education and training. The World Bank Group has taken interest in the model as an advanced institutional experience aligned with global standards. She also learned about the commission’s role and its integrated system for measurement, evaluation and accreditation within an advanced go ......read full article

Riyadh, February 5, 2026, SPA -- His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on Wednesday received at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh Federal Republic of Germany Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Official reception ceremonies were held in honor of the German chancellor, and HRH the Crown Prince held an official session of talks with him. At the outset of the session, HRH the Crown Prince welcomed the German chancellor to the Kingdom, while Chancellor Merz expressed his pleasure at this visit and at meeting HRH the Crown Prince. The two leaders reviewed aspects of bilateral relations, areas of cooperation, and opportunities to furt ......read full article

Riyadh, February 04, 2026, SPA -- Modern technologies, ultra-high-definition digital screens, and restored archival tapes processed using advanced techniques were showcased at the “FOMEX” exhibition, held alongside the Saudi Media Forum 2026. The exhibition highlighted the profound transformation of Saudi media from a platform for documenting events into an integrated system focused on preserving memory, developing content, and shaping the future. Visitors to the pavilions of local and international companies viewed advanced technologies used to process and present historical images and scenes through modern methods. These included the digitization of audiovisual content, phys ......read full article

Reconstructed Shock-Resistant Structure and Streamlined Exterior Dubai, UAE — Casio Computer Co., Ltd. has announced the new addition to the G-STEEL line of G-SHOCK brand of shock-resistant watches, which combines signature toughness with a sleek metal exterior. The new GST-B1000D features a minimalist design with an enhanced fit. Guided by the Casio Purpose —“Through the power to put wonder at hand, bring new levels of joy to lives one by one” — the company continues to bring unprecedented value to the world. Born from a developer’s passion to create a watch that would not break, G-SHOCK timepieces bring wonder and inspire people with their tough st ......read full article

Riyadh, February 4, 2026, SPA -- A panel discussion titled “From Audience to Content Creator” explored the evolving role of audiences in shaping the media landscape. The session was held as part of the fifth Saudi Media Forum in Riyadh, with the participation of leading media experts and industry figures. Speakers emphasized the importance of adapting to rapid digital transformations and developing interactive media strategies that place audiences at the center of content creation. They noted that deeper audience engagement helps strengthen trust and enhance media impact in a landscape increasingly shaped by digital platforms and content creators.   ...read full article

Riyadh, February 4, 2026, SPA -- His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, sent a cable of congratulations to Laura Fernández Delgado on the occasion of her victory in the presidential elections in the Republic of Costa Rica. HRH the Crown Prince expressed his sincere congratulations and best wishes for success to the president, and for the friendly people of the Republic of Costa Rica further progress and advancement. ...read full article

Jeddah, February 4, 2026, SPA -- Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Chairman Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser met yesterday in Jeddah with Djiboutian Minister of Economy and Finance Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh. The meeting focused on strengthening the strategic partnership and initial measures aligned with Djibouti’s national economic and investment development agenda, as well as discussing future cooperation, including preparations for a participation framework with the scheduled countries in 2027. Dr. Al Jasser affirmed IsDB’s commitment to supporting the health sector, urban development, food security, and inclusive and sustainable growth, in addition to enhancing resilience to drough ......read full article

Riyadh, February 4, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) hosted the 23rd annual meeting of the Riyadh Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control, with broad participation from representatives of member states, regional and international maritime organizations, as well as experts and specialists in maritime safety and inspection. The meeting is regarded as a key regional event in maritime navigation safety, aiming to exchange expertise, discuss shared challenges, and review international best practices in maritime inspection, contributing to higher compliance with international conventions, improved port operations, and the integration of modern technologies such as ......read full article

Riyadh, February 4, 2026, SPA -- The Fashion Commission and global luxury group Kering announced Tuesday the launch of the "Kering Generation Award X MENA" across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) for 2026. They made the announcement during the opening of the RLC Global Forum, hosted at the Embassy of France in Riyadh. This year's award builds on the strong success of the 2025 award, which attracted more than 500 applications, shortlisted 21 finalists, and recognized three winners. Participants benefited from mentorship programs, workshops, and opportunities to strengthen their global presence. Building on this momentum, the 2026 program seeks to expand its impact acro ......read full article

Created by Green Sand Concepts, Kantami's second Saudi location blends immersive design with time-honoured Japanese flavours and inventive twists, transforming dining into an act of rebellion Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (3 February 2026): Kantami, the Japanese izakaya concept by Saudi hospitality studio Green Sand Concepts (GSC), has officially opened its doors in Riyadh, introducing a bold new interpretation of Japanese izakaya to the capital. Located in Nawaf Square, the concept builds on the success of Kantami's Al Khobar debut, offering a raw, story-driven experience that sets it apart from traditional dining experiences. Rooted in authenticity and imagination, Kanta ......read full article

This Valentine's Day, love is in the little things—fluttery lashes, sculpted brows, sun-kissed cheeks, and gifts that feel as good to give as they do to receive. Whether you're shopping for your bestie, your Valentine, or treating yourself (because self-love always wins), Benefit Cosmetics has curated the ultimate Valentine's Day gift guide filled with dreamy beauty must-haves. The Dream Team That Does It All 275 AED Some teams just work together like a dream—and the Dream Team Bestsellers Makeup Kit is one of them. Available at all Sephora stores across the region, this mini set of iconic favorites is the perfect all-in- ......read full article

Saudi Arabia, February 3, 2026 - Initial has launched TagPoint, a QR and Near Field Communication (NFC)-enabled solution designed to simplify and improve how facilities management service requests are raised, logged and managed across client sites. Developed to support faster response times and improve service visibility, TagPoint enables building users and client teams to submit requests instantly via mobile, strengthening operational tracking from request to resolution. The launch reflects increasing demand across the facilities and support services sector for mobile-first engagement, real-time responsiveness and clearer data-driven oversight of service performance. TagPoint ......read full article

Al-Mahrah, February 02, 2026, SPA -- The dialysis center in Al-Ghaydah District in Yemen's Al-Mahrah Governorate continued providing medical services to beneficiaries with the support of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief). During November, the center served 136 patients. Of these, 50 patients received a total of 446 scheduled dialysis sessions, while 86 patients benefited from medical consultations and examinations at the nephrology clinic. Male patients represented 60% of the total, compared to 40% female patients. Displaced persons accounted for 12% of beneficiaries, residents 87%, and refugees 1%. The dialysis facility is part of the Kingdom’s on ......read full article

Riyadh, February 02, 2026, SPA -- A panel discussion held as part of the fifth annual Saudi Media Forum examined trends in the tourism media industry and its role in strengthening national identity and enhancing the competitiveness of the Kingdom's tourist destinations. The session, titled “The Tourism Media Industry: Strategies and Trends,” featured Saudi Tourism Authority spokesman Abdullah Al-Dakhil, List Magazine editor-in-chief Noirin Hegarty, and Showcase Culture co-founder and director Isabella Brancolini. Al-Dakhil stated that Saudi Arabia is among the world's fastest-growing tourism destinations, noting that tourism growth has contributed to reshaping the K ......read full article

Riyadh, February 02, 2026, SPA -- The first edition of the International Conference on Finance, Innovation, and Sustainable Growth in Emerging Markets (FISGEM 2026) began Monday. The two-day conference was organized by King Saud University, represented by the College of Business Administration, in partnership with WinVeston Capital Company. The conference brings together leading academics and researchers, attracting more than 100 finance scholars from around the world. It provides a prominent academic platform to present over 70 new scientific discoveries and theories aimed at reshaping financial market concepts and keeping pace with global economic transformations. The conferenc ......read full article

Riyadh, February 01, 2026, SPA -- Under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz attended on Sunday evening the closing ceremony of the 3rd edition of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival, held with the participation of 11 countries. Upon his arrival at the historic Al-Janadriyah Camel Race Track, Prince Faisal bin Bandar was received by Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC) Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal; SOPC Vice President and President of the Saudi Camel Federation Prince Fahad bin Jalawi bin Abdulaziz Al Sa ......read full article

Riyadh, February 02, 2026, SPA -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed its sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims, and to the people and government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, following the collapse of a mineral mine in the city of Rubaya in the eastern part of the country, which claimed the lives of more than 226 workers. The Kingdom conveyed its solidarity and support to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, its government, and its people during this tragic incident, wishing safety and security for all. ...read full article

Embryology 4.0 and Artificial Intelligence Lead Conference Discussions The First Saudi Conference on Gynecology and Fertility (GFS) concluded its proceedings in Jeddah under the patronage of His Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi Al Saud, Governor of Jeddah. The conference brought together more than 40 experts and speakers from a distinguished group of local and international specialists, marking a new milestone in the transformation of specialized healthcare in the Kingdom. This scientific event gathered leading global medical experts under an academic platform organized by Dr. Ayman Oraif, Consultant and Director of the IVF Center and Reproductive Surgery at Kin ......read full article

Saudi Arabia’s hospitality market is forecast to grow from US$27 billion in 2025 to over US$54 billion, driven by Vision 2030, premium hotel development, and evolving inbound travel demand WTM Spotlight in Saudi Arabia will unite the global and regional tourism and hospitality sectors through exhibition, conference, and networking opportunities WTM Spotlight in Saudi Arabia will make its debut from 8 - 10 September at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Center (RFECC) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 2 February 2026: Saudi Arabia's hospitality market, valued at US$27.14 billion in 2025, is forecast to reach US$54.32 billion according to Mordor Intelligence, reflecting ra ......read full article

Muscat, February 2, 2026, SPA -- The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA) announced the commencement of the direct interconnection project between its grid and the Sultanate of Oman’s network, a strategic step reflecting the advancement of Gulf integration in the energy sector and the strengthening of regional infrastructure. CEO of the GCCIA Eng. Ahmed Al-Ebrahim stated that the project is one of the largest expansion initiatives in the GCCIA’s history. He indicated that the project aims to enhance the Gulf grid’s capacity to accommodate the rapidly growing electricity demand, amid the expansion of internal networks, significant changes in elect ......read full article

Dumat Al-Jandal, February 01, 2026, SPA -- The handicrafts section at the 12th Al-Jouf Dates Festival, held in Dumat Al-Jandal Governorate, attracted visitors with an artistic display that embodied the rich heritage of the past and the beauty of the present, crafted by local artisans. The section features several specialized areas showcasing Sadu weaving, handicrafts inspired by Al-Jouf’s heritage, and paintings and embroidery that celebrate national identity. The festival provides a platform for families working in the cottage industry and artisans, with 40 dedicated booths for displaying and marketing their creative products to the public. Organizers said the participation o ......read full article

Riyadh, February 02, 2026, SPA -- The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), in its role as a strategic sponsor, is participating in the fifth edition of the Saudi Media Forum 2026, taking place in Riyadh from 2 to 4 February, under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. This participation comes as part of the RCU's national role in highlighting AlUla as an integrated cultural, humanitarian, and developmental model, and in supporting the national media narrative in alignment with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The Saudi Media Forum is regarded as a leading national platform for discussing the future of the media sector and showcasin ......read full article

Riyadh, February 2, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef met on Sunday at the ministry’s headquarters with German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Katherina Reiche to discuss ways to strengthen economic ties and explore investment partnership opportunities in the industrial and mining sectors. Minister Alkhorayef reviewed the objectives of the National Industrial Strategy and the promising investment opportunities it offers across priority industrial sectors, highlighting the transformation and development currently underway in Saudi Arabia’s mining sector, which provides unique investment opportunities for global companies ......read full article

Jeddah, February 2, 2026, SPA -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia received 19.5 million pilgrims and Umrah performers from abroad in 2025, achieving a satisfaction rate exceeding 90% for the services provided, according to the National Center for Performance Measurement of Public Entities (Adaa). The record figures reflect the rapid development of the Kingdom’s services for pilgrims and Umrah performers in line with the targets of Saudi Vision 2030, Adaa said. The Pilgrim Experience Program – one of the programs to actualize Saudi Vision 2030 – stated that these improvements covered both the Hajj and Umrah seasons. The program also reported satisfaction rates of 91% amo ......read full article

Khaybar, January 31, 2026, SPA -- Areas south of Khaybar Governorate in Madinah Region are witnessing clear seasonal signs following recent rainfall, reviving valleys and natural pastures, and covering the land with lush vegetation that creates a diverse array of scenic landscapes. Wadi Al-Jarirah has emerged as one of the most prominent destinations during this period, thanks to its picturesque natural beauty and expansive grazing areas. This has made it a popular spot for visitors seeking to enjoy mild, spring-like weather and lush scenery, reflecting the rich natural environment for which the governorate is known at this time of year. ...read full article

Doha, January 31, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Interior participated in the security exhibition accompanying the joint tactical exercise “Arabian Gulf Security 4,” involving security agencies from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The exercise is hosted by the State of Qatar from January 30 to February 4 at Mall of Qatar. During the exhibition, the ministry showcases the Kingdom’s efforts to combat drug smuggling at the local, regional, and international levels. It also highlights the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance the security and safety of citizens, residents, and visitors; support crowd management and introduce the Ministry of ......read full article

Cairo, January 31, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance continues its distinguished participation within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s pavilion at the 57th edition of the Cairo International Book Fair for the eighth consecutive day, amid growing public turnout. More than 300,000 visitors from various nationalities and cultural backgrounds have visited the ministry's pavilion. During its participation, the ministry showcases a selection of publications issued by the King Fahd Glorious Quran Printing Complex, introduces the stages of Quran printing, and presents samples of the Holy Quran in various translations. The ministry distributes the Custodian of ......read full article

Riyadh, January 29, 2026, SPA -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and joint action to support the Middle East Green Initiative (MGI), and to advance towards achieving its objectives of protecting the environment, expanding vegetation cover, and addressing the challenges of desertification, drought, and climate change. The Kingdom also announced the launch of the initiative's operational phase and preparations for the start of its ambitious projects. This was stated during the speech of Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Alfadley, who is also chairperson of the second session of the MGI Ministerial Council, at the con ......read full article

Riyadh, January 30, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's welcome of the statement issued by the Syrian government regarding the ceasefire agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), under a comprehensive agreement that includes the integration of the self-administration institutions into the Syrian state institutions. In a statement issued today, the ministry said that the Kingdom hopes that this comprehensive agreement will contribute to supporting Syria's path towards peace, security, and stability, fulfilling the aspirations of the brotherly Syrian people and strengthening their national unity. ......read full article

Riyadh, January 28, 2026, SPA -- His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received Professor Omar Yaghi at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh today on the occasion of his winning the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, jointly with two other scientists. HRH the Crown Prince congratulated Professor Omar Yaghi on receiving the award, which reflects international recognition and appreciation of his efforts and contributions in the field of chemistry, wishing him continued success. For his part, Professor Omar Yaghi expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Crown Prince for the meeting and for the support and encouragement he has received ......read full article

Riyadh, January 30, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz met today in Washington, D.C., with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham. During the meeting, they reviewed the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries and discussed regional and international developments, along with issues of mutual interest. The meeting was attended by Saudi Ambassador to the United States of America Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, and Advisor to the Minister of Defense for Intelligence Affairs Hisham bin Abdulaziz bin Saif. ...read full article

Riyadh, January 30, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) launched the National Cross-Disciplinary Curriculum for University Students in Data and AI for university students across disciplines. It provides practical fundamentals for understanding data and using AI tools responsibly to support learning, work, and decision-making. The launch took place during the International Conference on Data and AI Capacity Building (ICAN 2026). SDAIA is organizing the conference in academic partnership with King Saud University, in knowledge partnership with the Human Capability Development Program, and in strategic partnership with Elm. The curriculum targets all un ......read full article

Riyadh, January 30, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih inaugurated yesterday in Riyadh the Drones Club at Tuwaiq Academy, in partnership with the Drone Champions League (DCL), with the aim of developing national capabilities in the field of drones. The launch is part of the Tuwaiq Drones initiative, aimed at providing a structured environment for developing drone skills through training and competition. The event also marked the graduation of FPV drone bootcamp participants and the launch of eight new bootcamps, open for registration at: https://s.tuwaiq.edu.sa/dOCar The club offers training spaces, professional programs in partnership with international entities, a ......read full article

Dublin, January 29, 2026, SPA -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia participated in the eighth meeting of the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, held in Dublin, Ireland, under the auspices of the Irish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, with broad participation from member states and international partners. The Kingdom was represented at the meeting by Minister Plenipotentiary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Manal Radwan, who delivered a speech affirming that the Global Alliance constitutes a unique international platform for aligning peace tracks and ensuring their coherence and effectiveness in support of a political solution. She commended the pivo ......read full article

Riyadh, January 29, 2026, SPA -- The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced that Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation sector achieved exceptional growth in 2025, setting record figures in air traffic statistics. GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej announced the figures during the 19th Steering Committee meeting to activate the Aviation Program, held Wednesday in Riyadh under his chairmanship. Al-Duailej praised the unwavering support of the Kingdom’s leadership for the aviation sector as a pivotal enabler of Saudi Vision 2030. He highlighted the sector’s notable achievements in 2025, noting that the number of passengers exceeded 140 million, up about 9%. Intern ......read full article

Riyadh, January 29, 2026, SPA -- The King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) set a new Guinness World Records title for the 16th National Olympiad for Scientific Creativity (Ibdaa 2026), recognized as the largest innovation solutions competition in the world. The achievement reflects the Kingdom’s leading position in supporting innovation and developing human capital. The achievement came after participating students submitted over 34,000 scientific projects to compete in Ibdaa 2026, which recorded more than 357,000 students from across the Kingdom – the highest number in the competition’s history. This represents a 22.7 ......read full article

Jeddah, January 29, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef inaugurated the second phase of the Tamer Mölnlycke Care factory expansion at the Jeddah Third Industrial City, which is affiliated with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON). The expansion supports the growth of the medical industries sector and strengthens the Kingdom’s position as an advanced industrial hub in this field. Alkhorayef further reviewed the factory’s current production capacity of approximately 200,000 products annually, along with the company’s plans to increase production to 500,000 products per year, contributing to meetin ......read full article

Jeddah, January 29, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan Aziz Abdukhakimov visited yesterday the National Center for Meteorology in Jeddah to review the Kingdom’s leading experience in the fields of meteorology and climate. The Uzbek minister met with National Center for Meteorology Chief Executive Officer Ayman Ghulam and specialists. They discussed areas of cooperation, topics of mutual interest, and ways to strengthen partnerships and climate action between the two sides. The minister was briefed on the key achievements of the Sand and Dust Storm Regional Center, the Climate Change Center, and the Regional ......read full article

Riyadh, January 29, 2026, SPA -- Ministry of Interior Director General of Legal Affairs and International Cooperation Ahmed Al-Eissa and India’s Ministry of External Affairs Joint Secretary (Counter Terrorism) Dr. Vinod Bahade on Wednesday co-chaired the third meeting of the Saudi Arabia-India Security Working Group under the Political, Consular and Security Cooperation Committee of the Strategic Partnership Council. During the meeting, the two sides discussed areas of cooperation and ways to strengthen them in the interest of the two friendly countries, reviewed initiatives, and established appropriate mechanisms for their implementation. ...read full article