Hail, January 17, 2026, SPA -- Under the patronage of Hail Region Governor and Hail Region Development Authority Board Chairman Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, Hail Region entered the Guinness World Records yesterday after successfully organizing the world’s largest off-road production cars convoy at the historic Tuwaren area northwest of Hail. The convoy set off with 501 off-road production cars, traversing a 7-kilometer unpaved desert route in an exceptional spectacle that embodied the spirit of adventure, showcased the region’s natural diversity and terrain, and reinforced Hail’s position as a leading winter destination for off-road adventures. The event was ......read full article

Riyadh, January 17, 2026, SPA -- The Klija Festival in Buraidah reflects a long journey of leadership and cultural development, having evolved from a simple initiative to promote a local product into an annual festival that embodies the authenticity and cultural identity of the Qassim Region. The transformation was achieved by elevating the traditional product into an economic symbol, empowering productive families, supporting artisans, and converting heritage skills into sustainable sources of income. The festival has contributed to strengthening the region’s culinary heritage at both the local and international levels, establishing itself as a key annual tourism and cultural event ......read full article

Riyadh, January 17, 2026, SPA -- Fitch Ratings has affirmed Saudi Arabia's Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at 'A+' with Stable Outlook. The affirmation reflects the Kingdom’s strong fiscal and external balance sheets, with government debt-to-GDP and sovereign net foreign assets (SNFA)considerably stronger than the medians for both the ‘A’ and ‘AA’ rating categories, alongside substantial fiscal buffers in the form of deposits and other public sector assets. Fitch projects that GDP growth will reach 4.8% in 2026, while the fiscal deficit is expected to narrow to 3.6% of GDP by 2027. Furthermore, non-oil revenues will conti ......read full article

Hajjah, January 17, 2026, SPA -- With support from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), Al-Ja'ada Health Center in the Midi District of Yemen’s Hajjah Governorate, provided medical services to 1,796 beneficiaries from December 24 to 30, 2025. During this period, the emergency clinic received 786 patients, the pediatrics clinic 369, the internal medicine clinic 316, the obstetrics and gynecology clinic 255, and the infectious diseases clinic 67, while the delivery room handled three cases. Ancillary and support services also saw significant activity, with the pharmacy serving 1,585 patients and the laboratory conducting 566 tests. Additionally, the ......read full article

North Kordofan State, January 17, 2026, SPA -- The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has distributed 1,000 food baskets in Sheikan Locality, North Kordofan State, Sudan, benefiting 6,625 displaced individuals as part of the 2026 Madad Project in the country. This initiative falls within the framework of the Kingdom’s relief and humanitarian efforts through KSrelief to alleviate the suffering of those in need worldwide. ...read full article

Al-Asyah, January 16, 2026, SPA -- The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve Development Authority is participating in the activities of the ninth edition of the Qassim Falcons Festival, held at Prince Faisal bin Mishaal falconry venue in Al-Asyah Governorate from January 14 to 21. The festival is held under thepatronage of Governor of Qassim Region Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, with the participation of several government and private entities, as well as enthusiasts of falconry and heritage. The authority’s participation aims to introduce visitors to the destinations and experiences of the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve by showcasing its touris ......read full article

AlUla, January 15, 2026, SPA -- Arts AlUla has announced the lineup of Saudi and international artists participating in the fourth edition of Desert X AlUla, the international open-air art exhibition held in collaboration with Desert X. Running from January 16 to February 28, the exhibition will feature an exceptional selection of specially commissioned artworks, ranging from large-scale installations and sound pieces that stretch across and beneath the desert landscape, to kinetic works and immersive interactive experiences. The showcase reflects a deep connection to AlUla’s unique environment, its dramatic natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Desert X AlUla, the r ......read full article

Riyadh, January 15, 2026, SPA -- His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received a written message from Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of the Sultanate of Oman concerning relations between the two brotherly countries. The message was received by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji during his meeting today in Riyadh with Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Najib Al-Busaidi. During the meeting, they reviewed relations and ways to enhance them in various fields, and discussed topics of mutual interest. ...read full article

Riyadh, January 16, 2026, SPA -- His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, sent a cable of congratulations to Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš on the formation of the new government under his leadership and its winning the confidence of Parliament. HRH the Crown Prince expressed his sincere congratulations and best wishes for success to the Czech Prime Minister, wishing the friendly people of the Czech Republic continued progress and prosperity. ...read full article

Riyadh, January 16, 2026, SPA -- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has approved the awarding of the King Abdulaziz Medal (Third Class) to 200 male and female citizens in recognition of their vital organ donations, whether from living or brain-dead donors. ...read full article

GISTs are considered rare tumors of the gastrointestinal tract Gastric tumors exceeding 20 cm are classified as uncommon cases worldwide Jeddah: A specialized medical team at King's College Hospital London – Jeddah successfully saved the life of a patient suffering from a giant gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), in one of the most complex gastrointestinal oncology surgeries, led by Prof. Dr. Mohamed Hafez, Consultant Surgical Oncology. The patient arrived at the hospital experiencing severe chronic pain and internal gastric bleeding, resulting from a recurrence of the tumor after a previous surgery performed nearly 15 years ago. This time, however, the t ......read full article

Abu Dhabi, UAE | 14 January — Trinasolar, a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, is pleased to announce its collaboration with Haala Energy, a leading solar energy developer and installer in Saudi Arabia, during a signing ceremony held at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2026. The collaboration marks a new strategic collaboration aimed at supporting the Kingdom’s clean energy ambitions and accelerating the deployment of high-performance, integrated solar solutions aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. As part of the collaboration, Haala Energy will implement two agricultural solar projects for Bateel date farms, with a combined c ......read full article

Riyadh, January 15, 2026, SPA -- The Riyadh Municipality launched a unified digital platform to streamline the approval of urban plans across all relevant authorities. The initiative aims to simplify the process for beneficiaries and complete all approval procedures electronically while enhancing transparency and ensuring integration with various government agencies. The platform enables beneficiaries in the real estate development sector to submit approval requests online and track their progress from submission through review and final authorization. This ensures clear, well-governed procedures, shortens the approval process for urban plans, and accelerates the provision of developed ......read full article

Taif, January 15, 2026, SPA -- Folkloric showcases captivated visitors at the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif, an initiative of the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission at Ruddaf Park. The daily program features a rich tapestry of Saudi heritage arts, including Yanbu‘awi, Khabiti, Mizmar, and Samri, with each display highlighting the unique rhythms and traditional character of the region's diverse cultural identity. The folk troupe delivered a seamless, venue- and audience-tailored performance. By blending various art forms with fluid transitions, the sequence offered visitors an engaging experience that balanced high-quality entertainment with cultural enrich ......read full article

Riyadh, January 15, 2026, SPA -- Riyadh Region Mayor Prince Dr. Faisal bin Ayyaf met yesterday with Japanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Yasunari Morino and his delegation. The meeting was also attended by Expo 2030 Riyadh Company (ERC) Chief Executive Officer Talal AlMarri. The meeting focused on key areas of mutual interest. The Riyadh mayor emphasized the strength of bilateral ties, noting the consistent coordination and growing cooperation that define the relationship between the two nations across various fields. The meeting also addressed Riyadh Expo 2030, emphasizing a mutual commitment to exchange expertise and leverage international experience to support future growth and strat ......read full article

Unaizah, January 15, 2026, SPA -- With more than 80 booths featuring traditional products, the 10th annual Hanini and Traditional Foods Festival, organized by the Unaizah Chamber of Commerce, has attracted large numbers of visitors and shoppers. The festival is being held at the Al Musawkaf Heritage Market in Unaizah The festival aims to introduce the Hanini product, its ingredients, and preparation methods, while also boosting economic activity in traditional winter products. It aims to create job opportunities for young men and women, prepare them for the labor market, and highlight the governorate’s tourist attractions. The festival features a variety of activities, including ......read full article

  Hajjah, January 15, 2026, SPA -- The mobile medical clinics of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) in Walan camp in Yemen’s Haradh District, affiliated with Hajjah Governorate, continued providing its medical treatment services in late December. A total of 109 beneficiaries visited the clinic from December 24 to 30. Of these, 73 patients were treated at the epidemic disease control clinic, 13 beneficiaries at the internal medicine clinic, 11 patients at the emergency clinic, and two patients at the reproductive health clinic. Ten beneficiaries visited the awareness and education section.   ...read full article

For one month each year, Saudi changes its rhythm entirely. Days grow quieter and slower, and then, as the sun sets, Saudi comes alive. Streets fill, tables stretch long, music and storytelling echo through historic districts, and cities transform into social spaces shaped by food, family, and shared moments. For visitors, Ramadan offers one of the most immersive ways to experience Saudi, not through landmarks alone, but through how life is lived when the sun sets. Eating Together Is the Experience - Everywhere You Go In Saudi, Ramadan nights revolve around the table - and not just around one main dish. Across the country, iftar (breaking the fast) is a shared, multi-layered expe ......read full article

Enthralled by the celestial vault, Van Cleef and Arpels has dreamed of capturing the poetry of stars. Since the 1950s, creations inspired by the signs of the Zodiac have reflected the symbolism of constellations. Today, the Maison continues this tradition with new interpretations of its medals, in white gold and on bracelets. Expanding the wearing possibilities, these pieces are imbued with the story of their wearer. In 2021, Van Cleef and Arpels presented twelve creations echoing the first yellow gold medals that appeared in its collections in the 1950s. This heritage inspired a new ensemble with a personal touch. Twelve bracelets recall the charm jewelry the Maison has crafted throughou ......read full article

Freetown, January 14, 2026, SPA -- The Islamic Military Counter-Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) on Tuesday launched the “Competence” military strategic training for counter-terrorism in the Republic of Sierra Leone. The program launch was attended by Sierra Leonean Minister of Internal Affairs Morie Lengor, IMCTC Secretary General of the Islamic Military Counter-Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) Major General Pilot Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, senior military and security officials, civil representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Republic of Sierra Leone. The initiative runs from January 13 to February 3, targeting the training and capacity building of 30 m ......read full article

Taif, January 14, 2026, SPA -- The Writers and Readers Festival in Taif, organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission at Ruddaf Park, is witnessing a strong turnout. Featuring 270 events, including literary evenings, art showcases, and interactive pathways for all ages, the festival offers an enriching experience for families and book lovers alike. The “Challenge Yourself” digital quiz attracts around 120 participants daily, providing an interactive way to explore all event zones through seven themed questions. The festival aims to establish reading as a community practice, support literary and knowledge-based content, and highlight Saudi creativity, in ......read full article

Riyadh, January 14, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef inaugurated on Tuesday the international exhibition accompanying the fifth edition of the Future Minerals Forum, in the presence of several ministers, senior officials, and CEOs of major mining and industrial companies from around the world. As an exceptional global platform, the exhibition brings together over 285 sponsors and exhibitors under one roof, representing leading companies across the mining and minerals value chain, from exploration and extraction to processing and manufacturing. This year, the event features a notable international presence, with official national pavilions from 1 ......read full article

Madinah, January 14, 2026, SPA -- The 40th edition of the Economic Bulletin issued by the Al Madinah Al Munawarah Chamber highlights Madinah Region as a strategic hub for maritime transport and supply chains, benefiting from its prime location on the Red Sea coast and its key role in the Kingdom’s transport and logistics network, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and strengthen its position as a global logistics center. The bulletin noted that Madinah Region hosts two major ports in Yanbu Governorate: King Fahd Industrial Port and Yanbu Commercial Port. The ports are a key pillar of the Kingdom’s import and export operations, particularly for petroc ......read full article

Riyadh, January 14, 2026, SPA -- Riyadh today hosted the third International Geological Survey Meeting (IGSM), attracting a record number of leaders from geological survey authorities worldwide. The meeting, a key feature of the fifth Future Minerals Forum, was chaired by Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs Eng. Khalid Almudaifer, and attended by CEO of Saudi Geological Survey Eng. Abdullah Al Shamrani. In his opening remarks, Almudaifer emphasized that the global mining sector fundamentally depends on reliable, easily accessible geological data, which he described as the most critical enabler for accelerating discoveries and attracting capital. He explai ......read full article

The festive spirit is in full swing at Mercato and Town Centre Jumeirah as Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2026 delivers an exciting mix of world-class entertainment, unbeatable shopping offers, and rewarding experiences for visitors of all ages. Running until 1 February, Mercato is buzzing with energy, bringing families and shoppers together for unforgettable DSF moments. Taking centre stage is a spectacular entertainment lineup at Mercato, featuring the Rolling Gravity Circus—a modern acrobatic balance show on wheels that leaves audiences in awe. Adding to the excitement is the lively Jay Magic Comedy Show, captivating visitors with enchanting illusions and laugh-out-loud performanc ......read full article

Riyadh, January 12, 2026, SPA -- The Transport General Authority (TGA) revealed Monday that the number of passengers who used public bus transport within the cities and governorates of the Kingdom exceeded 27.8 million during the fourth quarter of 2025. According to a statistical bulletin issued by TGA, Riyadh ranked first in terms of passenger numbers, recording more than 21.15 million passengers, followed by Makkah with 3.42 million, Jeddah with 1.19 million, while Dammam and Qatif recorded 836,000 passengers. Madinah logged 481,000 passengers, with the remaining figures distributed across several other cities and governorates, including Qassim, Taif, Jazan, Al-Ahsa, and Tabuk. Th ......read full article

Jeddah, January 13, 2026, SPA -- Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Saleh Al-Suhaibani received at his office in Jeddah Executive Director of the Islamic Solidarity Fund (ISF) Mohammed bin Sulaiman Aba Al-Khail. During the meeting, the two officials reviewed the ISF's efforts, which serve as a key institution supporting humanitarian and development initiatives within the OIC. The fund also functions as an important humanitarian arm of the OIC, implementing various development programs and projects. ...read full article

Freetown, January 13, 2026, SPA -- Secretary General of the Islamic Military Counter-Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) Major General Pilot Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi met on Monday in the Sierra Leonean capital, Freetown, with members of the Security Council Committee of the Republic of Sierra Leone, chaired by Sierra Leonean Minister of Internal Affairs Morie Lengor and attended by several other officials. During the meeting, they discussed the latest security developments in Sierra Leone, reviewed challenges in combating terrorism and transnational organized crime, and examined mechanisms to enhance coordination between security and military agencies, thereby strengthening their technical a ......read full article

Riyadh, January 13, 2025, SPA -- Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef, yesterday held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with ministers from several countries participating in the fifth edition of the Future Minerals Forum, in the presence of Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs Eng. Khalid Almudaifer. The forum will commence on Tuesday in Riyadh. During his meeting with Minister of Mines and Energy of the Federative Republic of Brazil Alexandre Silveira, Minister AlKhorayef discussed strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the mining and minerals sector, while highlighting key opportunities to develop joint min ......read full article

Riyadh, January 13, 2026, SPA -- The Royal Court announced today the death of Princess Hind bint Saud bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, who passed away outside the Kingdom. The funeral prayer will be performed on Wednesday, January 14, after the Asr prayer at Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh. ...read full article

Saudi Arabia, 12 January 2026 - Seequent, the Bentley Subsurface Company, will participate again in the 5th edition of the Future Minerals Forum (FMF), which will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 13 to 15 January 2026. The company will showcase its world-leading geoscience technologies, highlighting its role in advancing data-driven mineral exploration in Saudi Arabia, and engaging with industry leaders on the future of the regional mining sector. The participation aligns perfectly with Seequent's commitment to advancing the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. It will highlight its key role in supporting major mining projects in the region. Visitors can also explore Seeque ......read full article

Riyadh, January 12, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi Space Agency signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Japanese government on the peaceful use of outer space on the sidelines of the Saudi-Japan Ministerial Investment Forum. The memorandum was signed with Japan’s Cabinet Office, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Minister of Communications and Information Technology and Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Space Agency Abdullah Alswaha represented the agency during the signing. The move underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation in peaceful space activities and su ......read full article

Riyadh, January 12, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi Media Forum has signed a partnership agreement with the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), under which Mawhiba will serve as the forum's Knowledge Partner for its fifth edition, to be held in Riyadh from February 2 to 4, 2026. Under the agreement, Mawhiba, in partnership with the forum, will organize a workshop bringing together a select group of gifted male and female students who have received international awards across various scientific fields. The agreement also includes granting access to social media platforms to cover joint activities, publish news related to the forum, and provid ......read full article

Riyadh, January 12, 2026, SPA -- The in-person bootcamp of the Future Minerals Pioneers Competition concluded in Riyadh from 8 to 10 January 2026, as part of the Global Minerals Innovation Competition. The bootcamp was held under the patronage of Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar AlKhorayef, and was organized by the Ministry in collaboration with the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP). The event took place during the Future Minerals Forum and attracted wide international participation. The bootcamp commenced on its first day with an opening led by Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs Eng. Khalid bin Saleh Al-Mudaife ......read full article

Diriyah, January 12, 2026, SPA -- The story of resilience and sacrifice embodied by Imam Abdullah bin Saud bin Abdulaziz bin Mohammed has inspired visitors to Hal Al-Qusoor Program, one of the programs of Diriyah Season 25/26, prompting them to reflect deeply on the symbolism of heroism, loyalty, and love of the homeland. These values are vividly brought to life through live performances utilizing sound and lighting technologies at the historic palace of Imam Abdullah, the last Imam of the First Saudi State. Visitors to the palace experience the atmosphere of the First Saudi State through narratives that recount the life of this great national figure. Imam Abdullah bin Saud was renowned f ......read full article

Riyadh, January 11, 2026, SPA -- His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has sent a cable of congratulations to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman on the anniversary of his accession to the throne. The Crown Prince wished the sultan continued good health and happiness, and the government and people of Oman steady progress and prosperity. ...read full article

Jeddah, January 09, 2026, SPA -- The 100-day countdown has begun for the Formula 1 stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2026, the fifth round of the championship, which will be hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the sixth consecutive year from April 17 to 19 at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, the world’s fastest street circuit, under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport and promotion by the Saudi Motorsport Company. Since its debut in 2021 on the Red Sea coast, the Formula 1 stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix has established itself as one of the most exciting races on the championship calendar, combining record-breaking speeds with world-class entertainment in a spectacular night setting. ......read full article

Rafha, January 09, 2026, SPA -- Located 105 kilometers south of Rafha, the historic village of Laynah has emerged as a premier heritage destination, seamlessly blending rich historical roots with striking modern aesthetics. Laynah’s significance lies in its location along an ancient trade route connecting Najd with Iraq. It is also situated near Darb Zubaydah, one of the most renowned historical pilgrimage and trade routes in the Arabian Peninsula. In recent years, Laynah has undergone a remarkable urban and aesthetic revitalization. The development project has transformed the village’s squares and roadways into a living gallery of handcrafted sculptures and installations i ......read full article

Riyadh, January 10, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement today expressing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's deep regret over the damage sustained by the Embassy of the State of Qatar in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, as a result of recent shelling. The ministry affirmed the necessity of protecting diplomatic missions and their personnel in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The ministry also reiterated the Kingdom's support for all diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Russian-Ukrainian crisis through peaceful means. ...read full article

N’Djamena, January 10, 2026, SPA -- The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) on Wednesday distributed food baskets in Chad, benefiting 810 families from the most vulnerable groups, as part of the 2026 assistance distribution project in the Republic of Chad. The initiative falls within the framework of the relief and humanitarian projects provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through KSrelief to numerous countries and peoples in need worldwide. ...read full article