Industry Ministry Processes 778 Chemical Clearance Requests in April

Riyadh, June 2, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources processed 778 chemical-clearance service requests in April as part of its efforts to support industrial investment and provide services that promote the growth and expansion of industrial enterprises. Ministry Spokesperson Jarrah Al-Jarrah said the processed applications included 703 requests for the clearance of imports of unrestricted chemicals and 75 requests for permits to import restricted chemicals. The issued requests covered a total of 2,758 items. Al-Jarrah said the chemical-clearance service enables industrial investors to apply for clearance permits and import or export authorizations for chemicals used in industrial facilities through the ministry’s Sanai platform. He added that the service ensures chemical clearances are issued to ......read full article

First Departure Flights of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Program Pilgrims Begin After Hajj and Visit to Prophet's Mosque

Madinah, June 03, 2026, SPA -- The first departure flights of guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit began Tuesday after the pilgrims completed Hajj rituals for 1447 AH with ease and tranquility. The guests departed through Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, returning to their home countries after a spiritually enriching journey marked by exceptional organization. Their visit included prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque, paying respects to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and praying in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah, all under the direct supervision of the program’s committees, which ensured the highest standards of care and support from arrival to departure. The guests’ journey also featured a variety of cultural, educational, and enrichment programs, ......read full article

Saudi National Team Continues Training Camp in Austin Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

Austin, June 03, 2026, SPA -- The Saudi national football team continued its preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ on Tuesday evening at its camp in Austin as part of the fourth and final phase of its preparation program. The players conducted their training session under the supervision of head coach Giorgos Donis. The session began with warm-up exercises, followed by possession drills and tactical work, before concluding with set-piece training. The Saudi team will resume training on Wednesday as preparations continue for the tournament.

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First Departing Pilgrims Complete Procedures at Jadidat Arar Port

Arar, June 02, 2026, SPA -- The General Directorate of Passports at Jadidat Arar Port in Northern Borders Region completed departure procedures for the first group of pilgrims leaving Saudi Arabia after performing Hajj for the year 1447 AH, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. The directorate reaffirmed its readiness to facilitate pilgrims’ departures through all of Saudi Arabia’s land, air, and sea ports. It stressed the importance of adhering to scheduled departure dates after completing the Hajj rituals.

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Eastern Region Islamic Affairs Ministry Branch Bids Farewell to Bahraini Pilgrims with Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Gift

Dammam, June 02, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, through its Eastern Region branch, continues to distribute the gift of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to Bahraini pilgrims departing for their homeland via the King Fahd Causeway after completing their Hajj rituals for the year 1447 AH. The ministry’s field teams are carrying out the distribution in accordance with a comprehensive operational plan designed to ensure that the gifts reach pilgrims smoothly and efficiently. This effort reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to serving pilgrims and caring for them until their departure and return home. The gift consists of copies of the Holy Quran and translations of its meanings published by the King Fahd Glorious Quran Printing Complex in Madinah, ......read full article

Madinah Dates Market Records Sales of Nearly SAR12 Million Amid Increased Pilgrim Demand

Madinah, May 31, 2026, SPA -- Madinah Central Dates Market in Food City witnessed heightened economic activity amid the influx of pilgrims before and after Hajj, with strong demand for various date varieties contributing to increased commercial activity. A report issued by Madinah branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture stated that the market recorded sales of 724,381 kilograms of dates over the past 20 days, with a total value approaching SAR12 million. Transactions were conducted through 20 auction lanes, including air-conditioned lanes inside the main hall, in addition to retail outlets. According to the report, Ajwa, Safawi, and Sagai were the top-selling date varieties, reflecting growing demand among visitors and shoppers for local date products. The report added that the branch's field teams ......read full article

Foreign Minister Meets with French Counterpart on Sidelines of EU Foreign Ministers Meeting

Limassol, May 29, 2026, SPA -- Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met yesterday with Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Noël Barrot on the sidelines of the Informal Meeting of EU Foreign Ministers held in Limassol, Republic of Cyprus. The two officials reviewed relations between the two countries and ways to strengthen them in the service of common interests. They also discussed regional and international developments and their implications for security and stability.

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Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites Awards Six Development Sites Worth SAR 13.3 Billion

Makkah, June 01, 2026, SPA -- The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites announced the awarding of six development sites under the Developed Districts Program, covering a total area of more than 2.7 million square meters and representing investments valued at SAR13.3 billion. The initiative is part of the commission's efforts to enhance the urban environment, support economic growth, improve the quality of life, and advance sustainable development in the Holy City. The commission stated that the awarded sites are located in the neighborhoods of Jurhum South, Al-Khalidiyah, Al-Hajlah, Al-Hindawiyah East, Al-Hindawiyah South, and Al-Hindawiyah West. The projects will be implemented through partnerships with real estate development and investment companies, as well as investment funds, reflecting the integration of ......read full article

Ministry of Human Resources Conducts over 10,000 Inspection Visits During 1447 AH Hajj Season

Makkah, May 30, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development conducted over 10,000 field inspection visits across Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites during this year's 1447 AH Hajj season to verify establishments' compliance with labor laws, mplementing regulations, and strict seasonal work environment requirements. The intensive inspection tours significantly raised compliance levels among private-sector establishments operating during the busy season, leading to the identification of approximately 2,400 violations and the resolution of 87 direct reports. To effectively regulate seasonal labor, the ministry facilitated access to temporary work services through the "Hajj Ajeer" service, benefiting over 8,000 establishments. This initiative supported the operational readiness of businesses ......read full article

Two Holy Mosques Authority Launches Smart Solutions to Measure Visitor Satisfaction

Makkah, May 28, 2026, SPA -- The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque launched a package of smart solutions to measure visitor satisfaction with services at the Two Holy Mosques, as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the visitor experience and raise service quality. The project includes installing 1,000 NFC-enabled smart signs — 650 at the Grand Mosque and 350 at the Prophet's Mosque — supported by an advanced technical dashboard that collects real-time satisfaction data via interactive points distributed across both mosques. The initiative represents a qualitative step toward leveraging modern technologies to directly measure visitor satisfaction, support decision-making, and enhance the experience of pilgrims at the Two Holy Mosques.

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Roads General Authority Announces Readiness of Madinah Road Network to Receive Pilgrims

Madinah, May 30, 2026, SPA -- The Roads General Authority announced the completion of its comprehensive operational plans for the road network in Madinah Region to serve pilgrims following the conclusion of their Hajj rituals to ensure their safe and seamless arrival in Madinah, further enhancing the overall pilgrim experience. The authority stated that it finalized its preparations through a comprehensive survey of all transit routes leading to the region, followed by a massive package of field operations. These efforts included evaluating over 906,000 square meters of asphalt surfaces, installing 4,000 linear meters of metal and concrete barriers, and maintaining 3,300 linear meters of fencing. Maintenance operations also encompassed repairing damaged locations across more than 400 kilometers of roads, installing 145 directional ......read full article

Ministry of Municipalities Conducts over 38,000 Inspection Tours During 1447 AH Hajj Season

Mina, May 30, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, represented by the Holy Makkah Municipality, conducted over 38,000 field inspection tours during the 1447 AH Hajj season to maintain high compliance levels and preserve the quality of municipal services provided to pilgrims across Makkah and the holy sites. The ministry stated that the field inspections targeted health and commercial establishments, catering kitchens, food outlets, and various seasonal service sites related to the Hajj to guarantee the highest standards of health, safety, and service quality for all pilgrims.

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MAEE Launches Hajj Water-Saving Initiative at Holy Sites with 3,000 Signs

Mina, May 25, 2026, SPA -- The National Water Efficiency and Conservation Center (MAEE) launched an awareness initiative aimed at promoting water conservation among Hajj pilgrims at the holy sites. The initiative carries the slogan of MAEE's water-saving campaign, “By water we live; by preserving it, we are rewarded,” and is being implemented in cooperation with Kidana Development Company. As part of the initiative, more than 3,000 awareness signs were installed at restroom and wudu (ablution) facilities. The signs encourage pilgrims to use water efficiently and emphasize that 0.75 liters of water is sufficient for wudu. To ensure the messages reach pilgrims of various nationalities, the awareness content was translated into 11 international languages, helping promote positive water-conservation practices.

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Islamic Affairs Ministry Continues Pilgrim Guidance Services at Al-Khayf Mosque on the Day of Tarwiyah

Mina, May 26, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance continues providing guidance and digital services for pilgrims at Al-Khayf Mosque during the Day of Tarwiyah. Services included access to an electronic library featuring educational and guidance materials in several international languages, as well as religious awareness services through video communication and messages displayed on digital screens inside the mosque. The ministry also provided electronic access to a guidebook on Hajj and Umrah rituals through NFC technology. Additional services included a 24-hour multilingual toll-free number (8002451000) for religious inquiries, as well as guidance booths offering direct assistance to pilgrims.

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Guests of Custodian of Two Holy Mosques' Hajj Program Praise Services Provided by Kingdom to Pilgrims

Mina, May 26, 2026, SPA -- Several pilgrims as part of the Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Hajj, Umrah, and Visit Program, implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, praised the level of organization and services provided by the Kingdom to pilgrims, emphasizing that the efforts reflect the great care devoted by the Kingdom’s leadership to serving the pilgrims and ensuring their comfort. The guests also commended the advanced technologies and modern systems that facilitated the performance of Hajj rituals with ease and tranquillity, from reception and transportation procedures to healthcare, organizational, and guidance services. Pilgrim Mahmoud Al-Kuzbari from Syria praised the comprehensive services provided by the Kingdom to pilgrims from the moment of their arrival, as well ......read full article

Hajj and Umrah Ministry Urges Pilgrims to Remain in Arafat Camps Until 4:00 PM for Their Safety

Arafat, May 26, 2026, SPA -- Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to remain in their camps in Arafat on the ninth of Dhu Al-Hijjah until 4:00 PM to protect them from direct sun exposure during peak hours and to help reduce heat stress while performing the most important pillar of Hajj. The Ministry explained that the Arafah Day sermon will be broadcast live via audio and video to all camps, allowing pilgrims to listen to it easily and comfortably without needing to leave their locations. The Ministry also urged pilgrims to adhere to the approved dispatching plans and schedules and to avoid going out into traffic lanes or into unauthorized sits, as this could disrupt crowd management and impede the smooth flow of movement between sites. The ministry also called for adherence to the instructions not to climb Mount Arafat, ......read full article

King Abdullah Medical City Saves Indian Pilgrim Using Mobile ECMO Technology

Makkah, May 25, 2026, SPA -- The Cardiac Center at King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah, a facility within the Makkah Health Cluster, has successfully saved the life of an Indian pilgrim who suffered a heart attack resulting in complete cardiac and circulatory arrest. The rapid resuscitation was achieved through a highly precise medical intervention utilizing a mobile veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) device, showcasing the elite tier of specialized care available to pilgrims during the Hajj season. Following the initial emergency, the patient was transferred to intensive care and supervised by a multidisciplinary task force comprising experts in cardiac intensive care, ECMO operations, cardiac surgery, cardiac catheterization, and vascular surgery. The medical city officials emphasized that this ......read full article

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Announces Readiness for Day of Tarwiyah and Pilgrim Transport to Mina

Mina, May 25, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced its full readiness for the Day of Tarwiyah, confirming the completion of its field and operational preparations for transporting pilgrims to Mina. This deployment operates within an integrated logistical framework designed to flawlessly organize the movement of pilgrims to their camps and monitor the quality of services provided across the holy sites, in close coordination with all relevant authorities. The ministry's operational mandate includes overseeing the movement of pilgrims from their accommodations to Mina, ensuring seamless entry into the camps, providing continuous guidance, and assisting pilgrims in locating their designated areas in strict accordance with the approved operational plans for the 1447 AH Hajj season. Demonstrating its proactive ......read full article

Al-Baha Livestock Markets Buzz with Activity Ahead of Eid Al-Adha

Al-Baha, May 22, 2026, SPA -- Livestock markets across Al-Baha Region are experiencing an increase in activity as Eid Al-Adha approaches, driven by a robust supply of sacrificial animals and early consumer demand. Traditional weekly markets, including Baljurashi's Saturday market, Al-Makhwah and Al-Qura's Tuesday markets, and Al-Aqiq's Wednesday market, are drawing large crowds of citizens and residents. Vendors report that sheep and goat prices remain stable compared to previous years, currently ranging between SAR1,700 and SAR2,500 depending on breed, size, and age. To ensure public safety and compliance with religious and health guidelines, relevant regional authorities have intensified their round-the-clock monitoring of all local public markets, slaughterhouses, and designated slaughter points.

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Municipalities Ministry Completes Readiness of Accommodation Centers in the Holy Sites

Mina, May 23, 2026, SPA -- The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has announced the full readiness of its accommodation centers across the holy sites for the 1447 AH Hajj season. This extensive deployment falls under the ministry's mandate within the general emergency plan for Hajj, which was approved by Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz. It encompasses four primary accommodation centers supported by 11 strategically located warehouses. These supply hubs are fully stocked with essential food provisions to sustain immediate accommodation operations and rapid field response efforts. Designed specifically to handle emergencies, the centers aim to maximize preparedness, drastically reduce response times, and guarantee the continuity of services to ......read full article

Kidana Expands Accommodation Capacity in Holy Sites to 209,000 Pilgrims

Makkah, May 22, 2026, SPA -- Kidana Development Company, in cooperation with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, has transformed previously underutilized areas within the holy sites into fully serviced accommodation zones, significantly expanding lodging capacity for pilgrims. The initiatives increased the capacity of developed sites to approximately 209,000 pilgrims over three consecutive Hajj seasons, while adding annual accommodation capacity for up to 70,000 pilgrims. The projects form part of ongoing efforts to enrich the pilgrim experience and enhance services within the holy sites. The development initiatives focused on maximizing the use of available space within the designated holy boundaries and improving accommodation efficiency to enhance comfort and service quality during Hajj. The works included preparing new areas and ......read full article

Saudi Ambassador to Canada Hosts Canadian Defense Minister

Ottawa, May 22, 2026, SPA -- Saudi Ambassador to Canada Amal Almoalimi hosted Canadian Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty during a dinner held at her official residence in Ottawa. During the meeting, the two sides discussed several issues of mutual interest and reaffirmed the strong relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Canada.

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Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research Conducts 16 Research Studies during Hajj Season

Makkah, May 20, 2026, SPA -- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research continues its research efforts during the 1447 AH Hajj season by conducting 16 specialized research studies aimed at improving services provided to pilgrims and enhancing operational efficiency across the Hajj and Umrah system. These efforts contribute to improving the experience of pilgrims and Umrah performers in Makkah, the holy sites, and Madinah The studies cover four main research areas: environmental and health research, information and scientific services, administrative and humanitarian research, and urban and engineering studies. This reflects an integrated scientific approach and the diversity of disciplines the institute employs to support the Hajj, Umrah, and visitation system through practical, research-based ......read full article

Mango Harvest 2026 Concludes in Sabya Governorate

Sabya, May 19, 2026, SPA -- The mango harvest event 2026 concluded yesterday evening in Sabya Governorate, following an agricultural and tourism season that saw a large turnout of visitors, shoppers, and enthusiasts of tropical produce. The festival attracted more than 120,000 visitors from within and outside the region, with 50 farmers participating to showcase various mango varieties and related processed products, alongside a growing family, cultural, and commercial presence. Sales exceeded SAR3 million, in addition to the shipment of more than 50,000 cartons of mangoes to several regions of the Kingdom. The organizers emphasized that the event's success reflects the attention given to the agricultural and tourism sectors, as well as its role in revitalizing rural tourism, promoting local products, and creating broader ......read full article

50th Grand Hajj Symposium Opens in Jeddah

Jeddah, May 21, 2026, SPA -- The 50th edition of the Grand Hajj Symposium opened Wednesday in Jeddah. Organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in cooperation with the Council of Senior Scholars under the theme “The Symposium: An Effective Platform in Serving Pilgrims—Half a Century of Knowledge Enrichment,” the event brings together a distinguished group of officials, scholars, thinkers, researchers, and specialists from across the Islamic world. In his opening remarks, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfig Al-Rabiah said the Grand Hajj Symposium represents the continuation of an established academic journey spanning more than 50 years of scientific dialogue on developing the Hajj services system. He noted that it reflects the Saudi leadership’s ongoing commitment to Hajj and its dedication to strengthening the ......read full article

Namirah Mosque Development Project Enhances Comfort for Pilgrims

Makkah, May 20, 2026, SPA -- The project to develop the surroundings of Namirah Mosque enhances the environment for pilgrims through the installation of shade structures, landscaping, and advanced misting fans across more than 85,000 square meters. These improvements help reduce heat exposure and provide a more comfortable atmosphere for pilgrims as they move and perform rituals. The project also included upgrading courtyards and rest areas around the mosque to accommodate large numbers of pilgrims and ensure smoother movement during peak times. Development works featured the planting of more than 2,000 trees, the installation of 320 umbrellas and 350 misting fans, and the addition of over 150 drinking fountains. Rubber flooring and dedicated emergency and crowd-management pathways were also implemented to enhance safety and ease ......read full article

As part of its expansion plans in the region's fastest-growing markets Kreab Worldwide Opens Its First Regional Office in the Middle East in Riyadh

Riyadh: Kreab, a global advisor in strategic communications, has launched its first regional office in the Middle East in Riyadh under the name "Kreab Saudi Arabia," in a move that reflects the company's commitment to strengthening its presence in the Saudi market and positioning the Kingdom as a strategic hub for managing its regional expansion plans. This expansion comes as part of a long-term strategic investment aligned with the economic transformation taking place in the Kingdom under Vision 2030, and the significant opportunities it offers across investment, energy, technology, infrastructure, and giga-project sectors, alongside the growing demand for corporate communications, reputation management, and specialized advisory services in the Saudi market. The selection of Riyadh as the company's regional ......read full article

Mawhiba Celebrates Saudi Champions Participating in ISEF 2026

Riyadh, May 19, 2026, SPA -- King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) honored today the Saudi science and engineering team following the team’s return to the Kingdom with a new global achievement at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2026, held in Phoenix from May 9 to 15 with the participation of approximately 1,700 students representing 70 countries. The ceremony, attended by Mawhiba Secretary-General Abdulaziz Al-Karidis, featured the screening of two short documentary films highlighting the Saudi team's journey to the competition, from preparation and training to participation at the fair. Speeches were also delivered, and team members, delegation officials, and several partners were honored for contributions to the national achievement. The ......read full article

Digital Entrepreneurship Council Hosts Hajj Minister in Jeddah to Support Tech Innovation in Pilgrim Services

Jeddah, May 20, 2026, SPA -- The Digital Entrepreneurship Council (CODE), affiliated with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, hosted Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfig Al-Rabiah at Dar Al-Hekma University in Jeddah, in the presence of Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha and the participation of a number of entrepreneurs and investors from Makkah Region. The council discussed the use of technology, artificial intelligence, and digital solutions to improve the Hajj and Umrah experience and enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims, in addition to supporting the growth of tech startups and enabling them to develop scalable innovative solutions. It also included a tour of the CODE Lab at the university, during which models of technological solutions and digital ......read full article

On Behalf of HRH the Crown Prince, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Participates in First European-Gulf Geopolitical and Investment Summit

Athens, May 17, 2026, SPA -- On behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Cabinet Member, and Climate Envoy Adel Al-Jubeir participated in the first European-Gulf Geopolitical and Investment Summit, held in Athens. The summit aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the European Union to support peace and prosperity, exchange visions and expertise, and coordinate joint efforts to address regional and global challenges.

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Interior Ministry Stresses Visit Visas Do Not Permit Holders to Perform Hajj

Riyadh, May 18, 2026, SPA -- Ministry of Interior affirmed that visit visas of all types and categories do not authorize their holders to perform Hajj, stressing that obtaining an official Hajj permit is a mandatory requirement for performing the ritual. The Ministry called on all to adhere to the regulations governing this year’s Hajj season (1447 AH), and to cooperate with the competent authorities to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims, warning that any violation of these instructions will expose offenders to legal penalties. It also urged the public to report violators by calling (911) in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and (999) in the rest of the Kingdom’s regions.

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Ministry of Health Provides More Than 121,000 Health Services to Pilgrims

Makkah, May 19, 2026, SPA -- The healthcare system has provided more than 121,626 health services to pilgrims since the start of the 1447 AH Hajj season through the first day of Dhul-Hijjah. The efforts aim to safeguard pilgrims’ health and help them perform their rituals with ease, in line with the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program and the Pilgrim Experience Program under Saudi Vision 2030. The Ministry of Health stated that health centers and urgent care facilities served 27,019 beneficiaries, while emergency departments handled 14,610 cases and outpatient clinics received 1,711 visitors. The ministry added that hospitals admitted 2,150 patients and performed 138 surgeries, including 87 cardiac catheterization procedures and seven open-heart surgeries. Medical teams also handled 10 cases of heat ......read full article

Jazan Mango Harvest Brings Together Two Generations Between Tradition and Innovation

Sabya, May 18, 2026, SPA -- The 2026 mango harvest events in Sabya bring together two generations under the same mango tree: one carrying decades of farming experience and another representing youthful ambition focused on processing, marketing, and innovation. The scene reflects the transformation of mango cultivation in Jazan Region from a seasonal crop into an integrated economic ecosystem where agricultural expertise meets modern ideas. At the event, which runs through May 18, veteran farmers who have spent their lives in the orchards share stories of past harvests, their deep understanding of the land, and the lessons learned from decades of experience. Many recount how mango cultivation in Jazan began on a limited scale before evolving into a thriving agricultural sector. Today, the region is home to more than one million ......read full article

WTM Spotlight Riyadh to accelerate growth of the Kingdom's rapidly growing MICE industry

Saudi Arabia’s MICE market is projected to surpass US$5 billion by 2031 as Vision 2030 investments position the Kingdom among the world’s leading business events destinations WTM Spotlight Riyadh will also highlight opportunities across Saudi Arabia’s outbound MICE sectors, offering global destinations direct access to a rapidly maturing outbound market as planners increasingly prioritise strategic, ROI-driven international programmes WTM Spotlight Riyadh will make its debut from 8 - 10 September at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center (RFECC) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 17 May 2026: As Saudi Arabia advances its Vision 2030 economic diversification agenda, the Kingdom’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry is emerging as one of the fastest-growing segments within ......read full article

First Flight of Maldives Pilgrims Under Makkah Route Initiative Arrives in Jeddah

Malé, May 16, 2026, SPA -- The first flight carrying pilgrims from the Maldives under the Makkah Route Initiative for Hajj 1447 AH arrived today from Velana International Airport in Malé at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The Makkah Route Initiative aims to provide high-quality services to pilgrims from beneficiary countries by receiving them and completing their procedures in their home countries with ease and convenience. Services begin with biometric enrollment and the electronic issuance of Hajj visas, followed by the completion of passport procedures at the departure airport after verifying compliance with health requirements. The process also includes luggage coding and sorting in line with transportation and accommodation arrangements in the Kingdom. It enables pilgrims to proceed directly to buses designated ......read full article

Tawakkalna App Provides Access to Hajj Services in 19 Languages for 1447 AH Season

Riyadh, May 15, 2026, SPA -- The national all-in-one application Tawakkalna is providing pilgrims and Hajj workers during the 1447 AH Hajj season with access to government services in 19 languages representing their countries of origin. The multilingual services are part of efforts by the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) to enhance integration among service entities during Hajj through advanced digital solutions. The services are designed to facilitate the pilgrim journey from arrival in the Kingdom and entry into Makkah and the holy sites to visits to the Prophet’s Mosque and departure back to home countries. The app supports Arabic, English, Indonesian, Hindi, Urdu, Turkish, French, Bengali, Persian, Malay, Russian, Chinese, Filipino, German, Dutch, Japanese, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. Pilgrims can access the app ......read full article

Saudi Ministry Mandates Official Permits for Hajj to Improve Safety and Crowd Management

​Riyadh 14-5-2026 The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reiterated that all pilgrims must secure their Hajj permits via officially recognized channels to ensure the legality and safety of their pilgrimage. The Ministry confirmed that the official Hajj visa is the only authorized permit for the ritual, warning that any breach of these regulations could result in strict legal action and denial of entry to the Holy Sites. According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the mandatory permit system is a cornerstone of the Kingdom's strategy for managing massive crowds and providing essential services efficiently. The Ministry cautioned the public against "fake" offers and uncertified Hajj campaigns, emphasizing that the official process is the only way to guarantee a secure, health-monitored, and ......read full article

Saudi Arabia Participates in Opening of UN Forum on Forests in New York

New York, May 13, 2026, SPA -- Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Dr. Abdulaziz Alwasil participated today in the opening session of the 21st United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF21), held at UN headquarters in New York. This year’s session discusses ways to promote sustainable forest management and its role in supporting sustainable development, while reviewing progress in implementing the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests 2017–2030. The session brings together member states, international organizations, and environmental and development stakeholders.

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Securing Hajj Permits via Official Channels Key to Accessing Premium Services, Says Saudi Ministry

Riyadh 13-5-2026 To ensure an optimal experience for the pilgrims, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has emphasized that obtaining Hajj permits through official channels is a prerequisite for accessing all healthcare, logistics, and hospitality services. The Ministry explained that the official Hajj visa allows for a synchronized journey, integrated with the Kingdom's sophisticated crowd-control and transportation systems. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah noted that those who follow official procedures gain full access to the comprehensive support network designed to facilitate the rituals with ease and tranquility. Conversely, dealing with unapproved entities can result in a lack of institutional support and potential legal penalties. The Ministry's goal is to provide a safe, organized, and spiritually ......read full article

Hajj Digital Ecosystem Enhances Pilgrim Experience in Madinah

Madinah, May 12, 2026, SPA -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s digital ecosystem for the Hajj season enhances the pilgrim experience in Madinah through a range of applications and services that facilitate transportation, permit management, and access to essential services. The system supports pilgrims throughout their journey from arrival to departure. The Nusuk app serves as the primary digital platform for pilgrims, enabling them to view trip details, access the digital Nusuk Card, and book appointments for rituals, visits, and prayers at Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah through a unified, multilingual interface. The Tawakkalna app also supports pilgrims in Madinah through the “Manasik Gate” service by displaying Hajj and visit permits and providing a QR code linked to the pilgrim’s information and accommodation ......read full article