Saudi Arabia
VA Tech WABAG bags Rs 2,332 cr deal for mega desalination plant in Saudi Arabia
VA Tech WABAG Ltd. has been awarded a USD 272 million contract to construct a 300 MLD seawater desalination plant in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, by the Saudi Water Authority. The project involves design, engineering, supply, construction, and commissioning on a greenfield site. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, reinforcing WABAG's leadership in desalination.
Saudi Arabia was top buyer of Russian fuel oil in June, data shows
Saudi Arabia emerged as the primary destination for Russian seaborne fuel oil and VGO exports in June, driven by increased energy demand during the hot summer. Following the EU's embargo, Middle Eastern and Asian nations have become key markets. While shipments to Saudi Arabia rose to 0.8 million tons, supplies to India and Turkey decreased.
Saudi Arabia crude exports hit three-month high in May
Saudi Arabia's crude oil exports reached a three-month high in May, climbing to 6.191 million barrels per day, according to JODI data. This increase was supported by a rise in crude output to 9.184 million bpd. OPEC+, including Saudi Arabia, agreed to boost production by 548,000 bpd in August, with potential further increases planned for September.
Saudi Arabia announces new low-cost airline with fleet of 45 planes
Saudi Arabia will launch a new national low-cost airline by 2030 with a fleet of 45 aircraft, according to state media. The airline will be operated by a consortium including UAE's Air Arabia, and will be based at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.
Saudi Arabia’s overall unemployment falls to just 2.8 per cent, with women leading the charge
Saudi Arabia's unemployment rate hit a record low of 6.3 per cent in Q1 2025, it is driven by increased participation of women in the workforce and Vision 2030 reforms. The female unemployment rate dropped to 10.5%, with labor force participation rising to 36.3 per cent. The overall unemployment rate, including non-Saudis, fell to 2.8 per cent.
Now perform Umrah any day of the year; if you’re from the GCC
Saudi Arabia now allows citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to perform Umrah year-round, entering through various ports with permits obtained via the Nusuk app. This initiative streamlines pilgrimage procedures, offering multiple visa options, including Umrah, transit, and tourist visas. Pilgrims must secure permits through Nusuk to access holy sites and pray at Rawdah Al Sharifah.
Saudi Arabia gives 30 days to exit on expired visit visas in Hijri New Year initiative; Here’s how to apply
Saudi Arabia will soon allow individuals with expired visit visas to extend their stay for a final exit. The initiative starts on June 27, 2025, offering a 30-day grace period. Applicants must pay fees and penalties via the Absher platform. This follows a reminder to Hajj pilgrims to leave before their visas expire. The ministry emphasizes respecting the Kingdom's rules.
Saudi Arabia braces for hotter summer and increased rainfall in July and August
Saudi Arabia's National Center for Meteorology predicts higher-than-average temperatures across central, northern, and eastern regions during July and August, with potential increases of at least 1°C. Simultaneously, above-normal rainfall is expected in southern and western areas, including Najran, Jazan, and parts of Makkah and Madinah. Authorities are enforcing heat-related work bans to protect workers.
Why you can no longer buy meat or dates at your local grocery in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has announced a ban on small stores selling tobacco, dates, meat, fruits, and vegetables. This move aims to improve food quality and public health. The new rules are effective immediately, with a six-month grace period. Larger stores will require licenses. The government also sets minimum space requirements for stores.
Saudi Arabia's first-quarter GDP grows by 3.4%, beating flash estimates
Saudi Arabia's economy showed unexpected growth in the first quarter of 2025. Government data indicates a 3.4% GDP increase, surpassing earlier estimates. Lower oil prices had a smaller impact than anticipated. Non-oil sector growth reached 4.9%. The kingdom is currently managing a budget deficit. It is also proceeding with its Vision 2030 economic transformation plan.
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Hajj 2025: Why training for Hajj is as important as prayer
Every year, millions of Muslims journey to Mecca to fulfil the Hajj pilgrimage, a religious duty and deeply personal milestone. This journey is physically demanding, emotionally taxing and logistically complex. Pilgrims must prepare for intense heat, long walks, crowded spaces and sudden health issues. Saudi authorities and health experts have offered practical guidance—from fitness routines and sun protection to mental resilience and hygiene practices—to help pilgrims stay safe and complete their Hajj in good health and high spirits.
Hajj 2025: What to know about safety, costs, and new rules
Muslims gather in Mecca for the Hajj. Pilgrims face challenges like extreme heat, leading to safety measures. Saudi Arabia bans children under 12. High costs prompt flexible payment options. Overcrowding leads to visa restrictions. Authorities aim to manage crowds and ensure pilgrim safety. The Hajj remains a significant religious event despite these hurdles.
What is Hajj pilgrimage and Eid al-Adha? Understanding their deep religious meaning and importance for Muslims worldwide
The Hajj, a central pillar of Islam, draws Muslims to Mecca for a profound spiritual journey involving rituals like circling the Kaaba and standing on the plain of Arafat. Pilgrims seek forgiveness and unity, following in the footsteps of prophets. Eid al-Adha, celebrated during the Hajj, commemorates Ibrahim's faith and involves acts of sacrifice and charity.
Saudi Arabia's GDP expands 2.7% in first quarter
Saudi Arabia's economy experienced a 2.7% GDP increase in the first quarter, driven by a 4.2% expansion in non-oil activities and a 3.2% rise in government activities. This growth reflects the kingdom's diversification efforts, despite a 1.4% decrease in oil activities. The government statistical authority has revised its data collection to provide more detailed statistics.
Trump company strikes Qatari golf resort deal in sign it's not holding back from foreign business
The Trump family's company has entered into a deal to construct a luxury golf resort in Qatar, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest during a possible second Trump administration. This project, involving Trump-branded villas and a golf course developed by a Saudi Arabian company and a Qatari government-owned firm, marks the first foreign deal since Donald Trump's initial term.
Haj 2025: India allotted 1.75 lakh slots, but private tour operators fail to meet requirements
India's Haj quota for 2025 has increased to 1,75,025, a significant rise from 1,36,020 in 2014. While arrangements for the main quota of 1,22,518 pilgrims are complete, delays by Combined Haj Group Operators (CHGOs) in finalizing contracts caused concerns. Following discussions, Saudi Arabia reopened the Haj portal for 10,000 additional pilgrims, with Haj 2025 scheduled for June 4-9.
