This compilation of articles from a Saudi Arabian newspaper covers diverse topics. Several articles focus on Saudi Arabia’s internal affairs, including the Kingdom’s rejection of a parallel government in Sudan, initiatives like “Good of the Regions” receiving royal support, water distribution plans for Ramadan, and the Ministry of Interior receiving an innovation award. International affairs are also addressed, such as Saudi Arabia’s stance on the Kurdistan Workers’ Party and the global natural gas market. Additionally, the publication highlights local events, such as the launch of registration for providing meals at the Prophet’s Mosque, Ramadan cultural events in various cities, and court announcements in Riyadh. Finally, the publication also provides sports coverage, including football and volleyball results.

Study Guide: News Articles from March 2, 2025

I. Quiz: Short Answer Questions

1. What was the King’s message regarding the service of the Two Holy Mosques, and what royal directive was issued?
2. What is the Kingdom’s stance on the formation of a “parallel government” in Sudan, and what does it urge Sudanese parties to do?
3. What is the goal of the housing support campaign during Ramadan, and which organization is leading the effort?
4. What commitment did the Lebanese Prime Minister make regarding the reconstruction of damaged homes and villages in southern Lebanon?
5. What is the Saudi government’s plan for water distribution during Ramadan, and what is the purpose of this plan?
6. What award did the Ministry of Interior receive, and what strategic goal does this achievement support?
7. What is the purpose of designating seasonal locations for Ramadan stalls in Tabuk?
8. What are some of the key elements highlighted in the Imam’s Friday sermon at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina during Ramadan?
9. According to Dr. Khalid Ramadan, what has been the historical outcome of imposing customs duties, and how does this relate to the current trade war?
10. What did the US president and the Iraqi oil ministry say about oil production?

II. Quiz Answer Key

1. The King affirmed that serving the Two Holy Mosques is a tradition followed by Saudi monarchs since the kingdom’s unification. A royal directive was issued to begin releasing prisoners held for public rights offenses.
2. The Kingdom rejects the idea of a “parallel government” in Sudan, viewing such actions outside formal institutions as illegitimate. It urges Sudanese parties to prioritize the country’s interests and unity, working to avoid division and chaos.
3. The campaign aims to provide suitable housing for eligible families. The “Sakan” Developmental Housing Foundation is spearheading the initiative through the “Jood Al-Iskan” platform.
4. The Lebanese Prime Minister pledged his government’s commitment to working on the reconstruction of homes and villages destroyed in southern Lebanon.
5. The plan is to distribute approximately 10 million cubic meters of water daily throughout the Kingdom during Ramadan to ensure an adequate supply for residents and visitors during the peak demand season.
6. The Ministry of Interior received the Global Innovation Institute’s (CGInO) accreditation award. This achievement supports the strategic goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by fostering a culture of institutional innovation.
7. The purpose is to organize street vending during the month of Ramadan by providing designated locations that serve residents and visitors and meet their needs.
8. The Imam stressed the importance of taking advantage of Ramadan for worship, repentance, charity, and abstaining from sins and wrongdoings.
9. Dr. Ramadan claims that custom duties have historically failed to achieve their economic objectives, often leading to retaliatory measures and trade wars. He suggests this pattern is relevant to the current trade tensions.
10. US president Donald Trump said proposed tariff measures would be implemented and Iraqi oil ministry said Iraq would continue exporting.

III. Essay Questions

1. Analyze the interconnectedness of domestic and foreign policy initiatives presented in the articles. How do events in Sudan, Lebanon, and other international contexts relate to Saudi Arabia’s internal goals and Vision 2030?
2. Discuss the various aspects of Saudi Vision 2030 highlighted in these articles. What are the key areas of focus, and how are these goals being pursued through specific projects and initiatives?
3. Examine the role of culture and tradition in contemporary Saudi society as portrayed in the context of Ramadan and the celebration of Founding Day. How are these values integrated with modernization and development?
4. Assess the economic trends and challenges discussed in the articles, particularly in relation to energy markets, trade policies, and diversification efforts. How are these factors shaping Saudi Arabia’s economic landscape?
5. Consider the humanitarian and social responsibility efforts described in the articles, including initiatives related to housing, community development, and international aid. What values and priorities are reflected in these activities?

IV. Glossary of Key Terms

• الحرمين الشريفين (Al-Haramain Al-Sharifain): The Two Holy Mosques, referring to the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, the two holiest sites in Islam.
• الحق العام (Al-Haq al-Aam): Public rights, referring to offenses against the state or society as a whole, as opposed to private rights which are offenses against individuals.
• وزارة الخارجية (Wizarat al-Kharijiyyah): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government body responsible for managing the Kingdom’s international relations.
• واس (WAS): Saudi Press Agency, the official news agency of Saudi Arabia.
• جود المناطق (Jood Al-Manatiq): “Goodness of the Regions,” a campaign focused on providing suitable housing for eligible families during Ramadan.
• رؤية 2030 (Ru’yah 2030): Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s strategic framework for economic and social development, aiming to diversify the economy, promote sustainability, and enhance the quality of life.
• نيوم (NEOM): A planned city in northwestern Saudi Arabia, designed as a futuristic hub for innovation, sustainability, and tourism, serving as a key manifestation of Vision 2030.
• الرئاسة العامة لشؤون المسجد الحرام والمسجد النبوي (Al-Riasah Al-Aamah li-Shu’un Al-Masjid Al-Haram wal-Masjid Al-Nabawi): The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, the government agency responsible for managing the two holy mosques.
• الأونروا (UNRWA): United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East.
• حزب الله (Hezbollah): A Lebanese Shia Islamist political party and militant group.
• أوبك (OPEC): The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.
• اليونيفيل (UNIFIL): United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.

Al Riyadh Newspaper Analysis: Saudi Arabia, March 2025

Okay, here’s a detailed briefing document summarizing the main themes and ideas from the provided text excerpts.

Briefing Document: Analysis of Al Riyadh Newspaper Excerpts (March 2, 2025)

Executive Summary:

These excerpts from the Al Riyadh newspaper, dated March 2, 2025 (2 Ramadan 1446H), cover a diverse range of topics concerning Saudi Arabia, the broader Islamic world, and global events. Key themes include:

• Domestic Affairs: Focus on Ramadan preparations, charitable initiatives, innovation in government, cultural events, development projects (NEOM), and efforts to improve quality of life.
• Foreign Policy: Saudi Arabia’s stance on regional conflicts (Sudan, Lebanon, Palestine), counter-terrorism efforts, and support for international initiatives (UNIFIL).
• Economic Issues: Discussion of trade tariffs, gold prices, the natural gas market, and Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification efforts (Vision 2030).
• Social and Cultural Matters: Emphasis on preserving Islamic values, promoting national identity, and highlighting cultural heritage.

Detailed Analysis by Theme:

1. Ramadan and Islamic Affairs:

• The newspaper emphasizes the spiritual significance of Ramadan, describing it as a month “filled with spirituality, tranquility filling souls, faith, recitation of the Quran, and liberation from Hellfire.”
• Reports on preparations for Ramadan, including the distribution of 10 million cubic meters of water daily throughout the Kingdom.
• Coverage of charitable initiatives, such as the “Jood Al-Manatiq” campaign, which aims to provide suitable housing for deserving families. King and Crown Prince donate 150 million riyals for it. This campaign is described as being: “aimed at providing suitable housing for deserving families… to achieve family stability and contribute to improving the quality of life for them.”
• Highlighting the “King Salman Award for Memorizing the Quran,” reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to serving the Quran and encouraging its citizens to adhere to its values.
• Mentions the “Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Umrah,” where 250 pilgrims from 14 countries performed Umrah under the supervision of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. The sheikh spoke to them about the importance of Ramadan.

2. Foreign Policy and Regional Security:

• Sudan: The Kingdom rejects the formation of a “parallel government” in Sudan, emphasizing its support for the country’s unity, security, and stability. The Foreign Ministry stated it “expressed its rejection of any illegitimate procedures taken outside the framework of the official institutions of the Republic of Sudan that may lead to forming a parallel government.”
• Lebanon: The Lebanese Prime Minister affirmed his government’s commitment to rebuilding destroyed homes and villages in southern Lebanon. “That is not a promise.” He noted the importance of UNIFIL.
• Palestine: Discussion of efforts to achieve peace and stability in Gaza, with a focus on reconstruction efforts.
• Counter-Terrorism: The Kingdom welcomes the call to dissolve the “Kurdistan Workers Party,” expressing solidarity with Turkey and hoping for steps toward security, peace, and prosperity.
• Kuwair: Kuwait announces it rejects any illegitimate procedures that take place outside of the framework of state institutions in Sudan.

3. Economic Development and Vision 2030:

• NEOM: The newspaper highlights NEOM as a leading example of Vision 2030, showcasing its focus on innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification. It aims to create a city of the future by attracting intellects and companies in order to develop advanced industries. It is also going to hold the winter games of 2029. It strengthened its media power by developing the media area.
• Economic Diversification: Emphasizes efforts to diversify the Saudi economy beyond oil, highlighting investments in tourism, industry, and technology. “Vision 2030 came to draw a new future for development, based on innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification.”
• Trade Tariffs: Discusses the potential impact of trade tariffs imposed by the United States, noting the historical failures of such measures.
• Natural Gas Market: Reports on the increasing global demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG), particularly in Asia, and Saudi Arabia’s role in meeting this demand. LNG demand will increase by 60% in 2040. China is also increasing its LNG capacity.
• Gold Prices: Mentions the impact of trade tensions and a rising dollar on gold prices.

4. Domestic Affairs and Social Initiatives:

• Innovation in Government: The Ministry of Interior receives an award for innovation, reflecting efforts to promote a culture of innovation within the government. The award is for “its leadership in innovation.”
• Cultural Events: Highlights the Ministry of Culture’s initiative to celebrate Ramadan with various cultural and community events across the Kingdom, reflecting the values and customs of Saudi society.
• Tabuk Development: Reports on the allocation of seasonal sites for Ramadan stalls in Tabuk to organize sales activities. 13 sites were chosen.
• Healthcare: Highlights healthcare initiatives aimed at improving patient experience and safety.

5. Social Issues:

• Begging: An article discusses the complex social phenomenon of begging, moving from its exploitation to empowerment. People should only give alms to people who need it, “otherwise, you have wronged the one who deserves it.”
• Fasting: Fasting is more than abstinence, it is philosophy. It is a call to improve ourselves.

6. History

• The Saudi Foundation was not a point of turn, but a historical memory. Ever since Saudi Arabia gained territory, it has been at the heart of the Middle East.
• In 1938, the discovery of oil also boosted Saudi Arabia’s role in the international community, making it the focus for the worlds economy.
• King Abdulaziz did not want to reach the rule.
• The Saudi State was not like other countries, but is unique for joining authenticity and development.

Quotes:

• (On Ramadan): “filled with spirituality, tranquility filling souls, faith, recitation of the Quran, and liberation from Hellfire.”
• (On Sudan): “expressed its rejection of any illegitimate procedures taken outside the framework of the official institutions of the Republic of Sudan that may lead to forming a parallel government.”
• (On Jood Al-Manatiq): “aimed at providing suitable housing for deserving families… to achieve family stability and contribute to improving the quality of life for them.”
• (Begging): “otherwise, you have wronged the one who deserves it.”

Conclusion:

These newspaper excerpts paint a picture of a Saudi Arabia that is actively engaged in domestic development, regional diplomacy, and global economic affairs. The Kingdom is presented as a modernizing nation that is committed to its Islamic heritage, its citizens’ well-being, and its role as a key player on the world stage. Vision 2030 serves as the guiding force behind many of these initiatives, demonstrating a forward-looking approach to governance and development.

Saudi Arabia: Governance, Vision 2030, and Global Role

Here is an 8-question FAQ based on the provided text excerpts:

1. What is the focus of the Saudi Arabian government during Ramadan, as reflected in the news articles?

The Saudi government focuses on several key areas during Ramadan, including:

• Supporting Charitable Initiatives: The government emphasizes charitable giving and community support through initiatives like “Jood Al-Manateq” which aims to provide suitable housing for deserving families. King Salman and the Crown Prince support this with significant donations.
• Providing Essential Services: Ensuring the availability of resources such as water. The National Water Company distributes millions of cubic meters of water daily to meet the increased demand during Ramadan.
• Maintaining Religious Sites: Facilitating religious practices such as Umrah, with programs to host pilgrims from various countries.
• Cultural Preservation: Celebrating and promoting Saudi cultural heritage through events and decorations, as seen with the Ministry of Culture’s Ramadan season.
• Economic Activity Regulation: Continues oversight for safety and health in commercial activities during the month.

2. What role does the Saudi government play in regional conflicts, specifically concerning Sudan?

The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejects any actions that take place outside the parameters of official institutions of the Republic of Sudan, as such actions may lead to the formation of a parallel government that does not express the will of the Sudanese people and threatens the security and stability of Sudan. The Kingdom calls on all Sudanese parties to prioritize the interests of Sudan, work to avoid division and chaos, and remain committed to ceasing all war efforts in order to achieve a peace in Sudan.

3. What is the “Saudi Vision 2030” and how is it being implemented in various sectors?

Saudi Vision 2030 is a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy, enhancing sustainability, and fostering innovation. Examples of its implementation across various sectors include:

• Economic Diversification: Developing non-oil sectors like tourism, industry, and technology.
• Urban Development: Implementing ambitious projects like NEOM, which seeks to establish a global model for future cities with advanced industries and attractive investment opportunities.
• Human Capital Development: Investing in education and training programs to enhance the skills and qualifications of Saudi nationals, ensuring they meet the needs of the future job market.
• Innovation: Encouraging and recognizing innovation in government and institutional settings.

4. How is Saudi Arabia working towards innovation and technological advancement?

Saudi Arabia is promoting innovation and technological advancement through several initiatives:

• Government Support: The Ministry of Interior has received awards for its leadership in promoting institutional innovation and improving user experience.
• Educational Investments: Universities like King Khalid University are focusing on strategic planning and aligning educational programs with the goals of Vision 2030.
• Technology Projects: The establishment of NEOM as a smart city, integrating advanced technologies and attracting leading global companies.
• Artificial Intelligence: Hail University is developing capabilities in areas like AI and robotics to develop student skills.

5. What are the Saudi government’s efforts to support housing and community development?

The Saudi government supports housing and community development through:

• “Jood Al-Manateq” Campaign: An initiative providing suitable housing for deserving families.
• Financial Contributions: King Salman and the Crown Prince have donated significant funds to support the campaign.
• “Sakan” Platform: A platform aimed at improving the quality of life for Saudi citizens by providing adequate housing solutions.
• Addressing Housing Needs: Emphasizing the need to provide housing solutions that contribute to family stability and improve quality of life.

6. What challenges is the global economy facing, according to the articles, and what role is Saudi Arabia playing in addressing them?

Global economic challenges include:

• Trade Wars: Potential negative impacts of tariff escalations between countries like the US and China, leading to increased costs for consumers and economic disruptions. The article discusses concerns about a 25% tariff on Mexican and Canadian goods.
• Inflation and Interest Rates: Fluctuations in inflation rates and the Federal Reserve’s monetary policies can impact commodity prices, like gold, and overall economic stability.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Factors like geopolitical tensions, regulatory hurdles, and labor shortages can delay key projects, such as natural gas supply projects.
• Energy Market Volatility: Fluctuations in oil and natural gas prices can affect global markets and national economies.

Saudi Arabia’s role:

• Oil Production Management: Monitoring and potentially adjusting oil production levels through OPEC+ to balance the market and stabilize prices.
• Energy Security: Contributing to global energy security by expanding natural gas supplies and partnering with other nations.

7. What are the articles saying about the conflict between Israel and Palestine and what actions have been taken?

The articles highlight tensions and ongoing issues related to the Israel-Palestine conflict:

• Restrictions at Al-Aqsa Mosque: Imposing restrictions on Muslim worshippers during Ramadan at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, sparking concerns.
• Displacement of Palestinians: Reports of Israeli military actions leading to the potential displacement of Palestinian families in the West Bank.
• Peace Efforts: There are ceasefire agreements mentioned, and discussions are taking place regarding prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas.

8. How is Saudi Arabia working to improve its workforce, including its government sector?

Saudi Arabia is working to improve its workforce by:

• “Golden Handshake” Program: Implementing programs like the “Golden Handshake” to incentivize voluntary resignation of less qualified or redundant government employees, providing them with generous severance packages.
• Skills Development: Emphasizing skills re-training for employees and preventing the loss of institutional knowledge.
• Retirement System Improvements: Improving retirement systems to provide better benefits and incentives for employees.
• Nationalization of Jobs: Developing programs to encourage and enable Saudi citizens to participate and work at all levels.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Governance, Development, and Global Role

Here’s a discussion of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, based on the provided sources:

• The Kingdom’s leadership: The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are mentioned for their continuous support in various sectors, including education and humanitarian efforts.
• Service to pilgrims: The Kingdom is recognized for its dedication to serving pilgrims and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques, a tradition upheld by Saudi monarchs since the Kingdom’s unification.
• Development projects: Visionary projects like NEOM are underway, reflecting the Kingdom’s ambition to provide solutions to global challenges and diversify its economy beyond oil.
• Humanitarian efforts: The Kingdom continues to support humanitarian initiatives, as exemplified by providing housing for deserving families.
• Cultural and religious significance: The Ministry of Culture organizes events during Ramadan to celebrate customs and traditions, enhance cultural awareness, and promote social values rooted in the Kingdom’s heritage. The kingdom emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of Ramadan to practice different forms of worship.
• Economic diversification: The Kingdom is focused on diversifying its economy and is working towards achieving a transformation in the energy sector to address global environmental challenges.
• Efforts to combat begging: The Kingdom is undertaking efforts to reduce begging through awareness campaigns and by directing alms to deserving recipients through official channels like the “Ehsan” platform.
• National identity: The Kingdom’s flag symbolizes its foundation on monotheism, justice, and strong ethics.
• Commitment to justice and equality: Since its establishment, the Kingdom has been based on justice and equality.
• Ongoing development and improvement: The “My City” application is used to improve municipal services, with citizens and residents able to report issues.
• The Kingdom rejects forming a parallel government in Sudan and affirms its support for the Republic of Sudan.

Natural Gas: Global Demand and NEOM’s Energy Transformation

Here’s a discussion of natural gas, based on the provided sources:

• Global demand: The sources indicate that there is a rising global demand for natural gas, with an expected increase of 60% by 2040.
• NEOM: The city of NEOM is a large development project in Saudi Arabia that is working towards a transformation in the energy sector. This transformation seeks to address global environmental challenges.

Financial Executions, Zakat, Begging, and Charity

Based on the provided sources, here’s a discussion of financial executions:

• Golden Handshake The “Golden Handshake” program is designed to reduce financial obligations and eliminate unnecessary positions in the service sectors.
• Benefits of the “Golden Handshake” Government employees benefit from financial incentives and training opportunities.
• Impact on Service Sectors The “Golden Handshake” program is designed to reduce financial obligations and eliminate unnecessary positions in the service sectors.
• Concerns with “Golden Handshake” The “Golden Handshake” program may cause long-term debt if the targeted jobholders have bank loans. The scheme may be entirely disrupted if their numbers were considerable, and as long as the program’s executive regulation has not been issued, assumptions are difficult.
• Zakat Muslims are encouraged to pay Zakat during Ramadan to purify their money and help the poor. Islamic countries oversee the collection and distribution of Zakat to those in need during the fasting period.
• Begging The sources discuss the exploitation of vulnerable groups such as women, children and the elderly by criminal networks to gain material advantages. There are psychological and social effects of begging on society. It is everyone’s moral responsibility to combat begging by reporting dubious incidents and supporting programs that restore the needy’s dignity through work rather than begging.
• Charity Giving charity to non-deserving people is not just an economic mistake, but an injustice to those who are waiting for help.

Economic Trade: Tariffs, Trade Wars, and Global Impact

Here’s a discussion of economic trade, based on the provided sources:

• Trade wars: A trade war’s problem is protecting local workers, but it ultimately harms them. Retaliatory tariffs increase the cost of exports, hurting companies and workers. The best way to limit the relocation of industries abroad is through negotiation and international cooperation.
• Tariffs: If tariffs on goods from China, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union take effect, efforts to reduce inflation may be hindered.
• Impact on specific sectors:
• The United States relies on Mexico for fresh produce, so tariffs could negatively impact the cost of fruits and vegetables.
• Increased tariffs on Chinese goods could lead to higher prices for electronics.
• Increased tariffs on lumber and building materials could worsen the affordable housing crisis.
• G20: Saudi Arabia plays a key role in the G20 through its economic decisions.

Saudi League and Global Sports: Analysis and Highlights

Here’s a discussion of sports leagues, based on the provided sources:

• Saudi League: Multiple sources refer to the Saudi League.
• Roshn Saudi League: Several sources mention the Roshn Saudi League. This may be the same as, or related to, the Saudi League.
• The level of play in the Saudi League has improved.
• The Saudi League is one of the strongest leagues.
• The Saudi League attracts tourists from all over the world.
• Key players:
• Omar Al-Somah continues to write history in the Roshn Saudi League.
• Toni scored a hat trick.
• Riyad Mahrez played his best matches.
• Al-Hilal: Al-Hilal continues to lead the league table in volleyball. There is a problem in Al-Hilal’s defense.
• Specific Match Results:
• Al-Fayha and Al-Wehda tied.
• Al-Taawun and Al-Khulood won against Al-Fath and Al-Khaleej.
• Al-Ittihad will host Al-Okhdood.
• Al-Raed will face Al-Ettifaq.
• Al-Riyadh will be a guest of Al-Qadisiyah.
• FIFA is preparing to grant television stations a feature that allows them to use recordings taken by cameras worn by referees during the Club World Cup next summer.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. This comes at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running and allows me to continue providing you with quality content. Thank you for your support!