Al Riyadh Newspaper – May 28, 2025: Wide Range Of Activities and Developments in Saudi Arabia, Economic Growth, Healthcare, Cultural Events

These texts provide an overview of a wide range of activities and developments in Saudi Arabia, highlighting various initiatives aligned with Vision 2030. They discuss economic growth, particularly in sectors like facility management and real estate, as well as efforts to improve healthcare and promote entrepreneurship. A significant focus is placed on preparations for the Hajj pilgrimage, detailing logistical planning, technological advancements, and the government’s commitment to serving pilgrims. Additionally, the sources touch upon cultural events, sports news, and regional security matters including the ongoing conflict in Gaza and humanitarian aid efforts.

Gaza: Humanitarian Crisis and Aid Challenges

Based on the sources provided, the situation in Gaza involves ongoing conflict, severe humanitarian conditions, and challenges related to aid delivery.

Here is a summary of the information from the sources:

Recent Military Actions and Casualties:

• The Israeli occupation army has launched air raids and intense artillery shelling across the Gaza Strip, from north to south. These attacks have targeted residential areas, homes, and civilian sites.
• This escalation has resulted in dozens of martyrs and wounded, including children and displaced persons.
• Horrific massacres have been committed by the occupation forces in recent hours. One massacre occurred at Fahmi Al-Jerjawi school in the Daraj neighborhood, where over 30 Palestinians, mostly displaced persons, were killed. Another raid targeted a house in the Zeitoun neighborhood, resulting in one Palestinian martyred and others injured.
• Israeli aircraft targeted the Al-Karama area in northern Gaza, a crowded residential neighborhood, where a child was martyred and others were injured.
• Systematic destruction of remaining residential buildings near the borders has occurred in the northern areas.
• In Gaza City, shelling intensified in eastern neighborhoods like Shujaiya and Tuffah.
• A raid in the central area, east of Zawraida town, targeted a solar factory, leading to a massive fire and rising flames. One martyr from this raid arrived at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir Al-Balah.
• In southern Gaza (Khan Yunis), intense artillery shelling targeted eastern and southern neighborhoods, including Al-Qarara town. Israeli warships have also fired upon the Al-Mawasi area west of Khan Yunis, causing panic among civilians.

Humanitarian Situation:

• The Gaza Strip is suffering a severe fuel crisis due to the continuous Israeli blockade.
• Only 6 out of 22 health centers belonging to UNRWA are still operating in Gaza, located inside shelters or elsewhere, amidst continuous shelling.
• Essential medical supplies are almost non-existent.
• A large number of Palestinians in Gaza are facing food insecurity and starvation. UNRWA reported that 250,000 Palestinians have reached the fifth phase of food insecurity and starvation, and an additional 950,000 citizens are in the fourth and fifth phases and at severe risk.
• Hundreds of thousands are affected by severe malnutrition, including children, mothers, and pregnant and lactating women, with 70,000 children suffering from severe malnutrition.
• 58 citizens, mostly elderly and children, have died due to malnutrition and lack of food and medicine during 80 days of the Israeli blockade.
• Gaza City is facing a severe health and environmental disaster due to the accumulation of over a quarter million tons of waste. This waste creates a breeding ground for diseases, insects, and rodents, endangering human health. The municipality’s efforts to collect waste are hampered by a lack of resources (vehicles and fuel) and the prevention of access to main dumps by occupation authorities. Over 85% of the municipality’s heavy and medium equipment has been destroyed, making it unable to collect the accumulated waste.

Aid Delivery Challenges:

• UNRWA stressed the urgent need for life-saving humanitarian aid to be delivered quickly and without obstacles.
• UNRWA believes aid distribution must occur through the main crossings surrounding Gaza. Aid distribution through points only in the south is seen as a way to concentrate and displace citizens.
• Food stocks in Gaza are depleted because the occupation prevented the entry of humanitarian aid.
• The UN rejects the Israeli aid distribution plan, stating it forces more displacement, endangers thousands, limits aid to one part of Gaza, fails to meet other urgent needs, links aid to political/military goals, and uses starvation as leverage.
• UNRWA reported that Gaza needs an estimated 500-600 aid trucks daily, managed by the UN.
• UNRWA reiterated that the only way to prevent the current disaster from worsening is a “continuous and effective” flow of aid.
• Jewish settlers from extremist organizations “Tzav 9” and “Gilad Nezer” have blocked dozens of trucks loaded with humanitarian aid bound for Gaza at Ashdod port, preventing their entry. These groups aim to disrupt any humanitarian aid reaching Gaza via ports or the Jordanian border. The US President sanctioned “Tzav 9” in June for attacking aid convoys to Gaza.

Regional and International Response:

• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reiterates its strong condemnation of actions violating the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque and calls for accountability for the Israeli occupation authorities’ violations against Islamic holy sites and innocent civilians in the State of Palestine.
• The Council of Ministers emphasized the Kingdom’s continuous efforts to communicate with the international community to support the Palestinian cause and end the war on the Gaza Strip, while allowing the flow of humanitarian aid and stopping Israeli violations.
• UNRWA has called on the international community for immediate intervention to secure humanitarian supplies and protect civilians facing one of the worst humanitarian disasters in modern times.

Commentary on the Situation:

• One commentary piece describes the scene of a mother mourning her nine children killed in an Israeli bombing in Gaza as a horrifying reality that symbolizes the collapse of morality and the silence of the “civilized world” and the international community. It suggests the international community closes its eyes to the killing of children by Israeli aircraft and criticizes the lukewarm stances of Western capitals and the UN. The piece views the children’s deaths as a “shame on the forehead of the world,” arguing that discussions of international law and human rights become meaningless when a family is annihilated and the world is silent.

Saudi Vision 2030: Strategic Goals and Progress

Based on the provided sources, Saudi Vision 2030 is presented as a comprehensive national framework aiming for significant transformation across various sectors. It is described as a strategic vision led by the Crown Prince with overarching goals focused on comprehensive and sustainable development. Key objectives within the Vision include diversifying the economic base, maximizing relative and competitive advantages, stimulating local and foreign investments, and developing the capabilities of the nation’s citizens to create more job opportunities.

Several sectors and initiatives are highlighted as contributing to or aligning with the goals of Vision 2030:

• Housing: The Vision supports ensuring dignified and accessible housing for all citizens, aiming to correct market imbalances and provide multiple and flexible housing solutions. State support for the housing sector is viewed as part of this strategic vision, contributing to a just and sustainable future. Measures like amending housing support regulations are mentioned in this context.
• Service to Pilgrims (Hajj and Umrah): Serving the guests of God is stated as a strategic goal of Vision 2030. The Vision reflects the directives to facilitate rituals and raise the quality of services provided to pilgrims within an integrated system. The Hajj Project Management Office is noted as one of the programs dedicated to serving pilgrims under the Vision.
• Transportation and Infrastructure: The Haramain High-Speed Railway is highlighted as a key component of the national transportation system that supports the Vision 2030’s sustainability goals. It aims to reduce pressure on roads and airports and enhance connectivity between cities. The project reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to developing integrated, safe, and environmentally friendly public transportation infrastructure that serves people and the environment.
• Facilities Management Market: The growth and leadership of Saudi Arabia in the facilities management market, driven by mega-projects and smart city developments, are explicitly linked to achieving the Vision 2030. This includes expanding in the green economy to enhance operational efficiency and reduce waste, and leveraging technology like AI and strategic partnerships. The Vision’s focus on sustainable infrastructure development, smart cities, green buildings, and commercial infrastructure expansion are seen as drivers for this market’s growth.
• Urban Development and Quality of Life: Initiatives like Hail Municipality’s efforts to improve the urban landscape and service efficiency and Jeddah Municipality’s “Bahja” project to transform open spaces into urban gardens are presented as efforts aligning with the Vision’s targets, particularly the Quality of Life program. These efforts emphasize community participation and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Entertainment: The achievements of the General Entertainment Authority, such as obtaining ISO certifications and a Guinness World Record, are stated to align with Vision 2030 targets. The Riyadh Season is presented as achieving a noble goal related to the “Quality of Life” through culture and entertainment.
• Sports: Events like cycling tours and activating World Football Day are described as aligning with Vision 2030 pillars aimed at increasing sports participation, encouraging lifestyle changes, and making sports a way of life.
• Culture: The Saudi pavilion at Expo Osaka 2025 is designed to reflect the Vision 2030 by showcasing Saudi culture, achieving sustainability, and promoting innovation. It aims to connect local culture globally and contribute to a prosperous and sustainable future. The “Jisr” program for student rehabilitation also aligns with the Vision’s objectives by investing in national competencies to empower them as cultural ambassadors and correct misconceptions about the Kingdom internationally.
• Social Development: The agreement signed by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development aims to achieve Vision 2030 objectives by enhancing social empowerment, improving the quality of life for vulnerable groups, and supporting self-reliance.
• Food Security: The approval of the General Food Security Authority organization is mentioned in the context of the Council of Ministers’ efforts to achieve Vision 2030 goals.

Furthermore, the sources indicate that Saudi Vision 2030 is presented in the context of continuous efforts in international relations to support the Palestinian cause and end the war on the Gaza Strip, including allowing humanitarian aid and stopping Israeli violations. It is also linked to enhancing regional stability and boosting economic cooperation with international blocs like ASEAN.

The implementation of the Vision relies on mechanisms such as investing in national competencies, leveraging technology and artificial intelligence, fostering strategic partnerships, and implementing necessary regulations.

Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Preparations: Vision 2030 in Action

Based on the provided sources and our conversation history, preparations for Hajj in Saudi Arabia are extensive and multi-faceted, driven by the Kingdom’s commitment to serving pilgrims and aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.

Here’s a discussion of the Hajj preparations:

1. Overarching Goal and Leadership: Serving the guests of God is a strategic goal of Vision 2030. The Council of Ministers reviewed the Hajj plans for 1446H, focusing on providing pilgrims with comfort and reassurance according to the highest levels of efficiency and quality. This involves coordination and integration between relevant entities, leveraging the Kingdom’s resources, deep development projects, and advanced infrastructure to facilitate performing the rituals for those coming from all over the world. The Kingdom expresses pride in serving the Two Holy Mosques and welcoming pilgrims.
2. Early Planning and Agreements: Preparations for Hajj 1446H began early, including sending the initial arrangements document to all pilgrim affairs offices and representatives of countries. Over 78 detailed preparatory meetings were held. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah organized the largest Hajj services conference and exhibition in history in January, attended by official delegations from 87 countries, leading to the signing of over 670 agreements to facilitate the pilgrims’ journey and ensure high-quality services.
3. Digital Transformation and Services: The contracts for services were documented through the “Nusuk Musar” electronic platform, integrated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa issuance, aiming to enhance competition among companies and improve service quality and affordability. The “Nusuk” card, containing pilgrims’ health and housing information, has been significantly updated, with over 1.4 million cards issued for pilgrims and workers, used for entry and movement between the Haram and the Holy Sites. The “Nusuk” application has been developed into a comprehensive digital companion, with over 100 services added last year and over 60 new services announced for Hajj 1446H.
4. Operational Oversight: The Hajj Projects Management Office (PMO), part of the Guest of God Service Program under Vision 2030, oversees the implementation of plans and tasks under the supervision of the Supreme Hajj Committee chaired by the Minister of Interior. In the past Hajj season, the PMO executed over 5208 plans and 609 tasks. Regular meetings are held to ensure integrated efforts in the field.
5. Arrivals and Regulations: As of the press conference, over 1,070,000 pilgrims had arrived from various countries. The majority, 94%, arrived via air, 4.83% via land, and less than 1% via sea. The “Makkah Route” initiative facilitated the entry of about 249,000 pilgrims. The Ministry of Interior’s “No Hajj without a permit” campaign is highlighted as a cornerstone for regulating Hajj and maintaining safety, aimed at preventing illegal entry and protecting registered pilgrims. Cooperation from several countries in facing these phenomena is mentioned. A financial penalty of up to 100,000 riyals, vehicle confiscation, and public shaming await anyone transporting Hajj violators (those with visit visas trying to enter Makkah/Holy Sites without a Hajj permit) starting from 1 Dhu al-Qadah until the end of 14 Dhu al-Hijjah. The public is urged to report violators via designated emergency numbers.
6. Infrastructure and Transport: Transport readiness for Hajj 1446H involves 45,000 staff. Seven airports have been prepared, with over 10,000 scheduled flights from 238 destinations by 62 carriers. Rail transport includes providing 2 million seats on the Haramain train with over 4,700 trips and the Mashair train with over 2,500 trips to facilitate pilgrim movement between the Holy Sites. Integration between transport modes (airport to train to Holy Sites) is being expanded. Over 25,000 buses and 9,000 taxis have been prepared, with 18 designated routes. Maintenance work has been completed on over 7,400 km of roads leading to the Holy Sites, and 247 bridges have been inspected. Innovative measures include implementing flexible rubber asphalt from the Mashair train station in Muzdalifah to Arafat to improve walking comfort. Road cooling technologies have been expanded by 82%, focusing on areas near Mina Mosque, which can reduce the surface temperature by about 12 degrees Celsius.
7. Health Services: The health system is ready with over 50,000 medical and technical staff. The health situation is stable, with no outbreaks reported, attributed to integrated efforts and prioritizing pilgrims’ health and safety. Health requirements, including vaccinations, were mandated early. The health certificate of capability is considered the first line of defense. Health services are provided under the “Makkah Route” initiative at 14 entry points, including surgeries and cardiac procedures. Proactive measures against heat stroke include planting over 10,000 trees, installing water coolers and misting fans, and expanding shaded areas. Awareness campaigns are conducted via field teams and media in multiple languages. A new emergency hospital with 200 beds in Mina, 3 field hospitals with over 1200 beds, 71 emergency points, 900 ambulances, and 11 evacuation planes have been established. Virtual health services, remote consultations, and monitoring devices are utilized. There is increased private sector participation with 3 major hospitals in the Holy Sites. Pilgrims are advised to adhere to health guidelines, stay hydrated, avoid direct sun, and seek medical help when needed.
8. Water Services: The “Water National” company has raised its readiness and completed its operational plan for water and environmental services in Makkah and the Holy Sites. Preparations began early, leveraging past experiences. Sufficient water quantities are ensured, with strategic storage up to 3.5 million cubic meters and daily pumping exceeding 760,000 cubic meters, potentially reaching over 2 million cubic meters on peak days. Over 2000 qualified Saudi staff are involved. Water quality is assured through a central laboratory and mobile laboratories in the Holy Sites, conducting over 4000 daily tests.
9. Awareness and Guidance: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs plays a key role, with directives issued to mosque خطباء (preachers) to dedicate the sermon on the upcoming Friday (3 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446H) to educating Muslims on Hajj rules, etiquette, the importance of adherence, safety measures, and the rationale behind regulations, emphasizing ease and avoiding hardship. The Ministry’s branches receive pilgrims at entry points, distributing awareness booklets in multiple languages (Arabic, English, Urdu, Malay). الدعاة (callers to Islam) provide guidance and answer pilgrims’ questions as part of awareness programs at entry points.
10. Religious Endorsement of Regulations: The Supreme Council of Ulema in Saudi Arabia and other Islamic jurisprudence bodies globally have affirmed that it is not permissible according to Sharia to go to Hajj without obtaining a permit. This is based on the principles of facilitating worship, preventing hardship, and the necessity of organizing the large crowds to ensure the safety and well-being of all pilgrims. Obtaining a permit is considered an act of obedience to the ruler in what is right, and violating this regulation is deemed sinful due to the potential harm to oneself and others.

Saudi Real Estate and FM Market Overview

Based on the sources and our conversation history, the real estate market in Saudi Arabia is a significant focus, particularly concerning housing, and has recently been subject to notable government intervention and strategic development within the framework of Vision 2030.

Here’s a discussion of the real estate market:

1. Strategic Importance: The housing sector is considered a pillar of societal stability and national security, not just a commodity for profit. The state is striving to ensure decent and accessible housing for all citizens. This aligns with Vision 2030’s overarching goals.
2. Recent Challenges and Government Intervention: Recently, the real estate market in Riyadh experienced significant price increases, especially for land, which was described as “crazy” speculation. Arbitrary increases were also seen in rent prices. This situation negatively impacted citizens seeking new homes or rental properties. In response, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman intervened personally and provided direct support and monitoring. This intervention was described as timely, addressing issues that could disrupt citizens’ lives.
3. Regulatory Measures and Their Impact: Five specific regulatory measures were implemented to address the market issues, aiming to restore balance and enable citizens to afford suitable housing. These measures included:

• Providing developed residential land plots, estimated at 40,000 to 100,000 plots annually over the next five years, at prices not exceeding 1,500 riyals per square meter.
• Taking urgent regulatory actions to issue proposed amendments regarding fees on white lands (undeveloped lands).
• Imposing strict controls on the relationship between landlords and tenants to ensure a balance of interests.
• Tasking the General Real Estate Authority and the Royal Commission for the City of Riyadh with monitoring and reporting on real estate prices in Riyadh.
• The sources indicate that these measures had a rapid impact. Within days of the announcement, land prices in over twenty neighborhoods in Riyadh decreased by 10% to 15%. The expectation is for prices to continue to fall in the coming weeks and months, leading to the return of calm and stability to the market.

1. Facilities Management (FM) Market Connection: Related to the broader real estate ecosystem, the Facilities Management market in Saudi Arabia is also experiencing significant growth. This sector is driven by the deep development projects and advanced infrastructure being built under Vision 2030, including smart city projects.

• The Saudi FM market exceeded $34 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $56 billion by the end of the decade, with an annual growth rate of 12%.
• Key drivers for this growth include the increasing development of sustainable infrastructure, smart city projects, technological advancements (AI, cloud computing), and the growing adoption of green building certifications.
• While distinct from the property buying/selling market, the booming FM market highlights the increasing sophistication and scale of the built environment in Saudi Arabia, directly resulting from the large-scale real estate development initiatives spurred by Vision 2030. Integrated FM involves managing all aspects of facilities to support building performance, sustainability, and security.

In summary, the real estate market in Saudi Arabia, particularly the housing sector, is seen as vital for national stability and is a key focus of Vision 2030. Recent challenges with price volatility led to direct government intervention and the implementation of specific regulatory measures aimed at increasing land supply, controlling prices and rents, and restoring balance, which has reportedly begun to show positive effects. This development is complemented by the rapid growth in related sectors like Facilities Management, driven by the large-scale infrastructure and smart city projects across the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabian and International Sports News

Based on the information from the sources, the sports news covers a variety of events and developments across different sports in Saudi Arabia and internationally.

1. Saudi Football League (Roshan Saudi Professional League): The league season recently concluded with its 34th and final round.

• Al Ittihad was crowned the champion of the Roshan League. A ceremony was held for their coronation at Al-Eman Stadium. Al Ittihad finished the season with 83 points.
• Al Hilal secured the second position in the league with 75 points, earning qualification for the AFC Champions League Elite for the upcoming season. Al Hilal also qualified for the Club World Cup 2025 and is set to start its participation on June 18 against Pachuca in a group including Real Madrid, Pachuca, and Red Bull Salzburg.
• Al Nassr finished in third place with 70 points. Al Nassr had their protest regarding Al Orubah accepted by the Sports Arbitration Center shortly before the final round, which granted them points, causing controversy.
• Relegation: Al Wehda, Al Orubah, and Al Raed were relegated to the Yelo League (First Division). Al Okhdood dramatically secured their survival on the final day.
• Top Scorer: Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr secured the top scorer title for the Roshan Saudi Professional League for the second consecutive season, scoring 25 goals.
• Other match results from the final round included Al Fateh defeating Al Nassr (3-2), Al Ahli winning against Al Riyadh (1-0), Al Shabab defeating Al Fayha (2-0), Al Okhdood coming back to beat Al Khaleej (3-2), Al Ettifaq winning against Al Wehda (2-1), Al Orubah defeating Al Taawoun (3-2), and Al Khulood winning against Al Raed (2-1).
• The league’s conclusion sparked discussion about fanatism and media behavior. Player transfers and updates are also mentioned, such as Al Hilal signing Ali Lajami from Al Nassr, and notes about Al Ahli’s Al Hindi and Ghareeb, and Al Nassr’s Madu and Ighalo.

1. Saudi National Teams:

• The Saudi Men’s National Football Team is set to begin a training camp in Khobar today in preparation for the ninth and tenth rounds of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. They will play an indoor friendly match against Jordan. The team is in Group Three alongside China, Bahrain, Australia, Japan, and Indonesia.
• The Saudi U-20 Women’s National Team started a training camp in Taif as part of their preparations for the U-20 Asia Cup qualifiers in 2026. They are in a group with North Korea, Nepal, Bhutan, and Mongolia, with matches played in a single location from August 2 to 10.
• The Saudi Rowing Team achieved significant success at the World Masters Games in Taipei, earning gold and silver medals in various events including double, single, and mixed teams.
• The Saudi Karate and Para Karate Team participated in the 21st Asian Championship for Seniors and the 4th Asian Para Karate Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, securing a total of 10 medals: 2 gold, 3 silver, and 5 bronze. Medal winners mentioned include Malek Qassadi (Para Karate Gold), Sanad Sufyani (Silver), Mohammad Al-Asiri (Silver), Mofeed Al-Marhoon (Down Syndrome Silver), Hind Al-Siyali (Wheelchair Bronze), Shahd Al-Harithi (Wheelchair Bronze), Abdullah Al-Juaydhi (Visually Impaired Bronze), Faris Khoja (Down Syndrome Bronze), and Abdulrahman Al-Duhaim (Intellectual Disability Bronze).

1. International Club Football:

• Chelsea is set to face Real Betis in the final of the Europa Conference League today. Chelsea aims to become the first English club to win all major European club competitions. Real Betis seeks its first European title under Manuel Pellegrini.
• Barcelona has extended the contract of their young player Lamine Yamal until 2031. Yamal, aged 17, had a notable season, contributing to Barcelona’s league title win.

1. Other Sports and Initiatives:

• The Elite Handball Championship started today in Dammam, featuring the top four teams from the Premier League: Al Khaleej, Al Safa, Mudhar, and Al Huda.
• A Cycling Tour is scheduled for this Saturday at the Sports Boulevard in Riyadh, in collaboration with the Saudi Cycling Federation, coinciding with World Bicycle Day (June 3). The event aims to increase cycling participation and promote a healthy lifestyle, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.
• The branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in Asir, in partnership with the branch of the Ministry of Sports in Asir, activated World Football Day to encourage football practice among employees, also linked to Vision 2030 objectives.
• The General Entertainment Authority was noted for its achievements in the entertainment and sports sectors, including obtaining ISO certifications and setting Guinness World Records. They hosted significant events like the World Drone Prix and boxing championships, attracting global attention.

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

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