Al-Riyadh Newspaper, July 6, 2025: Vision 2030: Progress and Diplomatic Ties

These diverse Arabic texts offer a glimpse into various aspects of Saudi Arabian life and global affairs, primarily from a news and opinion perspective. They cover economic developments, such as OPEC+ decisions and the growth of remote work, alongside political and social issues, including the Israeli-Iranian conflict and efforts to empower women and youth. Domestically, the sources highlight urban development initiatives, like the “Cityscape Global 2025” exhibition and infrastructure projects in Jazan, while also touching upon cultural initiatives, advancements in healthcare, and the ongoing conflict in Sudan and its devastating impact.

Podcast

OPEC+ Oil Production Adjustments and Market Dynamics

OPEC+ member states have recently made significant decisions regarding oil production, aiming to support market stability and address global economic outlooks and inventory levels.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of oil production discussed in the sources:

• OPEC+ Production Adjustment for August 2025:
• Eight OPEC+ member states, including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, UAE, Iraq, Algeria, and Oman, decided to adjust production by 548,000 barrels per day (b/d) in August 2025.
• This adjustment is compared to the required production in July 2025.
• This decision is in line with a previous agreement from December 5, 2024, to gradually restore voluntary production adjustments of 2.2 million b/d starting April 1, 2025.
• The increased production will be carried out through four monthly increases.
• These increases are flexible and can be paused depending on market variables to ensure market stability.
• Reasons for Production Changes:
• The decision was influenced by the unstable global economic outlook and positive market conditions, notably the decrease in petroleum inventories.
• Some OPEC+ members, such as Kazakhstan and Iraq, had exceeded their production targets, contributing to the accelerated increase.
• OPEC+, including its Russia-led allies, aims to expand its market share against competing producers like the United States.
• Impact and Market Dynamics:
• OPEC+ production accounts for approximately 41% of global crude oil output, and its primary goal is to regulate the global oil supply.
• The 548,000 b/d increase for August 2025 is a notable jump compared to previous monthly increases of 411,000 b/d (May, June, July) and 138,000 b/d (April).
• Despite these increases, two other levels of cuts, totaling 2.2 million b/d by the eight members, are expected to remain in place until the end of 2026.
• The alliance emphasizes commitment to stability, transparency, and sustainability in the oil market, adopting a cautious, proactive, and anticipatory approach.
• The latest OPEC report showed the broader OPEC+ group’s production rose by 180,000 b/d in May to 41.23 million b/d, which was less than the 411,000 b/d increase called for that month.
• Rising oil prices are noted as a potential risk, as they can fuel inflation and harm economic growth by reducing consumption.
• Major Producers and Market Share:
• Saudi Arabia is the second-largest crude oil supplier to China after Russia. In the first quarter of this year, China imported 145.6 million barrels (1.62 million b/d) from Saudi Arabia, a 3.8% increase year-on-year.
• More than half of the recent OPEC+ production increase is expected to be distributed among the three largest members: Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the UAE.
• While production volume is important, OPEC+ views export volume as the more critical measure for determining price and balancing supply and demand.
• Saudi Arabia, the largest producer in the group, saw its crude exports decline in April to 5.75 million b/d, but Kepler data indicates they rose to 6.0 million b/d in May and are expected to increase further in June, suggesting a gap between agreed production and actual exports.
• Russia’s seaborne crude exports remained largely stable but fell in May, indicating that their agreed production increase has not translated into higher shipments.
• Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, and the UAE are collectively working to increase oil production and direct most of their additional output to India, the world’s third-largest oil consumer. Their combined market share in India reached nearly 78% in May.
• Global Inventories and Demand:
• Global crude oil inventories within OECD countries increased in May but remain below the 2015-2019 average.
• Inventories outside the OECD, especially in China, are even lower.
• China’s oil surplus saw a sharp increase in recent months, reaching its highest level since June 2023 in April.
• Despite a significant drop in global benchmark Brent crude prices between January and May, Asian demand has not increased.
• Future Outlook:
• The eight OPEC+ member states will continue to hold monthly meetings to monitor market conditions, compliance, and compensation plans.
• Their next meeting on August 3, 2025, will determine production levels for September.

Global Conflicts and Regional Crises Assessment

The sources provide detailed discussions on several significant regional conflicts, highlighting their devastating impacts, the ongoing diplomatic and military efforts, and the broader implications for global stability and economies.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the regional conflicts discussed:

• The Iran-Israel Conflict
• The recent “war” between Iran and Israel has entered a temporary “pause,” with each side claiming victory and presenting their own narrative to their supporters and domestic audiences.
• This pause is believed to be fragile and temporary, with Israel likely to find a new justification to resume hostilities.
• The conflict incurred significant costs for both sides:
• Israel’s economy suffered estimated daily losses of $500 million, according to the Tel Aviv Economic Institute.
• Iran faced substantial pressure due to existing sanctions.
• The potential for a costly regional war was a major concern, prompting efforts to de-escalate tensions to avoid further economic and human devastation.
• Public opinion within both countries and internationally showed divisions:
• In Israel, an opinion poll indicated 82% public support for the attack on Iran, yet 70% of citizens were concerned about economic costs.
• In the United States, 56% of Americans opposed military action against Iran, with strong opposition from Democrats (88%) and support from Republicans (82%), leading to uncoordinated responses among allies.
• The conflict exposed Iran’s vulnerabilities, with its regional militias perceived as weak, and threats to close the Strait of Hormuz potentially leading to global enmity.
• Reports indicated extensive infiltration and espionage activities within Iran, resulting in the execution of three individuals on espionage charges benefiting Israel, raising the total to six cases during this conflict. Over 700 people were arrested after the ceasefire.
• The Israeli Mossad reportedly achieved significant successes, including assassinations of military leaders and scientists, and explosions in nuclear facilities.
• Israel’s initial objectives included overthrowing the Iranian regime and destroying its nuclear and missile programs, but it faced the reality of its inability to achieve decisive victory alone, compounded by internal dissent and the increasing frequency of Iranian missile attacks.
• The United States, led by Donald Trump, faced a dilemma: military intervention risked expanding the conflict, jeopardizing energy security, and alienating domestic supporters; inaction risked appearing weak and losing support from the Israeli lobby. The chosen path seemed to be a swift, symbolic strike against Iranian nuclear facilities to allow Iran to save face, followed by a personal announcement of a ceasefire by Trump.
• The effectiveness of the Iranian missile attacks and Israel’s perceived inability to prevent or eliminate them has raised concerns about a regional arms race.
• Some analysts suggest that the long-term solution to the Iranian challenge, from an Israeli national security perspective, is regime change in Tehran, preventing nuclear weapon acquisition, dismantling the pro-Iranian axis, and restricting its missile program.
• In contrast, Saudi Arabia has adopted a diplomatic approach, emphasizing dialogue, regional stability, and avoiding direct involvement in the conflict. Its strategy prioritizes de-escalation and cooperation to address regional tensions, advocating for peaceful solutions to avert further chaos.
• The Conflict in Gaza/Palestine
• The region continues to suffer from intense Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling, which have resulted in the martyrdom of at least 33 Palestinians and dozens of injuries since yesterday morning.
• These attacks have targeted residential areas and shelters for displaced people, including a “horrific massacre” in Al-Mawasi, west of Khan Younis, which killed seven and injured over ten.
• Areas such as Al-Zaytoun, Al-Shuja’iya, and Jabalia have also experienced repeated and severe aerial and artillery bombardments.
• The conflict has led to widespread destruction of homes and critical infrastructure.
• A severe fuel crisis is crippling the healthcare system in Gaza, with the Ministry of Health reporting that fuel shortages for hospital generators are at critical levels. This impacts essential departments, as 65% of medical consumables are depleted, and only 49 generators operate with limited fuel, covering only essential needs.
• Only 45 out of 312 operating rooms remain functional with limited capabilities, hindering emergency and complex surgeries.
• The lack of medical access and travel bans have caused the deaths of 338 cancer patients and 513 other patients awaiting treatment outside Gaza. Furthermore, 11,000 cancer patients have lost access to care due to destroyed specialized centers and drug shortages, and 41% of kidney failure patients have died.
• The northern Gaza Strip is now completely devoid of hospitals, placing immense pressure on remaining facilities in Gaza City.
• The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by a lack of clean water, severe malnutrition, and a surge in infectious diseases, including 59,254 cases of bloody diarrhea and 337,000 respiratory infections.
• Vaccination rates have plummeted by 80%, including for polio, due to the continuous Israeli blockade of vaccine entry.
• Hamas has expressed a “positive” response to the American proposal for a ceasefire and is ready for immediate negotiations on its implementation mechanism. Their response includes confirmations on adhering to humanitarian protocol and demanding a role for UN organizations.
• The proposed framework involves Hamas releasing 28 Israeli prisoners/detainees (10 living, 18 bodies) within 60 days, in exchange for Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners and delivering sufficient humanitarian aid under UN and Palestinian Red Crescent supervision.
• The proposal also includes an Israeli withdrawal from parts of northern Gaza and later southern Gaza, information exchange on remaining prisoners, and a cessation of military operations and aerial activity for 10-12 hours during prisoner exchange days.
• Separately, the West Bank and occupied Jerusalem have seen continued Israeli military incursions and settler attacks, leading to violent confrontations, arrests, and damage to homes and vehicles.
• The War in Sudan
• The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has lasted for two years, has left a devastating impact on the country’s infrastructure, with destroyed bridges, widespread power outages, looted water stations, and empty hospitals.
• Sudanese authorities estimate the reconstruction needs at hundreds of billions of dollars, specifically $300 billion for Khartoum and $700 billion for the rest of Sudan. The UN is currently preparing its own assessments.
• The war, primarily between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces since April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and injuries, and the displacement of approximately 13 million people, making it one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
• Khartoum residents endure prolonged power outages and a lack of clean water due to the destruction of all power stations and looting of water facilities. The main Al-Jaili oil refinery suffered $3 billion in damages, halving Sudan’s oil production to 24,000 barrels per day.
• The collapse of infrastructure has contributed to a cholera outbreak, with 2,729 cases and 172 deaths in the past week, mostly in Khartoum.
• Hospitals have been subjected to vandalism and looting, with medical equipment destroyed, leading to an estimated $11 billion loss to the health system.
• International aid has dwindled, with major donors like the United States reducing their assistance.
• The UN Development Program is exploring decentralized solutions, such as solar-powered water pumps, hospitals, and schools, as a pathway to reconstruction, suggesting that the crisis could ironically present an opportunity for a more decentralized approach to service provision.
• Other Noted Regional Issues
• Turkey is simultaneously battling wildfires and experiencing unseasonal snowfall in different regions, attributed by experts to climate change leading to more frequent extreme weather events.
• A chemical explosion in a battery factory in Spain led to a toxic cloud over Madrid, prompting warnings for 60,000 residents to stay indoors.
• Syria is addressing a sensitive issue regarding the disappearance of children of detainees, with arrests made in connection to alleged violations and abuses during the previous regime.
• Ukraine continues its conflict, with US President Trump noting Ukraine’s need for more Patriot missiles for defense against “heavy strikes” and discussing increased defense production and joint investments.

Urban Development: Saudi Vision Versus Sudan’s Conflict Devastation

Urban development is a critical aspect of national progress, encompassing the planning, design, and management of cities and their supporting infrastructure to improve quality of life and stimulate economic growth. The provided sources offer a detailed look at urban development efforts, particularly in Saudi Arabia, and highlight the devastating impact of conflict on urban centers in places like Sudan.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Urban Development

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant urban transformation, primarily guided by its Vision 2030. This ambitious national strategy aims to build a strong, sustainable economy by diversifying revenue streams and reducing reliance on oil. A core component of this vision is the comprehensive development of infrastructure and the enhancement of logistics supply chains, with the goal of establishing the Kingdom as a leading industrial hub and a global gateway for trade and economy.

Key initiatives and outcomes in Saudi Arabia’s urban development include:

• Advanced Infrastructure: The Kingdom has heavily invested in modern logistics capabilities, including international airports, sophisticated road networks, railways, and global-standard ports, all designed to facilitate the movement of people and goods. For example, Tabuk’s municipality consistently maintains its public facilities, including roads, sidewalks, and drainage systems, to ensure efficient services. Jazan is implementing 19 water and environmental projects valued at over 1.5 billion riyals, which involve extending water and sewage networks and building treatment and pumping stations, aimed at improving environmental services and ensuring water security.
• Housing and Quality of Life: A central focus of urban development is to provide suitable housing for every citizen. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing is actively seeking funding solutions to deliver essential services to residential grant projects. There is also an emphasis on accelerating comprehensive flood planning studies for all cities in the Kingdom. Efforts are being made to strengthen partnerships with the private sector and leverage local advantages to foster economic growth and attract foreign investments.
• Smart and Sustainable Cities: Saudi Arabia is committed to harnessing new technologies to serve its communities. Madinah Al-Munawwarah’s “Berman Al-Munawwarah” initiative aims to drive digital transformation and improve government performance by connecting creative individuals to develop digital solutions for public services. The Al-Ahsa region, recognized within UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network, exemplifies sustainable development by preserving its rich heritage while embracing innovation.
• Economic Growth and Investment: The real estate sector is recognized as a strategic and vital component of the national economy, attracting both domestic and international investors. Real estate funds are highlighted as crucial tools for attracting institutional investment, facilitating project financing, and enhancing market transparency. Riyadh is preparing to host the Cityscape Global 2025 exhibition, a major international event that will showcase the Kingdom’s vast real estate and urban development projects, expecting over 172,000 visitors and 450 exhibitors.
• Social and Cultural Infrastructure: Urban development also extends to improving social and cultural amenities. Jeddah’s “Hay Cinema” offers an innovative cultural and entertainment program, emphasizing a unique cinematic experience inspired by regional cinematic history. The Al-Arj Valley in Taif is highlighted as a natural tourism destination due to its abundant water and historical significance as a trade and pilgrimage route. The Kingdom is also promoting domestic tourism in regions like Al-Ahsa, with projects such as coastal area development and the revitalization of historic urban centers like Al-Hofuf.

The Devastating Impact of Conflict: Sudan

In stark contrast, the sources vividly illustrate the profound negative impact of prolonged conflict on urban development in Sudan. The country’s two-year war has left its cities in ruins, characterized by destroyed bridges, widespread power outages, looted water stations, and empty hospitals.

• Immense Reconstruction Needs: Sudanese authorities estimate that reconstruction efforts will require hundreds of billions of dollars, with Khartoum alone needing approximately $300 billion and the rest of Sudan $700 billion.
• Humanitarian and Infrastructure Collapse: The conflict has resulted in the displacement of approximately 13 million people. Residents of Khartoum endure extended power outages and a lack of clean water due to the destruction and looting of essential facilities. The main Al-Jaili oil refinery suffered $3 billion in damages, crippling the nation’s oil production. The healthcare system has also sustained an estimated $11 billion in losses due to vandalized and looted hospitals.
• Disease Outbreaks: The collapse of infrastructure has contributed to public health crises, including a significant cholera outbreak.
• Decentralized Reconstruction Approaches: Despite the immense challenges, the UN Development Program is exploring innovative, decentralized solutions for reconstruction, such as solar-powered water pumps, hospitals, and schools, which might offer a more resilient path forward in the face of ongoing instability.

In essence, while Saudi Arabia’s approach to urban development showcases a proactive, strategic investment in infrastructure, housing, and technology to enhance quality of life and economic prosperity, the situation in Sudan serves as a stark reminder of how conflict can decimate urban centers and create monumental challenges for recovery and reconstruction.

Saudi Arabia’s Digital Transformation: Vision 2030 in Action

Digital transformation is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious national strategy, Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying its economy and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. This broad strategic imperative involves the widespread adoption and integration of new technologies across various sectors, from urban development and education to the labor market and healthcare.

Here’s a comprehensive look at digital transformation initiatives and their impact, as derived from the sources:

• Overarching Vision and Strategic Goals:
• Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 explicitly aims to leverage new technologies to serve society and build a strong, sustainable economy by diversifying income sources and reducing oil dependence. This includes developing advanced infrastructure and improving logistics supply chains to establish the Kingdom as a leading industrial hub and global trade gateway. The “Made in Saudi” program contributes to this by fostering local content in non-oil sectors and preparing the ground for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
• Smart City Initiatives and Government Performance:
• In Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the “Berman Al-Munawwarah” initiative is driving digital transformation to improve government performance. This involves creating a platform that connects creative individuals to develop digital solutions for public services. The initiative encompasses smart monitoring of services and facilities, digital infrastructure, smart healthcare, intelligent transportation, environmental technology, and enhancing visitor experience.
• Digitalization in Education:
• Um Al-Qura University won a global award, “Student Catalyst,” for its innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. This initiative monitors student performance, identifies those struggling, and guides them to appropriate educational paths before exams, resulting in a 98% success rate in addressing student academic challenges. This exemplifies the university’s commitment to developing e-learning and adopting advanced technological practices to enhance the educational experience.
• Transformation of the Labor Market and Remote Work:
• Saudi Arabia has emerged as a global leader in remote work, ranking 44th worldwide, a testament to its robust cybersecurity capabilities, strong economy, and advanced digital infrastructure with stable and widespread internet connectivity.
• The number of remote workers in the Kingdom exceeded 158,591 in 2024, with Saudi women accounting for a significant 89% (over 140,570 employees). This shift was formalized with a ministerial decision in 2014, predating the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Government support for digital transformation led to the launch of various platforms, such as “Amal” for remote work, “Marun” for flexible work, and “Oun” for remote assistance, which ensure proper contractual relationships and social insurance registration for workers.
• The successful adoption of remote work during the pandemic demonstrated the Kingdom’s integrated crisis management approach across both government and private sectors, utilizing electronic tools to maintain productivity even when physical presence was suspended.
• This digital shift also extended to judicial and financial institutions, allowing them to maintain operations and enhance efficiency.
• Companies like stc, an early adopter of remote work since 2017, have integrated it as part of their broader digital service transformation, providing employees with greater flexibility and contributing to the company’s global ranking among top digital companies.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Across Sectors:
• Generative AI is identified as a primary engine for building a progressive future across various sectors. Businesses are actively implementing AI solutions in areas such as human resources, supply chain management, marketing, and manufacturing.
• Studies indicate that 75% of government and private entities in the Gulf region have already adopted generative AI in programming, engineering, marketing, and customer service.
• AI is contributing to operational cost reductions of up to 30% in some instances and improving quality through precise data analysis.
• Global spending on AI is projected to reach over $202 billion by 2028, underscoring high confidence in its economic viability and the ongoing shift of institutional budgets towards AI tools.
• While AI is reshaping the job market, it’s generally seen as enhancing human capabilities rather than simply replacing jobs. Fields like information technology are embracing AI to expand their capabilities, while other areas like finance, HR, and inventory management, which involve repetitive tasks, are more susceptible to automation. The future of work is envisioned as a hybrid of human and programmatic interaction.
• However, the sources also highlight a concern that many institutions are unprepared for the radical transformation brought by AI, which could lead to a widening gap between emerging and diminishing professions and increase uncertainty in the labor market.
• Digital Integration in Real Estate and Urban Planning:
• The upcoming Cityscape Global 2025 exhibition in Riyadh will serve as a significant platform to showcase the Kingdom’s vast real estate and urban development projects. The exhibition is expected to emphasize the role of AI and real estate technology in designing smart and sustainable cities. It will feature a “Future of Living” summit focusing on smart city construction and the latest advancements in AI within the real estate sector.
• A research study from Um Al-Qura University explores the innovative use of photographic images as an integrated design element in interior spaces to enhance human identity and aesthetic appeal, moving beyond traditional decorative uses. This signifies the application of digital tools and artistic vision in urban architectural design.
• Showcasing Digital Development:
• The “Saudi Treasures” initiative, part of the Ministry of Media, launched the film “The Destination” to highlight the Kingdom’s rapid advancements across various sectors, including digital development. The film aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global destination in line with Vision 2030, emphasizing national competence and cultural innovation.
• The “Youth Leadership Program for Global Communication” also utilizes an e-learning platform to prepare young Saudis to effectively represent the Kingdom on the international stage.

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s urban development is deeply intertwined with its digital transformation journey, driven by Vision 2030. This involves strategic investments in smart city initiatives, leveraging AI to enhance educational outcomes and operational efficiency, fostering remote work, and integrating digital technologies into sectors like real estate and public services. While these efforts promise significant advancements and economic diversification, they also necessitate a continuous adaptation to technological shifts and their impact on the workforce.

Saudi Arabia’s Expanding Sports Influence

Saudi Arabia is actively involved in and supporting a wide range of sports initiatives, from major club competitions to individual athlete development and global sports governance, reflecting a broader national strategy of growth and diversification.

Here’s a comprehensive look at the recent sports news:

• Al Hilal’s Performance in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025
• Al Hilal exited the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 after a 2-1 loss to Brazil’s Fluminense. Despite the defeat, coach Simone Inzaghi stated that the team’s performance “exceeded all expectations”.
• The team’s journey in the tournament was historic. They remarkably qualified for the round of 16, a surprise given their tough group that included Real Madrid, RB Salzburg, and Mexico’s Pachuca.
• Al Hilal showcased strong performances, drawing 1-1 with Real Madrid and defeating RB Salzburg 2-0 to advance.
• In the round of 16, they faced Manchester City, playing a compelling match that ended 1-1 in regular time before losing 2-1 in extra time.
• Al Hilal’s players faced significant physical exertion due to the intense schedule, playing five matches in a short period.
• Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly publicly criticized the Dutch referee, Danny Makkelie, alleging that he “did not do his job” and denied them two clear penalties, expressing frustration over the referee’s aggressive demeanor towards Al Hilal players.
• The team also faced emotional challenges, with players like Ruben Neves and Joao Cancelo visibly affected by the death of their compatriot Diogo Jota and his brother in a car accident just before their match against Fluminense. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou acknowledged the emotional toll on Neves, who was a close friend of Jota.
• Despite the loss, coach Inzaghi expressed immense pride in his players and announced that the team would travel to Austria for a preparatory camp before participating in the Super Cup, emphasizing their resolve to “return stronger”.
• Al Hilal received widespread praise for their performance, including from Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, and their president, Fahd bin Nafel, who stated that the team “reflected the unprecedented sports renaissance achieved by the Kingdom”.
• Al Hilal’s participation in the tournament earned them $34 million, the highest amount for an Arab club in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, even though they missed out on an additional $21 million by not reaching the semi-finals.
• Match statistics against Fluminense showed Al Hilal’s dominance in possession, shots on goal, and corner kicks, yet they ultimately lost due to what was described as “individual errors” that “should not have happened”.
• Saudi Football Clubs: Coaching and Squad Changes
• Al Nassr ClubCanceled all technical decisions made by its former sports director, Fernando Hierro, regarding foreign players.
• Is reportedly finalizing a one-season contract with Portuguese coach Jesus for 7 million Euros.
• To alleviate financial burdens, Al Nassr’s football company canceled its women’s football, futsal, and volleyball teams.
• Neom ClubAnnounced the signing of French coach Christophe Galtier, who expressed his enthusiasm to be “part of this big Saudi project” and to join “one of the best leagues in the world”.
• Also signed 25-year-old Polish goalkeeper Marcin Bulka from Nice for an estimated market value of 20 million Euros.
• Neom aims to reinforce its squad with top players for its historic debut in the Saudi Professional League after winning the First Division League title.
• Al Riyadh ClubSigned Spanish coach Javi Calleja to lead the team for the 2025-2026 season. This marks Calleja’s first coaching experience outside of Europe.
• Al Shabab ClubAnnounced the signing of Spanish coach Imanol Alguacil, who previously led Real Sociedad to win the King’s Cup in 2020 and reach the Champions League round of 16 in 2024. This is also Alguacil’s first coaching stint outside Spain.
• Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
• Qualified for the semi-finals of the Club World Cup with a dramatic 2-0 victory over Bayern Munich.
• The goals were scored by Desire Doue and Ousmane Dembele in the 78th and 96th minutes, respectively.
• PSG played the final minutes with nine players after William Batsou and Lucas Hernandez received red cards.
• Bayern Munich had two goals disallowed by the referee and a penalty overturned by VAR.
• Saudi National Football Team (Al Akhdar)
• The national team failed to secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, finishing third in its Asian qualifying group after a 2-1 loss to Australia in Jeddah, and will now proceed to the Asian playoff round.
• The upcoming playoff matches are anticipated to be highly challenging, akin to “cup finals,” necessitating thorough preparation over the next four months.
• The sources indicate that the performance level of the national team has been inconsistent since French coach Herve Renard took over, raising “big question marks”.
• Maintaining third place in the group was noted as Renard’s “only achievement”.
• Saudi League Broadcasting and Commentators
• A new channel has secured the television broadcasting rights for the Saudi Professional League for the upcoming season.
• There is a call for the channel to bring in high-quality commentators, noting that some previous commentators were not up to standard and should be replaced to match the league’s growing prominence and strong teams.
• Emerging Saudi Talent in Motorsports
• Young Saudi athlete Jana Al Najiman achieved third place in a car race in the European Open Championship in Valencia, Spain, outperforming ten European competitors. She is described as a “Saudi champion awaiting support”.
• International Olympic Committee (IOC) Leadership
• Kirsty Coventry, President of the Zimbabwean Olympic Committee, is highlighted for facing challenges such as the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to competitions and identifying a host country for the 2036 Summer Olympics.
• Coventry is recognized for her extensive experience in sports administration and for being the first African, first woman, and youngest person (at 41) to chair the IOC since its establishment in 1894.
• She is a strong advocate for gender equality in sports, noting that the IOC Executive Board, under her leadership, includes 7 women out of 15 members. Coventry also chairs the evaluation committee for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.

Gazette of Saudi Arabian Affairs

Here are the titles of the columns found in the newspaper, along with their first two paragraphs of detail:

• كلـمة (Word/Editorial)
• The vision of 2030, launched about nine years ago, has aimed to achieve a specific set of goals, primarily building a strong, sustainable national economy by diversifying sources of income and reducing reliance on oil. To achieve this, the vision committed to a scientific and well-studied approach, focusing on optimal investment in the country’s relative advantages and activating them optimally to reach the highest point of success and excellence.
• Among the pillars of the vision, a key focus has been the development of infrastructure and improving the performance of logistical supply chains, ensuring that the Kingdom becomes a leading industrial and logistical center in the region and the world, and a global gateway for trade and economy. The Kingdom has made rapid, sharp, and intelligent efforts in this regard, culminating in the launch of the National Program for Industrial Development and Logistics Services.
• الصراع اإليراني – اإلسرائيلي.. وقف مؤقت أم عودة وشيكة (The Iranian-Israeli Conflict.. Temporary Halt or Imminent Return)
• The Iranian-Israeli war has stopped, and it is not surprising that each side declares its victory, with each presenting its narrative to its supporters or to its domestic audience. In my opinion, this halt is nothing more than a fragile, temporary pause, as Israel will soon find a new justification to resume this war, especially since it did not achieve any of the objectives it started with. The war lasted for two and a half months and, although it delivered painful blows primarily to the exhausted Iranian economy, it was not devastating.
• Here, the Middle East stands on the brink of a dangerous geopolitical transformation, where this conflict is not merely a military confrontation but a turning point that reshapes the regional balance of power. In the midst of this conflict, the Gulf countries, led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, have succeeded in managing this crisis, which almost engulfed the entire region, through diplomacy, indirect intervention, and continuous communication to contain the crisis and refuse to be a party to this conflict, as it would harm the entire region.
• انخفاض تاريخي للبطالة بين السعوديين.. وجودة الوظائف على الطاولة المملكة خامس أقل دول مجموعة العشرين في معدل البطالة بين السكان (Historic Drop in Unemployment Among Saudis.. Job Quality on the Table, Kingdom Ranks Fifth Lowest in G20 for Population Unemployment Rate)
• The battle against unemployment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was not merely a struggle with a static number in reports, but one of the most difficult and complex battles in the history of national development, confronting a heavy legacy of structural imbalances and challenges in the labor market. However, this battle transformed into a saga of change and reform under Vision 2030, led by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who did not merely set goals but surpassed expectations, moving from the realm of the desired to the space of the possible.
• With an ambitious vision and relentless work, the Kingdom managed to record historic unemployment rates, falling to 6.3% among Saudis by the end of the first quarter of 2025, surpassing the previous target of 7% by 2030. This achievement, six full years ahead of schedule, necessitated a reconsideration of the target itself, reducing it to 5%. The most significant figure, which resonated globally, is the drop in the unemployment rate among the entire population to 2.8%, placing the Kingdom as the fifth lowest among G20 countries in this regard.
• الذكاء االصطناعي التوليدي (Generative Artificial Intelligence)
• A recurring question comes to mind about what is known as generative artificial intelligence, and it is increasingly seen as one of the main drivers for building an advanced future, with potential implications across various sectors. If we look back slightly, we will find that “modern technologies,” including generative AI, are moving at a steady pace in non-traditional paths. This technology has effectively moved from the research and model development stage to the implementation stage and decision-making level.
• Recent reports indicate that sectors which were previously closed have already begun implementing its solutions, starting from human resources to supply chains, and extending to marketing and manufacturing. The figures from specialized consulting firms reflect indicators of the ongoing transformation’s health. Studies indicate that the reduction in operational costs thanks to this technology has reached up to 30% in some cases, highlighting its ability to provide direct solutions that transcend the traditional concept linked to cost reduction.
• المالك والمستأجر.. الحكمة في ضبط العالقة (Landlord and Tenant.. Wisdom in Regulating the Relationship)
• It can be affirmed that extending the study period for about three additional months is a very sufficient time to examine the aspects of the relationship between the landlord and the tenant. This includes studying existing legislations and the possibility of addressing and improving them, and coming up with new regulations and legislations that ensure the sustainable growth of the real estate market and protect the rights of all parties.
• This demand has become urgent today to bolster the developmental renaissance that the Kingdom is witnessing in the real estate sector, especially with the influx of investors. Here, there is a crucial and historically urgent point that cannot be overlooked: the relationship between the landlord and the tenant. For decades, this has been one of the thorny issues, generating much discussion and debate among legal and real estate professionals and citizens in pursuit of frameworks that fully define this relationship.
• في انتظار الطبيب (Waiting for the Doctor)
• In one of the hospital waiting areas, a conversation took place among several patients while waiting for the doctor, who was late from his scheduled appointment. One of them said: “My appointment was at eight in the morning, and I was asked to arrive 15 minutes early, but the doctor hasn’t shown up yet!”.
• The second responded: “The doctor, like anyone else, is subject to circumstances that cause delays.” The third added: “That’s true, but we heard that this doctor habitually comes late.” The fourth person remarked: “I was once five minutes late due to traffic, and I was told to reschedule my appointment.”
• بين الطموح والرضا (Between Ambition and Contentment)
• Perhaps the fear that artificial intelligence will steal all our jobs is exaggerated, but ignoring its impact on employment is not an option. Does AI kill jobs randomly? No, rather it redraws the map of the workforce, and demands that we rethink who we prepare, train, and qualify for the future.
• In the heart of each of us is a continuous struggle between the ambition of what we hope for and the contentment with what we have today. How do we balance these two desires, which seem contradictory in appearance, but in reality, they are two wings of one bird that allow it to fly, grow, and develop?.
• تبطون.. هم بال عيوب (They Delay.. They Are Without Flaws)
• A local study published in 2017 showed that 45% of Saudi children have experienced some form of abuse and violence in their lives, and 12% of these were subjected to such behavior permanently. The most dangerous of these abuses are verbal violence or verbal interpretation, as they persist with the individual throughout their life, representing a noticeable behavior among a high percentage of citizens in the Kingdom.
• This comes framed by customs and traditions, often seen as acceptable in certain social situations and various behaviors. In the adventurous pursuit of desired perfection, a person tries to distance themselves from the table of criticism and social commentary. Perhaps the most common abuses in the Saudi scene, particularly for women, are verbal ones that enter under the guise of “good management” or “masculinity sciences,” using religious and kinship justifications, along with a string of crude or harsh words to beautify them if necessary.
• عندما تجاوزت الرياض تقاليدها (When Riyadh Transcended its Traditions)
• Riyadh, like cities, sometimes acts harshly towards itself, its inhabitants, and its history. It tries to change its skin, but sometimes it cannot but do so. In the latest era, it has changed its skin, as it has no choice but to adopt contemporary life. Riyadh appears as a city watching closely the world, sometimes serene and expansive, sometimes taking rapid steps.
• But it quickly awakens to return to the balance it wants to be, transcending everything that binds it to the past. For centuries, it lived as a city connected to an era, an era with which any city that inscribed and shaped its memory was linked. And an era with which it needs to be connected in its current time, possessing no choice but to clash with it. Its traditions, which once shaped its culture, become in a constant state of movement, always moving forward.
• الزعيم وضع الكرة السعودية في مصاف العالمية أنهى مشاركته العالمية برأس مرفوع وأداء فاق التوقعات (The Leader Placed Saudi Football in the Ranks of Globalism, Concluding its Global Participation with Heads Held High and Performance Exceeding Expectations)
• Al Hilal bid farewell to the FIFA Club World Cup competition in the quarter-finals at the hands of Brazil’s Fluminense, a match in which the team, under coach Simone Inzaghi, presented a performance that “exceeded all expectations“. Al Hilal’s qualification to the round of 16 was a surprise in itself, as they participated in Group 8, which included Real Madrid of Spain, RB Salzburg of Austria, and Pachuca of Mexico.
• However, Al Hilal’s journey was expected to end at this point, as they faced Manchester City of England, one of the favorites to win the title, led by Spanish coach Pep Guardiola. At Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Al Hilal delivered a remarkable epic, extending to extra time after drawing 1-1 with City in regular time, though they were twice ahead in the game. After the journey ended with a 1-2 loss to Fluminense, the team’s players put in a great physical effort, playing directly, and their coach subtly criticized the referee.

Saudi Arabian National News and Global Affairs

Here are the titles of the columns found in the newspaper, along with their first two paragraphs of detail:

• كلـمة (Word/Editorial)
• The Vision 2030, launched approximately nine years ago, has aimed to achieve a specific set of goals, primarily building a strong, sustainable national economy by diversifying income sources and reducing reliance on oil. To achieve this, the vision committed to a scientific and well-studied approach, focusing on optimal investment in the country’s relative advantages and activating them optimally to reach the highest point of success and excellence.
• Among the pillars of the vision, a key focus has been the development of infrastructure and improving the performance of logistical supply chains, ensuring that the Kingdom becomes a leading industrial and logistical center in the region and the world, and a global gateway for trade and economy. The Kingdom has made rapid, sharp, and intelligent efforts in this regard, culminating in the launch of the National Program for Industrial Development and Logistics Services.
• القيادة تهنئ الرئيس الأمريكي وتشيد بالعلاقات الثنائية (The Leadership Congratulates the American President and Praises Bilateral Relations)
• The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, sent a congratulatory cable to His Excellency President Donald J. Trump of the United States of America, on the occasion of his country’s Independence Day. The King expressed his sincerest congratulations and best wishes for health and happiness to His Excellency, and for continued progress and prosperity to the government and friendly people of the United States of America.
• His Majesty – may God support him – praised the bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and the development they are witnessing in all fields on this occasion. His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, also sent a congratulatory cable to His Excellency President Donald J. Trump of the United States of America, on the occasion of his country’s Independence Day.
• ولي العهد يستعرض مع نائب حاكم أبوظبي التعاون الثنائي (Crown Prince Reviews Bilateral Cooperation with Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi)
• His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, received His Highness Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Advisor of the United Arab Emirates, in his office at Al Salam Palace in Jeddah, yesterday evening.
• During the reception, relations between the two brotherly countries were reviewed, along with aspects of bilateral cooperation in various fields and ways to develop and enhance them.
• ابن فرحان والفروف يبحثان تطورات الأوضاع في المنطقة (Bin Farhan and Lavrov Discuss Regional Developments)
• His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met on Friday in Moscow with His Excellency Mr. Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, during his official visit to Russia.
• During the meeting, relations of historical friendship and joint cooperation between the two friendly countries and peoples were reviewed, along with ways to develop and enhance them in various fields. Following this, the two sides held an official discussion session that emphasized the depth of relations between the Kingdom and Russia, in addition to discussing the most prominent developments in the region and the efforts exerted in this regard.
• انخفاض تاريخي للبطالة بين السعوديين.. وجودة الوظائف على الطاولة المملكة خامس أقل دول مجموعة العشرين في معدل البطالة بين السكان (Historic Drop in Unemployment Among Saudis.. Job Quality on the Table, Kingdom Ranks Fifth Lowest in G20 for Population Unemployment Rate)
• The battle against unemployment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was not merely a struggle with a static number in reports, but one of the most difficult and complex battles in the history of national development, confronting a heavy legacy of structural imbalances and challenges in the labor market. However, this battle transformed into a saga of change and reform under Vision 2030, led by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who did not merely set goals but surpassed expectations, moving from the realm of the desired to the space of the possible.
• With an ambitious vision and relentless work, the Kingdom managed to record historic unemployment rates, falling to 6.3% among Saudis by the end of the first quarter of 2025, surpassing the previous target of 7% by 2030. This achievement, six full years ahead of schedule, necessitated a reconsideration of the target itself, reducing it to 5%. The most significant figure, which resonated globally, is the drop in the unemployment rate among the entire population to 2.8%, placing the Kingdom as the fifth lowest among G20 countries in this regard.
• حماس جاهزة لمفاوضات فورية (Hamas Ready for Immediate Negotiations)
• Hamas announced in an official statement last night that it had delivered to mediators a response to the American proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, stating its readiness to enter into immediate negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework. The statement said: “Hamas has completed its internal consultations and with Palestinian factions and forces regarding the mediators’ latest proposal to stop the aggression on Gaza and has delivered the response, which was characterized by positivity, and Hamas says that it is ready with all seriousness to immediately enter a round of negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework”.
• Media sources reported that Hamas’s response included confirmations on the necessity of adhering to the humanitarian protocol, reservations about the existence of “Gaza Humanitarian Institution,” and demands for a role for United Nations organizations. Israeli Channel 13 reported that Tel Aviv is preparing to send a delegation for rapprochement talks following Hamas’s response, while an Israeli official told Channel 12 that “we received Hamas’s response from the mediators and are studying it”.
• الشورى يصوت على التحوط من تقلبات أسعار السلع الغذائية عالميًا (Shoura Votes on Hedging Against Global Food Commodity Price Fluctuations)
• The Shoura Council is expected to hear members’ observations and opinions regarding the annual report of the General Authority for Food Security, which was reviewed by the Water, Environment, and Agriculture Committee. According to a report seen by “Al Riyadh,” the recommendations included a demand to study a financial mechanism for hedging against fluctuations in global food commodity prices and to cooperate with relevant authorities for this study.
• The committee’s recommendations, which the Council will vote on in an upcoming session, emphasized the completion of issuing the legislative and regulatory framework for governing food loss and waste. They also called on the General Authority for Food Security to conduct a periodic test of the early warning system and assess its readiness to respond to emergencies and changes, in cooperation with relevant authorities.
• نيابة عن أمير الرياض.. أمين المنطقة يحضر حفل سفارة راوندا (On Behalf of the Emir of Riyadh.. The Region’s Secretary Attends Rwanda Embassy Ceremony)
• On behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Emir of Riyadh Region, His Highness Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Secretary of the Region, attended the ceremony of the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda to the Kingdom on the occasion of its National Day. This took place at the Palace of Culture in Riyadh.
• Upon his arrival at the ceremony venue, His Highness was received by His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the Kingdom, Eugene Sigsigou. The ceremony was also attended by the Director of Diplomatic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ali Al-Selk, and a number of accredited diplomatic corps members.
• محافظ الطائف يطلع على مبادرات مستفيدي الإسكان (Governor of Taif Reviews Housing Beneficiary Initiatives)
• His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Governor of Taif, reviewed the efforts of the Taif Municipality in serving the residents and visitors of the governorate and providing various programs supporting beneficiaries of developmental housing and community initiatives.
• The Taif Municipality presented to His Highness, during their meeting, a community initiative titled “Friends of the Neighborhood,” which focuses on providing a volunteer team to plant trees for beneficiaries of developmental housing units in the governorate.
• القيادة تهنئ رؤساء الجزائر وفنزويلا وكابو فيردي (The Leadership Congratulates the Presidents of Algeria, Venezuela, and Cabo Verde)
• The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, sent a congratulatory cable to His Excellency President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, on the occasion of his country’s Independence Day. The King expressed his sincerest congratulations and best wishes for health and happiness to His Excellency, and for continued progress and prosperity to the government and brotherly people of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria.
• The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, also sent a congratulatory cable to His Excellency President Nicolás Maduro Moros of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, on the occasion of his country’s Independence Day. The King expressed his sincerest congratulations and best wishes for health and happiness to His Excellency, and for continued progress and prosperity to the government and friendly people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.
• فيصل بن مشعل يكّرم المتميزين في لجان العفو بالقصيم (Faisal bin Mishaal Honors Distinguished Members of Pardon Committees in Qassim)
• His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud, Governor of Qassim Region, honored distinguished members of the Pardon Committees at the Emirate in the region, in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Faisal bin Saud, Deputy Governor of Qassim Region. This was in appreciation of their efforts in implementing the directives of the wise leadership – may God support it – related to noble pardons.
• His Highness listened to the efforts exerted by the Pardon Committees, where more than 7000 prisoner files were studied during the past period, in accordance with precise controls and standards that take into account legal and humanitarian aspects.
• أمير الشرقية يعزي أسرة الراجحي (Emir of Eastern Province Condoles Al-Rajhi Family)
• His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Emir of the Eastern Province, offered condolences to Mr. Abdulrahman bin Khalid Al-Rajhi on the passing of his father – may God have mercy on him – at the family’s home in Khobar Governorate. His Highness asked Almighty Allah to shower the deceased with His vast mercy and admit him to His spacious gardens, and to grant his family and relatives patience and solace.
• Mr. Khalid Al-Rajhi expressed his thanks and appreciation to His Highness the Emir of the Eastern Province for his sincere condolences, praying to Allah to reward His Highness with the best reward.
• عبدالعزيز بن سعد يناقش المشروعات الزراعية مع الفضلي (Abdulaziz bin Saad Discusses Agricultural Projects with Al-Fadhli)
• His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, Emir of Hail Region, received His Excellency the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli, and the Ministry’s undersecretaries, in the presence of the Acting Undersecretary of Hail Region Emirate, Ali bin Salem Al Amer.
• His Highness praised, during the reception, the efforts exerted by the wise leadership – may God support it – and the support and attention it gives to all areas provided by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, and the projects it implements in the region. He stressed the importance of quality projects in food security and animal wealth, as well as poultry projects and their impact on supporting the national economy.
• نائب أمير الرياض ُيشّرف حفل سفارتي الفلبين ومصر بذكرى اليوم الوطني لبلديهما (Deputy Emir of Riyadh Honors Ceremonies of Philippine and Egyptian Embassies on their National Days)
• His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Emir of Riyadh Region, honored the ceremony of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom on the occasion of its National Day. This took place at the InterContinental Hotel in Riyadh. Upon his arrival at the ceremony venue, His Highness was received by His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom, Raymond Balbat, and a number of embassy staff.
• The ceremony was attended by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Protocol Affairs, Abdulmajeed Al-Samari, and a number of accredited diplomatic corps members to the Kingdom. His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Emir of Riyadh Region, also honored the ceremony of the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the Kingdom, on the occasion of its National Day. This took place at the Palace of Culture in Riyadh.
• مدير برنامج »الفاو« في المملكة يبحث التنسيق مع »استدامة« (FAO Program Director in Kingdom Discusses Coordination with ‘Istidama’)
• The Director General of the National Center for Research and Development of Sustainable Agriculture “Istidama”, Dr. Khalid bin Saud Al-Ruhaili, received the Director of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) program in the Kingdom, Dr. Nizar Haddad, at the center’s headquarters in Riyadh, to discuss aspects of joint coordination between the two sides in the fields of sustainable agriculture and food security.
• During the reception, areas of joint work were reviewed, as well as ways to benefit from FAO’s expertise in supporting national initiatives related to agricultural sustainability. In addition, opportunities for developing partnerships, training, and enabling innovation-based agricultural research practices and resource efficiency were discussed.
• توصيات شورية بإيصال الخدمات لمخططات المنح السكنية دعوة “البلديات” لاستكمال دراسات المخطط الشامل للسيول لجميع المدن (Shoura Recommendations to Deliver Services to Housing Grant Schemes, Call for Municipalities to Complete Comprehensive Flood Plan Studies for All Cities)
• The Hajj, Housing, and Services Committee of the Shoura Council, in its recommendations in the annual report of the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing for the fiscal year 1446-45, demanded finding funding solutions to ensure the delivery of basic services to housing grant schemes in coordination with relevant authorities. The committee also emphasized, in its recommendations – which the Council is nearing voting on to become a decision – the acceleration of completing studies for the comprehensive flood plan for all cities of the Kingdom.
• The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing was called to coordinate with the Center for Supporting Regional Plans for Regions, to complete updating regional plans for all municipalities of the Kingdom’s cities, governorates, and centers, as well as local and detailed indicative plans. The recommendations also called for supporting the Ministry and encouraging the expansion of establishing non-profit organizations in areas related to the Ministry’s tasks.
• المملكة ترسم ملامح حلول عالمية لأزمات الجفاف (Kingdom Outlines Global Solutions for Drought Crises)
• The Kingdom, currently presiding over the 16th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16), affirmed the importance of innovation and international integration in facing escalating drought challenges. This is through flexible funding mechanisms and broad institutional cooperation to ensure enhanced resilience in the regions most affected by climate change.
• This came during a high-level side event held under the title “Launching Innovation and Cooperation to Build Resilience in the Face of Drought” in Seville, Spain, as part of the Riyadh Initiative and the State Partnership. This was part of the proceedings of the Fourth International Forum on Financing for Development (FFD4) and global conferences, with the participation of a number of ministers and representatives of multilateral funding institutions and development parties.
• “شؤون الأسرة” يرأس وفد المملكة في اجتماع تمكين المرأة في مجموعة العشرين (“Family Affairs” Heads Kingdom’s Delegation at G20 Women’s Empowerment Meeting)
• The Saudi Family Affairs Council presided over the Kingdom’s delegation participating in the third consultative meeting of the Women’s Empowerment Working Group (EWWG), which is hosted by the Republic of South Africa within the framework of the G20.
• The head of the delegation and Secretary-General of the Council for Family Affairs, Dr. Maymouna Al-Khalil, reviewed in her speech the most prominent national efforts to empower women and expand their participation in the labor market, financial inclusion, science, and technology. This was alongside supporting policies and legislation directed at combating gender-based violence and promoting the principles of empowerment and equality within the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 targets.
• تنفيذ 19 مشروعًا مائيًا وبيئيًا في جازان بـ1.5 مليار ريال (Implementation of 19 Water and Environmental Projects in Jazan Worth 1.5 Billion Riyals)
• The National Water Company has begun implementing 19 water and sanitation projects in the Jazan region within the Southern Sector. These vital projects include extending water and sanitation networks exceeding 1,203 kilometers in length, with a total cost exceeding 1.5 billion riyals.
• This comes within its continuous efforts to implement its strategic plans for preparing the water and environmental services infrastructure, and based on its initiatives to raise the coverage of services provided to its customers.
• اتفاقية صحية لدعم وتثقيف المصابين بالأمراض المزمنة (Health Agreement to Support and Educate Chronic Disease Patients)
• The Makkah Health Cluster signed an agreement aimed at supporting and educating patients with chronic and non-chronic diseases through specialized educational programs in disease management under the supervision of the treating physician.
• Dr. Ahmed bin Hatem Al-Omari, the CEO of Makkah Health Cluster, represented the cluster in signing the agreement, while Dr. Abdullah Al-Otaibi represented the health services. The Makkah Health Cluster clarified that the agreement includes a package of supportive services for patients, including health awareness, reminders for patients and their families, training on self-injection skills, and regular medication intake.
• مستشفى الدكتور سليمان الحبيب بالمحمدية في جدة ُيعيد قدرة المشي لـ”ثمانيني” بعد ساعتين من استبدال مفصل ركبة (Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital in Al Muhammadiyah, Jeddah, Restores Walking Ability to an “Octogenarian” Two Hours After Knee Replacement)
• With the grace of Allah, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital in Al Muhammadiyah, Jeddah, successfully performed a precise knee joint replacement surgery. This advanced technique ended the suffering of an 81-year-old patient who had suffered for years from severe arthritis and friction classified as “grade four,” which severely limited his ability to move and walk.
• Dr. Dhafer Al-Shehri, Consultant in Orthopedic Surgery and Head of the treating medical team, who holds a fellowship from the University of Toronto, Canada, stated this. He added that the patient had presented to the hospital complaining of a cluster of symptoms, such as acute and increasing pain, in addition to limited movement and inability to climb stairs.
• »تجمع القصيم« يؤهل مرافقي مرضى الرعاية المنزلية (Qassim Cluster Qualifies Home Care Patient Companions)
• The Qassim Health Cluster launched a unique initiative aimed at educating and training companions of home healthcare patients and the elderly to deal with emergency cases. This empowers them to provide necessary first aid until the arrival of the specialized medical team or the transfer of the case to health facilities.
• The cluster affirmed that this initiative comes within the efforts of the Home Healthcare Department at the cluster to enhance patient safety and improve the quality of care provided at home. It aims to raise the health awareness of companions and reduce delays in medical response, in addition to promoting the culture of early intervention, which contributes to creating a safe home environment and alleviating pressure on medical teams in simple emergency cases.
• الشؤون الإسلامية بنجران تغلق 460 بلاغًا (Islamic Affairs in Najran Closes 460 Reports)
• The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance, represented by its branch in Najran region, closed 460 reports received through the unified contact center (1933) during the year 1446 AH. These reports included 372 complaints and 76 inquiries, along with 12 suggestions. The complaints included observations on mosque services, such as maintenance, sound, and air conditioning, which were promptly dealt with by specialized technical teams with full efficiency and accuracy.
• As for the inquiries, they were forwarded to the relevant departments for response. The Ministry is keen to open horizons of communication with the community through its available communication channels, where it works to respond to complaints and inquiries professionally, which enhances the quality of services provided by the Ministry to achieve the public interest.
• “هلال مكة” يفعل 52 منشأة ويدرب 1200 موظف (“Makkah Crescent” Activates 52 Facilities and Trains 1200 Employees)
• The Saudi Red Crescent Authority continued its expansion in the “Muath Project” in the Makkah Al-Mukarramah region, to include more than 52 facilities and train 1200 employees on first aid, in support of emergency response and enhancing a safe working environment in facilities and public places.
• The project, launched by the authority’s branch in the region with the directive of the authority’s president, and based on the directive of the Minister of Health, aims to raise readiness to deal with critical emergency cases, especially in their first moments, especially cases of sudden cardiac arrest.
• مـن أِسـّرة األلـم إلى ِقمـم القلـم نقل »ثالث صغيرات« من معاناة المرض إلى نعيم التعليم (From Beds of Pain to Peaks of Pen: Transferring “Three Little Girls” From the Suffering of Illness to the Bliss of Education)
• At King Abdulaziz National Guard Hospital in Al-Ahsa, three young girls, forced by illness since birth to reside permanently in white beds, live under the generous and precise medical care provided by our state – may God support it. This great care is met with praise and great gratitude from their guardians to the leadership – may God protect it – who sees it as a duty not only to its citizens but to everyone living on the land of humanity. These three young girls – the oldest of whom is not more than eight years old – have been deprived of living their normal lives, playing and having fun with their peers, and even leaving the hospital walls!.
• This “Al-Riyadh” report highlights an initiative that carries the noblest meanings of generosity, launched by the General Administration of Education in Al-Ahsa in coordination with the hospital administration. Three Saudi female teachers volunteered to embody the message of humanity and education at the same time.
• معلمات يجسدن رؤية وطننا بأهمية الانخراط في العمل التطوعي (Teachers Embody Our Nation’s Vision on the Importance of Engaging in Volunteer Work)
• The teacher Anisa Al-Mosaylim concluded that education in the hospital transcended merely delivering information; it became psychological and humanitarian support, cultivating hope, and being a source of positive energy for them. She added that her experience deepened her belief in the role of the teacher as a factor contributing to psychological recovery, recalling some humanitarian situations during their presence as teachers in the hospital.
• She said: “There is a blind student in the hospital who, when we are present, is keen to hold our hand and tries to sit us on the chair next to her; to ensure our presence with her, reflecting her feelings, describing the great psychological impact of their presence next to the sick student”. Another student, they would see her standing next to her bed looking at the room door, anticipating the teachers’ entry, and with their entry, the student would enter a state of overwhelming joy, thanking God Almighty for enabling her to the blessing of volunteering.
• بدء التسجيل في برنامج القيادات الشابة للتواصل العالمي (Registration Begins for Young Leaders for Global Communication Program)
• The “Salam for Cultural Communication” project announced the start of registration for the eighth edition of the Young Leaders for Global Communication Program, which will continue until the end of Friday, Muharram 18, 1447 AH, corresponding to July 23, 2025 CE.
• The Young Leaders for Global Communication Program is considered one of the national initiatives contributing to supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. It aims to qualify accepted participants and enable them to engage in effective cultural communication and positive presence in various international forums, to highlight the civilized image of the Kingdom.
• »برمجان المنورة«.. مبادرة بالمدينة لتعزيز التحول الرقمي (“Burjman Al Madinah”… An Initiative in Madinah to Enhance Digital Transformation)
• The Emirate of Madinah Region launched an initiative titled “Burjman Al Madinah,” aimed at enhancing digital transformation and raising the efficiency of government performance. This is achieved by providing a platform that brings together innovators and creative minds to develop digital solutions that contribute to improving government services.
• It allows participation through multiple tracks for graduates, including: smart monitoring of services and facilities, digital infrastructure, smart healthcare, smart transport and sustainable mobility, environmental technology, and enriching the visitor experience.
• جامعة أم القرى تحصد جائزة »أنثولوجي« العالمية (Umm Al-Qura University Wins “Anthology” Global Award)
• Umm Al-Qura University achieved a scientific accomplishment by winning the (Student Success / Catalyst) award within the Anthology Awards 2025, granted by Anthology, a global leader in educational technologies. This was for a distinguished initiative presented by the Deanship of Information Technology and E-Learning at the university.
• The (Student Success / Catalyst) award is granted to educational institutions that contribute to improving student outcomes and enhancing the learning experience through the use of technological solutions. This includes promoting the quality of education and supporting academic processes.
• تكثيف جهود صيانة المرافق العامة في تبوك (Intensifying Public Facility Maintenance Efforts in Tabuk)
• Tabuk Region Municipality, represented by the General Administration of Projects, Operation, and Maintenance, continues its maintenance efforts during the first half of this year. This is part of its continuous endeavor to improve infrastructure and public services.
• Engineer Mohammed Saud Al-Atwi, Director General of Operation and Maintenance, explained that the municipality’s efforts included maintenance of roads and sidewalks covering an area of (15490) square meters and excavating (13225) square meters in main and subsidiary streets. This is in addition to installing (183) linear meters of speed bumps to ensure traffic safety.
• ربط تراخيص سيارات التوصيل بساعات السالمة (Linking Delivery Vehicle Licenses to Safety Hours)
• The Saudi Association for Public Taste, in an interview with “Al-Riyadh,” revealed a directive to study one of the recommendations proposed in the “Salam and Safety” initiative. This initiative is a partnership between the association, the Transport Authority, the Traffic Safety Association “Salama,” and the Eastern Province Traffic. It involves renewing the linking of delivery vehicle licenses to safety hours. The association will work on achieving this, by conducting a comprehensive study on this recommendation and then submitting it to the relevant authorities.
• Abdulaziz Al-Mahboub, Director General of the Public Taste Association, said that “there is a trend to increase the association’s branches at the Kingdom level within the framework of agreements and understandings made by the association with a number of ministries and authorities, including the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Sports, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, as well as the Ministry of Tourism, the Eastern Province Secretariat, and the Civil Aviation Authority, and others”.
• بئر غرس.. ماء مبارك وأثر نبوي خالد (Well of Ghars.. Blessed Water and Enduring Prophetic Legacy)
• Madinah is characterized by numerous prophetic sites and historical landmarks connected to the Prophet’s biography. These sites welcome visitors to Madinah, inviting them to explore and learn about their historical and archaeological components up close.
• Prophetic wells are among the components that enrich Madinah’s diverse human history, dating back to the Prophetic era and before. Some of them are linked to the biography of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, either by his drinking from them, or his ablution, or bathing, or by his passing by them.
• الأحساء.. حضور عالمي في “اليونسكو” (Al-Ahsa.. Global Presence in “UNESCO”)
• Al-Ahsa, “The Creative City,” concluded its participation in the 17th annual conference of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), which was hosted by the city of Angers, north of the French capital, Paris, with the participation of more than 350 cities from various parts of the world.
• The participation of the Al-Ahsa delegation, headed by the Mayor of Al-Ahsa, Engineer Essam bin Abdul Latif Al-Mal, witnessed a remarkable presence and fruitful discussions. During these discussions, the delegation reviewed Al-Ahsa’s most prominent initiatives and successful experiences in integrating creativity within sustainable development strategies.
• تصاعد مستوى عائدات سوق »المعدات الثقيلة« بمكة المكرمة (Rising Revenue Levels in Makkah’s “Heavy Equipment” Market)
• The holy capital acquired the largest share of the heavy equipment market in the region, according to dealers. It recorded significant progress at the Kingdom level, as it has become a destination for companies and institutions investing in the heavy equipment sector. “Al-Riyadh” observed hundreds of heavy equipment in the development projects in the random neighborhoods of Al-Mansour, Al-Khalidiya, and Al-Zuhour, in addition to those spread in the holy sites.
• According to unofficial estimates, the development areas for these neighborhoods alone touch five million square meters, including Al-Zuhour neighborhood, which is located on an area of 1.293 million square meters, in a prime location between major roads and historical and cultural landmarks in Makkah.
• الرياض تستضيف معرض سيتي سكيب العالمي 2025 في ملهم.. نوفمبر المقبل (Riyadh to Host Cityscape Global Exhibition 2025 in Mulham.. Next November)
• Riyadh will host the third edition of Cityscape Global exhibition under the slogan “Future Life,” at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center north of Riyadh in Mulham City, from November 17 to 20, 2025.
• The exhibition comes under the patronage of the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, and in partnership with the General Authority for Real Estate – one of the Vision 2030 housing programs. It is organized by the “Tahalluf” joint project company between the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, The Investment Fund, Events, and Informa Global company.
• حماس: جاهزون للدخول في مفاوضات فورية لتبادل الأسرى (Hamas: We are Ready to Enter Immediate Negotiations for Prisoner Exchange)
• Hamas announced in an official statement last night that it had delivered to mediators a response to the American proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, stating its readiness to enter into immediate negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework. The statement said: “Hamas has completed its internal consultations and with Palestinian factions and forces regarding the mediators’ latest proposal to stop the aggression on Gaza and has delivered the response, which was characterized by positivity, and Hamas says that it is ready with all seriousness to immediately enter a round of negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework”.
• Media sources reported that Hamas’s response included confirmations on the necessity of adhering to the humanitarian protocol, reservations about the existence of “Gaza Humanitarian Institution,” and demands for a role for United Nations organizations.
• الحرب في السودان.. تحولها إلى مدن أشباح (War in Sudan.. Turning into Ghost Cities)
• Destroyed bridges, power outages, and water stations stand witness to the devastating impact on infrastructure across Sudan due to a war that has lasted for two years. Authorities estimate that hundreds of billions of dollars are needed for reconstruction, but opportunities are questioned in achieving this in the short term due to continued fighting and attacks on power plants, dams, and fuel depots.
• In a world that has become more reluctant to provide foreign aid, the United States, the largest donor, has cut its assistance. The Sudanese army has been fighting the Rapid Support Forces in a semi-civil war since April 2023, which has resulted in the killing and injury of tens of thousands of people and the displacement of about 13 million, in what aid organizations have described as the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.
• “معجم مصطلحات الحياة الفطرية”.. إثراء لغوي وبيئي (“Dictionary of Wildlife Terms”.. Linguistic and Environmental Enrichment)
• The King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language – in cooperation with the National Center for Wildlife Development – launched the “Dictionary of Wildlife Terms”. This is part of supporting scientific and cognitive efforts aimed at documenting and standardizing wildlife terms, according to a precise scientific methodology that considers the environmental and linguistic context. It also aims to enhance the use of the Arabic language in specialized environmental and research fields.
• His Excellency the Secretary-General of the Academy, Professor Dr. Abdullah bin Saleh Al-Wushmi, affirmed in his speech on this occasion that this dictionary comes as an extension of the Academy’s efforts in producing specialized dictionaries that contribute to empowering the Arabic language in vital fields. He pointed to the importance of cooperation with the National Center for Wildlife Development in building a linguistic knowledge base that bridges the terminological gap in this sector and supports Arabic content in the environment and scientific research.
• »الشريك الأدبي« في نسخته الخامسة يوسع تأثيره مبادرات ثقافية وجوائز تتجاوز مليون ريال (“The Literary Partner” in its Fifth Edition Expands Its Impact: Cultural Initiatives and Prizes Exceed One Million Riyals)
• As part of its efforts to make culture and literature a part of daily life, the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Authority continues to implement the “Literary Partner” initiative in its fifth edition. This initiative seeks to build sustainable literary partnerships with entities and individuals, with the aim of supporting local literature and enhancing its presence in society.
• The initiative aims to organize diverse literary and cultural events in public places frequented by the public with various interests. This contributes to raising awareness of literature, in addition to supporting Saudi writers, and enhancing general cultural interaction, through innovative environments that provide space for dialogue and celebrate the word. The initiative awards financial prizes to participants, totaling more than one million Saudi Riyals, along with many supporting benefits that are allocated according to the specific participation tracks.
• فوز ثلاث روايات سعودية بالتحويل السينمائي (Three Saudi Novels Win Cinematic Adaptation)
• A new cultural achievement is added to the Saudi narrative scene, as the Professional Literature Association announced the winning of the novel “Lilith’s Daughter” by Saudi novelist Ahmed Al-Shammari, and the novels “Faces of Al-Hawsh” by Ali Hussein Al-Hamazi, and “The Mountain’s Excavations” by Khalid Al-Numazi. These were selected for cinematic adaptation into screenplays suitable for production, within the “Saudi Novel to Cinematic Screenplay Conversion Project 2025” after an intense competition among narrative works that reached the shortlist.
• Novelist Ahmed Al-Shammari expressed his happiness with this award, saying: “This award gives the text a new life and opens up the characters and themes for wider human contemplation”. He extended his sincere thanks to the organizers of this unique initiative, the supervising committee, and everyone who exerted great effort in evaluating the works.
• دراسة سعودية توظف الصورة في التصميم الداخلي (Saudi Study Utilizes Imagery in Interior Design)
• A research study from Umm Al-Qura University revealed the utilization of photographic imagery as an integral design element in an innovative vision for beautifying interior spaces of residential facilities. This achieves enhancement of human identity, and aesthetic and functional dimensions, transcending the traditional use of images as secondary décor.
• The study, prepared by researcher Afra bint Abdulrahman Ahmed Habib from the College of Designs and Arts, presented new horizons for photographic imagery as a rich visual medium with cultural, environmental, and emotional connotations. It can be intelligently employed within residential spaces to create positive psychological effects, enhance attachment to the place, and create warmer and more humane living environments.
• »ضريبة البعد« عبقرية أصالة.. (“Distance Tax” Asalah’s Genius…)
• After a long wait, “Rotana Music” unveiled one of its most important albums this year, titled “Distance Tax” by the talented artist Asalah Nasri. The album includes ten new songs, one of which was released earlier under the title “Kalam Fares,” with lyrics by Menna El Kiey and music by Tamer Ashour, achieving the highest interaction, spread, and listening, as expected with the rest of the album’s songs.
• Asalah Nasri confessed that she paid the tax of stress and tears due to the atmosphere of fear, caution, and anxiety she experienced during the recording of the “Distance Tax” songs, which lasted for months.
• راكـان آل ساعـد الفائـز »جوي أووردز« ينضم لروتانا بـ (Rakan Al Saad, Joy Awards Winner, Joins Rotana)
• As part of Rotana Music Group’s support for prominent young Saudi voices in the art field, Mr. Salem Al-Hindi, President of the Group’s Board and CEO, signed a production and management contract with the young singer Rakan Al Saad. Rakan emerged as one of the new generation’s voices passionate about music; he is a talented composer and a professional guitarist, oud, and piano player. He represented Saudi musical culture in several international conferences and forums such as “G20, Leap, Expo, Dubai” and other major international forums.
• He won the “Joy Awards 2025” in the Best New Artist category and also won the “King of Oud” award, which was held by the General Entertainment Authority. Rakan expressed his happiness at joining Rotana, emphasizing that his meeting with Mr. Salem Al-Hindi was a guiding and motivating first step towards building his future.
• »الدرعية لفنون المستقبل« يستعرض أمسية الأستوديو المفتوح في »مزرعة« تجارب بحثية مذهلة في الفن الرقمي والفنون المفاهيمية (“Diriyah Future Arts” Showcases Open Studio Evening at “Mazra’a”: Amazing Research Experiences in Digital Art and Conceptual Arts)
• Diriyah Future Arts Center, a specialized center in new media arts in the Middle East and North Africa, held its first “Open Studio” evening within the “Mazra’a” program for new media arts residency, the spring 2025 edition. This took place yesterday evening in Diriyah. The event served as a window at its headquarters to view the behind-the-scenes of the research and artistic projects being developed by artists and researchers within the program.
• The event began with an opening speech by the center’s director, Dr. Haitham Nawwar, and the center’s education director, Dr. Teagan Bristow. This was followed by introductory presentations by the two participating researchers in the program, Dr. Anette Holzscheiter from the Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe (ZKM) in Germany, and the independent art writer and curator Mizuho Yamazaki.
• تامر حسني يحيي حفل كأس العالم للرياضات الإلكترونية (Tamer Hosny Performs at the Esports World Cup Concert)
• Artist Tamer Hosny will perform a concert next Friday evening, July 11, at Abu Bakr Salem Theater in Boulevard Riyadh City. This is part of the Esports World Cup events, which the capital, Riyadh, is hosting.
• The concert is organized by “Benchmark” company in cooperation with the Saudi Esports Federation, as part of the accompanying entertainment program for the largest esports tournament of its kind globally. It hosts the best players and teams from different countries in the world, featuring games like FIFA, Fortnite, League of Legends, and PUBG.
• »سينما حي« تطلق برنامًجا ثقافًيا وأنشطة تفاعلية (“Hay Cinema” Launches Cultural Program and Interactive Activities)
• “Hay Cinema,” one of “Fun Jameel” initiatives, launched its cultural entertainment program and activities in Jeddah, which will continue until July 6 of the current year. The program aims to provide an interactive cinematic experience, evoke childhood memories, and strengthen cultural ties between generations.
• The program targets families and lovers of children’s content, through daily screenings of classic cartoon works that left a deep impact on the Arab viewer’s memory. These screenings will be held in two daily periods, interspersed with interactive artistic activities inspired by the screened works.
• الذكاء االصطناعي التوليدي (Generative Artificial Intelligence)
• A recurring question comes to mind about what is known as generative artificial intelligence, and it is increasingly seen as one of the main drivers for building an advanced future, with potential implications across various sectors. If we look back slightly, we will find that “modern technologies,” including generative AI, are moving at a steady pace in non-traditional paths. This technology has effectively moved from the research and model development stage to the implementation stage and decision-making level.
• Recent reports indicate that sectors which were previously closed have already begun implementing its solutions, starting from human resources to supply chains, and extending to marketing and manufacturing. The figures from specialized consulting firms reflect indicators of the ongoing transformation’s health. Studies indicate that the reduction in operational costs thanks to this technology has reached up to 30% in some cases, highlighting its ability to provide direct solutions that transcend the traditional concept linked to cost reduction.
• ())أوبك +( تقرر زيادة إنتاج ثماني دول لمواصلة دعم استقرار سوق النفط)
• The eight OPEC+ countries, which had previously announced additional voluntary adjustments in April and November 2023, and which include the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, the UAE, Algeria, and Oman, decided to adjust production by 548 thousand barrels per day in August 2025, compared to the required production level in July 2025. This decision was made at a virtual meeting yesterday, Saturday, where global market conditions and expectations were reviewed.
• In view of the stable global economic outlook, and the current positive market conditions, which are reflected in the decline of oil inventories, and based on what was agreed upon at the December 5, 2024, meeting to gradually restore flexible voluntary production adjustments totaling 2.2 million barrels per day starting from April 1, 2025, the participating eight countries will implement a production increase equivalent to four monthly increments.
• الذهب يحقق مكاسب أسبوعية وسط ضعف الدوالر (Gold Achieves Weekly Gains Amidst Dollar Weakness)
• Gold prices rebounded at the close of last week, achieving weekly gains, supported by the retreat of the US dollar and safe-haven flows, as the deadline set by US President Donald Trump for sealing trade deals approached.
• Spot gold prices rose by 0.3% to reach $3,336.39 per ounce, as of 12:11 GMT. The precious metal rose by about 1.9% this week. US gold futures rose by 0.1% to reach $3,346.60. The dollar index fell by 0.2%, recording a decline for the second consecutive week, making gold cheaper for holders of other currencies.
• المالك والمستأجر.. الحكمة في ضبط العلاقة (Landlord and Tenant.. Wisdom in Regulating the Relationship)
• It can be affirmed that extending the study period for about three additional months is a very sufficient time to examine the aspects of the relationship between the landlord and the tenant. This includes studying existing legislations and the possibility of addressing and improving them, and coming up with new regulations and legislations that ensure the sustainable growth of the real estate market and protect the rights of all parties.
• This demand has become urgent today to bolster the developmental renaissance that the Kingdom is witnessing in the real estate sector, especially with the influx of investors. Here, there is a crucial and historically urgent point that cannot be overlooked: the relationship between the landlord and the tenant. For decades, this has been one of the thorny issues, generating much discussion and debate among legal and real estate professionals and citizens in pursuit of frameworks that fully define this relationship.
• دور استراتيجي للصناديق العقارية في جذب الاستثمار وتنظيم السوق (Strategic Role of Real Estate Funds in Attracting Investment and Regulating the Market)
• Real estate funds play a pivotal role in the development of the Saudi real estate sector by increasing investment and providing diverse investment opportunities, enhancing liquidity, and developing real estate projects. This contributes to achieving the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
• Saudi real estate funds are expanding, attracting developers, with a steady growth in the number of these funds, regardless of their types, which exceeded 500 funds last year.
• الأسهم الأوروبية تتراجع متأثرة بخسائر أسهم البنوك والتعدين (European Stocks Decline Affected by Losses in Bank and Mining Stocks)
• European stocks closed lower on Friday, affected by losses in bank and mining stocks, as focus shifted to the July 9 deadline for trade partners to reach an agreement with the United States. The STOXX 600 index closed down by 0.5%, recording a slight weekly decline.
• Other regional indices also declined, with France’s CAC 40 index falling by 0.6%, Germany’s DAX declining by 0.8%, and Spain’s benchmark index falling by 1.5%. Basic resources index, a key sub-sector in the STOXX index, came under pressure, falling by 1.4%, affected by metal prices, including copper.
• المقال (Article) – Note: This appears as a general heading for articles, not a specific column title.
• Dr. Arvind Krishna, CEO of IBM, explained that the tech giant laid off hundreds of its HR employees in favor of a larger number of programmers and sales representatives who brought solutions leading to positive results shown by AI in human resources.
• The real estate sector in Saudi Arabia, if it was already enjoying significant attention from our governments for decades, it now receives even greater attention during the years of Vision 2030, which recognized its strategic importance as one of the key components for all other sectors, in addition to being a fundamental supporter of the national economy through its ability to move the wheel of the economy through its projects.
• الصر اع الإيراني – الإسرائيلي.. وقف مؤقت أم عودة وشيكة (The Iranian-Israeli Conflict.. Temporary Halt or Imminent Return)
• The Iranian-Israeli war has stopped, and it is not surprising that each side declares its victory, with each presenting its narrative to its supporters or to its domestic audience. In my opinion, this halt is nothing more than a fragile, temporary pause, as Israel will soon find a new justification to resume this war, especially since it did not achieve any of the objectives it started with. The war lasted for two and a half months and, although it delivered painful blows primarily to the exhausted Iranian economy, it was not devastating.
• Here, the Middle East stands on the brink of a dangerous geopolitical transformation, where this conflict is not merely a military confrontation but a turning point that reshapes the regional balance of power. In the midst of this conflict, the Gulf countries, led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, have succeeded in managing this crisis, which almost engulfed the entire region, through diplomacy, indirect intervention, and continuous communication to contain the crisis and refuse to be a party to this conflict, as it would harm the entire region.
• عندما تجاوزت الرياض تقاليدها (When Riyadh Transcended its Traditions)
• Riyadh, like cities, sometimes acts harshly towards itself, its inhabitants, and its history. It tries to change its skin, but sometimes it cannot but do so. In the latest era, it has changed its skin, as it has no choice but to adopt contemporary life. Riyadh appears as a city watching closely the world, sometimes serene and expansive, sometimes taking rapid steps.
• But it quickly awakens to return to the balance it wants to be, transcending everything that binds it to the past. For centuries, it lived as a city connected to an era, an era with which any city that inscribed and shaped its memory was linked. And an era with which it needs to be connected in its current time, possessing no choice but to clash with it.
• السعودية أرض الحضارات (Saudi Arabia: Land of Civilizations)
• Human civilization has long been linked to the pyramids in Egypt, the statues and clay tablets in Mesopotamia, the Greeks, and the ruins of Rome. But what if I told you that on this very land, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, humans existed before a single stone was raised in Giza, and before a single letter was carved in Sumer?
• In the north of the Kingdom, specifically in the Al-Suwayhityah area in Al-Jouf, stone tools dating back to about 1.3 million years BCE were discovered. These are considered among the oldest evidence of human settlement in the world.
• الضجيج والإغراق المعلوماتي (Noise and Information Overload)
• Headlines proliferate and scenes repeat, while the ability to empathize and deeply understand diminishes. Anxiety has become a constant backdrop for some of our daily experiences, willingly pouring onto our screens. What is more astonishing is the recycling of this content through digital platforms and social media groups, where painful situations are revived in different forms, consumed more than understood, and broadcast more than digested. Thus, souls are exhausted, feelings are strained, and sensitivity fades.
• In the midst of this endless torrent of alarming news, images, and clips, some sometimes feel as if they are drowning in this flood. A study published in a journal in 2022 showed that excessive exposure to negative content increases levels of anxiety and depression and contributes to chronic stress.
• الصدقة في الميزان (Charity in the Balance)
• The word “charity” (sadaqah) condenses many meanings, stirs the noblest feelings in souls, and embodies the highest values. It is not merely giving money or material wealth, but rather a comprehensive concept that expresses the human spirit and the depth of its interaction with its society. In this article, we will explore the true dimensions of charity and how it can be embodied in multiple life practices that extend beyond the boundaries of money and touch the essence of humanity.
• We have become accustomed to associating charity with financial amounts or donations, but the truth is that charity is much broader than that. It is not limited to giving money, but rather includes every good deed that aims to spread love and goodness among people, whether it is a sincere smile, a kind word, or an effort made in the service of others.
• السياحة في الأعمال الدرامية مستقبل الأحساء والتنمية (Tourism in Dramatic Works: The Future of Al-Ahsa and Development)
• The act of media promotion resembles magic, and an image is worth a thousand words. Media promotion has been known and familiar to individuals and entities since the dawn of history. States have historically used it as a tool, and more recently, it has been a soft power tool, and softness often achieves what harshness cannot. Media promotion uses images and words on a wide scale in war, political, and cultural fields to guide people towards a specific idea to achieve a desired goal. Since the tourism sector is an economic arm of any state, as well as cultural, media promotion has been clearly and intelligently present to promote tourism.
• In one of the countries famous for tourism, it was observed that tourists flocked to an old neighborhood to stroll and take souvenir photos. This intensive influx to this neighborhood, which was not previously known or attractive to tourists, was because a popular series was filmed there. However, the indirect media promotion, cleverly hidden within the series’ events, solidified it in the minds of viewers, making it a preferred place to visit.
• أدب الحديث (Etiquette of Conversation)
• The etiquette of conversation is considered among the noblest of manners and their highest ranks. It reflects the speaker’s nobility, high ambition, and self-confidence. It is one of the criteria for the refinement and civilization of societies. Primitive societies, as Ibn Khaldun said, differentiate themselves by strength; when they advance, they differentiate themselves by knowledge; and when they finally reach the highest level of refinement, they differentiate themselves by manners. Therefore, we find that the true religion encourages and urges the highest levels of manners and refinement.
• Among these are the etiquette of conversation, which prohibits raising one’s voice during speech, as stated in the Qur’an by Allah Almighty in Surah Luqman: “And lower your voice”. It also encourages kind words, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Protect yourselves from the Fire, even if with half a date; and if you do not find that, then with a good word”.
• الزعيم وضع الكرة السعودية في مصاف العالمية أنهى مشاركته العالمية برأس مرفوع وأداء فاق التوقعات (The Leader Placed Saudi Football in the Ranks of Globalism, Concluding its Global Participation with Heads Held High and Performance Exceeding Expectations)
• Al Hilal exited the FIFA Club World Cup competition from the quarter-finals at the hands of Brazil’s Fluminense, a match in which the team, under coach Simone Inzaghi, presented a performance that “exceeded all expectations“. Al Hilal’s qualification to the round of 16 was a surprise in itself, as they participated in Group 8, which included Real Madrid of Spain, RB Salzburg of Austria, and Pachuca of Mexico.
• However, Al Hilal’s journey was expected to end at this point, as they faced Manchester City of England, one of the favorites to win the title, led by Spanish coach Pep Guardiola. At Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Al Hilal delivered a remarkable epic, extending to extra time after drawing 1-1 with City in regular time, though they were twice ahead in the game. After the journey ended with a 1-2 loss to Fluminense, the team’s players put in a great physical effort, playing directly, and their coach subtly criticized the referee.
• النصر يلغي قرارات هييرو.. وينتظر جيسوس (Al-Nassr Cancels Hierro’s Decisions.. Awaiting Jesus)
• Al-Nassr Club halted all technical decisions made by the former sporting director Fernando Hierro, regarding foreign players. Hierro had stated his unwillingness to continue at the club, pending the arrival of the new technical staff who will be responsible for their technical decisions and choices of foreign players according to the positions they wish to strengthen.
• It is expected that Al-Nassr Club company will announce its contract with the Portuguese coach Jesus within the next 24 hours, for one season as the first team coach, after a final agreement on all 7 million Euro contract clauses. On another note, Al-Nassr Club’s football management canceled women’s football, volleyball, and futsal in the past.
• نيوم يتعاقد مع المدرب جالتييه.. والحارس مارسين بولكا (NEOM Contracts Coach Galtier.. and Goalkeeper Marcin Bulka)
• NEOM officially announced its contract with the French coach Christophe Galtier, who ended his association with Qatar’s Al-Duhail at the end of last May. NEOM wrote on its account on the social media platform X: “The journey begins now.. Christophe Galtier, new coach for NEOM Sports Club,” accompanied by a video clip of the coach.
• In the video clip, Galtier said: “Greetings to all… I am very excited to be part of this great Saudi project”. He added, “I am happy to join one of the best leagues in the world”. “I can’t wait to start my story with NEOM Sports Club,” accompanied by a shot of him signing his contract with the club.
• الإسباني كاليخا مدربًا للرياض (Spanish Calleja as Riyadh Coach)
• Al-Riyadh Club officially announced its contract with the Spanish coach Javier Calleja to lead the technical staff of the team in the new 2025-2026 season.
• Calleja’s career, at 47 years old, included 267 matches during his coaching stints with Villarreal, Deportivo Alavés, Levante, in addition to his last stop with Real Oviedo.
• باريس يقهر النقص وبايرن ويتأهل لنصف النهائي (Paris Overcomes Shortage and Bayern to Qualify for Semifinals)
• Paris Saint-Germain qualified for the semifinals of the Club World Cup in football with a dramatic 2-0 victory over Bayern Munich yesterday, Saturday.
• Desiree Doué and Ousmane Dembélé scored the goals in the 78th and 96th minutes, breaking the Parisians’ long-standing jinx against the Bavarian giants in their last four matches.
• في الشباك (In the Net)
• The story ended, as colleague Walid Al-Farij said. Al Hilal, the global leader, exited the Club World Cup after losing to Fluminense by two goals to one.
• According to the opinions of technical analysts and critics, Al Hilal did not fall short and lost honorably after playing four matches. They competed with Real Madrid, the champion of the previous edition, and provided everything.
• فلومينينسي يحرم الهلال من 21 مليون دولار (Fluminense Deprives Al Hilal of $21 Million)
• Al Hilal exited the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 competitions after a historical participation in which it achieved an unprecedented feat, being the only team outside the big eight in Europe and South America to be present. Al Hilal lost to Brazil’s Fluminense 2-1 in the quarter-final match between them on Friday. This loss deprived them of the $21 million they would have earned if they had qualified for the semi-finals.
• Al Hilal had started its journey with a historic draw against Real Madrid. With the end of Al Hilal’s adventure in the Club World Cup, the “Leader” earned $34 million from its historic participation in the World Cup, which is the largest earnings by an Arab team in the Club World Cup 2025.
• ألغواسيل هل يكرر صناعة مجد سوسيداد مع الشباب (Will Alguacil Repeat Sociedad’s Glory with Al-Shabab?)
• A new global coach is knocking on the doors of the Saudi Professional League, as Al-Shabab Club announced on Thursday its contract with the famous Spanish coach Imanol Alguacil.
• Alguacil is considered one of the most prominent coaches who left their mark in the Spanish League through his leadership of Real Sociedad, with whom he achieved glory by winning the Copa del Rey in 2020. He also imposed himself in advanced positions in La Liga.
• الشابة جنا النجيمان تتألق أوروبيًا (Young Jana Al-Nujayman Shines in Europe)
• The young Saudi champion Jana Al-Nujayman continued her brilliance and worthiness, achieving third place in the car race. She surpassed ten European competitors, recording the highest number of overtakes in the European Open Championship held at the Cheste circuit in Valencia, Spain.
• Jana is a Saudi champion who awaits support and encouragement.
• الملحق الآسيوي.. والفرصة الأخيرة (The Asian Playoff.. The Last Chance)
• The matches that the Saudi national team will play in the playoff will be harder than the qualifiers. This is because they will become similar to a championship for its teams, just as the Gulf Cup for football teams of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Iraq has become. Each of us aims to qualify for the 2026 World Cup finals. The focus today has shifted to the American continent, where riots are erupting in its major cities like “Los Angeles,” and tension is also escalating in cities that are currently hosting the 2025 Club World Cup competitions.
• Our national team concluded its journey in the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in its last match in the qualifiers, losing its direct qualification opportunity by finishing third in its group. This was after failing its mission against Australia in Jeddah, losing 2-1, leading to its chuyển to the Asian playoff.
• معلقو الدوري السعودي (Saudi League Commentators)
• Channel 8 announced some time ago that it had won the broadcasting rights for the Saudi League for professionals in the new sports season and the following one. We were happy with this announcement, which went to this channel, and we wish it all success in its new tasks. However, with the existence of this channel, I wish everyone all the best first, but the channel must consider bringing commentators for the matches who will be of high quality and meet the aspirations of the esteemed viewer.
• Honestly, there are names that deserve to be excluded due to the low quality of their performance and voice. I remember former commentators for a few who do not deserve to comment on Saudi League matches.
• كوفنتري والتحديات (Coventry and Challenges)
• The road is not paved with roses for Kirsty Coventry, President of the Zimbabwean Olympic Committee, as she faces many new challenges. Perhaps the most prominent of these is dealing with political issues, sports politics, and the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in the games, as well as identifying and testing the host country for the 2036 Summer Olympic Games.
• Perhaps Coventry, with her long experience in sports and administration, and as a member of the International Olympic Committee, led to her selection over other competitors. She is a woman who believes that sports is a force unparalleled in unifying and inspiring, and that it is committed to providing opportunities for all.
• اللؤلؤة البحرية (The Marine Pearl)
• The island of “Shughaib”, located in the Red Sea off the coast of Ras Mohaysin in Makkah Al-Mukarramah region, is one of the natural jewels that the Kingdom abounds with. It is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and crystal clear beaches. The island is about 0.4 nautical miles from the coast, and is characterized by its soft white sands and clear waters that reflect the beauty of untouched nature.
• “Shughaib” attracts diving enthusiasts due to its vibrant coral reefs, intertwined in the depths of the sea. This makes it a unique destination for lovers of underwater exploration. The purity of the water and the enchanting atmosphere bring healing to the visitor, as the island enjoys a calm, natural, and charming atmosphere.
• مبادرة كنوز السعودية تطلق فيلم “الوجهة” (Saudi Treasures Initiative Launches “The Destination” Film)
• The Saudi Treasures Initiative at the Ministry of Media launched the film “The Destination,” which reviews the developments the Kingdom has witnessed in recent years in political, economic, medical, sports, cultural, and media fields. It aims to highlight the steady and accelerating steps towards achieving the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and its transformation into a global destination.
• The film, titled “The Destination,” carries the concept of looking towards the future and progressing towards achieving goals. This aligns with the Kingdom’s ambitious path and its realization of its transformative plans. The Kingdom is currently a destination that the world looks to, given the giant projects it is implementing in various fields, whose great impact is evident globally.
• »فاكهة الصيف«.. تعود للأسواق (“Summer Fruit”… Returns to Markets)
• The watermelon, a sweet-tasting fruit, is characterized by its official announcement of the start of the summer season. People enjoy it as temperatures rise, especially if it has gained coolness in the shade or air conditioning, and among the trees.
• Watermelon is distinguished by multiple health benefits due to its content of fiber, protein, natural sugars, and water, in addition to its bright red color. Its shapes and sizes vary, ranging from round to elongated.
• »حياكة السدو«.. تراث أصيل (“Al Sadu Weaving”… Authentic Heritage)
• The traditional handicrafts at the “Bayt Hail, Ya Ba’d Hayyi” event, in its fourth edition at Aja Park in Hail city, attracted the attention of visitors and interested individuals. These diverse ancient traditional handicrafts were famous among the Bedouin people.
• A number of Al Sadu weaving practitioners presented authentic artistic works. They contributed to reviving the craft of traditional manual sewing, which had disappeared. They have been producing many works since the past period, years ago.
• »العرج«.. وادي الثمار والمياه الجارية (“Al Arj”… Valley of Fruits and Flowing Water)
• Like an open theater, or an unfolding window, through which the visitor and park-goer looks today onto a historical era deeply rooted in antiquity. It clearly embodies the features of agricultural, social, and economic life in Taif, making it a familiar place.
• The valley has been inhabited for hundreds of years. Successive nations settled it due to its fertile land, abundance of water resources, and distinctive location as an agricultural area for producing and cultivating grains and fruits.
• في انتظار الطبيب (Waiting for the Doctor)
• In one of the hospital waiting areas, a conversation took place among several patients while waiting for the doctor, who was late from his scheduled appointment. One of them said: “My appointment was at eight in the morning, and I was asked to arrive 15 minutes early, but the doctor hasn’t shown up yet!”
• The second responded: “The doctor, like anyone else, is subject to circumstances that cause delays”. The third added: “That’s true, but we heard that this doctor habitually comes late”. The fourth person remarked: “I was once five minutes late due to traffic, and I was told to reschedule my appointment”.
• بين الطموح والرضا (Between Ambition and Contentment)
• Perhaps the fear that artificial intelligence will steal all our jobs is exaggerated, but ignoring its impact on employment is not an option. Does AI kill jobs randomly? No, rather it redraws the map of the workforce, and demands that we rethink who we prepare, train, and qualify for the future.
• In the heart of each of us is a continuous struggle between the ambition of what we hope for and the contentment with what we have today. How do we balance these two desires, which seem contradictory in appearance, but in reality, they are two wings of one bird that allow it to fly, grow, and develop?
• تبطون.. هم بال عيوب (They Delay.. They Are Without Flaws)
• A local study published in 2017 showed that 45% of Saudi children have experienced some form of abuse and violence in their lives, and 12% of these were subjected to such behavior permanently. The most dangerous of these abuses are verbal violence or verbal interpretation, as they persist with the individual throughout their life, representing a noticeable behavior among a high percentage of citizens in the Kingdom.
• This comes framed by customs and traditions, often seen as acceptable in certain social situations and various behaviors. In the adventurous pursuit of desired perfection, a person tries to distance themselves from the table of criticism and social commentary. Perhaps the most common abuses in the Saudi scene, particularly for women, are verbal ones that enter under the guise of “good management” or “masculinity sciences,” using religious and kinship justifications, along with a string of crude or harsh words to beautify them if necessary.
• المدارس المركزية بين التمكين والاستدامة (Central Schools: Between Empowerment and Sustainability)
• The famous Chinese proverb “If you want one year of prosperity, plant grains; if you want ten years, plant trees; and if you want a hundred years, plant a human” embodies the importance and lasting impact of human capital. Investing in human capital registers an increasing trend in Saudi education. In response, central schools have made a prominent presence in excellence, achieving local, Gulf, and international awards. They top performance indicators according to the Education and Training Evaluation Commission’s school evaluation standards, with more than 292 schools declared excellent in 2024. These schools continue to reap achievements under the support of a wise government that believes in investing in human capital development.
• On the other hand, schools in remote areas still face chronic structural challenges that negatively affect the quality of their educational outcomes and their ability to achieve sustainability. Here, the fundamental question arises: How do we bridge the gap between educational outcomes in urban and rural environments to ensure fair and comprehensive education for all?

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

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