Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 3, 2025: Hajj Logistical Arrangements, Sports World, Oil and Aviation, Gaza

These articles predominantly cover events and initiatives in Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on preparations for the upcoming Hajj season, including logistical arrangements, healthcare services, and media coverage. Additionally, they touch upon global news, such as international relations (specifically the US-Iran nuclear talks and Saudi diplomacy), the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and market trends in sectors like oil and aviation, alongside updates from the sports world. The texts highlight Saudi efforts to enhance visitor experiences, promote its cultural identity, and contribute to regional stability while also reporting on international incidents and economic shifts.

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Saudi Arabia’s Comprehensive Hajj Preparation and Management

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia places immense importance on enhancing the Hajj journey and ensuring the security and safety of pilgrims from the moment they arrive until they depart. Serving the pilgrims of the Grand Mosque is considered a historical responsibility, an honor, and a duty inherited by the leadership, with citizens competing for the honor of serving. The state mobilizes all material, human, and technical capabilities to provide an environment where the Guests of Rahman can experience security, safety, tranquility, and peace of mind. The security of Hajj is declared a red line, with no tolerance for anything that might compromise it.

Hajj management is described as a unique administrative system that operates continuously throughout the year, undergoing constant review, development, and innovation in organization, procedures, services, and technology. This comprehensive civilizational and humanitarian project for serving pilgrims involves intensive efforts and programs to ensure security. The Kingdom reassures Muslims globally that its security forces are at the highest levels of technical and mental readiness to ensure Hajj security, capable of quickly and decisively addressing anything that might disturb pilgrim security or peace. Precise security plans, enhanced coordination, and the ability to track pilgrim movement in the holy sites are highlighted as crucial.

Preparations involve a multifaceted approach drawing on accumulated expertise. A participatory model brings together the public and private sectors, specialized national and international companies, alongside government ministries and authorities, including the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee personally oversaw the readiness of security forces for their field tasks. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development conducts extensive field tours (>4,000) during the Hajj season to monitor compliance with labor laws and ensure a safe work environment. The Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) also completes its preparations to participate, ensuring control and readiness for pilgrim services.

Key aspects of Hajj preparations based on the sources include:

• Security & Crowd Management: Intensive efforts and programs secure Hajj rituals. The latest technologies are utilized for pilgrim safety and security. Security forces are highly prepared technically and mentally. Crowd management is a complex security operation demanding high readiness and coordination among different entities. Security forces are strategically present at key points to ensure pilgrim flow and use smart systems for monitoring and crowd control to reduce accidents and congestion. The Deputy Public Prosecutor emphasizes legal protection for the holy sites and pilgrims, utilizing advanced technology and qualified personnel.
• Transportation: Hajj transport has undergone significant transformations, moving from traditional means to large-scale projects incorporating AI. AI is used in modern transportation projects. Transportation is a core element, viewed as vital and linked to security and public safety. Transportation options have become more varied and efficient, including buses and trains. Developments include the expansion of roads, tunnels, and bridges. New transport systems and technologies are deployed. Strategic projects ensure safe and comfortable transport for pilgrims. Notable projects are the Holy Sites Train (connecting Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina) and the Haramain Train (linking Mecca, Jeddah, and Medina). Innovative solutions like electric scooters and golf carts assist the elderly and those with health issues in moving quickly within the holy sites. The Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services has enhanced infrastructure, including road expansion and innovations like rubber walkways to ease walking strain. Dedicated pedestrian paths and smart systems for traffic monitoring enhance flow. The General Syndicate of Cars provides buses meeting high standards, and modern technologies like tracking maps and mobile apps are used.
• Health Services: The Kingdom provides comprehensive health services through an integrated medical system, described as the largest of its kind globally. The Ministry of Health supervises a plan focused on prevention and rapid intervention. Services are available in hospitals, health centers, field clinics, and through specialized medical teams and volunteers. A wide network operates 24/7, providing care, treatment, prevention, and awareness. Translation services are provided to facilitate communication with pilgrims of different nationalities. Precise procedures handle emergencies with mobile ambulance teams in crowded areas and coordination for quick transport. Volunteers provide crucial humanitarian support, relieving pressure on medical staff and assisting in awareness and first aid. Integrated medical clinics with modern equipment are available for King’s Guests, offering 24/7 services including check-ups and health education. The health minister noted the readiness of the health system with over 50,000 staff, increased capacity, equipped facilities, and preventive measures. Mobile medical units, like a stroke unit in Mecca, provide rapid, life-saving treatment on-site.
• Food and Logistics: Providing high-quality food services with variety and efficiency is a key focus. Partnerships between government, private sector, and charities ensure meal provision and distribution. All food undergoes strict control by the Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) to ensure safety, hygiene, and compliance. SFDA inspectors check food and drug shipments at entry points like Jeddah airport, using AI and advanced systems. Mecca Municipality also gives great importance to monitoring food and water, using advanced laboratories and electronic tracking systems. Distribution of food is coordinated via a precise system overseen by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, with detailed planning based on pilgrim numbers and camp locations. Specialized food options are available for different nationalities, dietary needs, or health conditions. Zamzam water and mineral water are widely distributed. The Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture inspects preparations, including water provision and sanitation projects, emphasizing quality and coordination.
• Guidance and Communication: Guidance and linguistic support are essential. Multilingual guides are trained to understand pilgrim needs and Hajj dynamics, providing support, accurate information on rituals, and helping with communication barriers. Female guiding teams are available for female pilgrims. Field teams work 24/7 for immediate support and translation. Interactive maps are used to help pilgrims navigate. Common languages are prioritized (e.g., Urdu, French, Farsi, Malay, Indonesian). The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance provides guidance services and hosts exhibitions showcasing the Kingdom’s efforts.
• Accommodation: Accommodation is a crucial element for pilgrim comfort. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah offers distinct Hajj packages via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform, providing flexibility in options and prices. Services contribute to facilitating Hajj, providing ease of access and hospitality. A project to transport pilgrim luggage from their home country to their accommodation is noted as a development. Mina is prepared with camps to receive pilgrims.
• Media and Awareness: The Ministry of Media launched the “Hajj Media Forum” to support media coverage and enhance cooperation, highlighting services and projects. It provides an integrated media environment with technology. Awareness campaigns, such as the “No Hajj without a Permit” campaign, play a role in organization and pilgrim safety. The Ministry of Media, Broadcasting and Television Authority, and the Government Communication Center are involved in highlighting Hajj efforts and broadcasting in multiple languages. Exhibitions showcase the Kingdom’s services.

Overall, the preparations for Hajj are comprehensive, involving detailed planning, significant investment in infrastructure and technology, extensive coordination among numerous government and private entities, mobilization of skilled personnel and volunteers, and continuous evaluation and development efforts, all aimed at enabling millions of pilgrims to perform their rituals in an atmosphere of security, ease, and comfort.

Gaza: Conflict, Aid Obstruction, and Displacement

Based on the sources provided, here’s a discussion of the situation in Gaza:

The Gaza Strip is currently experiencing a dire situation marked by ongoing conflict and humanitarian challenges. According to UNRWA, approximately 50,000 children have been killed or injured in Gaza within a span of just 20 months. Civilians, including children, aid workers, medical personnel, and journalists, continue to face the risk of death and injury.

Efforts to deliver humanitarian aid are severely obstructed. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) described humanitarian services in Gaza as among the most obstructed operations in the recent history of global humanitarian response. Since March, Israeli authorities have imposed a tight siege on humanitarian aid and goods, allowing only what the UN has termed a “drop in the ocean of needs” to enter in the preceding two weeks. Due to Israeli restrictions and a lack of security, the UN and its partners have been unable to deliver most of the aid. The little aid that does enter is often looted by desperate residents struggling to feed their families. UNRWA has stated that current aid distribution methods are insufficient to meet the urgent humanitarian needs, particularly for the sick, elderly, and injured. They assert that they can deliver aid safely and on a large scale if there is a ceasefire.

There are reports from Gaza indicating that aid distribution centers themselves have become dangerous locations. The Israeli army has reportedly targeted Palestinians near an aid distribution center in western Rafah on consecutive days, resulting in dozens of casualties. Sources from Nasser Hospital reported people being killed and injured while attempting to reach an aid center in Rafah supported by Israel and the US. Gaza’s government media office reported a massacre targeting the aid distribution center in western Rafah and the Netzarim corridor, with numerous killed and injured. Officials in Gaza allege that the occupation forces deliberately target gatherings of displaced people for “liquidation” and intentionally gather families at aid centers to kill them there. They also claim that aid centers function as military points serving Israel’s agenda and that Israel is actively working to sabotage aid distribution systems, driving people towards these centers through famine before shooting them.

The Alliance of Lawyers for Palestine in Switzerland (ASAP) has raised concerns about an organization referred to as “Gaza Humanitarian,” alleging it involves elements from the US army and intelligence. According to the head of the alliance, this organization, working with “Safe Reach Solutions,” is reportedly hiring military and intelligence personnel to collect data aimed at facilitating the management or control of Gaza and securing aid. The reported goals include studying reactions, monitoring and recording tired communities, gathering digital identities, and processing data to identify members of Hamas and other armed individuals. The alliance views dealing with any official entity attempting to bring aid under these circumstances as a betrayal of humanitarian principles, humanitarian law, and the Palestinian cause. They are reportedly collaborating with Swiss authorities to investigate the work of this organization and others involved in aid efforts.

Geographically, with the expansion of Israeli actions, less than 18% of Gaza’s area remains where civilians are permitted. The rest of the territory is either under direct Israeli control or designated as evacuation areas subjected to continuous shelling. Displacement continues across Gaza, with hundreds of thousands displaced in a two-week period. The overall situation is described as the worst since the start of the war, with shelling persistent throughout the Strip, including in the north where the last partially functioning hospital was forced to evacuate.

Politically, the GCC Ministerial Council has addressed the situation, condemning Israel’s announcement about creating an agency aimed at displacing Palestinians from Gaza. They have affirmed their support for the Palestinian people in Gaza, calling for the end of the blockade, the opening of all crossings for humanitarian aid, and the provision of protection. They also expressed support for the two-state solution and rejected attempts to displace the population of Gaza.

Global Oil Market Dynamics and Forecasts

Based on the sources provided, the oil market is currently experiencing dynamic shifts influenced by production decisions, demand trends, and geopolitical factors.

Recently, oil prices have risen, with Brent crude increasing by 2.33% ($1.46 per barrel to $64.24) and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rising by 2.73% ($1.66 to $62.45). This price increase occurred after OPEC+ decided to increase production by 411,000 barrels per day (bpd) in July. This represents the third consecutive month of increases of this size. The market had largely priced in this July increase, although some participants reportedly expected a larger increase. Goldman Sachs anticipates a similar 410,000 bpd increase will be finalized for August.

OPEC+, the group of major oil producers, appears to be using these increases as part of a strategy to recover market share, particularly from members like Iraq and Kazakhstan who have reportedly been overproducing relative to their committed quotas. However, Kazakhstan reportedly intends not to cut its output. OPEC+ aims to maintain market stability through production quotas, but challenges arise from delays in responding to price changes, as well as the impact of a slowing global economy, rising inflation, and reduced consumer spending.

Regarding supply, Saudi Arabia’s oil exports rose to 6 million bpd in May and are expected to increase further in June, which some interpret as a potential gap between its production agreements and actual exports. Russian crude exports transported by sea fell slightly in April to 4.82 million bpd after being stable in March and increasing slightly in April. Overall, the agreed OPEC+ production increase reportedly has not yet translated into increased shipments. Forecasts based on expected supply growth, particularly from US shale, suggest potential market surpluses of 1.5 million bpd in 2025 and 2.5 million bpd in 2026. US crude output reached its highest level in March at 13.49 million bpd, but the number of active oil rigs in the US has declined, reaching its lowest level since November 2021 in the week prior to the report.

On the demand side, there has been a significant increase in gasoline demand in the United States with the start of the summer driving season. A weekly increase of nearly 1 million bpd in US gasoline demand was noted as the third highest weekly increase in the past three years. Conversely, there are signs of weakening Asian demand for crude, particularly in China, which may be partly due to trade disruptions. China’s oil imports had increased in March and April, leading to a crude surplus of 1.98 million bpd in April (the highest since June 2023) due to purchases of discounted oil from sources like Iran and Russia, but China’s imports fell in May. Overall, Asian demand hasn’t increased despite lower prices in the first quarter of 2024.

Crude inventories in the developed world increased by 21.4 million barrels in March, reaching 1.323 billion barrels, although this is still 139 million barrels below the 2015-2019 average.

Geopolitical factors are also playing a role in the oil market. Increased military actions between Russia and Ukraine are providing support to oil prices. There is also discussion in the US Congress about potentially imposing more sanctions on Moscow, targeting countries that purchase Russian oil like China and India. A proposed US law suggests a 500% tariff on imports from countries that transport Russian oil, which could potentially limit global supply and cause prices to rise.

Saudi Arabia holds a strong position in the market due to its high production capacity, exceeding 3 million bpd, and reportedly very low lifting costs ($3.53/barrel). This allows the Kingdom flexibility to increase its market share when prices are high or stable, potentially offsetting production cuts made as part of OPEC+ agreements. The Kingdom is also investing in advanced technology for oil extraction and processing. The Saudi Minister of Finance views the current lower prices and global uncertainty as an “opportunity” to re-evaluate financial plans and avoid the “trap of economic volatility,” emphasizing flexible spending and boosting investment alongside potential strategies to enhance oil revenues from production to refined products. Saudi Arabia’s voluntary production cuts, exceeding 9.5 million bpd of its total capacity, are seen as a positive step for gradually raising prices, despite these cuts continuing until the end of 2026.

Looking ahead, analysts forecast Brent crude prices at $56/barrel and WTI at $52/barrel in 2026, based on expectations of future surpluses. Meanwhile, in the UK, high energy costs for manufacturing are highlighted as a significant challenge, reportedly being the highest among major advanced economies.

Saudi Cultural Events and Initiatives

Based on the sources provided, the cultural landscape discussed is dynamic and involves various events, initiatives, and areas of focus within Saudi Arabia and through its participation internationally. These activities often highlight national identity, heritage, arts, language, and creativity, sometimes linking to broader national goals like Vision 2030.

Here are some of the cultural events and initiatives mentioned:

• Hajj-Related Cultural Activities:
• The Forum on the History of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques is a pioneering scientific and knowledge-based project organized by Darat King Abdulaziz in cooperation with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. It aims to highlight the historical and cultural heritage of the Two Holy Mosques. The forum is intended to provide a scientific and knowledge environment for researchers and specialists from different countries. It seeks to document the journey of Hajj from its beginnings to the present day, highlighting civilizational and organizational aspects and the experiences of pilgrims. This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s continuous efforts since its unification to serve pilgrims and the Two Holy Mosques, viewing it as an honor and responsibility.
• The Hajj Media Forum, in its second edition, was launched by the Ministry of Media as part of the “Serving the Guests of God” program, a realization of Vision 2030. It serves as an integrated media center and interactive exhibition, including studios, a live broadcast platform, and virtual reality technology. The forum aims to support media coverage, enhance cooperation in a technology-rich environment, and showcase the significant transformation and services provided to pilgrims, as well as major projects and achievements in the Two Holy Mosques and Holy Sites. It involves participation from various government and private entities. The forum also aims to enhance innovation in media content and coverage of Hajj.
• The Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit, implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, involves welcoming guests from over 100 countries. The program provides comprehensive services, including integrated medical clinics. It also includes cultural elements such as showcasing Saudi hospitality and culture, exemplified by the “Saudi Coffee” corners in the accommodation centers, which received significant interest from pilgrims. An exhibition is part of this program, reviewing the Kingdom’s efforts in serving Islam and Muslims, and highlighting the services provided to the guests, including their reception, performance of rituals, and visits to historical sites in Mecca and Medina. The exhibition also features a section dedicated to quotes from Saudi kings regarding the service of pilgrims. Guests have praised the program, seeing it as a unique model reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to serving the guests of God.
• Heritage and Museums:
• The Saudi Embassy in the Netherlands celebrated the International Museum Day and World Heritage Day in The Hague. The event included a heritage exhibition, featuring reproductions of historical and archaeological pieces, and a visual presentation of the virtual reality of the National Museum in the Kingdom. It highlighted the Kingdom’s efforts in heritage protection and registration on the UNESCO World Heritage list, specifically mentioning the registration of Al-Faw village. The event emphasized the vital role of cultural and heritage institutions in preserving shared human history and promoting understanding and dialogue between civilizations. The Kingdom is committed to protecting and enhancing its cultural heritage as part of Vision 2030.
• Arts and Creativity:
• The Saudi Cultural Fund participated in Expo Osaka 2025, hosting a dialogue session titled “Entrepreneurship for Innovation: A Saudi Cultural Endeavor”. The session highlighted the thriving cultural sector in the Kingdom and the accelerated growth of entrepreneurship in cultural fields, emphasizing the sector’s economic and social impact. The Fund’s role in empowering entrepreneurs through financial and developmental solutions was also showcased. The event included showcasing innovative handicrafts, reflecting the beauty of Saudi handicrafts. This participation is part of the Fund’s efforts during Expo Osaka to highlight the Saudi cultural identity and review its development journey within the framework of Vision 2030.
• The “Jahbid” (The Gifted) exhibition in Tabuk showcased the work of young artists inspired by pioneers of Saudi plastic art. The initiative aimed to appreciate Saudi artists, highlight local art, connect children to their visual and cultural identity, and plant a love for art in them from a young age. It is seen as a step towards supporting cultural objectives within Vision 2030, contributing to building a vibrant, creative society. The exhibition was the result of a three-month training journey that transformed children from art appreciators into confident creators.
• Ethraa Eid, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra)’s Eid al-Adha celebration, includes over 31 diverse activities under the theme “A Ribbon of Giving”. These activities blend joy, knowledge, and inspiration in a creative cultural framework. Events include storytelling sessions, a performance celebrating cultural diversity in the Islamic world, a musical performance, handicrafts exhibitions, interactive experiences promoting values, art installations, creative workshops, and cinema screenings. The event aims to provide unique cultural experiences and strengthen Ithra’s role as a cultural destination.
• Language and Literature:
• The King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language concluded a program in Jeddah for “Qualifying Arabic Experts” in partnership with King Abdulaziz University. The program involved training Arabic language teachers for non-native speakers to enhance their competencies and transfer knowledge, supporting the Academy’s strategic path in empowering the Arabic language globally.
• The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 is mentioned as a major cultural event that hosted numerous writers, publishers, and intellectuals, focusing on promoting local literature and cultural identity. (Note: This event took place in Abu Dhabi, not Saudi Arabia, although Saudi participants might have attended).
• Cultural Documentation and Reflection:
• A book titled “Airports” documents the history and development of aviation in the Northern Borders region over 75 years, including historical visits and strategic importance. This represents an effort in documenting specific aspects of the region’s history and development.
• An article reflects on “The Symphony of the Place: The Memory of Living Sound,” discussing how the distinct sounds of different places within Saudi Arabia (like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Al-Ahsa) constitute an important, unwritten part of cultural identity and heritage.

These sources indicate a concerted effort to preserve, promote, and innovate within the cultural sphere, often leveraging events and exhibitions to engage audiences and showcase Saudi identity and contributions globally.

Saudi Arabia Sports Highlights

Based on the provided sources, discussions around sports events cover various aspects, from national team preparations and domestic competitions to international participation and hosting, as well as player transfers and the intersection of sports with leadership and community engagement.

Here are some of the sports events and related activities mentioned:

• Football:
• The Saudi national football team is preparing for upcoming matches against the Bahraini and Australian national teams. Preparations include training sessions. Specific players like Abdullah Mado and Jihad Thikri are mentioned, with Mado participating in training and Thikri being replaced due to injury. The coach, Herve Renard, will determine the lineup for the match against Bahrain. The team will conduct training sessions, with the first quarter-hour open to media, before traveling to Manama.
• The draw for the Round of 32 of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup (King’s Cup) for the 2025-2026 season was held. This competition is referred to as one of the “most expensive cups”. The draw resulted in strong matchups, including Al Ittihad facing Al Wehda, Al Hilal meeting Al Adalah, Al Nassr playing Al Arabi, and Al Ahli visiting Jeddah. Other matchups for the Round of 32 are also listed. The matches are scheduled to take place between September 21-24, with the exact times and stadiums to be determined later. The participating clubs include teams from the Roshen Saudi League and the first division.
• Al Hilal club’s striker, Aleksandar Mitrovic, is reportedly on the radar of three English clubs: Manchester United, Everton, and West Ham United. Mitrovic is 30 years old and is seemingly willing to accept a pay cut to return to play in Europe. Al Hilal might agree to sell him if an offer of 40 million British pounds is received. Mitrovic joined Al Hilal in the summer of 2023. In his first season, he helped the team win the local treble (Roshen League, King’s Cup, Saudi Super Cup). He also won the Super Cup again at the start of the 2024-2025 season. The source notes that Al Hilal’s performance this season was below expectations, as they lost the Roshen League title, were eliminated from the King’s Cup quarter-finals, and the Elite Asian Champions League semi-finals. Mitrovic’s statistics for Al Hilal (appearances, goals, assists) and his current market value are also provided.
• The Saudi Football Federation participated in the FIFA Global Football Week. This event, organized by FIFA, aims to implement social initiatives and enhance closeness between communities, players, fans, and cultures. The SFF’s participation was through regional training centers, academies, and sports clubs across various regions in the Kingdom. The event included sports and entertainment activities under the slogan “Together We Are Stronger,” coinciding with FIFA Foundation Day and the Paris Olympics. The SFF also prepared tools for national federations, clubs, centers, and communities to help organize successful local events for this occasion, which is being held for the first time and is planned to be annual.
• Al Hazem club has achieved promotion back to the Roshen Saudi League. Their return followed a playoff victory. The source highlights the club’s determination, the cooperation among players, administration, and fans, and the positive impact of technical and administrative changes and player acquisitions. Al Hazem has a notable history, being the team with the most promotions to the top league. Their best achievement in the league was seventh place. Their upcoming season will be their eighth in the top flight since the 2009 season. The promotion means they will play the “Al Rass derby” against Al Kholood for the first time in the top league. To maintain their position in the top league, the club needs to analyze their past performance, address weaknesses, secure strong administrative support and sufficient budget, and recruit new players.
• An article reflects on the previous season, particularly praising Al Ittihad club’s success in winning the Roshen League and the King’s Cup. It highlights the unity within the club (administration, players, fans) as a key factor. The support from the fans, referred to as the “Ittihad stands,” is specifically commended for its organization and impact, becoming a model that other clubs and international media discussed. Fan displays during the King’s Cup final are mentioned as conveying significant messages linked to national identity and leadership.
• A commentary section discusses various football-related topics, including issues with the Sports Arbitration Center following Al Wehda’s protest, commentary regarding the center’s management, Al Qadsiah coach’s excuses after losing to Al Ittihad, the historical loss of Italian club Inter Milan and its potential impact on speculation linking coach Inzaghi to Al Hilal.
• The Asian ‘C’ Coaching License course, organized by the technical department of the Saudi Football Federation, has concluded. The course, held over 5 days in Jeddah, involved 24 national coaches. It aimed to enhance their skills through theoretical and practical training, including preparing training units and testing methods. This is part of the SFF’s efforts to develop national coaches.
• The CAF Champions League saw Egyptian club Pyramids FC win the title for the first time. This is noted as significant as they are the fourth Egyptian club to win. Pyramids FC’s history, including past ownership by Saudi figure Turki Al Sheikh, and their status as a non-traditional club reaching the final are mentioned. Their victory qualifies them for the African Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2029.
• Preparations for the FIFA Club World Cup are mentioned, with Manchester City excluding player Mateo Kovacic due to injury. Borussia Dortmund has also begun preparations with a limited squad due to international duties. The new format tournament is set to begin in June. The timing is noted as causing issues for clubs’ schedules and player contracts. Dortmund is reportedly interested in signing Jobe Bellingham. Dortmund’s match against Fluminense in the group stage is mentioned.
• In European football transfers, Bayer Leverkusen reportedly rejected a second offer from Liverpool for player Florian Wirtz. Details of the offer value and Leverkusen’s asking price are included. Other clubs had previously withdrawn interest due to the high price.
• Judo:
• The Minister of Sports Judo Cup championship has concluded. Organized by the Saudi Judo Federation, the event took place in Riyadh with the participation of over 160 players from 28 clubs in the senior category. Competitions were held across seven weight categories. The winning clubs were Al Nassr (1st), Al Hilal (2nd), Al Ahli (3rd), and Al Ittihad (4th). The Excellence Shield was awarded to Al Fateh, Al Qadsiah, and Al Shabab for their performance throughout the season. The head of the Judo Federation emphasized the tournament’s role in supporting clubs and players and raising the level of competition.
• Multi-Sport Events / Solidarity Games:
• The Heads of Missions seminar for the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games, to be held in Riyadh in November 2025, has commenced. The seminar includes representatives from national Olympic and Paralympic committees of the member states of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Federation. Hosting the games reflects the significant progress of Saudi sports and aims to strengthen cooperation and unity among Islamic nations through sports, aligning with Vision 2030. Presentations were given on the current preparations, operational plans, services, and facilities. Visits were also made to sports facilities, including those for camel racing and “Jump Saudi”.
• Leadership and Sports:
• An article discusses the qualities of a strategic leader, using the example of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attending the final match of the King’s Cup. His presence is highlighted as an illustration of leadership traits such as distributing responsibility, valuing collaboration, and humility.

These events reflect a vibrant sports scene in Saudi Arabia, with significant focus on developing national capabilities, hosting international events, and engaging communities, often linked to broader national development goals like Vision 2030.

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

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