These sources offer a multifaceted view of Saudi Arabia’s recent developments and global interactions. They detail strategic economic initiatives like bolstering industrial partnerships and tourism while addressing its environmental commitment through combating desertification and expanding green initiatives, aligning with Vision 2030. The texts also cover advancements in healthcare, including new medical facilities and drone technology for aid delivery during Hajj, and highlight cultural preservation efforts through the registration of historical sites and promotion of traditional crafts. Furthermore, the documents touch upon geopolitical tensions, specifically the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran and its impact on global energy markets, alongside the global economic outlook affected by trade disputes and interest rate fluctuations.

New Food Regulations: Transparency, Nutrition, and Health Choices

The General Food and Drug Authority has announced the approaching date for the implementation of new technical food regulations. These regulations are designed to enhance nutritional transparency and provide consumers with sufficient information when dining out, empowering them to make informed and healthy food choices.

Key details about these new regulations include:

• Effective Date: The regulations are set to become effective starting July 1, 2025.
• Scope of Application: These requirements will apply to all food menus, regardless of whether they are in paper or electronic format. This also includes electronic food ordering platforms.
• Requirements for Food Establishments:Food establishments will be obligated to display general nutritional guidance information on their menus. This information will be presented as a “Malaḥah” or “Notice”.
• They must also provide detailed nutritional information for meals high in salt.
• Furthermore, establishments are required to disclose the caffeine content in beverages.
• They must also clarify the estimated time needed to burn the calories consumed from a particular meal.
• Objectives of the Regulations: The General Food and Drug Authority aims for these initiatives to:
• Offer healthier food options.
• Encourage the adoption of a balanced lifestyle.
• Assist consumers in understanding the amounts of salt and caffeine they consume.
• Alignment with International Recommendations: These regulations also seek to align with the health recommendations approved by the World Health Organization (WHO).
• The WHO advises a sodium intake reduction, recommending that adults consume no more than 5 grams of salt daily (equivalent to one small teaspoon).
• For caffeine, the WHO recommends that adults do not exceed 400 mg per day, and pregnant women should limit their intake to 200 mg per day.
• Resources for Consumers: To facilitate understanding and adherence, the Authority provides tools for both food establishments (like restaurants and cafes) and consumers. For instance, a “Caffeine Calculator” is available on the Authority’s website (https://www.sfda.gov.sa/ar/body-calculators/caffeine-calculator) to easily determine caffeine levels in beverages. Additionally, consumers can access approved technical regulations for high-salt and caffeine meals, and for physical activities, through the “Mwasfah” electronic store (https://mwasfah.sfda.gov.sa/Home).

Middle East Volatility: Iran, Israel, Gaza, and Global Impact

The sources indicate a highly volatile situation in the Middle East, primarily focusing on escalating tensions between Iran and Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. These conflicts are having significant humanitarian and economic impacts, and are drawing international attention and concern.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the tensions:

1. Iran-Israel Conflict and Regional Escalation:

• Direct Hostilities: Iran and Israel have exchanged new rocket attacks. Israeli military officials stated that over 50 Israeli fighter jets conducted a series of airstrikes on military targets in the Tehran area. Iran, in turn, announced that it launched approximately 400 rockets towards Israel, with about 40 of them penetrating Israeli air defenses, resulting in casualties.
• Targeting Nuclear-Related Sites: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that Israel bombed two sites in Iran that produce components for centrifuges used to enrich uranium. These facilities were reportedly under IAEA monitoring. Israel’s objective is to destroy Iran’s nuclear program, while Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and asserts its right to peaceful nuclear technology.
• US Involvement and Stance:US President Donald Trump called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and warned that the US “is running out of patience”. His messages have been described as “contradictory and sometimes ambiguous,” ranging from military threats to diplomatic initiatives.
• The US military has deployed more fighter jets to the Middle East, including F-16, F-22, and F-35 aircraft, and expanded the deployment of other military aircraft. This deployment is described by the US Defense Secretary as defensive, aimed at protecting forces from potential Iranian retaliation.
• There are reports that Trump is considering options including participating with Israel in striking Iranian nuclear sites. However, the British Prime Minister indicated no sign of Washington being on the verge of entering the conflict.
• The US State Department formed a special task force to assist US citizens and diplomatic missions in the Middle East amidst the conflict.
• The US has faced criticism for obstructing a “strongly worded” joint statement from the G7 summit condemning Russia regarding Ukraine, reportedly to maintain its ability to negotiate with Iran.
• Iranian Response: Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, stated that Iran would not accept Trump’s call for unconditional surrender and emphasized that peace or war cannot be imposed on the Islamic Republic. He warned that any US military intervention would result in “irreparable losses”. Iran has moved some ballistic missile launch platforms, but it’s unclear if they target US forces or Israel.
• Regional Influence and Impact on Iran: Israeli airstrikes targeting military and security advisors close to Khamenei have created a significant void in his inner circle, increasing the risk of strategic errors. Iran’s influence in the region has reportedly declined since October 7, 2023, due to strong Israeli strikes against its allies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and other armed factions.

2. Gaza Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis:

• Casualties and Destruction: 34 Palestinians were killed and dozens injured in Israeli shelling and shootings in Gaza. The Israeli occupation army continues its aggression and war of extermination on the Gaza Strip, causing hundreds of martyrs and wounded. Sources reported the martyrdom of 11 people and the injury of 100 more due to Israeli shelling targeting aid seekers.
• Humanitarian Situation: Local sources report that five citizens were killed in an Israeli shelling that targeted displaced persons’ tents in Khan Yunis. The Israeli occupation forces have continued raids in eastern Gaza City and eastern Jabalia. Israeli forces have been targeting aid distribution points, leading to hundreds of casualties. The Gaza municipality reported that central city markets were destroyed during the war and require urgent rehabilitation.
• Al-Aqsa Mosque and West Bank:Israeli occupation authorities are exploiting current political and military conditions, especially the aggression on Gaza, as a pretext to close Al-Aqsa Mosque and impose more restrictions, which is considered a “blatant aggression” on Muslim rights of worship. They aim to change the status quo in Al-Aqsa and impose Israeli sovereignty, part of a larger plan to Judaize Jerusalem.
• The Israeli occupation forces continue their incursions into West Bank areas, including Jenin, Hebron, Bethlehem, and Nablus, conducting wide-scale arrests, house raids, and restricting movement. Over 60 Palestinians were arrested in the West Bank.
• The number of Palestinian martyrs whose bodies are held by the occupation has risen to 47.
• The occupation imposes a strict siege on Jerusalem through 84 checkpoints, impeding Palestinian movement and isolating the city geographically.

3. Economic Impacts of Tensions:

• Global Market Volatility: Economic experts anticipate negative repercussions on the global economy due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. The escalating tensions cause high anxiety in investment environments, impacting Gulf financial markets.
• Oil and Gas Prices:Oil prices have risen due to fears that the Iran-Israel conflict could disrupt supplies. Analysts note that a significant portion of global oil (18-19 million barrels per day) passes through the Strait of Hormuz, and its closure could lead to sharp price increases. Iran has threatened to disrupt shipping through Hormuz if it is attacked.
• European natural gas prices have also surged, driven by fears of supply disruptions and increased geopolitical risks. Europe’s heavy reliance on global liquefied natural gas (LNG) flows makes it vulnerable to sharp fluctuations.
• The prolonged conflict would lead to a sharp rise in oil prices, potentially reaching $150 per barrel, although this would also put significant pressure on the global economy.
• Saudi Economic Resilience: Despite the regional turmoil, the Saudi economy demonstrates resilience and confidence due to its strong economic and financial position. The Kingdom’s prudent policies have helped shield the region from the negative impact of the conflict, maintaining stable economic conditions without significant price hikes or trade disruptions.

4. International Reactions and Saudi Arabia’s Role:

• Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): GCC states have condemned Israeli attacks on Iranian territory and reaffirmed their support for de-escalation efforts, emphasizing a peaceful resolution to conflicts through dialogue and understanding.
• Turkey: Turkish President Erdoğan stated that Netanyahu has “surpassed Hitler” in crimes of genocide, condemning Israel’s aggressive practices and emphasizing Turkey’s commitment to stopping Israeli aggression.
• Saudi Arabia’s Stance on Peace: Saudi Arabia is portrayed as a beacon of peace in a world of ongoing conflicts, striving for balance and peaceful resolution of disputes. The Kingdom emphasizes that its engagement in conflicts, like the Russia-Ukraine war, is not out of bias but as a mediator seeking de-escalation. Saudi Arabia’s assistance efforts span over 90 countries globally, reflecting a policy not confined by geography but driven by humanitarian principles.

Saudi Arabia’s Resilient Economy and Diversification Amidst Geopolitical Tensions

The sources provide a comprehensive overview of regional economic growth, particularly highlighting Saudi Arabia’s strong economic performance and ambitious diversification efforts amidst heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Here’s a detailed discussion:

1. Saudi Arabia’s Economic Resilience and Global Standing:

• A Leading Model: Saudi Arabia is depicted as a pioneering model at all levels, not just politically, but also economically, driven by a policy of stability, balance, and human values.
• Financial Strength: Economic experts confirm that the Saudi economy enjoys a strong financial and economic position, acting as a “safe haven for capital” due to its robust economic and financial standing and prudent policies. This has allowed it to largely shield the region from the negative impacts of conflict, maintaining stable economic conditions without significant price hikes or trade disruptions.
• Dominant Brand Power: The Kingdom has dominated the list of the strongest public commercial brands in the Middle East, with Saudi brands holding half of the top ten positions by market value according to the “Brand Finance” report. Saudi commercial brands within the top list reached a total value of $75.5 billion, representing 57% of the total market value of the top ten brands in the Middle East. Companies like Saudi Aramco lead the list for the sixth consecutive year, followed by STC, STC Bank, Al Rajhi Bank, and SABIC. This reflects massive investments, the adoption of digital transformation, and enhanced presence in global forums.
• Vision 2030 Alignment: This economic success is directly linked to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to empower the private sector and enhance its competitiveness.

2. Impact of Regional Tensions on the Economy:

• Global Economic Repercussions: Economic experts anticipate negative repercussions on the global economy due to the escalating Iran-Israel crisis, causing high anxiety in investment environments.
• Oil and Gas Market Volatility:Oil prices have risen due to fears of supply disruptions from the Iran-Israel conflict. A significant portion of global oil (18-19 million barrels per day) passes through the Strait of Hormuz, and any disruption or closure, as threatened by Iran, could lead to sharp price increases, potentially reaching $150 per barrel.
• European natural gas prices have also surged amidst fears of supply disruptions and increased geopolitical risks, especially given Europe’s heavy reliance on global liquefied natural gas (LNG) flows and reduced dependency on Russian pipeline gas. Disruptions in Qatari LNG exports through the Strait of Hormuz could push gas prices above 100 euros/MWh.
• Increased Shipping Costs: The conflict contributes to increased shipping costs and insurance premiums, which impacts global trade.
• Financial Market Fluctuations: Gulf financial markets have experienced initial drops, though described as “limited,” followed by signs of recovery, indicating market resilience. The US Federal Reserve’s stance on interest rates is also influenced by these tensions, with potential cuts to counter global slowdown.
• Gold Prices: Gold prices have risen, driven by a retreat in the dollar and the escalating tensions, as investors seek safe-haven assets.

3. Saudi Arabia’s Diversification and Investment Initiatives: The Kingdom is actively pursuing economic diversification away from oil, focusing on various sectors in line with Vision 2030:

• Advanced Industrial Capabilities: The Industrial Fund for Investment has entered a strategic partnership with Investindustrial, a leading European investment group, to attract global institutional capital and advanced industrial capabilities to the Kingdom. This aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional hub for high-value transformative industries. Collaboration focuses on vital sectors such as automation, medical devices, sustainable materials, consumer products, and food products. This partnership supports the “Made in Saudi” initiative and enables Saudi SMEs to integrate into global value chains. The Saudi Industry Forum 2025 is a key event reinforcing this drive for industrial transformation and global partnerships.
• Tourism Sector Boom:Saudi Arabia is significantly investing in its tourism sector, leveraging its unique cultural and historical diversity.
• Expo 2030 in Riyadh is a monumental event expected to add around 355 billion riyals to the non-oil GDP over 25 years, equivalent to about 19% of the 2023 non-oil GDP. It is also projected to generate over 38 billion riyals in visitor spending, creating thousands of jobs and stimulating the hospitality sector with an estimated 100,000 new hotel rooms in Riyadh.
• Projects like NEOM and The Line are highlighted as massive developments that integrate advanced technologies and adhere to high environmental standards.
• The Kingdom is also working to attract international students in tourism-related specialties, creating a unique educational and tourism destination.
• Dates and Palm Industry: Investment in the dates trade is a “promising opportunity,” with significant government support and incentives for investors. The Kingdom is a leading global producer of dates with over 157 date factories, and its date exports increased by 15.9% in 2024 compared to 2023, reaching 1.695 billion riyals.
• Energy Sector Expansion: Saudi Aramco is strengthening its global presence in the LNG market through strategic partnerships, aiming to secure a significant share. These steps are part of the company’s long-term strategy to diversify its investment portfolio and enhance global energy security, including clean energy.

4. Overall Outlook: Despite global economic slowdowns and geopolitical conflicts, Saudi Arabia’s economy demonstrates resilience and confidence due to its proactive policies and strategic vision. Experts emphasize the importance of adopting diversified investment strategies and remaining informed about economic and geopolitical developments to make informed decisions. The Kingdom’s efforts in economic diversification and sustainable development, particularly under Vision 2030, are seen as key drivers for its continued growth and stability in the long term.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Healthcare Transformation

Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a robust and forward-looking approach to healthcare initiatives, driven significantly by the ambitious targets of Vision 2030. The Kingdom’s efforts extend beyond traditional medical services to encompass public health, specialized treatments, and humanitarian care, often integrating advanced technologies and a focus on human well-being.

Here are some key healthcare initiatives and achievements highlighted in the sources:

• Comprehensive Healthcare for Pilgrims:
• Saudi Arabia considers the hospitality and comfort of pilgrims a fundamental principle of state policy, not merely a seasonal task. This is backed by massive governmental efforts and significant financial investments, reflecting a profound religious and moral responsibility.
• During the Hajj season, there has been a 60% increase in bed capacity compared to the previous year, with over 50,000 medical and technical staff dedicated to pilgrim care.
• New facilities include an emergency center at Mina Hospital with 200 beds, and three additional field hospitals with a total capacity exceeding 1200 beds, established in cooperation with various ministries.
• Extensive emergency response infrastructure includes 900 ambulances, 11 aircraft, 71 emergency points, and over 7500 paramedics and medical staff to ensure rapid and effective response in all conditions.
• Innovative medical logistics have been introduced, such as drone technology for rapid medical supply delivery, which can reduce delivery times from hours to as little as 5 minutes in key medical facilities. Air ambulances are also utilized to bypass ground congestion.
• Over 125,000 health services were provided, including over 4,800 hospitalizations, 2,156 intensive care cases, 16 open-heart surgeries, and numerous cardiac catheterization procedures.
• Over 1.4 million pilgrims received preventive care at entry points.
• The Health Center at Buraidah Pilgrims City provided therapeutic, preventive, and educational services to hundreds of beneficiaries, including vaccinations against meningitis and seasonal flu, and health awareness programs on proper nutrition and heatstroke prevention.
• Smooth departure processes for pilgrims are ensured at airports like Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina, with continuous flights and efficient baggage handling under the supervision of the Permanent Committee for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit.
• Advanced Medical Procedures and Technology:
• Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Hospital in Al-Suwaidi successfully performed an advanced endoscopic surgery for a patient with a slipped disc and spinal canal stenosis, demonstrating the use of innovative two-portal endoscopy that offers less pain and faster recovery without the need for spinal fixation.
• The Prince Sultan Center for Cardiac Surgery in Qassim achieved success in minimally invasive heart surgeries using endoscopy, avoiding the traditional sternum incision. These procedures for mitral valve conditions showcased the use of precise instruments and cameras, leading to quicker patient recovery.
• The Medina Health Cluster highlighted the efficiency of its “Injuries and Accidents Pathway”, which demonstrated rapid response and coordinated care between emergency and specialized medical teams in critical cases of trauma.
• Specialized Healthcare and Community Support:
• The Qassim Health Cluster achieved accreditation for its Sleep Disorders Center at King Fahad Specialized Hospital in Buraidah. This center offers advanced diagnostic and treatment services for various sleep disorders, equipped with modern technology and a specialized medical team adhering to global standards.
• The “Ta’afi” Charitable Association for Recovered Drug and Psychotropic Substance Addicts plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of individuals recovering from addiction, helping them reintegrate as productive members of society. This initiative is part of broader governmental efforts to combat drug abuse through awareness and comprehensive care for addicts and their families.
• The “Wiqayah” (Prevention) Public Health Office in Najran is responsible for licensing and qualifying health service providers, in addition to overseeing health awareness and education campaigns.
• The Saudi Charitable Society for Liver Patients “Kabdak” in Qassim entered a partnership to provide integrated and specialized medical services to liver patients, including discounted medical tests and awareness programs, aiming for sustainable health development and community partnership.
• The “Dam” Charitable Society for Friends of Blood Banks in Qassim is actively promoting a culture of blood donation and raising community awareness about its importance.
• Public Health and Regulatory Measures:
• The General Authority for Food and Drug is implementing new technical food regulations by July 2025. These regulations aim to enhance transparency by requiring food establishments to display nutritional information, including calorie counts, high-salt indicators, and caffeine content, to help consumers make informed and healthier choices. This also encourages a balanced lifestyle and aligns with global health recommendations for sodium and caffeine intake.
• Holistic Well-being and Family Health:
• A study indicated that strong family relationships contribute to children’s peaceful sleep. Parental involvement, shared family meals, and social activities were found to positively impact sleep patterns, while excessive electronic device use negatively affected them. This highlights a focus on holistic well-being that extends beyond clinical treatment to social and familial factors.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s healthcare initiatives are characterized by a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and comprehensive care, particularly evident in its extensive services for pilgrims and its adoption of advanced medical technologies. These efforts are part of a broader vision to enhance the quality of life and promote sustainable development across all sectors.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Cultural Heritage Initiatives

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a comprehensive strategy to enhance and preserve its cultural heritage, a cornerstone of its ambitious Vision 2030. These initiatives span various domains, from safeguarding archaeological sites to revitalizing traditional arts and celebrating local customs.

Here are some key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage initiatives:

• Archaeological Site Preservation and Documentation
• The Heritage Authority has significantly expanded the National Antiquities Register by adding 744 new archaeological sites. This brings the total number of registered sites to 10,061.
• These newly registered sites are distributed across various regions of the Kingdom, including Makkah (253 sites), Riyadh (167), Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah (11), Qassim (30), Eastern Province (13), Asir (64), Tabuk (72), Hail (13), Northern Borders (2), Jazan (23), Najran (86), and Al-Jouf (10).
• This effort aims to document and protect historical and cultural sites, reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage for future generations.
• The Heritage Authority encourages community participation in this endeavor, urging citizens and residents to report unregistered archaeological sites through the “Balagh” platform, official social media accounts, or the unified security operations center (911). This highlights the belief that community involvement is fundamental to protecting and developing national heritage.
• Revitalization of Traditional Arts and Crafts
• The year 2025 has been designated to celebrate handicrafts, underscoring their importance in shaping cultural identity and consciousness.
• Al-Rawashin (traditional wooden windows): This art form is highlighted as a unique fusion of function, beauty, and technology. Its revival is seen as a means to refine public taste, stimulate the local economy, and strengthen cultural identity. The crafting process involves meticulous steps, from precise measurements and selection of durable woods to intricate cutting, skillful assembly, and diverse ornamentation, reflecting a high level of craftsmanship.
• Al-Hasawi Bisht (traditional cloak from Al-Ahsa): This garment is a symbol of authenticity, luxury, and deep-rooted cultural identity. Al-Ahsa Governorate has a long history in crafting the Bisht, maintaining its quality, precision, and excellence across the Arab world despite the rise of automated manufacturing. Its intricate “Karmak” embroidery, using gold, silver, or silk threads, can take up to two weeks of skilled handwork. The Bisht’s global appeal and symbolic value, representing dignity, belonging, and elegance, contribute to the Ministry of Culture’s goal of establishing handicrafts as a sustainable economic and cultural pillar. It comes in various materials, including Kashmiri and Japanese fabrics with German zari, and different colors. Specialized winter Bishts are woven from camel wool, with the finest being a silk and wool blend. The craft’s secrets are largely preserved by traditional families in Al-Ahsa.
• Religious and Historical Landmarks
• Significant investments have been made in expanding religious sites, such as the Grand Mosque in Makkah, with costs exceeding 200 billion SAR.
• The Prophet’s Mosque in Medina is adorned with 27 movable domes, each weighing around 80 tons, showcasing a unique architectural design that combines grandeur with smooth movement. These domes aid in sound distribution and temperature regulation within the mosque. The mosque also features 10 towering minarets, reflecting various stages of Islamic architectural development. The “South-Eastern Minaret” is particularly notable due to its proximity to the Green Dome.
• Efforts are continuously made to ensure the smooth flow of visitors within the Prophet’s Mosque, especially in areas like Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifa. The Women’s Religious Affairs Agency has launched initiatives like “Al-Muhajjah in Dhul-Hijjah” to enrich the experience of female visitors by promoting Islamic values and moderation.
• Cultural Expressions and Experiences
• The coastal town of Omq offers a unique culinary heritage experience, famous for its traditional “Tannour” fish (Mifa fish), cooked in clay ovens and served with local bread. This highlights the preservation of traditional food practices and attracts visitors.
• Literary works like “Ahadith Rakb Al-Hajeej Wal-Qawafil” delve into the historical narrative of regions like Rabigh and Al-Juhfa, connecting them to the sacred rites of Hajj and Umrah.
• Cultural Infrastructure and Innovation
• The establishment of the Diriyah Arts for the Future Center as the first specialized center for new media arts in the Middle East and North Africa region demonstrates a focus on contemporary cultural expression alongside traditional arts. Its program, including the “Mechanization: Archaeology of New Media Arts in the Arab World” exhibition, explores the innovative re-employment of technology in art.
• There is a vision for future cultural development, with discussions around establishing fine arts museums in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, and potentially dedicated museums for pioneering artists, reflecting a desire to further institutionalize and promote the arts.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage initiatives are multifaceted, aiming not only to preserve its rich past but also to dynamically integrate it with contemporary advancements and foster a vibrant cultural future.

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

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

The provided sources offer a multi-faceted overview of recent developments and ongoing efforts within Saudi Arabia, primarily focusing on the Hajj pilgrimage and its management. They detail the Kingdom’s comprehensive strategies to enhance pilgrim experience through improved infrastructure, advanced health services, and innovative digital solutions. Beyond the pilgrimage, the texts touch upon Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning tourism sector, its commitment to sustainable agricultural development, and its role in fostering inter-civilizational dialogue. Additionally, the sources discuss the global frozen food market, geopolitical events such as the Ukraine war and oil market dynamics, and the broader societal impact of technology and stress.

The Unprecedented Success of Hajj 1446 AH

The management of Hajj in Saudi Arabia, particularly for the year 1446 AH (2025 CE), has been consistently described in the sources as an exceptional and unprecedented success. This achievement is primarily attributed to the divine grace of God, the wise directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the continuous, meticulous follow-up by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Key aspects and initiatives of Hajj management include:

• Integrated National System and Collaboration
• The success is a result of a comprehensive and integrated system involving various government and non-government sectors, including the Ministries of Health, Hajj and Umrah, Interior, Civil Defense, and numerous security agencies, as well as thousands of volunteers.
• These entities performed their roles with high professionalism and dedication, working in harmony to achieve a single goal: making Hajj a safe, spiritual, and civilized experience.
• The Supreme Hajj Committee extended gratitude to over 420,070 participants in Hajj 1446 AH through electronic thank you certificates, recognizing their immense efforts.
• Meticulous Planning and Execution
• The Hajj plans, encompassing security, health, preventive, organizational, service, and traffic aspects, were implemented with precision and thoroughness.
• The “No Hajj without a permit” campaign, initiated by the Ministry of Interior, was a crucial organizational step that significantly contributed to maintaining security and order, ensuring a smooth and organized Hajj experience. This measure was not merely regulatory but aimed at preserving the dignity of pilgrims.
• Technological Advancement and Digital Transformation
• The Kingdom has extensively adopted advanced technologies and smart systems, including artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, smart robots, and drones, to enhance service delivery and proactive response to pilgrim needs.
• The Nusuk platform serves as a unified digital platform for pilgrims, facilitating the issuance of Umrah permits, booking services, and overall journey planning. Umrah visas now require a documented accommodation contract through this platform to ensure service quality.
• The Smart Engineering Center for Command and Control for the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque affairs was launched in its pilot phase to improve service quality and decision-making.
• Smart screens provide real-time data for tawaf and sa’i, enhancing efficiency.
• Drone technology was effectively used for rapid delivery of medicines and vaccines to field medical facilities, reducing delivery time to as little as 5 minutes.
• Telemedicine services, such as remote consultations and quick diagnoses via video calls, contributed to efficient health service delivery.
• Infrastructure and Service Development
• Kadana Company implemented over 22 developmental projects in the Holy Sites for Hajj 1446 AH. These include:
• Projects to reduce heat stress, such as rubber pathways spanning over 190,000 square meters, more than 6,500 misting columns, and over 180,000 square meters of shaded areas, which resulted in a 90% reduction in heat stress cases.
• Over 290,000 square meters of green spaces were developed.
• More than 4,500 water coolers and drinking stations were distributed.
• Rest areas were established along pedestrian paths to aid pilgrims in regaining their energy.
• Accommodation capacity in Mina was increased through double-decker tents, supported by over 110,000 water facilities and new escalators to facilitate movement, especially for the elderly.
• Over 100 commercial units were developed in the holy sites, including partnerships with 20 leading brands, to enhance shopping services.
• 72 service centers were established to provide water and provisions.
• Transportation: The Masha’er Train transported approximately 1.87 million pilgrims between Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat across 2,154 trips during Hajj 1446 AH. The Haramain High-Speed Rail also plays a vital role in connecting pilgrims between Mecca and Medina. There were 46 new projects to enhance the electrical system in Mecca and the Holy Sites, costing over 3 billion riyals and increasing capacity by 75%.
• Pilgrim Experience and Care
• Pilgrims consistently expressed their comfort, security, and tranquility during Hajj.
• The Ministry of Health provided over 102,000 health services, including emergency care, transfers to hospitals, ICU admissions, cardiac catheterizations, and open-heart surgeries.
• A strong ethical commitment ensured that medical care was provided to all pilgrims, regardless of their permit status or ability to identify themselves, aligning with Islamic values and professional ethics.
• The “Medical Brotherhood” system was activated for air and ground transport of critical cases.
• The Arafat sermon was translated into 35 international languages, and awareness brochures were distributed in 9 languages, enhancing guidance for pilgrims.
• Cultural enrichment initiatives included exhibitions and visits to historical and religious sites, with over 59,000 visitors to the Grand Mosque Library and the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa.
• The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque oversaw the distribution of Zamzam water, providing over 293,000 bottles and utilizing special drinking fountains. They also provided thousands of electric and manual carts for pilgrims and established luggage storage centers.
• Continuous Improvement and Global Model
• The Kingdom’s proactive approach to Hajj management is evident in its commitment to continuous improvement, with preparations for the next Hajj season beginning immediately after the current one concludes.
• Saudi Arabia has become a global model in managing massive human gatherings and organizing pilgrimages, thanks to its accumulated expertise and ambitious vision.
• Pilgrim Statistics
• Hajj 1446 AH hosted 1,673,230 pilgrims, with 1,506,576 coming from outside the Kingdom and 166,654 from within.
• The Umrah season in 1445 AH saw a record 16,924,000 Umrah performers. The goal is to reach 15 million Umrah performers annually by 2025.

Overall, the Hajj management is characterized by a strong governmental commitment, advanced technological integration, massive infrastructure development, comprehensive health and logistical services, and a deep ethical consideration for the well-being of all pilgrims, reflecting the nation’s Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Tourism Transformation

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is undertaking significant and multifaceted initiatives to advance its tourism sector, driven by Vision 2030 which aims to position the nation as a leading global tourism destination. This comprehensive approach encompasses ambitious targets, technological integration, infrastructure development, and a strong focus on enhancing the visitor experience.

Here are key aspects of tourism development in Saudi Arabia:

• Strategic Vision and Ambitious Targets:
• The Kingdom is committed to accelerating its tourism sector, with a goal to host 150 million visitors annually by 2030, supported by qualitative investments in infrastructure and rich tourism seasons.
• In 2024, Saudi Arabia welcomed approximately 116 million visitors, demonstrating significant progress towards its Vision 2030 targets.
• The “Serving Guests of Rahman” program, initiated by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, aims to facilitate the hosting of Umrah performers and pilgrims, offering high-quality services and enriching their spiritual and cultural experience. This program sets a goal to raise the capacity for 15 million Umrah performers annually by 2025.
• Digital Transformation and Technological Integration:
• Saudi Arabia has adopted advanced technologies and smart systems, including artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, smart robots, and drones, to enhance service delivery and respond proactively to pilgrim and visitor needs.
• The Nusuk platform serves as a unified digital platform for pilgrims, streamlining the issuance of Umrah permits, booking services, and overall journey planning. For example, Umrah visas now require a documented accommodation contract through this platform to ensure service quality.
• The Smart Engineering Center for Command and Control for the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque affairs has been launched in its pilot phase to improve service quality and decision-making.
• Drones have been effectively utilized for rapid delivery of medicines and vaccines to field medical facilities during Hajj, reducing delivery time to as little as 5 minutes. Telemedicine services, such as remote consultations and quick diagnoses via video calls, have also contributed to efficient health service delivery.
• Infrastructure and Service Development:
• Kadana Company has implemented over 22 developmental projects in the Holy Sites for Hajj 1446 AH, which significantly enhance the overall visitor experience. These include projects to reduce heat stress, such as rubber pathways spanning over 190,000 square meters, more than 6,500 misting columns, and over 180,000 square meters of shaded areas, resulting in a 90% reduction in heat stress cases.
• Over 290,000 square meters of green spaces have been developed. More than 4,500 water coolers and drinking stations have been distributed. Rest areas have been established along pedestrian paths to aid pilgrims.
• Accommodation capacity in Mina was increased through double-decker tents, supported by over 110,000 water facilities and new escalators to facilitate movement.
• Over 100 commercial units were developed in the holy sites, including partnerships with 20 leading brands, to enhance shopping services. Additionally, 72 service centers were established to provide water and provisions.
• Transportation networks are a key focus, with the Masha’er Train transporting approximately 1.87 million pilgrims between Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat across 2,154 trips during Hajj 1446 AH. The Haramain High-Speed Rail also plays a vital role in connecting pilgrims between Mecca and Medina.
• There were 46 new projects to enhance the electrical system in Mecca and the Holy Sites, costing over 3 billion riyals and increasing capacity by 75%.
• Beyond the Holy Cities, other regions are seeing development, such as Hail’s central area project, which is designed to enhance urban and aesthetic elements, and boost tourist and economic activity over an area exceeding 700,000 square meters.
• Quality Assurance and Visitor Care:
• The Ministry of Tourism conducts intensive regulatory tours, such as 1,852 inspection visits in Medina alone for Hajj 1446 AH, to ensure service quality for pilgrims and visitors.
• Pilgrims consistently express their comfort, security, and tranquility during Hajj, attributing this to the comprehensive care and hospitality provided.
• The Ministry of Health provided over 102,000 health services during Hajj 1446 AH, including emergency care, transfers to hospitals, ICU admissions, cardiac catheterizations, and open-heart surgeries. This ethical commitment ensured medical care was provided to all pilgrims, regardless of their permit status, aligning with Islamic values and professional ethics.
• The Arafat sermon was translated into 35 international languages, and awareness brochures were distributed in 9 languages, enhancing guidance for pilgrims. Cultural enrichment initiatives included exhibitions and visits to historical and religious sites, with over 59,000 visitors to the Grand Mosque Library and the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa.
• Global Recognition and Continuous Improvement:
• The Kingdom’s proactive approach is evident in its commitment to continuous improvement, with preparations for the next Hajj season beginning immediately after the current one concludes.
• Saudi Arabia has become a global model in managing massive human gatherings and organizing pilgrimages, thanks to its accumulated expertise and ambitious vision. Diriyah’s recent selection as a “friendly destination for the environment” for 2025 further underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s tourism development is a dynamic and evolving process underpinned by strategic governmental directives, massive investments in infrastructure, advanced technological integration, and a profound dedication to the comfort, safety, and spiritual enrichment of all visitors, reflecting the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.

Technology’s Economic Influence in Saudi Arabia and Beyond

Technology plays a pivotal and transformative role in driving economic development across various sectors, influencing everything from daily consumer habits to large-scale national strategies and global dynamics. This is particularly evident in Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, which integrates technology into its core development plans.

Here’s a discussion on technology and economy, drawing from the provided sources:

• Driving Tourism and Pilgrim Services:
• Saudi Arabia is leveraging digital transformation and advanced technologies to position itself as a leading global tourism destination and to enhance the experience for visitors and pilgrims alike. The goal to host 150 million visitors annually by 2030 is supported by qualitative investments in infrastructure and rich tourism seasons.
• Key technological adoptions include artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, smart robots, and drones, which are used to improve service delivery and proactively respond to the needs of pilgrims and visitors.
• The Nusuk platform is a prime example of digital integration, serving as a unified digital platform for pilgrims to streamline Umrah permit issuance, booking services, and overall journey planning. It ensures service quality by requiring a documented accommodation contract for Umrah visas.
• The Smart Engineering Center for Command and Control for the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque affairs is in its pilot phase to enhance service quality and decision-making.
• During Hajj, drones were effectively used for the rapid delivery of medicines and vaccines to field medical facilities, reducing delivery time to as little as 5 minutes. Telemedicine services also contributed to efficient health service delivery, showcasing technology’s role in healthcare efficiency and support for major events.
• The Masha’er Train and Haramain High-Speed Rail are critical components of the transportation infrastructure, enabling efficient movement of millions of pilgrims, demonstrating large-scale technological solutions for logistics and crowd management that underpin the Hajj economy.
• Digital Transformation in the Banking Sector:
• The traditional concept of banks has evolved, with financial institutions becoming major economic entities that influence economic and social development.
• Digital transformation is crucial for banks to adapt to changing customer needs and technological advancements. A significant majority of customers (over 70% in 2024) prefer digital banking interactions via online platforms or mobile applications.
• This shift necessitates investment in digital infrastructure, including smart applications and the activation of AI services. The automation of banking operations is also a growing trend, with reports indicating that 40% of banking processes can be automated.
• Despite the benefits, challenges exist, such as the cost of human resources and the industry’s tendency to react to complaints rather than proactively use data analytics to prevent issues. However, the broader move towards digitalization is seen as enhancing financial sector efficiency and competitiveness.
• Growth in the Frozen Food Market:
• The frozen food market in Saudi Arabia is projected to reach $2.1 billion by 2030, driven by factors such as rising living standards and changing consumer habits.
• Advanced freezing technologies and innovative financing are significant contributors to the market’s future growth. The increasing demand for convenience food options, especially among urban and working professionals, further fuels this growth.
• The expansion of e-commerce grocery platforms and the introduction of new, healthier frozen products (like plant-based and gluten-free options) also play a key role in the market’s development. The rise of online platforms is highlighted as a key strategy for companies in the frozen food sector.
• Strategic National Development and Digital Infrastructure:
• The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 aims to foster a dynamic economy where digital transformation is a key enabler. The continuous development of digital infrastructure and services across various sectors reflects this commitment.
• Investments in urban projects, such as Hail’s central area development, are designed to enhance urban aesthetics and boost tourist and economic activity, demonstrating a holistic approach to development where technology underpins modern infrastructure.
• Impact of Technology on Geopolitics and Trade:
• The broader economic landscape is also shaped by technology, as seen in international trade disputes. For example, trade tensions between the US and China, including tariffs and restrictions on technology sales (like chips to China), have had a negative impact on global growth projections.
• The case of Elon Musk’s tech companies (e.g., Starlink) highlights the intertwining of technology with national security and geopolitical influence. The reliance of critical government functions on private tech companies raises concerns about the privatization of public goods and the potential for individual decisions to impact national and international affairs. This can lead to market volatility, as seen with the significant drop in Tesla’s stock following Musk’s conflict with a political figure.

In essence, technology is not merely a tool but a fundamental driver of economic transformation in Saudi Arabia and globally. It enables the creation of new markets, enhances efficiency in existing ones, and plays an increasingly critical role in national strategic objectives and international economic relations.

Global Geopolitical Conflicts and Economic Tensions

The provided sources offer insights into several regional conflicts and related geopolitical tensions:

• Israel-Palestine Conflict (Gaza and West Bank) This conflict is extensively covered in the sources, detailing its military, humanitarian, and economic dimensions. Reports indicate 25 Palestinians were martyred near Netzarim axis, south of Gaza City, while waiting for aid, due to Israeli occupation forces’ firing on gatherings. Israeli airstrikes targeted areas including the vicinity of Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis and other locations. The World Health Organization’s Director-General stated that Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis is completely out of service due to intensified Israeli attacks, leading to preventable deaths and leaving Nasser Medical Complex as the only remaining facility with an intensive care unit in the city, thus increasing pressure on the already strained healthcare system. The UN official called for an immediate cessation of fire and protection of health facilities.
• Economically, the Israeli Finance Minister issued instructions to halt financial cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian banks, accusing the Palestinian Authority of “delegitimization campaigns” internationally. This move, described as an escalation, threatens the collapse of the Palestinian Authority’s financial structure. The financial relationship is based on the 1994 Paris Economic Agreement, under which Israeli banks provide financial and legal coverage for the Palestinian banking system. Without this coverage, Palestinian banks face the risk of isolation from the global financial system, effectively crippling them.
• Politically, Israeli National Security Minister Ben Gvir and groups of settlers reportedly stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque, an act described as a flagrant violation of the sanctity of Al-Aqsa and a desperate attempt at Judaization. In the West Bank, Israeli occupation forces conducted arrests and set up military checkpoints in various areas, including Hebron, Nablus, and Ramallah, and demolished 12 tents and two residential structures in Khirbet Al-Saba’, south of Hebron, as well as agricultural structures in Al-Mughayyir village. The martyrdom of a released Palestinian prisoner in Tubas following an assassination operation by an Israeli special unit was also reported.
• Furthermore, Israeli officers and reserve soldiers called for an end to the war, asserting that its objective is to “save Netanyahu’s illegitimate government” rather than defending Israeli citizens. They claimed the government’s actions were driven by political motives and that orders were therefore “illegal,” with some signatories refusing military service. They accused the government of causing the collapse of the hostage deal and essentially “sentencing them to death”.
• Israel-Hezbollah Conflict (Lebanon) Reports indicate a strategic shift by Hezbollah in Lebanon, with the group increasingly focusing on producing drones rather than missiles, allocating significant budgets to this end. This shift is influenced by the Russia-Ukraine war, which demonstrated the effectiveness of drones due to their simplicity, low cost, rapid assembly, and use of civilian components that can be ordered online. Drones are also more challenging for air defense systems to detect and classify compared to missiles. The Israeli army conducted an operation in Beirut’s southern suburb, targeting what it described as a drone production facility belonging to Hezbollah. The Israeli Air Force commander is reportedly holding repeated operational discussions to tighten the noose on Hezbollah’s drone unit.
• Israel-Yemen (Houthi) Conflict The Houthi militia in Yemen has intensified pressure on Israel, deploying naval forces and threatening a naval and air blockade of Hudaydah port if attacks on Israel persist. The Israeli military responded by striking Houthi targets in Hudaydah port with airstrikes. The Israeli Defense Minister explicitly warned the Houthi organization of a “strong response” and the imposition of a naval and air blockade if they continued to fire towards Israel. While Houthis have launched dozens of missiles and drones towards Israel, most were reportedly intercepted or missed their targets. The United States also launched intensive strikes against the Houthis earlier in the year, which were halted following a Houthi agreement to cease attacks on American vessels.
• Russia-Ukraine War The Russian Foreign Ministry has stated that there will be no end to the war in Ukraine without a halt to NATO’s eastward expansion, which it considers a key cause of the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for increased international pressure on Moscow after a night of intensified aerial attacks on Kyiv, Odesa, Dnipro, and Chernihiv, describing it as one of the largest attacks on the capital. Ukrainian intelligence claims that approximately 34% of Russian bombers capable of launching cruise missiles have been destroyed or damaged, with an estimated value of nearly $7 billion. The sources also mention discussions about a price cap on Russian oil, with Zelenskyy advocating for a $30 per barrel limit.
• US-China Trade Tensions (Economic Conflict) This ongoing economic conflict has significant global implications. The United States and China have imposed mutual tariffs and engaged in negotiations, reaching an “agreement framework” to de-escalate trade tensions. However, uncertainty persists until the agreement is officially approved by the leaders. The World Bank had lowered its global growth forecast for 2025 by 0.4% to 2.3%, citing rising tariffs and increasing uncertainty as a “major obstacle” for nearly all economies. The agreement framework aims to address issues like China’s restrictions on rare earth minerals and the US’s limitations on chip sales to China.
• Syrian Internal Situation The sources briefly touch upon the aftermath of internal conflict in Syria, with a statement from the Syrian Interior Ministry (representing the opposition) claiming that 123,000 officials from the former regime were involved in crimes against the Syrian people, and that over 450,000 members of Al-Shabiha (a pro-government militia) were active, indicating the scale of the past violence. It also notes that some officers from the former regime’s army and intelligence are cooperating with the opposition to facilitate access to Syrian areas for “aggression deterrence forces”.
• Trump-Musk Dispute (National Security Implications) While not a traditional regional conflict between states, the public dispute between former US President Donald Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk highlights the potential for individual actions to impact national security and geopolitical stability. The conflict, stemming from Musk’s alleged removal from government projects and his criticism of Trump’s policies, saw threats exchanged regarding government contracts worth tens of billions of dollars. Musk’s companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, and Starlink, have received substantial government support. The dispute led to a significant drop in Tesla’s stock value and Musk’s personal wealth. This raised critical questions about the privatization of public goods and the inherent risks when vital strategic sectors (like space technology and communication networks in conflict zones) are managed by private entities whose decisions can alter geopolitical power balances. The US Congress is reportedly monitoring the situation and calling for investigations into government contracts with Musk’s companies due to potential conflicts of interest. This highlights the increasing intertwining of technology, finance, and politics, where key decisions are not solely within the domain of governments but can be influenced by powerful private actors.

Saudi Cultural Initiatives: Vision 2030 and Global Engagement

The sources provide a rich overview of various cultural initiatives, primarily focusing on efforts within Saudi Arabia, but also touching upon international cultural diplomacy and engagement. These initiatives aim to promote heritage, foster creativity, enhance cross-cultural understanding, and enrich experiences, all largely framed within the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Here are some key cultural initiatives discussed:

• Promoting Cultural Tourism and Heritage Preservation:
• Diriyah as a Global Destination: Diriyah was chosen among the “World Friendly Destinations for the Environment” for 2025, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and its rich heritage. This selection aims to bolster Saudi Arabia’s presence on the global tourism map as a growing international destination. The Saudi Tourism Authority is actively promoting national destinations in international markets, contributing to Vision 2030’s goal of attracting 150 million visitors by 2030 (after hosting nearly 116 million in 2024), supported by significant investments in infrastructure and diverse tourism seasons.
• Enhancing Hajj and Umrah Pilgrim Experience: Saudi Arabia is continuously implementing new technical services for Umrah pilgrims as part of Vision 2030, aiming to increase capacity to 15 million annually. The “Guests of Rahman Service Program” focuses on facilitating pilgrim hosting, providing high-quality services, and enriching their religious and cultural experience. This includes developing 15 additional historical and cultural sites and striving for a 90% satisfaction rate among pilgrims. The “Nusuk” platform has been launched to streamline the entire pilgrimage journey, from planning to performing rituals. These efforts reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to serving the guests of the Two Holy Mosques.
• “Kidana” Projects at Holy Sites: The “Kidana” company has undertaken numerous developmental projects in Mecca and the holy sites to enhance pilgrims’ journeys, ensuring they are safe, comfortable, and efficient, emphasizing sustainability and flexibility. These projects include mitigating heat stress in areas like Arafat and Mina, cooling areas around Jabal Al-Rahma, and implementing cooling networks in pedestrian paths. Kidana also designed educational pamphlets in nine languages and developed the “Towards Mina” map, which significantly reduced the number of lost pilgrims. Infrastructure improvements, such as two-story tents, advanced water facilities, and escalators, also aim to improve the pilgrim experience.
• Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque Initiatives: The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has launched initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and pilgrim experience. These include a “Smart Engineering Center for Command and Control,” smart screens displaying Tawaf and Sa’i times, and improvements to Zamzam water distribution (over 293,000 bottles consumed). They provide electric and manual carts, luggage storage, and implement comprehensive environmental plans for cleanliness and air conditioning. Crucially, the Arafat sermon was translated into 35 international languages to ensure the message of the Two Holy Mosques reached a global audience. Furthermore, they enrich the cultural and cognitive experience through exhibitions showcasing the historical and service aspects of the Two Holy Mosques, and visits to sites like the King Abdulaziz Complex for Holy Kaaba Kiswa and the Grand Mosque Library, which attracted over 59,000 visitors.
• Praise for Hajj Organization: Former Palestinian, Egyptian, and other dignitaries have lauded the “ingenious and unique” organization of Hajj, specifically highlighting the quality of services, the use of modern technology, and the massive qualitative projects in the holy sites, emphasizing the seamlessness of roads and hospitality.
• Urban and Tourism Development: The Hail region’s central area development project aims to enhance the human and aesthetic aspects of the city, stimulating tourism and economic activity. This includes creating green spaces, public squares, open theaters, and recreational areas, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal to improve quality of life.
• Fostering Arts and Creativity:
• Saudi Cinema’s Role: Saudi cinema is identified as a vital and inspiring tool for documenting the cultural scene and preserving societal memory. It has evolved beyond mere entertainment, aiming to cement its position as a documentation tool that preserves dialects, customs, clothing, and local lifestyles. Saudi films honestly and skillfully portray the diversity of Saudi society and its transformation, often featuring the local environment as a central narrative element. Support from the Ministry of Culture, Film Authority, and other bodies has empowered Saudi talents, strengthening cinema as a soft power that not only produces films for display but also documents, researches, and serves as a cultural reference.
• Animation Industry Development: The Saudi Film Authority is participating in the Annecy International Animated Film Festival 2025 to promote Saudi animation globally and to learn about the latest trends in the sector, aiming to be a leading voice in the global animation industry.
• Rafha Cultural Salon: The Ministry of Culture launched the Rafha Cultural Salon, intended to be a new literary and intellectual forum within Saudi Arabia’s literary ecosystem. It supports initiatives by literary societies and aims to boost the local cultural movement by offering quality programs focused on thought, arts, and education, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of reinforcing national identity and building a vibrant, creative society.
• “Downtown Design Riyadh” Exhibition: This is the first specialized contemporary design exhibition in Saudi Arabia, organized in partnership with the Architecture and Design Arts Commission. Its objective is to build a design culture rooted in Saudi identity. The exhibition supports emerging local talent and global brands through interactive installations and workshops, positioning design as a cultural and economic force and contributing to the preservation and re-imagining of regional heritage.
• Analysis of Saudi Visual Artist Samir Aldaham: The sources highlight artist Samir Aldaham’s unique impact on the local and Arab art scene, noting his narrative style, use of symbols from Najdi and Gulf heritage, and psychological use of color. His art explores themes of humanity, the role of women, and the innocence of childhood, blending realism with abstraction to offer philosophical depth. His work has significantly contributed to shaping Saudi visual awareness and critical discourse.
• Cross-Cultural Dialogue and International Engagement:
• International Day of Dialogue Among Civilizations: The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution in 2024, co-sponsored by China and 82 other countries, designating June 10 as an International Day of Dialogue Among Civilizations. This emphasizes the importance of dialogue, mutual understanding, shared progress, and friendship among civilizations.
• China’s Global Civilization Initiative: Chinese President Xi Jinping officially proposed the Global Civilization Initiative in 2023, calling for strengthening the common values of humanity, prioritizing the inheritance and renewal of civilizations, and enhancing exchanges and cooperation among peoples internationally. Saudi Arabia is a co-sponsoring country for the resolution on dialogue among civilizations, indicating its commitment to these principles.
• Saudi Arabia’s Role in Dialogue: The King of Saudi Arabia affirmed that culture is a fundamental common denominator among peoples and a vital factor in promoting security and peace, emphasizing the Kingdom’s rich history, culture, and encouragement of open cultural exchange. The “Chinese-Saudi Culture Year” aims to strengthen cultural exchange and dialogue among civilizations, with China ready to cooperate with Saudi Arabia on human exchange and using technology for good.
• Book on Aleppo’s Heritage: A book “Aleppo: Heritage and Civilization” was published as part of Abu Dhabi’s “Kalima” translation project, delving into Aleppo’s history, identity, and the interplay of memory and identity. This initiative contributes to the preservation and understanding of Arab cultural heritage through scholarly work.
• Sustainability in Cultural Events: The red carpet from the Cannes Film Festival is being recycled and reused in Marseille, demonstrating an initiative focused on sustainability in cultural events and creative repurposing. While not a Saudi initiative, its inclusion in the newspaper suggests a recognition of global best practices in cultural event sustainability.
• Contextual Note on Cultural Disruption:
• One source offers a stark counterpoint to positive cultural initiatives by highlighting the human cost of religious extremism through the testimony of a former wife of a terrorist group leader. It details how extremist ideologies lead to the exploitation and radicalization of women and children, causing profound long-term psychological and social trauma. This underscores the importance of positive cultural foundations and efforts to counter narratives that undermine societal well-being and identity.

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

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

These Arabic news articles primarily focus on the successful management of the Hajj season in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the extensive efforts and integrated systems employed by the government to ensure a safe and seamless experience for pilgrims from around the globe. Multiple pieces emphasize the leadership’s direct involvement and the role of technology and a large workforce in achieving these positive results. Another significant theme is the gratitude expressed by Palestinian pilgrims for the exceptional care and hospitality they received under a special program. Beyond the Hajj, the sources also cover economic news, including a rise in the industrial production index, and a detailed piece discussing Saudi Arabia’s strategic embrace of the circular economy for sustainable growth and resource management.

Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Management Success

Based on the provided sources, the Hajj season is consistently described as a significant success, achieved through continuous and integrated efforts. This success is portrayed not merely through numbers but as a reflection of professionalism, human capability, and unwavering determination that has transformed the Holy Sites into a global model in crowd management and dealing with millions efficiently and humanely. Experts in crisis management consider Hajj season crowd management the largest and most complex task globally, and Saudi Arabia is recognized as a global leader in this field, demonstrating its ability to handle immense challenges with peace, security, and unparalleled success.

The success of the Hajj season is attributed to a multi-integrated work system, driven by direct guidance and oversight from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince. This reflects the leadership’s deep commitment to serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors, considering it a peerless honor and a great responsibility. The efforts align with the ambitious goals of Vision 2030, aiming to provide an eternal faith journey of peace, reassurance, and ease.

Several key factors and initiatives contributed to this success:

• Comprehensive Service Plan: The efforts embody the goals of Vision 2030 by implementing the largest comprehensive service plan in Hajj history. This involves a wide range of ministries and entities working together in a coordinated manner, with over 94,000 to 350,000 individuals participating in the Hajj system.
• “No Hajj Without a Permit” Campaign: This campaign was a significant factor in reducing violations, limiting crowding, improving movement flow, and reducing jostling, which raised the quality of the faith experience for pilgrims. The strict and precise implementation of this decision was described as a fundamental pillar for discipline and adherence to procedures leading to the witnessed success.
• Advanced Technology Adoption: The Kingdom leveraged advanced technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart platforms to manage crowds, enhance security, and improve pilgrim services. This included smart flow strategies based on real-time data, remote monitoring of rituals, the use of drones for transporting medical supplies, and technical readiness enhancements at ports by SDAIA.
• Digital Services & Apps: Applications like “Nusuk” provided over 30 digital services, including an AI assistant for guidance and support, utilizing a smart card for enhanced field safety and quick access to pilgrim data. The “Nusuk Care” initiative provided extensive direct support services. The “Tawakkalna” application facilitated pilgrims’ access to permits, certificates, location information, emergency services, and spiritual tools, contributing to ease and convenience.
• Robust Security and Health Systems: A state of continuous alert was maintained to ensure the security and safety of millions. Over 120,000 security personnel and support teams were deployed, supported by monitoring cameras and AI analysis. Health preparations were based on the highest preventive and curative standards, with equipped hospitals, a large number of health practitioners, ambulances, and air evacuation capabilities ensuring immediate response to emergencies. Services for the elderly and disabled, including equipped transport and mobile clinics, were also highlighted.
• Infrastructure Development: Continuous investment in developing infrastructure at the Holy Sites, such as the Mashair train, vast plazas, tunnels, bridges, and umbrellas, facilitated pilgrim movement and provided comfortable environments.
• The “Mecca Road” Initiative: This initiative served pilgrims starting from their countries, contributing to a smoother journey.
• Volunteerism: A significant number of volunteers participated in serving pilgrims across various locations and roles, supporting government efforts and contributing to the exceptional experience.
• Warm Hospitality and Care: Pilgrims consistently received generous hospitality, care, and attention from arrival to departure. This included providing their needs and offering gifts like copies of the Holy Quran.

Pilgrims from various countries, including Palestine, Jordan, India, Mali, and Turkey, expressed their profound gratitude for the services and care received, describing them as being at the highest level of professionalism and humanity. Some called the efforts for pilgrim comfort and care “rare human work”, feeling like they were among family. The level of organization and services sometimes surpassed expectations, changing preconceived notions about the journey’s difficulty.

External observers, including diplomats and the National Society for Human Rights, praised the distinguished organizational success and the significant efforts made. International organizations like the UN and WHO have also lauded Saudi Arabia’s efforts, considering its annual successful management of crowds of this size and diversity as a “global model in planning and execution”.

The success is also presented as a result of accumulated experience over decades and a readiness to manage unexpected crises, citing the successful management of the COVID-19 pandemic during Hajj seasons as proof of the Kingdom’s capability and leadership. The government’s work methodology, with officials in the field overseeing operations directly, is highlighted as a reflection of a unique administrative culture and the dedication involved in serving pilgrims.

In essence, the sources emphasize that the Hajj season’s success is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment, comprehensive planning, integration of human and technological resources, and the deep sense of honor and duty associated with serving the guests of Rahman.

Saudi Arabia Economic Growth Drivers and Indicators

Based on the provided sources, information related to economic growth in Saudi Arabia can be found in discussions about specific economic indicators and strategic initiatives aligned with Vision 2030.

Several sources highlight the rise in the Industrial Production Index (IPI). In April 2025, the overall IPI recorded a rise of 3.1% compared to April 2024. Breaking this down, the IPI for the Mining and Quarrying sub-activity saw a rise of 0.2% on a yearly basis, while the IPI for the Manufacturing Industry sub-activity increased significantly by 7.4%. The IPI for Oil activities rose by 4.3% in April 2025 compared to the same month the previous year, whereas the IPI for Non-oil activities rose by 0.1%. The sources explain that the General Authority for Statistics issues the IPI monthly to measure relative changes in the quantities of industrial production, based on a survey of selected establishments in targeted industrial sectors including Mining and Quarrying, Manufacturing Industry, Electricity and Gas Supply, and Water Supply, Sewerage, Waste Management and Remediation Activities.

The sources also discuss the Circular Economy concept as a potential driver for significant economic growth. This concept is presented as a key player capable of adding billions of riyals to the GDP and creating thousands of new job opportunities. It is highlighted as a strategic necessity for Saudi Arabia, aligning completely with the economic diversification goals of Vision 2030. The Circular Economy aims to transform what was previously considered waste into a real added value within the economy, thereby reducing reliance on importing raw materials and enhancing the Kingdom’s economic security. It represents a smart investment in resource efficiency. Specific opportunities within this framework include the vast potential for recycling waste like plastics and metals into raw materials for industry. Converting waste to energy is also seen as a promising opportunity. Applying circular thinking to the construction and building sector is mentioned, where recycling demolition and construction waste can produce new building materials, reducing the cost of raw materials and transportation/disposal costs. In water and agriculture, treating wastewater and converting agricultural waste into organic fertilizers or biogas are highlighted. The sources note that Saudi Arabia is witnessing promising initiatives in this area, including efforts to establish partnerships for waste-to-energy plants and dedicated industrial zones specializing in resource and waste management, positioning the Kingdom as a potential regional and global leader. This is considered essential for achieving Vision 2030 goals for a more sustainable, less resource-dependent, and resilient future.

Furthermore, Sports Development is discussed as a pillar of social and economic development within the framework of Vision 2030. This involves the leadership’s significant interest and investment in developing sports infrastructure. It also includes working on attracting distinguished technical and administrative expertise and global talent (coaches, consultants, players) in various sports specialties with the goal of transferring knowledge and developing Saudi talents. Hosting numerous international sports competitions and events is also part of this effort. The privatization of Saudi clubs is mentioned as being part of the national transformation project within Vision 2030, aiming to make the sector more professional and sustainable. The investment in teams like Neom is given as an example of building a team designed for competition from the start, utilizing a mix of international and local talent supported by high-level technical and administrative staff. Al Hilal’s participation in the Club World Cup is presented as a reflection of the significant development in Saudi football, showcasing infrastructure, administrative, and technical professionalism.

Regarding external economic factors, the sources mention the stability of gold prices, the rise in global stock markets, and the increase in oil prices, linking these movements partly to the ongoing US-China trade talks and a potential easing of tensions, which could improve economic outlook and demand for commodities like oil.

The success of the Hajj season is extensively discussed as a major achievement reflecting efficient management, organization, and service for millions of pilgrims, aligned with Vision 2030 goals of providing an eternal faith journey of peace, reassurance, and ease. While this immense logistical undertaking undoubtedly has economic dimensions (infrastructure, services, etc.), the sources primarily focus on the management and service aspects rather than quantifying its direct contribution to overall economic growth.

Other topics covered in the sources, such as the global food and nutrition crisis and certain aspects of the tourism experience related to waiting times and infrastructure, are discussed but are not directly presented as indicators or drivers of overall economic growth in Saudi Arabia within these texts.

Obstacles to Aid Delivery in Crisis Zones

Based on the provided sources, discussing aid delivery challenges highlights significant difficulties, particularly in conflict zones and within the context of a global food and nutrition crisis.

Challenges in Conflict Zones (specifically citing the situation in Gaza):

• Targeting of Aid Seekers and Distribution Centers: Civilians attempting to access aid at distribution points, such as those near the “Natzerim” axis in Gaza, have been shot by occupation forces. Numerous individuals waiting for aid have been killed or injured. Aid distribution sites near the “Natzerim” axis have reportedly become “traps for death”. A specific foundation (“Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF)”) is accused by the governmental media office in Gaza of participating in a crime by targeting civilians using aid as “bait”. This organization, allegedly supported by occupation forces, is blamed for the death and injury of hundreds of civilians attempting to reach food parcels.
• Impeding Humanitarian Workers: Medical service personnel attempting to rescue injured individuals have been killed by occupation forces while performing their humanitarian duties. This targeting of ambulance staff occurs despite international laws designed to guarantee their protection during conflicts. Calls are made for international investigations and protection for medical teams.
• Blockading and Confiscating Aid: International activists attempting to deliver aid to Gaza via sea (“Freedom Flotilla”) have been intercepted, and their cargo has been seized by occupation authorities, preventing it from reaching the besieged population.
• Forced Displacement and Starvation: The occupation army continues to forcibly displace residents, including from areas near where aid is available, contributing to hunger and starvation among the population.
• Impact on Infrastructure and Information Flow: The extensive bombing and destruction of educational institutions and the targeting of journalists also indirectly impede aid efforts by destroying infrastructure and limiting reporting on the humanitarian crisis and challenges.

Challenges within the Global Food and Nutrition Crisis:

• Persistence of Hunger and Malnutrition: Despite technological and economic advancements, the world continues to suffer from a significant food and nutrition crisis, leading to severe health damage and millions of deaths. Hunger and malnutrition remain urgent issues requiring immediate solutions.
• Health Consequences: Malnutrition contributes to chronic diseases like heart conditions and diabetes and directly increases rates of early death. Deficiencies in essential nutrients weaken the immune system, making people, particularly in developing communities, highly vulnerable to infectious diseases.
• Impact on Children: Malnutrition leads to stunted mental and physical growth in children, affecting brain development and causing declines in learning and cognitive abilities. The effects can be long-lasting, resulting in health problems throughout life, higher mortality rates, and increased future vulnerability to unemployment and economic disability.
• Poverty as a Core Issue: The sources emphasize an undeniable link between poverty and malnutrition, stating that impoverished populations are the most vulnerable to the crisis’s devastating effects. Over 30% of the world’s population is estimated to live below the poverty line and is likely trapped in a cycle of food poverty, unable to afford sufficient food.
• Need for Comprehensive Strategies: Addressing food deficiency and malnutrition requires a comprehensive strategy focused on improving food security. This includes increasing resources, developing fair food distribution networks to reach the poorest areas, supporting sustainable agriculture, diversifying crops, and raising awareness about proper nutrition.
• Integration with Healthcare: Improving access to healthcare services and strengthening therapeutic feeding programs, especially for vulnerable groups, is a necessary part of the strategy.
• International Cooperation: Joint international efforts, innovative strategies, and cooperation between developed and developing countries through development partnerships are needed to provide technical and material support in agriculture and health sectors to find practical solutions. The continuation of this “injustice” is questioned in a world with seemingly sufficient resources.

Praise for Saudi Hajj Management and Humanitarian Services

Based on the provided sources, humanitarian efforts are extensively praised, particularly in the context of the Hajj season in Saudi Arabia.

The successful management and execution of the Hajj season are consistently highlighted as a significant achievement resulting from integrated work systems and continuous commitment. This success is presented as a demonstration of the Kingdom’s ability to manage large crowds and provide a safe, easy, and reassuring pilgrimage experience. The efforts are described as a reflection of administrative professionalism and human capability. The Kingdom’s leadership’s deep interest and investment in serving the guests of Rahman are emphasized.

Specific praise comes from various groups:

• Pilgrims: Pilgrims from Palestine expressed their deep gratitude and appreciation for the hospitality and high quality of services that facilitated their Hajj. They described the care they received as a “rare humanitarian act”. A pilgrim from Palestine specifically called the efforts to provide comfort and care for pilgrims a “giant integrated effort, and a unique model in crowd management and humanitarian service”. Pilgrims from Jordan praised the high level of professionalism and humanity in the services they received. Pilgrims from other nationalities also expressed their happiness with the comfortable accommodation, organized transport, and integrated healthcare provided. One pilgrim from Turkey noted that the meticulous organization and high-quality services were a result of the wise leadership’s significant attention to the guests of Rahman. Pilgrims receiving the gift of the Holy Quran expressed their immense gratitude for this gesture, seeing it as a reflection of the leadership’s care for the Holy Quran.
• Saudi Officials: Various Saudi officials, including governors and heads of authorities, praised the efforts of the entities working at different ports (Taif, Eastern Region, Al Jouf) to facilitate the arrival and departure of pilgrims. The Director General of Passports highlighted the readiness of human and technical capabilities to ease departure procedures. The Governor of Medina Region conveyed the King and Crown Prince’s greetings and appreciation to the security personnel and participating entities for their sincere efforts in maintaining security and tranquility in the Prophet’s Mosque. The Crown Prince affirmed that the continuous success in serving the guests of Rahman is a result of the Kingdom’s blessed efforts and the continuous work of employees and volunteers from various sectors. He stressed that serving pilgrims is a “great duty”.
• National Society for Human Rights: The National Society for Human Rights commended the great efforts in organizing the Hajj season 1446H, praising the notable successes achieved through the integrated management system and the provided services. They specifically lauded the accuracy of organization and the integration of performance among relevant entities. The society praised the effective use of modern technologies and artificial intelligence, including smartphone applications for guidance, field assistance, and rapid response in emergencies. They also noted the provision of electronic cards and free Wi-Fi in gathering areas. The society highlighted the services offered to the elderly and people with disabilities, such as accessible transport, equipped clinics, cooling techniques on paths, and flexible routes for pedestrians, which enhanced the comfort and safety of pilgrims. The head of the society emphasized that the achievements reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting the rights, dignity, safety, and security of pilgrims.
• International Organizations: The sources note that international organizations, including the United Nations and the World Health Organization, have praised the Kingdom’s efforts in organizing Hajj, considering Saudi Arabia’s annual management of crowds of this size and diversity a “global model in planning and execution”. The Kingdom is considered a global leader in crowd management, particularly during the annual Hajj season. Its accumulated experience and strategies in Hajj management are described as a leading global model.

Specific efforts and services that were praised or highlighted for their success include:

• The “No Hajj Without a Permit” campaign, which effectively reduced violations and overcrowding, leading to smoother movement and an improved spiritual experience.
• The integrated operational system involving over 94,000 individuals working across various locations to enhance service quality.
• The reliance on collaborative institutional work between government entities, combining human capabilities with modern technology.
• Extensive field monitoring and inspection tours (over 70,000) to ensure service providers comply with operational standards.
• Providing awareness materials in multiple languages to enhance pilgrim awareness.
• The role of the “Nusuk” application in offering over 30 digital services, including an AI-powered guide and a smart card for safety and quick data access.
• The “Nusuk Care” initiative providing direct humanitarian, psychological, and linguistic support.
• The active participation of over 3,000 volunteers supporting government efforts.
• The deployment of a large number of security and support personnel (over 120,000) and the use of advanced surveillance technologies like over 6,000 cameras and AI analysis for crowd management.
• Comprehensive health preparations, including equipped hospitals, a large number of health practitioners, and rapid response capabilities using ambulances and air evacuation.
• The use of modern technology like drones for delivering medical supplies quickly.
• Ensuring the quality and safety of meals, with over 25 million meals provided.
• Implementing smart crowd management strategies based on real-time data and pedestrian movement.
• Utilizing the Masha’er train and high-efficiency transport means.
• The provision of digital guidance applications to assist pilgrims with navigation and communication.
• Efficient departure procedures at airports and land ports, supported by technology. The use of AI and technical support by “SDAIA” at ports is specifically mentioned.
• The “Tawakkalna” application’s suite of services for pilgrims, including permits, certificates, and essential information, available in 7 languages and integrated with pilgrim data via QR codes for easy verification and assistance.
• The extensive services at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, such as the massive smart air conditioning system maintaining comfortable temperatures, misting fans, and movable domes, all aimed at providing a conducive environment for worshippers.
• The distribution of copies of the Holy Quran in multiple languages by the King Salman Complex.

Overall, the sources indicate widespread praise for the comprehensive, technologically advanced, and human-centered efforts undertaken by Saudi Arabia in managing the Hajj, viewing them as a successful model of humanitarian service and crowd management on a global scale.

Palestinian Pilgrim Gratitude for Hajj Care

Based on the provided sources, the humanitarian efforts and care provided to Palestinian pilgrims during the Hajj season have been significantly praised.

Palestinian pilgrims participating in the “Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for Hajj and Umrah” program, supervised by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, expressed their “deep gratitude and appreciation” for the hospitality and high quality of services that facilitated their Hajj with ease and comfort. The program is noted for having a “significant impact” in alleviating the tragedies faced by martyrs’ families and prisoners, representing an unforgettable memory for them.

Upon their arrival in Medina after completing the Hajj rituals, pilgrims from Palestine conveyed their happiness at having completed the rites. They described the “hospitality of their reception and the generosity of their hosting” from the moment they arrived in the Kingdom, throughout their accommodation and movement between Mecca and Medina.

Pilgrims found “psychological comfort” which helped alleviate the hardships of the war and aggression they face in their homeland. One pilgrim from Palestine specifically called the efforts made for the comfort and care of pilgrims, and the provision of services and means for their care, a “rare humanitarian act”. Another pilgrim from Palestine described the services and care as a “giant integrated effort, and a unique model in crowd management and humanitarian service”.

Pilgrims expressed their immense thanks and appreciation to the Kingdom’s leadership (the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince) for the care and services they received, noting that this embodies the keenness and full attention to serving guests of Rahman in general, and Palestinian pilgrims in particular. They also extended their gratitude to all those working in the Hajj sectors and everyone who contributed to this noble work. They specifically highlighted the high level of “professionalism and humanity” in the services they received.

Services praised by pilgrims included comfortable accommodation, organized transport, integrated healthcare, and organized procedures. One pilgrim noted that the meticulous organization and high-quality services were a result of the wise leadership’s significant attention to the guests of Rahman.

The distribution of copies of the Holy Quran as a gift from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques is also a service provided to departing pilgrims at various ports, which would include Palestinian pilgrims leaving through those points. This gesture is seen as reflecting the leadership’s care for the Holy Quran and their commitment to honoring pilgrims.

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

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

These texts center on the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the immense efforts undertaken by the Saudi government to ensure the comfort and safety of the pilgrims. Several articles highlight the logistical challenges of managing the millions of attendees and the innovative solutions being employed, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced surveillance technologies to monitor crowd movement, prevent bottlenecks, and improve overall efficiency. Additionally, one text features a sermon delivered during the Hajj stressing the spiritual significance of the event and the importance of adhering to religious and regulatory guidelines for a successful pilgrimage.

Modern Management of the Hajj Pilgrimage

Based on the sources provided, Hajj management involves extensive efforts and various aspects overseen by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with a focus on ensuring the safety, security, and comfort of the pilgrims.

Key aspects of Hajj management mentioned in the sources include:

• Overall Efforts and Commitment: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia undertakes immense efforts and provides extensive services for the pilgrims, referred to as “guests of the الرحمن” (Rahman – The Most Gracious). This service is considered a duty that the Kingdom takes pride in performing. The leadership is keen on providing the highest level of services to the pilgrims, recognizing the significant importance of the Hajj season. These efforts are described as exemplary.
• Logistical and Infrastructure Management: Managing millions of pilgrims from over 171 countries moving simultaneously within a geographically limited space is a complex task requiring vast resources and accumulated experience, supported by the latest technologies.
• Security and Safety: Ensuring the security and safety of pilgrims at all stages of Hajj is a primary focus. This involves integrated efforts between security, military, and service agencies. Security forces play a crucial role in organizing pilgrim movement and managing crowds, particularly around the Jamarat facility. Strict compliance with regulations and instructions from relevant authorities is emphasized as a religious and ethical duty to achieve the objectives of Sharia and ensure smooth performance of rituals.
• Transportation Management: Managing transportation is critical for smooth movement between the holy sites (Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina). The Holy Sites Train plays a vital role, with its readiness overseen by the Minister of Interior. The train operates with five flexible operational movements and has a transport capacity of up to 72,000 passengers per hour. Authorities monitor the train’s operations and stations to ensure smooth movement and safety, especially during the Jamarat stoning ritual.
• Service Provision: A wide range of services, including medical, ambulance, and logistical services, are provided across the holy sites. These services are made available free of charge and are supported by the latest technologies and experienced personnel.
• Medical Management: The Ministry of Health deploys innovative solutions, such as using drones and helicopters for medical supply delivery, significantly reducing delivery time. This is a pioneering initiative globally for managing medical supplies during large gatherings. There is also a focus on monitoring and addressing heat stress among pilgrims, advising them to use umbrellas, drink plenty of water, and adhere to regulated movement plans. Integrated health services are provided through call centers like 937, offering consultations and support in multiple languages.
• Crowd Management and Flow: Security and military sectors, in coordination with other entities, supervise pilgrim movement and flow according to detailed plans. AI-powered systems using high-resolution cameras are employed to analyze crowd density, detect unusual behavior, and predict potential congestion or bottlenecks, allowing for rapid intervention and redirection of pilgrims.
• Technological Integration: Technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence, is highlighted as a strategic tool for Hajj management in 1446 AH. AI assists in analyzing data, making rapid decisions, predicting crowd movements, optimizing resource allocation, and improving the quality of services. Applications like “Tawakkalna” provide services such as weather forecasts for the holy sites, helping pilgrims plan their movements.
• Specific Ritual Management: The process for performing rituals like the Jamarat stoning is carefully managed. The facility includes multiple levels, electric escalators, and moving walkways to facilitate pilgrim movement. Preparations are made to reduce the impact of heat stress in areas like the eastern courtyard of the Jamarat facility.
• Food Security and Waste Reduction: The General Authority for Food Security launched a campaign to reduce food loss and waste during Hajj, promoting responsible consumption and food sustainability in line with Islamic teachings.
• Regulatory Compliance: Authorities strongly emphasize obtaining and complying with Hajj permits. Performing Hajj without a permit is considered a serious Sharia violation due to its disregard for regulations and harm to public interest. Security forces are actively monitoring and apprehending those attempting to perform Hajj without permits. Penalties, including fines and deportation, are in place for individuals facilitating or attempting to perform Hajj without the required permits.

Overall, Hajj management is portrayed as a massive, well-coordinated operation involving numerous governmental and private entities, leveraging technology and extensive human resources to facilitate the spiritual journey of millions of pilgrims safely and smoothly. The focus is not just on logistics but also on enhancing the pilgrims’ experience through advanced services and innovative solutions.

Hajj Pilgrim Safety and Security Management

Based on the provided sources, the management of pilgrims’ safety during Hajj is a paramount concern for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, involving extensive efforts and sophisticated strategies. Ensuring the security and safety of the pilgrims, who are referred to as “guests of the Rahman,” is considered a duty and a source of pride for the Kingdom’s leadership. This focus on safety is evident throughout all stages of the Hajj pilgrimage.

Key aspects of pilgrim safety management highlighted in the sources include:

• Overall Commitment and Scale: The Kingdom invests immense efforts and provides extensive services to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. Managing millions of pilgrims from over 171 countries moving simultaneously in a limited geographic space is a complex undertaking that requires vast resources, accumulated experience, and the latest technologies. The Kingdom is described as having excelled globally in managing these large human crowds.
• Integrated Security Operations: Security and safety are primary focuses, involving integrated efforts among security, military, and service agencies. Security forces play a crucial role in organizing the movement of pilgrims and managing crowds. Officials, including the Minister of Interior and the Director of Public Security, oversee and review security plans and their implementation to ensure safety and tranquility. These forces work together as one team.
• Crowd Management and Flow: Managing crowd density and movement between the holy sites (Arafat, Muzdalifah, Mina) is critical for safety. The Jamarat facility, where the stoning ritual takes place, is designed with multiple levels, escalators, and moving walkways to facilitate pilgrim movement safely. Special Emergency Forces are specifically tasked with crowd management and maintaining order during the stoning ritual.
• Transportation Safety: Transportation management, particularly the Holy Sites Train, is vital for smooth and safe movement. The readiness and operation of the train are overseen by authorities to ensure smooth movement and safety, especially during peak times. Security forces are stationed at train stations to organize pedestrian flow.
• Health and Medical Safety: The Ministry of Health deploys comprehensive medical services across the holy sites. Addressing heat stress is a significant focus for pilgrim safety. Pilgrims are advised to use umbrellas, drink plenty of water, and adhere to regulated movement plans to mitigate the effects of high temperatures. Innovative solutions, such as using drones and helicopters for rapid medical supply delivery, are employed to enhance emergency response and pilgrim safety. Integrated health services, including consultations and support in multiple languages, are available through call centers like 937.
• Technological Integration: Technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI) and high-resolution cameras, is a strategic tool for enhancing safety and security. AI-powered systems are used to analyze crowd density, detect unusual behavior, predict potential congestion or bottlenecks, and enable rapid intervention and redirection of pilgrims. This enables proactive planning and rapid decision-making. Mobile applications, like “Tawakkalna,” provide pilgrims with essential information, such as weather forecasts for the holy sites, to help them plan their movements safely. AI can even potentially assist in detecting early health indicators like heat stress by analyzing movement patterns.
• Regulatory Compliance and Unauthorized Hajj: Adherence to regulations and instructions from relevant authorities, particularly obtaining and complying with Hajj permits, is strongly emphasized as crucial for public interest, safety, and smooth performance of rituals. Performing Hajj without a permit is considered a serious Sharia violation due to its disregard for regulations and potential harm to public safety and order. Security forces actively monitor and apprehend those attempting to perform Hajj without permits, and penalties (fines, deportation) are enforced against both individuals attempting unauthorized Hajj and those who facilitate it. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah warns against fraudulent Hajj campaigns lacking permits, emphasizing the importance of official permits for safety and tranquility.

In essence, pilgrim safety during Hajj is managed through a multi-layered approach involving extensive logistical planning, robust security presence, advanced technological systems for monitoring and crowd control, comprehensive medical services, and strict enforcement of regulations to ensure order and prevent overcrowding and associated risks. The entire operation is geared towards enabling millions of pilgrims to perform their rituals in an environment of security, safety, and tranquility.

AI’s Role in Hajj Management 1446 AH

Based on the provided sources, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is a strategic and central element in the management of Hajj for the year 1446 AH, transforming the approach from traditional methods to a more intelligent, safe, and comfortable system. This integration is seen as a qualitative leap and a “technological revolution”, showcasing the Kingdom’s commitment to adopting the latest innovations to serve the “guests of the Rahman”.

AI applications are utilized across various sectors, particularly in security and health, to manage the large human gatherings and enhance the pilgrim experience. Key applications highlighted in the sources include:

• Crowd Management and Flow Analysis: AI-powered systems, supported by a vast network of high-resolution cameras, are used as advanced analytical tools. These systems employ algorithms and deep learning to analyze millions of human behavior data points per second. They can identify crowd flows, monitor excessive densities in specific areas, detect unusual behavioral patterns, and predict potential congestion or bottlenecks. This allows for rapid intervention and proactively anticipating human bottlenecks before they escalate. For example, the system can predict dangerous congestion minutes ahead in a specific route based on current flow, enabling field teams to redirect pilgrims or adjust movement proactively.
• Real-time Monitoring and Safety Mapping: The network of smart cameras and AI provides real-time monitoring, helping to map out safety conditions. This involves analyzing camera data continuously to determine crowd density and movement dynamics.
• Predictive Planning and Strategic Simulation: AI goes beyond real-time response by anticipating future needs and simulating complex scenarios. It can predict human flow accurately at each stage of Hajj (Mina, Mas’a, Mataf, Muzdalifah, Arafat) based on historical data, pilgrim numbers, and detailed schedules. This allows for the management of human and logistical resources and the optimization of resource allocation, such as distributing meals and water proactively. AI can also simulate the impact of unexpected factors like weather changes or sudden increases in pilgrim numbers, and suggest optimal responses, enhancing readiness for potential challenges.
• Optimizing Resource Allocation and Service Quality: By accurately predicting future needs, AI plays a decisive role in allocating resources more efficiently. This includes guiding the distribution of ambulances, assigning guidance teams, and optimizing the supply of water and beverages. AI helps ensure necessary resources reach the right place at the optimal time, reducing waste and improving the quality of services for pilgrims.
• Facilitating Immediate Decision-Making: Speed in decision-making is crucial, and AI acts as a core component by providing officials in control rooms with interactive smart dashboards displaying real-time data on crowd status. It can issue proactive alerts and specific, immediate recommendations to relevant authorities, significantly reducing response time from minutes to seconds. AI can even automatically direct field teams to areas needing urgent intervention based on its analysis.
• Coordination Platform: AI can function as a unified platform for collecting and exchanging real-time information between different entities involved in Hajj management, such as security forces, health services, and logistics. This helps coordinate responses seamlessly and ensures all parties work together in harmony.
• Health and Safety Monitoring: AI and high-resolution cameras can go beyond simple monitoring to potentially detect early health indicators among pilgrims. This includes analyzing irregular walking patterns, repeated stopping, or detecting signs of fatigue or heat stress based on physical condition analysis, allowing for early medical intervention.
• Personalized Pilgrim Guidance: AI-supported applications, such as Tawakkalna, can provide pilgrims with personalized and immediate guidance based on their real geographic location and the surrounding crowd status. This includes suggesting the best times to perform rituals to avoid severe congestion, indicating less crowded and safer routes, or even offering personalized health tips based on their condition and forecasts.
• Improving Facility Dynamics: AI can contribute to improving the dynamics of transportation (like the Holy Sites Train and buses) and essential facilities by predicting congestion and suggesting alternatives.
• Enhancing Guidance Strategies: AI can analyze crowd behavior in different locations to provide valuable insights for organizing entities. This helps in understanding common behaviors, identifying areas where pilgrims tend to stop and impede flow, and developing more effective cultural awareness and behavioral guidance campaigns.

AI technologies, along with systems like “ميدان”, “بسري”, “سوهر”, “المدن الذكية”, and “روؤى”, are leveraged for data analysis and supporting decision-makers to enhance the quality of security and organizational performance in Hajj management. This integrated approach aims to ensure the safety, tranquility, and ease of the pilgrimage for millions of guests.

Securing the Hajj Pilgrimage

Based on the provided sources and our previous discussion, security efforts during Hajj are incredibly comprehensive and are considered a primary focus for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These efforts are vital for ensuring the safety, security, and tranquility of millions of pilgrims performing rituals simultaneously in a confined geographic area.

Here’s a breakdown of the security efforts:

• Overall Commitment and Priority: Ensuring the security and safety of the pilgrims is a fundamental commitment and a source of pride for the Kingdom’s leadership. It is considered a complex undertaking requiring immense resources, accumulated experience, and the latest technologies. The Kingdom has excelled globally in managing these large crowds with high professionalism.
• Integrated Operations: Security and safety are managed through integrated efforts involving various security, military, and service agencies. These forces work together as one team under the oversight of officials like the Minister of Interior and the Director of Public Security. The Minister of Interior emphasizes the importance of integration between these entities, which has contributed to achieving positive results during the pilgrims’ arrival and movement through the holy sites. They review and implement security plans to ensure the tranquility and safety of pilgrims.
• Leadership Oversight: High-ranking officials, including the Minister of Interior (who also heads the Supreme Hajj Committee) and the Director of Public Security (head of the Security Committee for Hajj), are directly involved in overseeing and reviewing security readiness and the implementation of plans. They hold meetings with security and military leaders participating in the Hajj mission.
• Operational Security & Crowd Management:Security forces are strategically positioned throughout the holy sites and on routes to organize the movement of pilgrims and manage crowds. This includes surrounding vehicle roads and pedestrian paths.
• Specific forces, such as the Special Emergency Forces and Facilities Security Forces, are tasked with crucial roles like organizing pedestrian flow, crowd management, and maintaining order, especially around critical areas like the Jamarat facility and train stations. The Minister of Interior specifically inspected the readiness of these forces.
• Managing the density and movement of pilgrims between Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina, particularly during the stoning ritual at Jamarat, is a key security task. Improvements at the Jamarat facility, including multi-level access, escalators, and moving walkways, are designed to facilitate safe movement, supported by security oversight.
• Technology Integration for Security:AI technology and high-resolution cameras are strategic tools explicitly mentioned for enhancing security and organizational performance during Hajj.
• A vast network of high-resolution cameras, functioning as “vigilant eyes,” is used for real-time monitoring across the holy sites.
• AI-powered analytical systems analyze crowd data, identify flows, monitor excessive densities, detect unusual behavior patterns, and predict potential congestion or bottlenecks. This enables rapid intervention and proactive management of human bottlenecks.
• These systems help map out safety conditions by continuously analyzing crowd density and movement dynamics.
• AI contributes to planning and simulation, accurately predicting human flow at each stage of Hajj (Mina, Mas’a, Mataf, Muzdalifah, Arafat) to optimize the allocation of human and logistical resources, including security personnel.
• Control rooms equipped with AI-powered smart dashboards provide real-time data to officials, enabling immediate decision-making and issuing proactive alerts and recommendations to relevant authorities, reducing response time significantly. AI can even automatically direct field teams to areas needing urgent intervention.
• AI can function as a unified platform for collecting and exchanging real-time information between different entities, including security forces, to coordinate responses seamlessly.
• Combating Unauthorized Hajj:A major security effort is focused on preventing and addressing Hajj without permits. Adherence to regulations and obtaining Hajj permits is strongly emphasized as crucial for public interest, safety, and the smooth performance of rituals.
• Performing Hajj without a permit is explicitly described as a serious Sharia violation due to its disregard for regulations and potential harm to public safety and order. It is considered a transgression against public interest and the instructions of the ruler.
• Security forces actively monitor and apprehend individuals attempting unauthorized Hajj. They are described as being “in the lookout” for violators.
• Strict penalties are enforced against those who attempt unauthorized Hajj and those who facilitate it, including fines (up to 20,000 SAR for individuals, up to 100,000 SAR per facilitator per violator), deportation, and entry bans into the Kingdom for specific periods (e.g., 10 years for those attempting unauthorized Hajj).
• There are warnings against fraudulent Hajj campaigns and emphasis on using official channels and permits for safety and tranquility. Security efforts include identifying and addressing fake campaigns.

In summary, security efforts during Hajj are multi-faceted, involving high-level commitment, integrated operations across various agencies, hands-on crowd management, strategic deployment of advanced technology (especially AI and cameras), and strict enforcement of regulations, particularly against unauthorized Hajj, all aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the pilgrims.

Hajj Infrastructure and Services: Scale, Innovation, and Management

Based on the provided sources and our conversation, the discussion on infrastructure and services during Hajj highlights the immense scale, strategic importance, and advanced implementation of the systems in place to ensure the safety, comfort, and spiritual journey of millions of pilgrims. These efforts are a source of pride for the Kingdom and are described as requiring gigantic efforts, huge capabilities, accumulated experience, and the latest technologies.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects related to infrastructure and services:

1. Overall Commitment and Scale:

• The Kingdom’s leadership is committed to providing the highest level of services to the guests of the Rahman, making the Hajj journey purely spiritual.
• Managing millions of pilgrims moving simultaneously in a limited geographic space is not an easy task and requires vast material and trained human capabilities. The Kingdom has excelled globally in managing these large crowds with high professionalism.
• All services are available and facilitated at all stages of Hajj.

1. Integrated Management and Oversight:

• Service provision is managed through integrated efforts involving various security, military, and service agencies. This integration has contributed to positive results in pilgrim arrival and movement.
• High-level officials oversee and review readiness and implementation of plans, emphasizing the importance of coordination between entities.

1. Key Physical Infrastructure and Facilities:

• The Holy Sites themselves (Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, Mas’a, Mataf) serve as the core geographical infrastructure.
• Roads and pedestrian paths are part of the infrastructure, with security monitoring to organize movement and ensure safety.
• Camps and accommodations are prepared to receive pilgrims in Arafat and Mina.
• The Jamarat facility is a crucial piece of infrastructure for the stoning ritual, featuring multi-level access, escalators, and moving walkways designed to facilitate safe crowd movement. Security forces, like the Facilities Security Forces and Special Emergency Forces, are specifically tasked with organizing pedestrian flow and crowd management around it and train stations.
• Transportation infrastructure includes the Holy Sites Train and buses. The train is highlighted as being ready for transporting pilgrims, with specific operational plans and delegation mechanisms to ensure smooth operation and safety. It consists of 17 carriages with a capacity of 3,000 passengers per train, achieving a collective capacity of 72,000 passengers per hour, operating with flexible movements at speeds up to 80 km/h.
• Development projects are undertaken in the holy sites, such as the Jabal Al-Rahma shading project. This project involves innovative umbrellas and materials (reflecting over 47% of sunlight) to mitigate heat stress, enhance pilgrim comfort and health, and is part of efforts to enrich the pilgrim experience and enable rituals with ease.
• In the context of readiness for the Eid period which overlaps with Hajj, sources also mention municipal efforts related to public interest markets, slaughterhouses, parks, gardens, and streets, including cleaning, monitoring, and beautification.

1. Essential Services Provided:

• Medical, ambulance, and supply services are provided in Arafat and throughout the holy sites with high readiness and integrated work plans.
• The Ministry of Health’s 937 Call Center offers integrated health services 24/7 via a unified number. It is staffed by specialists speaking 7 languages (Arabic, English, French, Urdu, Indonesian, Turkish, Farsi) to facilitate communication with pilgrims of various nationalities. Services include medical consultations by doctors, receiving urgent reports, coordinating with health facilities, handling complaints, and assisting in finding missing or hospitalized pilgrims.
• Innovative Medical Supply Chain: For Hajj 1446 AH, the Ministry of Health has activated drones and helicopters within the medical supply system in cooperation with NUPCO. Drones transport urgent medical items, reducing delivery time to certain facilities from an hour to about 5 minutes. Helicopters supply facilities in high-density areas to bypass traffic. These are considered pioneering initiatives in smart medical supply management for large crowds.
• Food Services & Waste Reduction: The General Food Security Authority launched the “Hajj Without Waste” campaign to raise awareness about responsible consumption and reduce food loss and waste, contributing to food sustainability and reducing environmental/economic impacts.
• Water and beverage distribution is mentioned, with AI helping optimize its allocation.
• Guidance services are provided by teams and increasingly supported by technology.

1. Technology Integration (AI, Cameras, Platforms):

• AI technology and a vast network of high-resolution cameras are central to enhancing organizational performance and managing services.
• These systems act as advanced analytical tools, analyzing human behavior data for crowd management, identifying flows, excessive densities, and predicting congestion to enable rapid intervention and proactive adjustment of movement.
• AI contributes to planning and strategic simulation, predicting human flow at each stage to optimize the allocation of human and logistical resources, including distributing meals and water proactively.
• It aids in optimizing resource allocation for services like ambulances, guidance teams, and water supplies, ensuring resources reach the right place at the optimal time.
• AI provides real-time data via smart dashboards in control rooms, facilitating immediate decision-making and issuing proactive alerts and recommendations to relevant authorities. It can even automatically direct field teams to areas needing urgent intervention.
• AI can serve as a unified platform for collecting and exchanging real-time information among different service entities (health, logistics) for seamless coordination.
• AI-supported applications, like “Tawakkalna”, offer personalized guidance to pilgrims based on their location and crowd status, suggesting optimal times/routes to avoid congestion or providing personalized health tips. Tawakkalna specifically provides daily weather forecasts to help pilgrims plan their movements and rituals.
• AI helps improve the dynamics of transportation (train, buses) and essential facilities by predicting congestion and suggesting alternatives.
• Specific platforms mentioned in the Hajj Operations Center supporting data analysis and decision-makers for organizational performance include “Midan”, “Basri”, “Sohar”, “Smart Cities”, and “Ru’a”.

1. Regulations and Compliance:

• Adherence to regulations, instructions, and guidelines for Hajj organization is emphasized as crucial for public interest, safety, and the smooth performance of rituals. This adherence is seen as a religious and ethical duty.
• Official platforms like “Nusuk” and “Tasreeh” are used for issuing Hajj permits, and Hajj companies are expected to cooperate to ensure pilgrims perform rituals safely and easily using official channels.
• Municipalities intensify monitoring of facilities like markets and slaughterhouses to ensure they meet health and technical requirements before and during the Hajj/Eid period.

In essence, the infrastructure and services for Hajj are not static but are being actively developed and enhanced, particularly through the strategic integration of technology like AI and drones, to manage the complexities of hosting millions while prioritizing pilgrim safety, health, and ease in line with the goals of the Guests of Rahman Program and Vision 2030.

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

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

The text discusses the complex relationship between tribalism and nation-building in Saudi Arabia. While acknowledging the historical significance and enduring social influence of tribes, it highlights how tribal pride and fanaticism have been identified as obstacles to social development. The Saudi government’s efforts to manage tribal influence are examined, including legal frameworks aimed at curbing harmful tribal expressions and initiatives to integrate tribal identities within a broader national framework. Despite progress in promoting national unity and meritocracy, the persistence of some tribal practices underscores the ongoing challenges in achieving a fully cohesive national identity. The text also briefly compares Saudi Arabia’s experience with that of other countries where tribal structures remain influential in political and social life.

Tribalism in Saudi Arabia: A Study Guide

Short Answer Quiz

1. According to Saudi sociologists, what positive aspects of tribal structures can be utilized in the transformation to civil society?
2. What is a primary negative impact of tribalism, as identified by a 2016 Saudi study, and what is the root cause of this impact?
3. Describe how the Saudi state has attempted to mitigate tribal fanaticism using the example of the camel beauty pageants.
4. How has the Saudi government addressed historical issues of tribal-based discrimination within its institutions?
5. Name three historical pre-Islamic wars in the Arabian Peninsula that were attributed to tribal conflicts.
6. In what other Middle Eastern and North African countries does tribalism play a significant political or social role?
7. How does the Saudi ruling family’s history differ from traditional tribal structures, and how does this difference affect the role of tribes in the Kingdom?
8. What types of actions are subject to legal penalties, in terms of the law, for inciting tribalism?
9. What examples of individual actions were monitored in 2024 that illustrate the persistence of tribalism in Saudi society?
10. How do Saudi sociologists envision the role of tribes in the future of a civil society in the Kingdom?

Answer Key

1. Saudi sociologists see tribes as having positive values that can be built upon, particularly in strengthening national unity and resolving blood issues. They also believe tribal ways of thinking can help refine the behavior of their members.
2. The 2016 study identified tribal pride and fanaticism as obstacles to social development, stemming from a desire to demonstrate prestige and the superiority of one tribe over another.
3. The Saudi state took over the camel beauty pageants, transforming them from individual tribal events that incited fanaticism into a state-sponsored festival that promotes national identity, thus mitigating the issue.
4. The Saudi government, under King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has addressed historical racism through implementing policies that emphasize competence and merit, rather than tribal affiliation, in hiring and admissions.
5. The three pre-Islamic wars mentioned are the Dahis and Ghabra war, the Basus war, and the Fijar war.
6. Tribalism is influential in the political and social spheres of Kuwait, Jordan, Libya, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen.
7. The Saudi ruling family has urban roots dating back two centuries before Islam, giving it an equal distance from all tribes, allowing it to act as an institution, not a tribe, that frames and influences tribal tendencies, promoting a national identity.
8. Legal penalties apply to actions that promote tribalism in media, talk shows, poetry, national occasions, and in commercial advertising. The penalties include fines and prison sentences.
9. In 2024, examples of tribalism include guest appearances in talk shows, raising tribal flags at national events, tribal references in entertainment, and using tribal names in commercial branding.
10. Saudi sociologists believe that tribes should be transformed into civil society institutions, building upon existing values to strengthen national unity, address social issues, and refine behavior as they move forward.

Essay Questions

1. Analyze the tension between the historical prevalence of tribalism in Saudi Arabia and the country’s modern efforts to forge a national identity. What factors have contributed to the persistence of tribal identity?
2. Discuss the ways in which the Saudi government has attempted to reform the role of tribes in Saudi society. What have been the successes and what are the ongoing challenges in this transformation?
3. Compare and contrast the role of tribalism in Saudi Arabia with its impact in other Middle Eastern and North African countries mentioned in the text. What common threads and distinct characteristics exist?
4. Evaluate the effectiveness of legal measures in Saudi Arabia in curbing tribalism. Are these laws sufficient, or are other methods needed to achieve the country’s goals for a modern civil society?
5. Explore the potential for using the positive aspects of tribal structures to build a stronger national identity. How could values of tribal unity and behavior refinement be re-contextualized for civil society development?

Glossary of Key Terms

• Tribalism: A social organization based on kinship ties and shared ancestry, often associated with loyalty to the tribe above other forms of social organization or national identity.
• Civil Society Institutions: Organizations and groups that operate outside of government control that work to advance the common interests of people and address societal needs.
• National Unity: The sense of shared identity, purpose, and cohesion among the citizens of a nation.
• Blood Issues: Disputes or conflicts arising from acts of violence between individuals or groups, often requiring resolution through tribal mediation or other customary processes.
• Tribal Fanaticism: Extreme, irrational devotion to one’s tribe, often involving prejudice against other tribes and leading to inter-tribal conflicts.
• Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia’s strategic plan to diversify its economy and modernize the country.
• Bedouinism: A nomadic lifestyle traditionally associated with the Arabian Peninsula and characterized by tribal organization and pastoral practices.
• Labbat: A term used to describe tribal affiliations or heritage.
• Shila: Traditional form of Saudi music and poetry that can incorporate themes of tribalism.
• Qalta Poetry: Another form of traditional Arabic poetry often delivered in spoken form that can incorporate tribal themes.
• Al-Mazain Festival: A term that refers to camel beauty pageants, which can be a source of tribal competition.
• Basic Law of Governance: The constitution of Saudi Arabia that outlines the principles of governance and the rights of its citizens.
• Criminal Procedures Law: Laws that govern the process of criminal justice in Saudi Arabia.
• Audiovisual Media Law: Laws that regulate the media sector in Saudi Arabia including what is permissible to be broadcast.
• Anti-Cybercrime Law: Laws that cover electronic offenses, including incitement of tribalism.

Tribalism in Saudi Arabia: A Nation’s Balancing Act

Okay, here’s a briefing document summarizing the key themes and ideas from the provided text about tribalism in Saudi Arabia:

Briefing Document: Tribalism in Saudi Arabia

Introduction:

This document analyzes a provided text discussing the complexities of tribalism in Saudi Arabia. The text explores historical roots, contemporary manifestations, and governmental responses aimed at fostering national unity. It highlights a tension between traditional tribal affiliations and the state’s push towards modernization and a unified national identity, as well as ongoing efforts to manage tribal influence.

Key Themes and Ideas:

1. Tribalism as a Historical Force:

• Tribalism is not a new phenomenon in Saudi Arabia, with roots extending back to pre-Islamic times. The text mentions “wars that lasted for hundreds of years,” such as “the Dahis and Ghabra war, the Basus war, the Fijar war, and the Baath war”, underscoring the deep historical significance of tribal identity and its potential for conflict.
• The text highlights that tribalism’s influence is not unique to Saudi Arabia. It is also described as present and influential in the Levant and the Maghreb, and playing an important role in parliamentary elections in Kuwait and Jordan, and in power structures in post-Saddam Iraq, Libya, and Yemen. This indicates the widespread nature of tribalism in the Middle East, and its impact on politics and society across the region.

1. Tribalism as an Obstacle to Social Development:

• A 2016 Saudi study revealed that “tribal pride and fanaticism are considered obstacles to social development.” These sentiments are perceived as rooted in a desire to “show the superiority of one tribe over another.”
• The text uses the example of camel beauty pageants to illustrate how tribalism can manifest. Historically, individual tribes held such pageants in a way that incited “tribal fanaticism and strife”. This was one of the reasons the state intervened, taking control of the Al-Mazain festival.

1. The State’s Role in Managing and Reforming Tribalism:

• The Saudi state has actively sought to mitigate the negative aspects of tribalism and redirect it towards national unity. An example is its involvement in camel beauty pageants: “the state hold the beauty pageant festival… with a comprehensive identity for all tribes under the umbrella of the state, and tribal biases were replaced with a comprehensive national identity, in line with the requirements of modern civilization and Vision 2030.” This showcases the state’s desire to shape tribal traditions in accordance with national objectives.
• The ruling house is not tied to any one tribe, which the text describes as allowing it to be “at an equal distance from all components of Saudi society” and positioned to be an “influence the tribal tendency and framing it,” working to promote “individual ownership and the person’s responsibility for his actions, regardless of his (Labbat)”. This is contrasted with other nations in the region where the tribe may hold greater political significance.
• The state has implemented laws and regulations, such as Article 12 of the Basic Law of Governance and others, with substantial penalties (ranging up to 10 million riyals and imprisonment) for actions that incite tribalism. This indicates the seriousness with which the state takes the issue.

1. Progress in Addressing Discrimination:

• The text acknowledges past instances of “scientific, professional and geographical racism” where individuals from tribal backgrounds faced discrimination in education and employment.
• However, it notes that, under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, discrimination based on tribal affiliation has been largely eliminated. “the criterion of preference is competence and entitlement, not ethnic affiliation or civilization,”. The text indicates a move towards meritocracy and away from the bias that existed in prior decades.

1. Persistent Manifestations of Tribalism:

• Despite the legislative and governmental efforts, the text highlights that tribalistic tendencies are still apparent in some areas, with about 30 incidents in 2024. This includes the raising of tribal flags on national occasions, tribal themes in “Shila, series and Qalta poetry”, and cafes marketing in tribal names.
• These “limited” instances demonstrate that there is still a need to continue to work towards a comprehensive national identity. It suggests that the battle to shift the cultural emphasis of citizens away from tribe toward nation is ongoing.

1. The Potential of Tribal Structures:

• While acknowledging the negative impacts of tribalism, Saudi sociologists recognize that tribes “include a set of values ​​that can be built upon, especially in strengthening national unity, and in blood issues.”
• The text suggests the need to transform tribes into civil society institutions, leveraging their existing social frameworks for positive purposes. This signals a move to integrate, not abolish, tribal structures.

Conclusion:

The provided text offers a nuanced perspective on the issue of tribalism in Saudi Arabia. It acknowledges the deep historical roots of tribalism, its challenges to social cohesion and progress, and the government’s multi-pronged approach to managing and reforming it. Despite progress, there is an ongoing need to actively shape cultural norms and prevent the resurgence of tribalistic sentiments, as the Saudi state continues to aim for a unified national identity, in the context of the “modern civilization and Vision 2030.” The suggestion that tribal structures can evolve into civil society institutions points towards a future in which tribal values and the national identity can exist in harmony.

Tribalism and National Identity in Saudi Arabia

FAQ: Tribalism and National Identity in Saudi Arabia

1. How do Saudi sociologists view the potential role of tribes in modern Saudi society?
2. Saudi sociologists see tribes as having the potential to transform into civil society institutions. They believe that tribes possess a set of values that can be leveraged to strengthen national unity and resolve issues related to blood feuds. Furthermore, they see tribes, as a way of thinking, as playing an important role in refining the behavior of their members. This suggests a view of tribes not as relics of the past but as potential contributors to a more cohesive and civil society.
3. What negative impacts has tribalism had on social development in Saudi Arabia?
4. Tribal pride and fanaticism have been identified as obstacles to social development. The focus on tribal prestige and the desire to demonstrate superiority over other tribes have been linked to negative effects. Examples like the once-individual tribal camel beauty pageants, which incited tribal fanaticism, illustrate this. The desire for tribal superiority was identified as a primary source of these issues.
5. How has the Saudi government addressed the issue of tribal fanaticism, particularly in the context of camel beauty pageants?
6. The Saudi government has taken steps to address tribal fanaticism by taking control of the camel beauty pageant. The individual tribal pageants were replaced with the state-sponsored King Abdulaziz Camel Festival. This festival aims to foster a comprehensive national identity, replacing tribal biases, and aligning with the requirements of modern civilization and the nation’s Vision 2030 plan. This is a clear attempt to channel tribal pride into a more unified national expression.
7. How has the Saudi government addressed issues of tribal-based discrimination in professional and educational settings?
8. In the past, the sons of tribes faced scientific, professional, and geographical racism within government institutions. However, under the current leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, this discriminatory preference has been largely eradicated. Competence and merit are now the primary criteria, rather than ethnic affiliation or social status.
9. Is tribalism a phenomenon unique to Saudi Arabia?
10. No, tribalism is not unique to Saudi Arabia. It is a widespread cultural phenomenon across the Arab world, with significant influence in the Levant and the Maghreb. It plays roles in parliamentary elections in Kuwait and Jordan, controls oil wells in Libya, is a factor in the political landscape of Iraq, and influences political life and appointments in Lebanon. In Yemen, tribal consensus is vital for stability. Thus, tribalism is a regional phenomenon, with different levels of influence and power in different contexts.
11. How does the role of tribes in Saudi Arabia differ from their role in other parts of the Arab region?
12. Unlike many other Arab countries, Saudi Arabia’s ruling family does not have traditional tribal links. This allows them to stand at an equal distance from all societal components. The Saudi state, as a state of institutions, has been able to reframe and influence tribal tendencies, promoting individual responsibility and ownership, aligned with the concept of a modern civil state. In other nations, tribes can exert significant influence on political power, access to resources and can be at the heart of conflicts.
13. What legal measures have been implemented in Saudi Arabia to counter the negative aspects of tribalism?
14. Saudi Arabia has enacted several laws and regulations to control negative aspects of tribalism, such as Articles of the Basic Law of Governance, the Criminal Procedures Law, the Audiovisual Media Law, and the Anti-Cybercrime Law. These laws impose penalties for actions that incite tribalism or discrimination, including imprisonment, fines, and suspension of professional licenses. These measures indicate a serious commitment to combatting any tribal influence that undermines national unity.
15. What types of actions still exemplify tribal biases in Saudi Arabia, and how are they being addressed?
16. Despite legislation, tribal biases still surface in some instances, albeit limited in scope. These include actions like raising tribal flags on national occasions, tribal affiliations in talk shows, and the marketing of businesses using tribal names, and tribal influences in cultural productions like Shila, series and Qalta poetry. To counter this, there is a push to create a national plan that utilizes education and media to promote national unity and control these actions. In addition, sociologists seek to transform tribes into civil society institutions that align with national goals.

Tribalism in Saudi Arabia

Tribalism in Saudi Arabia is a complex issue with historical roots and modern manifestations [1, 2]. Here’s a breakdown of key points from the sources:

• Historical Context: Tribalism is not a new phenomenon, existing before Islam and causing wars that lasted for centuries [2]. Examples include the Dahis and Ghabra war, the Basus war, the Fijar war, and the Baath war [2].
• Tribalism and Social Development: Some Saudi studies have found that tribal pride and fanaticism can hinder social development, stemming from a desire to show superiority over other tribes [1]. Camel beauty pageants, which were once held individually by tribes, were seen as a cause for inciting tribal fanaticism [1]. The state intervened to hold the camel beauty pageant festival under the umbrella of the state, replacing tribal biases with a comprehensive national identity [1].
• Transformation of Tribes: Saudi sociologists believe that tribes should be transformed into civil society institutions, leveraging their existing values to strengthen national unity [1, 3]. They also believe that tribes play an important and decisive role in refining the behavior of their sons [1, 3].
• Tribalism in the Region: Tribal culture is not unique to Saudi Arabia, being present and influential in the Levant and the Maghreb [2]. It also plays a significant role in parliamentary elections in Kuwait and Jordan [2]. In other countries, it has a significant impact on political and economic issues. For example, tribes in Libya control oil wells, and in Iraq, they are a key part of the political landscape [2]. In Lebanon, tribalism is present in family and religious sects [2]. In Yemen, stability is tied to understanding and cooperation with tribes [2].
• Government efforts to control Tribalism: The Saudi ruling house is not linked to a traditional tribe, allowing it to stand at an equal distance from all components of Saudi society [4]. The government seeks to enhance individual ownership and responsibility, regardless of tribal affiliation [4]. The state is working to reformulate tribal tendencies by influencing and framing it to be in line with the national narrative [4].
• Legislative Measures: There are regulations in place to control negative aspects of tribalism [3]. These measures, controlled by the Basic Law of Governance, the Criminal Procedures Law, the Audiovisual Media Law, and the Anti-Cybercrime Law, include penalties like imprisonment, fines, and license suspensions [3].
• Contemporary Manifestations: Despite the government’s efforts, individual actions that reflect tribalism still occur [3]. These include: raising tribal flags on national occasions, tribal themes in media, and marketing businesses with tribal names [3]. There have been about 30 incidents monitored in 2024 [3].
• Combating negative aspects of Tribalism: The legislative aspect is comprehensive, but further work on the social level, in education and media is required [3]. This includes working on a national plan to control negative aspects of tribalism [3].
• Positive Aspects: The tribes have a set of values ​​that can be built upon, especially in strengthening national unity [1, 3]. There has also been a shift in preferences with competency and entitlement being the main criteria, not ethnic affiliation, civilization, or social status [5].

Transforming Tribal Structures in Saudi Arabia

Transforming tribal structures in Saudi Arabia is a key focus of the government and sociologists, aiming to harness the positive aspects of tribalism while mitigating its negative impacts [1, 2]. Here’s a breakdown of the transformation efforts based on the sources:

• Civil Society Institutions: Saudi sociologists advocate for transforming tribes into civil society institutions [1, 2]. This is because tribes possess values that can be leveraged to strengthen national unity and address issues, particularly blood feuds [1]. The tribal way of thinking is seen as a means of refining the behavior of its members [1].
• Shifting from Tribal Bias to National Identity: The state is actively working to replace tribal biases with a comprehensive national identity, aligning with the requirements of modern civilization and Vision 2030 [1]. The King Abdulaziz Camel Festival is an example of how the state has taken over an event that was once cause for tribal conflict, replacing it with a national identity [1]. The state aims to move away from tribalism by promoting a national narrative where every citizen has equal standing [3].
• Promoting Individual Responsibility: The Saudi government is working to enhance individual ownership and a person’s responsibility for their actions, irrespective of their tribal affiliation [3]. The state wants to move away from the idea of “Labbat”, or tribal affiliation, and focus on the individual as a part of the nation [3].
• Addressing Negative Aspects: The government recognizes that tribal pride and fanaticism can hinder social development [1]. In the past, some members of government institutions exhibited racism against members of tribes. However, in the present time, competence and entitlement are the main criteria of preference, not ethnic affiliation or social status [4]. The state acknowledges that tribal actions still occur but are limited and works to address them via education and media [2].
• Legislative Measures: The government is using regulations to control the negative aspects of tribalism [2]. These include imprisonment, fines, and license suspensions for those who violate the laws [2]. The laws are comprehensive, however, further work on the social level is required to control negative actions [2].
• Government’s Unique Position: The Saudi ruling house is not connected to any traditional tribe and views itself as equal to all members of society, giving it the ability to stand at an equal distance from all components of Saudi society [3]. This allows the government to work to influence and frame the tribal tendencies in society [3].

In summary, the transformation of tribal structures involves leveraging the positive aspects of tribal values for national unity, while actively working to mitigate negative effects like fanaticism and discrimination. The government is using a combination of legislative measures, cultural events, and a national narrative to promote individual responsibility and national unity over tribal affiliations.

National Unity in Saudi Arabia

National unity and identity are central themes in the context of tribalism in Saudi Arabia, with the government actively working to foster a cohesive national identity that transcends tribal affiliations [1, 2]. Here’s a breakdown of how national unity and identity are addressed in the sources:

• Overcoming Tribalism: The sources indicate that tribal pride and fanaticism are seen as obstacles to social development, stemming from a desire to show superiority over other tribes [1]. To combat this, the Saudi state is actively promoting a comprehensive national identity to replace tribal biases [1].
• State’s Role in Fostering National Unity:
• The Saudi ruling house is not linked to a traditional tribe, positioning itself as a unifying force [2]. This allows it to stand at an equal distance from all components of Saudi society [2].
• The government aims to reformulate and influence tribal tendencies and to frame them in the context of a national narrative, much like other immigrant societies like Canada, the United States, and Australia [2].
• The state enhances individual ownership and responsibility for actions, irrespective of tribal affiliation [2]. This is a key step in building a sense of national identity that goes beyond tribal loyalties [2].
• The government is working to promote competence and entitlement as the main criteria of preference, not ethnic affiliation or social status, in order to establish national unity [3].
• Cultural Events and National Identity:
• Camel beauty pageants, once a source of tribal conflict, have been transformed into the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival. This festival promotes a comprehensive national identity, replacing tribal biases with a unified national event [1]. The state intervention in the camel beauty pageant demonstrates how it’s trying to build national unity [1].
• Legislative Measures for National Unity:
• The Saudi government has implemented regulations to control negative aspects of tribalism that can undermine national unity [4]. These measures, including imprisonment and fines, aim to curb actions that promote tribalism over national identity [4].
• The laws are comprehensive, but there is also a need for more work on a social level, in education and media, to promote national unity [4].
• Tribal Values and National Unity:
• Saudi sociologists believe that the values within tribes can be used to strengthen national unity [1, 4]. They advocate for transforming tribes into civil society institutions that can contribute positively to the broader society and promote national unity [1, 4].
• Tribes are seen as playing an important and decisive role in refining the behavior of their members [1, 4]. This function can contribute to a more cohesive and unified society when framed in a national context [1, 4].
• Challenges to National Unity: Despite efforts, there are still individual actions that reflect tribalism, such as raising tribal flags on national occasions or marketing businesses with tribal names [4]. These instances highlight the ongoing need for a national plan to control and address these actions [4].

In summary, the pursuit of national unity and identity in Saudi Arabia involves a multi-pronged approach. It includes the transformation of tribal structures, the promotion of a national narrative, and the implementation of legislative measures. While there are still challenges, the state is actively working to create a unified national identity that transcends tribalism, drawing on the positive values of tribes while mitigating their negative effects.

Combating Tribalism in Saudi Arabia

The legal framework in Saudi Arabia plays a crucial role in controlling and mitigating the negative aspects of tribalism, and it aims to promote national unity and a unified national identity. Here’s a breakdown of the legal measures based on the sources:

• Comprehensive Regulations: The Saudi government has implemented a set of regulations to control tribalism. These are primarily controlled by:
• Article 12 of the Basic Law of Governance [1]
• Articles 15 and 17 of the Criminal Procedures Law [1]
• Articles 5 and 17 of the Audiovisual Media Law [1]
• Article 6 of the Anti-Cybercrime Law [1] These laws form the basis for addressing actions related to tribalism that are deemed harmful to national unity [1].
• Penalties: Violations of these laws can lead to significant penalties, which are both administrative and criminal. These penalties include:
• Imprisonment: A period of one to five years [1]
• Fines: A minimum of 500,000 riyals (approximately $134,000) and a maximum of 10 million riyals (approximately $2,667,000) [1]
• Professional Suspension: Suspension from practicing a profession for up to six months for media-related violations [1]
• License Cancellation: Cancellation of licenses for media-related violations [1]
• Focus on Media: The regulations specifically target media, reflecting the government’s concern over the potential for media to incite tribalism or division [1]. The penalties related to media demonstrate the effort to control the spread of tribal sentiments that go against the national narrative [1].
• Addressing Contemporary Manifestations: Despite the comprehensive legislative measures, some individual actions that reflect tribalism still occur, though they are limited [1]. The government has monitored about 30 incidents in 2024 [1]. These include:
• Raising tribal flags on national occasions such as National Day and Founding Day [1]
• Tribal themes in media such as talk shows interested in the Al-Mazain Festival, in some Shila, series, and Qalta poetry [1]
• Marketing businesses, such as cafes, with tribal names [1] These incidents highlight that the legal framework is in place, but there is an ongoing need for further work on a national level [1].
• Legislative Adequacy: The sources state that the legislative aspect of controlling tribalism is comprehensive, suggesting that the existing laws are robust [1]. However, there is also recognition that these laws must be supported with efforts at the social level, in education and the media [1].
• National Plan: The limited instances of tribal actions highlight the need for a national plan to control them on the social level, in education, and media. The legal framework provides the tools, but the sources emphasize the need for continued effort [1].

In summary, the legal framework in Saudi Arabia is designed to deter tribalism through a combination of regulations and penalties. While the existing laws are considered comprehensive, there is an emphasis on the need for more work on the social level to reinforce national unity and counter actions that promote tribalism.

Modernization and Tribalism in Saudi Arabia

Modernization and tribal culture in Saudi Arabia represent a complex interplay, with the government actively seeking to integrate traditional tribal structures into a modern, unified nation. Here’s a breakdown of this dynamic based on the sources:

• Transformation of Tribal Structures: Saudi sociologists advocate for transforming tribes into civil society institutions, recognizing that tribes possess values that can be leveraged to strengthen national unity [1, 2]. This transformation involves building upon positive tribal values, especially in strengthening national unity, while mitigating negative aspects [1, 2].
• Shifting from Tribal to National Identity: A key aspect of modernization is the conscious effort to replace tribal biases with a comprehensive national identity [1]. This shift is aligned with the goals of modern civilization and Saudi Vision 2030 [1]. The government is working to move beyond tribalism, promoting a national narrative where every citizen has equal standing [3].
• Government’s Role: The Saudi ruling house is not linked to any specific tribe and views itself as equal to all members of society, thus giving it the ability to stand at an equal distance from all components of Saudi society [3]. This allows the government to influence and frame tribal tendencies in the context of national unity [3].
• Individual Responsibility: Modernization efforts in Saudi Arabia emphasize individual ownership and responsibility for actions, regardless of tribal affiliation [3]. This focus on the individual aims to move beyond tribal loyalties and create a society where merit and competence are valued [3, 4].
• Addressing Negative Aspects: The government recognizes that tribal pride and fanaticism can hinder social development [1]. In the past, some members of government institutions exhibited racism against members of tribes [4]. However, in the present time, competence and entitlement are the main criteria of preference, not ethnic affiliation or social status [4].
• Cultural Events: The King Abdulaziz Camel Festival is an example of how the state has taken over an event that was once a source of tribal conflict, replacing it with a national identity [1]. This festival demonstrates how cultural events can be used to promote modernization and national unity over tribal biases [1].
• Legislative Measures: The government has implemented a comprehensive set of regulations to control negative aspects of tribalism that can undermine national unity [2]. These laws include penalties like imprisonment and fines for violations [2]. The sources indicate that the legislative measures in place are comprehensive, but there is a need to reinforce those measures on a social level with education and media [2].
• Challenges to Modernization: Despite these efforts, some individual actions that reflect tribalism still occur [2]. Examples include raising tribal flags on national occasions or marketing businesses with tribal names [2]. These instances highlight the need for a continued effort to control these actions [2].
• Tribalism Beyond Saudi Arabia: It is important to note that the influence of tribalism is not unique to Saudi Arabia, as it is present and influential in the Levant and the Maghreb, and it plays an important role in parliamentary elections in the states of Kuwait and Jordan [5]. The sources note that in current Libya, the tribe controls some oil wells, and has geographical influence and borders. In post-Saddam Iraq, the tribe has become a difficult number in the political equation. In Lebanon, the tribe is present in the family and in the religious sect, and both of them influence political life and the appointment of people. Stability cannot be achieved and life cannot continue in Yemen except by understanding with the tribe and obtaining its blessing, or buying its silence [5].

In summary, modernization in Saudi Arabia involves a complex and deliberate effort to integrate tribal culture into a unified national framework. The government is actively working to mitigate the negative aspects of tribalism while leveraging the positive values for national unity. This process involves a combination of legal measures, cultural shifts, and the promotion of a comprehensive national identity, although challenges still exist.

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

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

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.

Podcast

Listen or Download Podcast – Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 3, 2025

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.

Download PDF Newspaper

Read or Download PDF Newspaper – Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 3, 2025

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

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

This compilation of articles from the Riyadh newspaper provides a snapshot of current events and developments across various sectors in June 2025. Several pieces focus on the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage, detailing security preparations, health services utilizing advanced technology like drones, and the arrival of Palestinian pilgrims hosted by Saudi Arabia. Other articles cover economic matters, including adjustments to the Saudi housing support program to aid citizens and a discussion on global energy markets, touching on oil price fluctuations and the impact of trade tensions. Finally, the collection features articles on international relations, notably discussing Jordan’s efforts to end the conflict in Gaza, the US envoy’s rejection of Hamas’s ceasefire response, and Saudi Arabia’s evolving relationship with Syria as seen through renewed flight routes.

Podcast

Listen or Download Podcast – Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 2, 2025

Gaza War and the Palestinian Cause: Situation, Diplomacy, and Change

Based on the sources provided, here is a discussion of the Gaza War and related issues concerning the Palestinian cause:

The sources highlight the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and the broader Palestinian issue, emphasizing various dimensions including the severity of the situation on the ground, diplomatic efforts, and changing regional dynamics.

Situation in Gaza and Occupied Territories:

• The sources describe the situation in the Gaza Strip as involving war, a blockade, and a humanitarian catastrophe.
• There are escalating violations and a loss of opportunities for solutions.
• Israel is reported to be committing massacres against Palestinians, with international and International Court of Justice testimony cited as support for this. One specific incident mentioned is an Israeli shelling on a house that resulted in the death of nine children (Rivane, Eve, Jubran, Rasan, Rakan, Yahya, Adam, and Sidra) and injuries to the sole surviving child (Luqman) and their father, who is in intensive care.
• The sources mention continuous Israeli ground operations in areas south of Khan Younis, including Al-Najjar and Khuza’a, which have expanded to target dozens of residential homes and the hospital area, accompanied by intensive air raids and artillery shelling.
• Beyond Gaza, the sources also note actions in other occupied territories, specifically settler activities in areas like Sinjil, Burqa, Ni’lin, Qibya, and Sa’ir. Settlers are described as attacking residents’ homes, Palestinian vehicles with stones, farmers on their land, and forcing Palestinians to leave their land, sometimes releasing sheep into agricultural crops. Occupation forces are reported to protect settlers and make arrests of Palestinians attempting to confront them.

Diplomatic Stances and Efforts:

• Saudi Arabia maintains a position emphasizing that the recognition of the State of Palestine is not merely symbolic but a tangible plan towards peace and stability in the region.
• The Saudi Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, has called on European countries to recognize the State of Palestine, reiterating a long-held Saudi strategic stance. This call is described as putting points on the letters after years of Western avoidance.
• Saudi Arabia views recognition as a fundamental right that would end double standards and grant the Palestinians legitimacy that has been denied for decades.
• The sources indicate that the Saudi movement is not limited to statements but involves working through multiple channels including the Arab League, the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Gulf summits to mobilize international recognition and confront attempts to legitimize the reality of the occupation. The OIC is highlighted as a key platform for defending the interests and issues of its member states, including the Palestinian cause.
• Saudi Arabia is repositioning its tools and addressing the world with a realistic and impactful language. The sources suggest the need for decisiveness, presenting Europe with a “final moral test” to either stand for justice or remain in gray positions that fail to build security or create peace.
• A Ministerial Committee from the Extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit concerning developments in the Gaza Strip, chaired by Prince Faisal bin Farhan, met in Amman. This meeting discussed efforts to end the war and blockade on Gaza, allow the flow of aid, and strengthen efforts to stop all violations by the Israeli occupation authorities against the Palestinian people and occupied territories.
• Saudi Arabia is co-chairing a high-level international conference with France in New York in June aimed at a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and the implementation of the two-state solution, as part of efforts to embody an independent Palestinian state based on the June 4th lines.
• The sources also mention Saudi Arabia’s historical and honorable stances towards the Palestinian cause, describing them as an extension of the leadership’s directives. This includes hosting Palestinian pilgrims from the families of martyrs, prisoners, and wounded under a specific program, seen as reinforcing Islamic brotherhood.

Changing Dynamics:

• The sources analyze a shift in the global mood towards Israel. The world is witnessing what is described as “genocide” practiced by Israel.
• The situation has changed, and rising regional powers, led by Saudi Arabia, are now in a position to directly influence international decisions.
• The change in the international mood towards Israel is presented as a continuous reality, not just a temporary state. It is suggested that Israel must recognize that the region has changed in favor of regional countries, regardless of the size of external support it receives. Israel is expected to lose much of its standing in the long term due to popular and geopolitical transformations.

Saudi Housing Support Amendment

Based on the provided sources, there is specific information regarding Housing Support in Saudi Arabia.

According to the source, the Council of Ministers has approved an amendment to the housing support regulation. This amendment is presented as one of the mechanisms provided by the state. The primary goal of this amendment is to increase the percentage of home ownership for citizens.

The amendment is described as a continuation of the efforts undertaken by the “Sakani” program. This program aims to provide diverse housing options and solutions that are suitable for the needs of Saudi families. It offers flexible and multiple solutions for beneficiaries. The overall effort, including the amendment and the Sakani program, is part of strengthening housing support and accelerating the pace of family ownership through diverse housing and financing options.

Preparing for Hajj: Safety and Service for Guests of Rahman

Based on the provided sources, preparations for the Hajj season involve extensive efforts across various sectors to ensure the safety, health, and comfort of pilgrims, referred to as Guests of Rahman. These preparations are described as a great human message representing the highest forms of sacrifice and giving.

Key aspects of Hajj preparations highlighted in the sources include:

• Overall Readiness and Effort: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia undertakes tremendous efforts under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and his Crown Prince for the organization and crowd management (التنظيم والتفويج) in serving the Guests of Rahman. This effort is part of strengthening Islamic brotherhood and is seen as an extension of the leadership’s directives. The Hajj care provided has become a global model for smart management, health, and logistical services, ensuring service for millions of pilgrims.
• Security: There is a focus on the readiness and preparedness of Hajj security forces for executing their field tasks in preserving Hajj security. This involves field exercises and simulations of different security scenarios and a review of security equipment, including vehicles, security aviation, and advanced equipment used during the Hajj season. Security personnel are described as the first line of protection for Guests of Rahman, working with resolve and seriousness amidst the large influx of crowds and diverse nationalities, cultures, and languages. Their roles extend beyond enforcing order to providing direct assistance, handling emergency human situations, and dealing with the elderly and sick with compassion and calmness, even working long hours under difficult conditions.
• Health and Medical Services: The health system’s readiness for Guests of Rahman is a significant part of the preparations. Health services provided are reviewed, including complex procedures like open-heart surgeries and cardiac catheterizations. Advanced technology is being integrated, such as the activation of drones for the first time in the medical supply system during Hajj to transport urgent medical items to high-density areas, avoiding traffic. Paramedics (المسعفون) are described as the first line of defense in confronting emergency situations, distributed throughout the holy sites ready for any emergency. They handle cases like heat strokes and exhaustion, transporting critical cases to equipped ambulances quickly. They approach pilgrims with reassuring smiles and comforting words, carrying compassion and a sense of responsibility. Health awareness materials are prepared, including a health awareness bag distributed in 8 languages.
• Services (Water, Environment): Readiness inspections are conducted for sectors like water and environmental services in Mecca and the holy sites. The goal is to double efforts and raise the readiness of all system sectors to provide the highest standards of quality and efficiency to create an ideal environment for pilgrims.
• Logistics and Crowd Management: Facilitating crowd management is crucial to ensure the safety of pilgrims. This is supported by providing technologies and tools such as counting sensors for real-time density data and guiding screens and boards. The regulations and laws, such as “No Hajj without a permit” (لا حج بلا تصريح), are emphasized as regulatory systems approved by the Kingdom that must be respected by all wishing to perform Hajj for the sake of everyone.
• Guidance and Support (Religious, Humanitarian): Specific programs exist, such as the hosting of Palestinian pilgrims from the families of martyrs, prisoners, and wounded, as part of reinforcing Islamic brotherhood. This includes a comprehensive operational plan for their service in Mecca and Medina. Volunteers (المتطوعون) are present everywhere with sincere smiles, undertaking varied tasks like guiding the lost, distributing water, and helping the elderly, all with the single goal of serving Guests of Rahman with love and seeking reward. Volunteering in Hajj is described as a great responsibility requiring patience and tact. Additionally, a number of Sheikhs are assigned to respond to pilgrims’ inquiries. The care and attention, including special care for communities like the deaf, are seen as embodying the values of mercy and justice in serving pilgrims.

Overall, the preparations are multifaceted, combining advanced technology, dedicated human effort, and rigorous organization to manage the immense scale of the Hajj pilgrimage, ensuring pilgrims can perform their rituals safely and smoothly.

Gaza Humanitarian Crisis and Aid Efforts

Based on the sources provided and our conversation history, the issue of Palestine Aid is discussed primarily in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and broader humanitarian efforts.

The sources indicate a critical humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, describing it as involving war, a blockade, and a humanitarian catastrophe. There are specific reports of Israel committing massacres against Palestinians, including an incident where aid seekers were targeted in Gaza. The sources also state that only a small amount of aid has arrived, suggesting a significant shortfall in necessary supplies.

Diplomatic efforts are underway to address this situation. A Ministerial Committee from the Extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit, chaired by Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, met in Amman to discuss, among other things, ending the war and blockade on Gaza and allowing the flow of aid. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry stated that the Israeli government prevented a visit by a delegation from this committee to the State of Palestine via the occupied West Bank, viewing this as a flagrant violation of its commitments under international law.

In a different form of support, the sources mention the arrival of the first groups of guests hosted by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques from the families of Palestinian martyrs, prisoners, and wounded. This program reinforces Islamic brotherhood and includes a comprehensive plan for their service during Hajj.

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) is also mentioned as continuing to implement humanitarian and relief projects in several countries around the world to alleviate the suffering of affected populations. These efforts aim to assist the needy and achieve food and health security in affected areas. While these sources detail KSrelief’s global work, including aid distribution in Syria, they do not specifically mention aid directed to Palestine in this particular context.

Oil Market Dynamics and OPEC+ Influence

Based on the provided sources, discussions related to oil market stability revolve around factors influencing prices and supply, as well as the actions of organizations like OPEC and OPEC+ aimed at managing market dynamics.

The sources indicate that the efforts of OPEC and the countries allied with it within the framework of OPEC+ to raise production have begun to bear fruit. It is argued that this production increase, which some had criticized, has proven to be correct, and that OPEC+’s calculations were accurate.

The issue, according to one source, lies in the oil cycle. Increasing production can lead to a market surplus, causing oil prices to fall. This, in turn, leads to a decrease in the activity of oil and gas companies operating in areas with high production costs, such as deepwater drilling and shale gas producers whose production costs average around $65 per barrel. In comparison, the average production cost in the Middle East is around $25 per barrel, and in Saudi Arabia it is about $3.19. The reduction in production by these high-cost companies causes supply to decrease, leading to prices rising again – and so the cycle continues. This cycle, it is argued, was the cause of energy crises over the past 15 years.

Source provides specific details about recent market conditions:

• The average price of the OPEC crude basket during the first quarter was $76.7 per barrel, an increase of 4.4% compared to the previous quarter.
• The price of Brent crude rose to $74.9 per barrel, and the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose to $71.4 per barrel.
• These price increases were driven by a combination of positive economic forecasts, geopolitical tensions, fears of supply shortages, and rising demand for petroleum products used for heating during the winter season.
• Globally, oil supplies increased by 0.7% on a quarterly basis, reaching approximately 103.1 million barrels, primarily due to increased production from Kazakhstan, Canada, Iran, Nigeria, Libya, Russia, and the United States, despite decreases in other OPEC countries, Azerbaijan, and the OECD.
• Global demand for oil decreased by 1.3% on a quarterly basis, reaching approximately 104.1 million barrels per day. This was influenced by decreased consumption in the United States, China, Europe, Russia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Latin America, while India and other Asian countries recorded increases.

Overall, the sources highlight the complex interplay of production adjustments by key players like OPEC+, global supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical factors, and economic outlooks that all contribute to the fluctuating nature of oil prices and the market cycle. The actions of OPEC+ in adjusting production are presented as a means to navigate these dynamics.

Download PDF Newspaper

Read or Download PDF Newspaper – Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 2, 2025

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

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

This collection of sources from Al Riyadh newspaper highlights Saudi Arabia’s multifaceted efforts and achievements. Several articles focus on the preparations and implementation of the Hajj pilgrimage, emphasizing the use of technology and logistics, including initiatives like “Makkah Route” and the “Smart Hajj Card,” to enhance the experience and security of pilgrims. The text also features reports on the strength and growth of the Saudi Arabian economy, particularly its non-oil sectors and banking industry, aligning these advancements with the goals of Vision 2030. Finally, there are pieces on cultural and social aspects, such as the significance of hospitality, the historical development of coastal areas, the biography of a notable literary figure, and discussions on contemporary issues like traffic pollution and the state of Saudi sports.

Managing the Hajj Pilgrimage: Saudi Arabia’s Comprehensive Approach

The Hajj is considered the fifth pillar of Islam, a great religious obligation that gathers millions of Muslims from various parts of the earth annually in Mecca/Makkah Al-Mukarramah. It is performed at the end of every Hijri year. This annual event is a moment of great spiritual significance, embodying unity for Muslims who come from diverse backgrounds, languages, customs, and traditions, yet unite for one goal. The Hajj journey transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, serving as a powerful symbol of human unity and equality under the banner of faith.

Managing this immense human gathering, involving millions from over 150 nationalities speaking dozens of languages, presents significant challenges. These challenges include managing high-density crowds, addressing diverse needs and languages, providing extensive services such as health, security, and logistics, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring the safety of pilgrims by preventing unauthorized entry and managing potential health issues like those affecting bones and joints.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) considers serving the pilgrims a great honor and a religious, moral, and sovereign responsibility. KSA dedicates all its capabilities to ensure the comfort and safety of the pilgrims. These efforts are continuous, evolving year after year, and are integral to the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to enhance the pilgrim experience.

Saudi Arabia’s efforts to facilitate Hajj are comprehensive and multi-faceted, leveraging innovation and technology to manage the event efficiently and enhance the pilgrim experience:

• Infrastructure and Logistics: Significant investments have been made in developing infrastructure, including roads, water distribution systems, housing, and transport networks. Major projects like the Jamarat facility, the Al-Mashaaer Train, and the Haramain Train are crucial for pilgrim movement. Modern tents, cooling systems, and wide passages contribute to comfort. Transport capacity is continuously increased across air and train networks.
• Technology and Innovation (Smart Hajj): KSA extensively employs modern technology and innovation, particularly through initiatives like “Smart Hajj,” which is a clear model of this approach. Digital platforms and applications covering various aspects of the pilgrim’s journey, such as housing, transportation, health, and guidance, are widely used. The “Nusuk” platform/app is highlighted as a unified digital platform enabling pilgrims to plan their entire journey from booking to performing rituals. The Smart Hajj Card, or Sha’air Card, is a multi-functional electronic card containing pilgrim information, including health data and permit details, facilitating access to services and tracking movements. The “Makkah Road” initiative streamlines entry procedures from pilgrims’ home countries before arrival in Saudi Arabia, aiming to reduce travel time and effort. Artificial Intelligence (AI), cameras, and predictive analytics are used for sophisticated crowd management, identifying behavior patterns, predicting congestion, and enabling rapid intervention. AI is also crucial for providing translation services and guidance. AI-powered innovations include multi-lingual robots for religious guidance and medical consultations (“Holo Doctor”), smart sanitation devices, smart monitoring wristbands, and experimental smart transport options like flying taxis and electric scooters. Digital guidance screens and awareness campaigns further leverage technology to reach pilgrims effectively.
• Security and Safety: A strict legal framework, including mandatory Hajj visas and permits, is enforced to regulate entry and ensure safety. Severe penalties are in place for violators and those who facilitate unauthorized entry. Security management involves trained forces, emergency plans, and surveillance via cameras and possibly satellites. Technology aids in tracking, identification, and coordination among security agencies. The necessity of permits is emphasized through public awareness campaigns, and the Council of Senior Scholars has affirmed that performing Hajj without a permit is not permissible.
• Health Services: An integrated health system provides comprehensive care, with equipped hospitals and medical centers operating 24/7, supported by emergency teams and various ambulance types. Digital health services like telemedicine, smart monitoring devices, and access to electronic patient files are available. The Kingdom’s readiness for emergencies and epidemics is high, demonstrating its leadership in crowd medicine. Proactive measures like requiring vaccinations contribute to public health during the gathering.
• Guidance and Awareness: Guidance and awareness are provided in multiple languages through various channels, including digital platforms, smart centers with translation services, and extensive volunteer programs. Broadcasting religious lessons live in different languages helps convey correct religious concepts. Educational campaigns include health guidance and tips for managing personal belongings. Environmental awareness is also integrated into guidance.
• Environmental Sustainability: KSA is actively integrating environmental sustainability concepts into Hajj management, recognizing its importance for future generations. Initiatives like the Mashaaer Train and the use of clean energy aim to reduce carbon emissions. Waste management, promoting recycling, and encouraging responsible consumption of water and energy are key focus areas. Environmental volunteerism is encouraged, and technology is used for environmental monitoring and management. Innovative use of recycled materials, such as rubber asphalt for pedestrian paths, enhances comfort and contributes to sustainability.
• Enhancing Pilgrim Experience: A primary goal is to allow pilgrims to focus on the spiritual aspects by reducing logistical and administrative burdens. Hospitality is evident from the moment of arrival, with traditional welcomes including coffee, dates, and smiles. Services are designed for comfort and ease, including psychological support. Reducing waiting times and improving navigation flow through technology are key aspects.

Pilgrims and observers often praise the high level of organization, security, and quality of services provided during Hajj. Many describe the experience as transformative, deepening their sense of unity and faith. Anthropologically, Hajj is viewed as a collective rite of passage where social differences are temporarily set aside, reinforcing a shared identity. While technology is increasingly integrated, discussions arise regarding the balance between maintaining the spiritual essence of the ritual and embracing modern management tools. The media plays a significant role in conveying the Hajj experience to the world.

Despite these extensive efforts, some voices raise criticisms, accusing the Kingdom of politicizing Hajj or citing perceived shortcomings. KSA refutes these by pointing to the openness in granting visas, the equality of services provided to all pilgrims regardless of nationality, testimonies from pilgrims themselves, and recognition from international bodies like the UN and WHO for its management of Hajj. Challenges persist, particularly in overcoming digital literacy gaps among some pilgrims, managing network strain during peak times, and ensuring accurate translation across a vast array of languages and dialects. Health challenges are also noted, especially regarding the physical strain of the pilgrimage and managing existing health conditions among pilgrims.

In summary, Hajj is a monumental religious event that unites millions. Saudi Arabia has consistently demonstrated its profound commitment to facilitating this pilgrimage safely and comfortably, leveraging vast resources, advanced technology, and meticulous planning to manage the complex logistics and enhance the spiritual journey for all who attend.

Saudi Vision 2030: Transformation and Development

Saudi Vision 2030 represents a comprehensive and ambitious national strategy driving significant transformation across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It places enhancing the pilgrim experience at the heart of its priorities, leveraging modern technology and innovation in the details of the Hajj season.

The Vision encompasses several key areas aimed at achieving its overarching goals:

1. Economic Diversification: A primary objective is to achieve economic diversification away from reliance on oil income. Increasing the contribution of non-oil sectors to the national income is a main entry point towards transforming Vision 2030 into reality. The growth in non-oil exports directly aligns with Vision 2030’s objective of diversifying income sources, and continuous growth in this area confirms the success of the Kingdom’s efforts to stimulate productive and export sectors. Vision 2030 aims to increase the percentage of non-oil exports from non-oil GDP, support innovation and national industry, contributing to a diversified and prosperous economy. The vision is the roadmap for developing non-oil exports and diversifying national income sources.
2. Enhancing the Hajj and Umrah Experience: Improving the quality of services for pilgrims and Umrah performers is a continuous commitment and a key objective of Vision 2030. The Vision seeks to facilitate the performance of rituals and provide an exceptional spiritual experience for the millions of Muslims visiting the holy sites. Initiatives like the “Makkah Road” are explicitly part of Vision 2030 programs aimed at enhancing the pilgrim experience. Regulating Hajj through mandatory permits is also integral to achieving Vision 2030 goals related to pilgrim safety and security.
3. Technology and Innovation: Vision 2030 embraces digital transformation and the adoption of modern technology. Initiatives like “Smart Hajj” and digital platforms such as Nusuk are extensions of this vision, aimed at enhancing the pilgrim experience through innovation. The use of AI, cameras, and predictive analytics in Hajj management demonstrates a national vision looking towards a smart future, aligning with Vision 2030 goals for efficiency and safety. The Kingdom’s achievement of ranking first globally in the growth of the innovation ecosystem and being named “Innovation State of the Year 2025” reflects national integrated efforts to support the innovation environment and develop a sustainable knowledge economy, stemming from ambitious national initiatives and strategies led under Vision 2030. This progress enhances the Kingdom’s position as a global investment and regional innovation center.
4. Tourism Development: Developing beaches into global destinations is presented as an essential part of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to promote sustainable tourism. Major projects like the Red Sea Project and NEOM are highlighted within this context.
5. Sports Development: The sports sector has taken significant steps thanks to the support of the leadership, becoming an active icon in the country. The approach towards sports is integrated into the daily agenda and official vision, emphasizing its importance for building communities and strengthening connections, aligning with Vision 2030 goals. The “Innovation Award” in the transport and logistics sector is also seen as embodying an ambitious vision consistent with Vision 2030 goals to make this sector a global model for creativity and innovation. This investment in sports is viewed as a real investment in people.
6. National Development and Global Positioning: Vision 2030 is driving growth and development in all fields, based on religious foundations and national constants. The success in organizing Hajj at high levels is an important part of Vision 2030’s objectives to strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global center for hosting and serving pilgrims. The continuous development efforts across various sectors aim to achieve sustainable development and enhance the Kingdom’s global standing.

The implementation of Vision 2030 relies on ambitious plans, developed projects, and modern technologies. It emphasizes comprehensive and multi-faceted efforts, including significant investments in infrastructure, leveraging innovation and technology (“Smart Hajj” initiatives), strengthening security and safety frameworks, enhancing health services, and integrating environmental sustainability concepts.

Ultimately, Vision 2030 is presented as a continuous process of improvement and transformation, aimed at achieving economic prosperity, social well-being, and a leading global role, while upholding its responsibility to serve the Muslim world, particularly through facilitating Hajj and Umrah with the highest standards of efficiency, safety, and innovation.

Saudi Vision 2030: Technology and Innovation

Saudi Vision 2030 places a strong emphasis on technology and innovation as key drivers for national transformation. This focus is evident across multiple sectors, particularly in the enhancement of the Hajj and Umrah experience and broader economic diversification efforts.

Here are some key aspects of technological innovation discussed in the sources:

• Integration with Vision 2030: Digital transformation and the adoption of modern technology are core elements of Vision 2030. Initiatives like “Smart Hajj” and digital platforms are described as extensions of this vision aimed at improving the pilgrim experience. The Kingdom’s ranking in the global innovation ecosystem and being named “Innovation State of the Year 2025” reflects integrated national efforts stemming from ambitious strategies under Vision 2030 to support innovation and develop a sustainable knowledge economy.
• Enhancing the Hajj Experience: Technology is extensively used to facilitate the performance of rituals and provide an exceptional spiritual experience for pilgrims.
• Digital Platforms and Applications: Various digital platforms and applications have been launched covering multiple aspects of the pilgrim journey, including accommodation, transportation, health services, guidance, and religious awareness. These platforms provide instant information, interactive guidance, quick access to services in multiple languages, aiming to make the Hajj experience more organized and easier.
• Nusuk Platform: Highlighted as a unified and comprehensive digital platform for pilgrims and Umrah performers, enabling full trip planning (flights, hotels, Haramain train) and managing bookings in one place. It also includes a digital guide with religious information, alerts for rituals, live broadcasts, and features like a digital prayer beads and Qibla direction. Acknowledged challenges include managing the immense system load during Hajj season.
• Smart Hajj Card: This is a new technology developed under Nusuk, serving as an electronic multi-function card containing pilgrim’s personal, health, and permit data, utilizing NFC and QR codes for service access and movement management. It is seen as significantly enhancing control by verifying identity and permits, helping track pilgrim movement for efficient crowd management and rapid intervention in emergencies, and monitoring compliance with instructions. It offers benefits like ease of access, reduced waiting times, less reliance on paper documents, and aids authorities in better planning and responding to incidents.
• Healthcare Technology: The Ministry of Health has implemented a digital system for pilgrim healthcare. Innovations include “Holo Doctor” for remote medical consultations via video with doctors in Riyadh, allowing diagnosis and e-prescriptions without needing to transport the patient. Virtual hospitals and smart bracelets/watches monitor vital signs and send alerts for health emergencies. The Saha Virtual Hospital app allows consultations anytime, anywhere, linking directly to holy sites hospitals. The Sehaty app provides access to medical files, appointments, and lab results.
• Smart Transportation: Recent Hajj seasons have seen the introduction of innovative transport solutions, such as experimental autonomous air taxis for transport between holy sites, aiming to reduce congestion and save time/effort. Electric scooters have been designated on key paths within the holy sites to ease movement. These smart transport initiatives aim for efficiency and sustainability.
• Guidance and Awareness Technology: Smart screens provide real-time information, movement paths, prayer times, and safety guidance in multiple languages. Smart guidance centers offer instant translation and multi-language support. Augmented reality through smart glasses is used for interactive guidance during rituals. Digital channels via mobile phones, including video clips and messages in various languages, are used for awareness campaigns covering health (vaccinations, hydration), practical tips (packing), and emergency procedures.
• AI in Hajj Management: The use of Artificial Intelligence, cameras, and predictive analytics is considered a fundamental strategic shift in crowd and event management, moving beyond a simple technical addition. This involves high-precision cameras and AI-powered analytical systems for real-time monitoring, analyzing human behavior, identifying unusual patterns, detecting medical distress or congestion risks, and allowing for rapid, proactive intervention. AI supports strategic planning by analyzing historical data to predict crowd flow, anticipating potential problems like bottlenecks, and suggesting optimal responses or alternative routes. It acts as a decision-making center, providing instant data and recommendations to relevant authorities, significantly reducing response time. AI can also aid in managing resources and optimizing their allocation. Potential future uses include detecting physical distress and providing smart navigation.
• Challenges in Technology Adoption for Hajj: Despite the advancements, challenges remain, such as linguistic difficulties (supporting local dialects and less common languages) and the potential for inaccuracies in religious interpretations through machine translation. Connectivity issues in crowded areas can also impact services relying on constant internet access.
• Broader Impact and Diversification: Technological innovation is linked to the broader goal of economic diversification away from oil dependency. The growth in non-oil exports is seen as a direct result of efforts to stimulate productive and export sectors, aligning with the Vision 2030 objective of diversifying income sources. Innovation supports national industry and contributes to a diversified and prosperous economy.
• Innovation Ecosystem: The Kingdom’s high ranking in global innovation indexes reflects efforts to develop a sustainable knowledge economy. This includes supporting startups and small/medium enterprises, fostering a culture of innovation, and enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a global investment and regional innovation center. Specific areas of strength mentioned include FinTech, delivery/logistics tech, digital payments, e-gaming, and EdTech.
• Sports and Tourism: The sports sector is actively integrating technology. Major tourism projects like the Red Sea Project and NEOM are highlighted within the context of developing global destinations through sustainable tourism, implying the use of modern technology.

Overall, the sources present technological innovation as a critical enabler for Saudi Vision 2030, not only transforming the Hajj experience but also driving economic diversification, strengthening the national innovation ecosystem, and enhancing the Kingdom’s global standing across various sectors.

Saudi Economic Transformation Under Vision 2030

Based on the sources and our conversation, the Saudi Arabian economy is undergoing a significant transformation guided by Saudi Vision 2030. A primary objective of the Vision is economic diversification away from reliance on oil income.

Key aspects of the discussion on the economy and banking, as presented in the sources, include:

• Economic Diversification: Vision 2030 aims to increase the contribution of non-oil sectors to the national income. The growth in non-oil exports is highlighted as a main entry point for transforming Vision 2030 into reality. Continuous growth in this area confirms the success of the Kingdom’s efforts to stimulate productive and export sectors.
• Recent Trade Performance (as of March/Q1 2025):Non-oil exports (including re-exports) registered a notable increase of 13.4% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. In March 2025, non-oil exports grew by 10.7% compared to March 2024. This reflects the expanding contribution of non-oil sectors to the Kingdom’s foreign trade.
• Total merchandise exports recorded a decrease of 3.2% in Q1 2025 and 9.8% in March 2025 compared to the corresponding periods in 2024.
• Merchandise imports increased by 7.3% in Q1 2025 and 0.1% in March 2025 compared to the same periods in the previous year.
• The trade balance saw a decrease of 28% in the first quarter and 34.2% in March.
• The ratio of non-oil exports to imports improved, reaching 36.2% in Q1 2025 (up from 34.3% in Q1 2024) and 36.5% in March 2025 (up from 33% in March 2024).
• The share of oil exports in total exports decreased to 71.8% in Q1 2025 (from 75.9% in Q1 2024) and 71.2% in March 2025 (compared to imports).
• This trade data is based on administrative records from the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (for non-oil data) and the Ministry of Energy (for oil data).
• Support for Non-Oil Exports: The objective is to increase the percentage of non-oil exports from non-oil GDP. “Saudi Exports” (Saudi Export Development Authority) employs its capabilities to improve the export environment and overcome challenges faced by exporters. They work on enhancing the readiness of exporting establishments, finding suitable export opportunities and markets, and connecting exporters with potential buyers. The sustained growth in non-oil exports underscores the success of stimulating production and export sectors and attracting foreign investments.
• Sectors Contributing to Diversification:Tourism: Developing beaches into global destinations like the Red Sea Project and NEOM is presented as an essential part of Vision 2030. This aims to promote sustainable tourism and create job opportunities.
• Sports: The sports sector is highlighted as a significant contributor to community and economic development and is seen as an investment in people. It is becoming an active icon in the country due to leadership support. Privatization is seen as a way for sports to become a self-sustaining industry.
• Hajj/Umrah: The Hajj is described as a “huge economic force” driving various sectors like transportation, hospitality, tourism, and smart services. While primarily religious, it represents a point where religious values intersect with market logic and consumption patterns.
• Innovation: The Kingdom’s high ranking in the global innovation ecosystem reflects national efforts to support innovation and develop a sustainable knowledge economy. Specific areas of strength mentioned include FinTech (2nd globally), delivery/logistics tech (2nd globally), and digital payments (3rd globally). This growth in innovation enhances the Kingdom’s position as a global investment and regional innovation center.
• Banking and Financial Context:The sources mention Saudi Arabia’s global ranking in FinTech and digital payments, indicating activity and growth in these areas related to the banking sector.
• Loan performance is mentioned, with net loan growth increasing by 4.1% in Q1 2025, reaching its highest growth rate in fifteen months. This performance is linked to the strong momentum in non-oil sectors.
• The Riyadh Chamber of Commerce is mentioned for its role in social responsibility and supporting a housing association, indicating the business community’s engagement beyond purely economic activities.
• Broader Economic Context (Global): The sources also touch upon global economic themes like rising bond yields, US budget deficits, debt ceiling issues, trade tensions, and central bank interest rate expectations, particularly in the US, Japan, and European countries. US inflation data for April 2025 is also reported. While this provides a broader economic backdrop, it’s not specifically focused on Saudi Arabia’s internal banking or economic policies beyond the points already mentioned.

In summary, the sources indicate that Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing economic diversification under Vision 2030, with notable success in boosting non-oil exports and developing non-oil sectors like tourism, sports, and innovation, including areas like FinTech and digital payments. Recent data shows growth in non-oil trade and overall loan activity, although total exports decreased. The Hajj, while a religious duty, is also recognized as a significant economic contributor.

Saudi Coastal Transformation for Vision 2030

Based on the sources and our conversation history, coastal development in Saudi Arabia is a significant aspect of the Kingdom’s economic transformation.

Coastal areas and beaches are considered an essential part of Saudi Vision 2030. A core objective of Vision 2030 is economic diversification away from reliance on oil income, and the development of these coastal regions is strongly linked to achieving this goal.

Historically, coasts served as crucial areas for ports and fishing. Al Uqair port is noted as the first and oldest port in the country. Beaches like “Half Moon Bay” (Nisf Al-Qamar) on the Arabian Gulf coast were among the oldest known places for leisure and fishing for residents.

Under Vision 2030, there has been a deliberate shift to transform coastal areas and beaches into global tourist destinations. This transformation aims to contribute significantly to increasing the non-oil sector’s contribution to the national income.

Major development projects like the Red Sea Project and NEOM are highlighted as key initiatives in this coastal transformation. The Red Sea project specifically aims to attract millions of tourists by developing unique islands and beaches, and NEOM focuses on creating sustainable tourist destinations on the Gulf of Aqaba coast, emphasizing exploration and adventure. These projects aim to offer a variety of attractions, including sandy beaches and diving areas.

The focus is not only on international tourism but also on boosting domestic tourism. Initiatives like the “Saudi Summer” program highlight coastal areas among the 10 targeted tourist destinations within the Kingdom. Examples of promoted coastal spots include Tabuk, Haql, Umluj (dubbed the “Maldives of Saudi Arabia”), Yanbu (referred to as the “Pearl of the Red Sea”), and Jeddah (called the “Bride of the Red Sea”).

Specific existing coastal areas are also mentioned, such as Half Moon Bay, described for its distinctive shape, length (the longest on the Arabian Gulf coast), sections (Pearl, Shell, Oyster, Coral, Waves), recreational activities like sand sliding on nearby dunes, and tourist resorts. Al Fanateer beach in Jubail is also noted as a modern beach area on the eastern coast.

This coastal development is expected to play a significant role in creating job opportunities within the tourism sector, thereby supporting Vision 2030’s economic development goals.

Furthermore, Vision 2030’s attention to the environment includes efforts in tourist areas, and renewable energy projects are mentioned as part of the initiatives in coastal regions.

In summary, coastal development is strategically important for Saudi Arabia’s economic future under Vision 2030, moving from traditional uses like ports and fishing to modern tourism hubs, driven by major projects, promoting both international and domestic visitors, and creating jobs, while also considering environmental aspects.

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

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

This source appears to be excerpts from a Saudi Arabian newspaper published on May 22, 2025. The articles cover a diverse range of topics, including the economic impact of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly concerning the Hajj and Umrah sectors, international relations highlighted by a Saudi-Chinese security cooperation meeting, various local news from different Saudi regions detailing events like graduations, cultural initiatives, and development projects, and discussions on the global economy, including oil prices and the gold market. The excerpts also feature reporting on the ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank, alongside cultural pieces like poetry and articles on social themes and the significance of Saudi identity.

Podcast

Saudi Investments and Services for Hajj and Umrah

Based on the sources, the Hajj and Umrah sector is highlighted as a vital and attractive area for investment and development in the Kingdom.

The Saudi government has invested significant amounts, specifically billions of riyals, in expanding the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Madinah Al-Munawarah, as well as constructing airports, ports, and roads. These efforts aim to upgrade accommodation and lodging services and enhance the experiences of the Guests of Rahman (pilgrims). The sources indicate that reforms and features in the Hajj and Umrah sector have contributed to an increase in its competitiveness. This has supported a rise in both local and foreign direct investments (DDI and FDI), leading to an increase in job opportunities within this promising sector and its related fields. A report from the Ministry of Investment, in cooperation with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Guests of Rahman Program, discusses the investment environment in the Hajj and Umrah services sector.

Several initiatives and services are implemented to support Hajj and Umrah pilgrims:

• The “Makkah Route” initiative involves Saudi female cadres from the Ministry of Interior working at airports, such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport, to serve Guests of Rahman and facilitate and ease the performance of the Hajj.
• The Passports Directorate has declared its readiness to complete the procedures for Guests of Rahman for the Hajj season across international air, land, and sea ports.
• The Saudi Red Crescent Authority provides emergency medical and humanitarian services to Hajj pilgrims arriving from Yemen via the Al-Wadiah border crossing. These services include first aid, medical care, and providing informational and cultural materials. A seasonal first aid center is operated on the Sultanah-Sharourah road, and the readiness of centers along the routes leading to Makkah Al-Mukarramah is increased, covering all 17 first aid centers in the region.
• The General Directorate of Civil Defense has strengthened its seasonal centers and land routes at the ports leading to the Holy Sites. They are exerting considerable effort during the Hajj season (1446 AH) by preparing 25 seasonal centers and 64 first aid teams to maintain the security and safety of the Guests of Rahman. These centers follow the general plan for Civil Defense and support the main centers in dealing with emergencies.
• In Makkah Al-Mukarramah, the Makkah Health Cluster, represented by King Abdullah Medical City, is utilizing artificial intelligence technologies to improve patient services, such as analyzing facial images to read vital signs. While not explicitly limited to pilgrims, this technology is employed in the location of the Holy Capital and is likely relevant to the comprehensive healthcare services provided during peak seasons.

The sources also mention strengthening cooperation between friendly countries through promoting concepts of tolerance and moderation, which aligns with the vision led by the Kingdom’s leadership.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Transformation

Based on the sources, the Saudi development Vision, particularly Vision 2030, is presented as a significant and transformative national effort.

Vision 2030 is described as an “icon” and a “document for crossing into the future”, which is planned and executed “with reality”. The sources indicate that Vision 2030 has been successful in achieving “most of its goals”, bringing about an “unprecedented economic transformation”.

Key aspects and achievements of the Vision highlighted in the sources include:

• Economic Diversification: A primary objective is to diversify the economy away from natural resource dependence and build an economy based on knowledge and innovation.
• Private Sector Empowerment: The Vision aims to empower the private sector to become the main engine for growth.
• Job Creation and Reduced Unemployment: The transformation driven by Vision 2030 has led to a rise in non-oil exports, the creation of over 2.4 million jobs, and a decrease in the unemployment rate to its lowest historical levels.
• Development of the Hajj and Umrah Sector: This sector is recognized as a vital and attractive area for investment and development. Billions of riyals have been invested in expanding the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah and constructing essential infrastructure such as airports, ports, and roads. These efforts aim to upgrade accommodation and lodging services and enhance the experiences of the Guests of Rahman (pilgrims). Reforms in this sector have increased its competitiveness, attracting both local (DDI) and foreign direct investments (FDI) and creating more job opportunities. The “Guests of Rahman Program” is associated with these initiatives.
• Promoting Tolerance and Moderation: The Vision, led by the Kingdom’s leadership, aligns with strengthening cooperation with other countries by promoting concepts of tolerance and moderation.
• Enhancing National Identity: Efforts are underway to strengthen the Saudi national identity and promote its balanced cultural and religious heritage. This includes utilizing sectors like tourism and entertainment and supporting cultural initiatives, such as a film festival dedicated to identity cinema.
• Sports Development: The sports sector is also a focus, with initiatives like “Saudi Golf” and “Go Golf” aimed at developing golf skills within the Saudi community. Strong support from the King and Crown Prince is mentioned for the development and spread of sports, alongside the hosting of major sports events and the development of infrastructure like King Abdullah Sports City.
• Wildlife Development: Efforts related to wildlife development and preserving the natural balance, supported by national centers and licensed reserves, also feature in the sources, suggesting a focus on environmental aspects.

Overall, the sources portray the Saudi development Vision as a multi-faceted initiative driving significant economic, social, and cultural changes, with a strong focus on diversification, investment attraction, infrastructure development, and enhancing key national sectors like Hajj, Umrah, and sports.

Saudi Foreign Relations and Partnerships

Based on the provided sources and our conversation, Saudi Arabia is actively engaged in various aspects of foreign relations, driven in part by its national development vision.

Key points regarding Saudi foreign relations from the sources include:

• Strategic Partnerships and Cooperation:The sources highlight the importance of strengthening strategic partnerships and cooperation with other countries.
• Specific bilateral relationships are mentioned:
• China: There is a focus on enhancing Saudi-Chinese cooperation and partnership. A joint Saudi-Chinese committee for security affairs exists, and its fifth meeting at a high level was held, resulting in the signing of the meeting’s minutes. A Saudi ambassador participated in this meeting.
• United States: The Saudi Crown Prince emphasized the deepening of the strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United States during the Saudi-American Investment Forum in Riyadh.
• Japan: A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between the Saudi Minister of Justice and his Japanese counterpart, focusing on cooperation in the judicial field. This includes the exchange of expertise and information in legal and judicial domains, as well as in education and research.
• Jordan: An MOU was signed between the Saudi Food and Drug Authority and the General Institution for Food and Drug in Jordan. This is seen as an extension of the “distinguished historical relations” between the two “brotherly countries”. It aims to boost cooperation in food and drug sectors, including exchanging legislation, standard specifications, technical expertise, and registration/evaluation systems. Both sides stressed the importance of aligning regulatory efforts with international standards through sustainable institutional partnerships, describing the Saudi-Jordanian partnership as a “pivotal pillar” and a “qualitative step” towards integration. Additionally, an MOU between the Saudi Ministry of Culture (Museums Authority) and a museum in Jordan involves cooperation in research, publishing, archaeological loans, and temporary exhibitions to enrich cultural content.
• Promotion of Values: The Kingdom’s leadership, through its vision, aligns with strengthening cooperation with friendly countries by promoting concepts of tolerance and moderation. This suggests a foreign policy dimension focused on projecting certain values.
• Regional Security Context:The sources touch upon regional security challenges, such as the situation in the Red Sea, where commercial shipping is deemed “high risk” due to actions by Houthi fighters reportedly supported by Iran. This indicates complex regional dynamics impacting international trade routes and likely influencing Saudi foreign policy in the region.
• The situation in southern Lebanon and comments about the need to disarm “Hezbollah” by a US envoy are mentioned, highlighting ongoing regional tensions.
• The Palestinian President’s calls to world leaders regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the need for urgent action, including the implementation of the two-state solution according to international legitimacy, point to the enduring significance of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in regional foreign relations.

Overall, the sources indicate that Saudi foreign relations involve robust bilateral cooperation in various sectors (security, judicial, regulatory, cultural, economic/investment) with key partners, are guided by a vision that promotes tolerance and moderation, and operate within a complex regional security environment marked by various tensions and conflicts.

Global Economic Indicators and Saudi Vision 2030

Based on the sources and our conversation, several economic indicators are discussed, primarily within the context of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and broader global economic dynamics.

The sources highlight that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has successfully achieved “most of its goals” and has brought about an “unprecedented economic transformation”. This transformation aims to diversify the economy away from natural resource dependence towards one based on knowledge and innovation, empowering the private sector.

Specific economic indicators mentioned include:

• Job Creation and Unemployment: The Vision 2030 transformation has led to the creation of over 2.4 million jobs and a decrease in the unemployment rate to its lowest historical levels.
• Non-Oil Exports: Non-oil exports have seen a rise, indicating progress in economic diversification efforts.
• Overall Investment: Total investments in the Saudi economy amounted to 82 billion USD in 2024.
• Sector-Specific Investments:The Hajj and Umrah sector is identified as a vital and attractive area for investment. Billions of riyals have been invested in expanding the Two Holy Mosques and related infrastructure (airports, ports, roads). Regulatory reforms and features in this sector have increased its competitiveness, supporting an increase in both local (DDI) and foreign direct investments (FDI) and boosting job opportunities.
• In the Artificial Intelligence (AI) sector, investments and projects in the Kingdom amounted to over 14.9 billion USD during the first quarter of the current year.
• The real estate, tourism, entertainment, and hospitality sectors in areas like North Taif are experiencing significant growth and demand for investment.
• Capital Markets:Gulf markets have shown a notable recovery, with the consumer discretionary sector leading in initial public offering (IPO) revenues in the first quarter of 2025.
• The value of issued bonds and Sukuk in the region increased significantly, reaching 4.6 billion USD in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 1.6 billion USD in the same period last year. Sukuk, in particular, saw growth, valued at 4.1 billion USD.
• Oil Prices: Oil prices increased, with Brent and WTI futures contracts rising. This rise is linked to growing supply concerns and geopolitical threats. US crude inventories unexpectedly increased in mid-May, potentially impacting prices. OPEC+ production by some countries, like Kazakhstan, is challenging output cut agreements. Production forecasts suggest US output could grow.
• Refining Margins: European refining margins have decreased significantly, by 60% annually, ending a period of record profits. However, long delivery times for fuel shipments from the Middle East and refinery closures in Europe have helped prevent further declines and maintained margins above historical averages.
• Shipping Costs/Insurance: Insurance prices for ships transiting the Red Sea have increased, likely due to the security situation. The volume and value of goods transported via the Red Sea have significantly decreased.
• Precious Metals Prices:Gold prices increased, reaching a weekly high. This is attributed to investors seeking a safe haven amidst uncertainty in the US financial situation, a weaker dollar, and geopolitical fears, particularly following reports of potential actions against Iranian nuclear sites.
• Silver, platinum, and palladium prices decreased.
• Inflation: US Federal Reserve officials mentioned price increases driven by rising tariffs and reduced imports. Consumer price inflation in the UK is expected to rise in April.
• Currency Values: The Dollar Index, measuring the US dollar against major currencies, decreased. The Japanese Yen strengthened against the dollar.

Middle East Conflict Updates

Based on the sources and our conversation, the regional landscape is marked by several significant conflicts and tensions:

• Gaza and other Palestinian Territories:
• The Israeli occupation forces have escalated their strikes on the city of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip.
• Over 25 homes have been destroyed in various areas of Khan Yunis due to a series of air strikes.
• A school for displaced people in Al-Fukhari was subjected to shelling.
• Occupation vehicles have advanced near Salah al-Din street, close to the European Hospital in eastern Khan Yunis.
• Occupation vehicles fired heavily north of the Nuseirat camp.
• Israeli warplanes conducted a strike near Al-Awda Hospital – Tal al-Zaatar in the northern Gaza Strip.
• The sources state that Israeli occupation forces have committed atrocities against Palestinians.
• Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has issued an urgent appeal to world leaders concerning the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. He called for urgent action to break the siege, allow humanitarian and medical aid by land, sea, and air, and for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. He also called for the release of all detainees and the implementation of the two-state solution according to international legitimacy.
• Beyond Gaza, Israeli bulldozers have demolished a tourist resort in the occupied town of Nahalin, south-west of Bethlehem, for the second time. They also demolished agricultural rooms and work facilities.
• Israeli occupation forces have raided several areas in Ramallah, Tulkarm, Jenin, Nablus, and Jericho. Confrontations and firing of live ammunition, gas bombs, and stun grenades by soldiers against Palestinians have occurred.
• Infrastructure, including water and electricity networks, has been bulldozed in Qabatiya, south of Jenin, with buildings raided and turned into a military barracks and mass arrests made. Bulldozers also destroyed civilian vehicles on the main street connecting Qabatiya to Jenin.
• In Jenin camp, estimates suggest approximately 15 roads have been bulldozed. Around 600 homes were completely destroyed, with others damaged and uninhabitable. Significant damage to facilities, homes, and infrastructure was reported in Jenin city.
• Southern Lebanon:
• An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon resulted in one person killed in the town of Ein Baal.
• Israel has carried out daily strikes this week, stating they target elements of “Hezbollah”, despite an existing ceasefire between the two sides.
• Nine people were injured in the Mansouri area due to a strike.
• The Israeli army announced it had “eliminated” an element in the Radwan Force, considered an elite unit of “Hezbollah”.
• The US Deputy Special Envoy to Lebanon commented that Lebanon still has “a lot” to do to disarm “Hezbollah”.
• Red Sea Security and Shipping:
• Navigation in the Red Sea is considered “high risk”.
• This is due to threats from Houthi fighters since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023.
• Many ship operators are avoiding the Bab al-Mandab strait and choosing longer routes around the southern tip of Africa.
• The US Navy stated that vessels are currently moving, but at approximately 50% of the rate compared to before November 2023.
• Insurance prices for ships transiting the Red Sea have increased.
• The volume and value of goods transported via the Red Sea have significantly decreased. The potential resumption of full navigation could impact refined product markets in Europe.

These regional conflicts, particularly the security situation and geopolitical threats, are also cited as factors influencing economic indicators, such as rising oil prices and gold prices.

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

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

These texts, seemingly excerpts from a Saudi Arabian newspaper, cover a range of topics including political affairs, specifically mentioning a visit by a US President and bilateral agreements, economic matters like investment opportunities and the gold market, infrastructure development with calls for metro systems and advancements in oil and gas inspection technology, cultural and historical preservation, sports news, and social issues such as inflation and healthcare regulations. They also touch upon regional conflicts and international relations.

Saudi Arabia Hajj Preparations and Regulations

Based on the sources, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia undertakes significant preparations for Hajj, emphasizing the provision of services and care for millions of pilgrims and Umrah performers.

Key aspects of Hajj preparations highlighted in the sources include:

• Extensive Efforts and Infrastructure: The Kingdom increases efforts and invests billions in development projects to build advanced infrastructure to serve the pilgrims.
• Security and Safety Priority: The security and safety of pilgrims are considered a top priority.
• “No Hajj Without a Permit” Campaign: A system called “No Hajj Without a Permit” has been launched to establish regulations for everyone, including citizens, residents, and visitors. The sources state that opposition to this system is seen as an aggression against the pilgrims by instigators.
• Continuous Operations at Entry Points: Government, private, and volunteer entities work around the clock to receive pilgrims at border crossings, such as the Al-Wadiah crossing for those arriving from the Republic of Yemen.
• Facilitating Procedures: These entities work to facilitate the entry procedures into the Kingdom for Hajj, enabling pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and reassurance.
• Enforcement of Regulations: The Ministry of Interior has announced administrative decisions regarding violators of Hajj regulations and instructions . This includes penalties for those who transport individuals who do not have Hajj permits . Penalties for transporters and contributors can include a financial fine of up to 100,000 . For the person without a permit, the penalty can be a financial fine of up to 20,000 . Additional penalties may include prison sentences, deportation for residents with a 10-year entry ban into the Kingdom, and confiscation of vehicles used for transportation . The penalties are multiplied based on the number of violations and the number of individuals transported . The sources report that security forces recently apprehended 60 violators who were transporting 12 residents and 8 citizens who did not possess Hajj permits .

The sources emphasize the ongoing commitment and extensive measures taken by the Kingdom to ensure that pilgrims can perform the great ritual with care, attention, ease, and reassurance.

Elevating US-Saudi Relations and Economic Integration

Based on the provided sources, the discussion of US-Saudi relations centers around a visit by the President of the United States of America, Donald J. Trump, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

During a cabinet session chaired by the King, His Majesty expressed thanks and appreciation to President Trump for accepting the invitation to visit the Kingdom. The sources highlight discussions held with President Trump during this visit.

The outcomes of these discussions were lauded by the Crown Prince and President of the Council of Ministers. He praised the results as contributing to elevating bilateral relations to an unprecedented historical level in numerous vital sectors. Furthermore, these outcomes are expected to enhance economic integration for both countries.

Saudi Vision 2030 Overview

Based on the provided sources, the Saudi Vision 2030 is discussed as a significant national initiative with ambitious goals.

Key aspects of Vision 2030 highlighted in the sources include:

• Ambitious and Comprehensive Nature: The ambitious Saudi Vision 2030 was launched from the Kingdom’s position, centered on all Islamic and historical fields, as well as economic ones.
• Progress and Achievements: Most of the targets of Vision 2030 have been achieved before their scheduled time. This achievement has driven the building of a system.
• Economic Transformation: The Vision presents an opportunity for economic transformation. Factors contributing to this context include a local product of one trillion dollars and 70% of the population being young people.
• Focus on Key Sectors:Media: The media sector is seen as having an opportunity for economic transformation and repositioning in a rapidly accelerating digital market, supporting innovation and knowledge advancement. A national program specifically for media is part of the third phase of Vision 2030.
• Culture: Cultural efforts align with the targets of Vision 2030 in enhancing cultural and intellectual activity and supporting national identity. An initiative like “Enriching Arabic Content” falls within the framework of Vision 2030 targets.
• Sustainability: A study by Stanford University’s Center for Sustainable Development and Competitiveness in August 2024 discussed Vision 2030’s transformation from a development model to a sustainability model.
• Role of the Public Investment Fund: The Stanford study also highlighted the role of the Public Investment Fund in achieving Vision 2030’s targets.
• Soft Power: Vision 2030’s projects and programs have become a successful global model for soft power. Examples of this include utilizing sports to attract international players, showcasing Saudi sports excellence, as well as humanitarian and medical efforts like separating conjoined twins, and relief work through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre regionally and internationally.
• International Narrative: There is a need for an external media capable of telling Saudi Arabia’s story and successes in a way that resonates globally and enhances international understanding of the Vision’s goals and messages.
• Leadership: The Vision is attributed to the thinking and follow-up of the Crown Prince.

Overall, the sources portray Vision 2030 as a driving force behind significant developments and transformations in Saudi Arabia, impacting various sectors and contributing to the Kingdom’s global standing.

Saudi Media Transformation and Vision 2030

Based on the provided sources and our conversation history, the discussion about the media industry in Saudi Arabia highlights several key aspects and transformations:

Saudi Vision 2030 presents an opportunity for the media sector’s economic transformation and repositioning in a rapidly accelerating digital market, supporting innovation and knowledge advancement [S8]. A national program specifically for media is part of the third phase of Vision 2030 [S8]. There is also a need for external media capable of telling Saudi Arabia’s story and successes in a way that resonates globally and enhances international understanding of the Vision’s goals and messages [S8].

Recent discussions at a seminar have explored the state of the media sector, including opportunities for investment, challenges faced, ways to enhance national competencies, and the role of governance and regulation. A report on the sector was discussed, and its indicators and data are considered an important reference for decision-makers, investors, and media professionals.

The nature of content that gains traction has changed, with “lifestyle” topics such as health, food, and psychological health becoming more attractive to the public and receiving high viewership, surpassing local news. Even breaking news is less attractive as it reaches audiences instantly through messaging applications like “X” or “WhatsApp”. This means that electronic newspapers are now primarily browsed by a segment of people looking for specific content. The concept of “the industry of meaning” was also discussed.

While news remains a primary journalistic form, the media landscape has significantly shifted. The experience of Al-Eqtisadiah newspaper during the Corona pandemic showed that many people turned to known newspapers and official sources for accurate information. Al-Eqtisadiah has transformed from a print to an electronic newspaper. The local audience, particularly the youth majority, tends towards electronic sources. The mobile phone has become the primary source for reading news even before traditional newspapers. The electronic transformation has helped Al-Eqtisadiah gain a new audience segment and enhance its digital products.

A challenge identified is the prevailing belief in the local community that Saudi newspapers are government-affiliated and their content should be free. There is a need to educate the public that these newspapers are not government entities and that archived materials are not provided free of charge. Some global newspapers offer specialized economic data only available on global platforms, and there are examples, like Al-Qabas newspaper in Kuwait, that have successfully implemented paid subscription systems.

The way media is consumed has fundamentally changed. Previously, tuning into radio programs like “Here is Riyadh,” “Here is Jeddah,” “Holy Quran Radio,” and “Thursday Night Gathering” was a source of pleasure and routine. Interview programs were conducted with dignity, giving information its due importance. Today, media constantly chases new content, with news flowing instantly via phone notifications rather than waiting for morning or evening newspapers. Saudis spend a significant amount of time online, with a report by “We Are Social” indicating nearly 9 hours and 5 minutes daily on the internet, including 3 full hours on social networks, leading to what is described as media saturation for the recipient.

Oil Market Dynamics and Energy Infrastructure

Based on the provided sources, the discussion regarding the oil market touches upon price fluctuations, potential market impacts, and aspects of the energy sector infrastructure:

The sources indicate that the oil market has experienced fluctuations. Specifically, the price of oil has seen fluctuations amidst fears that ongoing talks might collapse.

The success of a potential deal could lead to a lifting of sanctions and an increase in Iranian oil exports. This outcome is expected to affect energy markets.

Regarding the shipping side of the oil market, the sources mention improvements in the prices for spot shipping of crude oil tankers on a monthly basis in April. This improvement was supported by an expected rise in demand for loads from the Middle East. Prices for spot shipping of large tankers on Middle East routes saw a 2% monthly increase. However, prices for spot shipping of crude oil tankers from the Middle East to the West decreased by 3% on a monthly basis. Conversely, prices for Suezmax tankers on West Africa – US Gulf Coast routes increased by 15% on a monthly basis, supported by rising activity in the Atlantic basin.

In the context of the energy sector, the sources highlight the importance of the reliability of assets in energy facilities. Ensuring this reliability contributes to attracting investments. It is considered a top priority to ensure the continuity of production and attract investors. Advanced non-destructive testing technologies are mentioned as contributing to this by increasing operational readiness through continuous condition monitoring, which reduces the chance of sudden failure.

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

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