Category: Saudi Arabia

The provided sources offer a comprehensive look at various developments and issues within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its regional and international relations, primarily in August and September 2025. They discuss Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiatives, including the push for economic diversification, increased female participation in the workforce, and advancements in technology like AI within the real estate sector. The texts also detail the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts and diplomatic stances, particularly concerning the Palestinian issue and conflicts in Gaza and Sudan, advocating for peace and condemning violence. Furthermore, there are reports on local events, infrastructure projects, and environmental conservation efforts, alongside analyses of global economic trends like oil price fluctuations and the US wholesale inflation index.

Podcast

Cityscape Global 2025: AI and Real Estate’s Future

Cityscape Global 2025 is an international exhibition focused on the future of real estate and technology, with a particular emphasis on the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI).

Here are the key details about the event:

• Dates and Location: The exhibition will be held from November 17 to 20, 2025, at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center, which is located north of Riyadh.
• Theme: It will be hosted under the slogan “Future of Life”.
• Organizers and Partners: Cityscape Global 2025 is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing. It is organized in partnership with the General Authority for Real Estate, which is part of the housing program under Vision 2030. The event is jointly managed by “Tahalf,” a joint venture between the Saudi Cybersecurity, Drones and Programming Federation, the Event Investment Fund, and Informa Global.
• Objectives and Importance:
• The exhibition aims to highlight the importance of innovation in shaping the future of the urban environment.
• It seeks to drive the development of mega and massive urban projects in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
• It serves as a crucial platform for leaders in the real estate sector to explore actual commercial opportunities enabled by AI technologies.
• It underscores AI’s status as a major trend in the real estate and construction sectors, where it is utilized across all stages, from design and construction to sales and asset management.
• The event will showcase how AI technologies have brought about a qualitative leap across all stages of the real estate value chain.
• Market Growth: The global real estate technology market reached over $36.55 billion in 2024, with projections for it to more than double to approximately $88.37 billion by 2032.
• Technological Focus:
• AI is highlighted for its use in improving operations and enhancing communication with clients for brokerage firms.
• The event will feature a dedicated new area for real estate technology and AI solutions, bringing together investors, architects, engineers, and developers from around the world.
• It will showcase innovative technology platforms that redefine property development, management, and investment across all facets of the real estate sector.
• Discussions will cover how advanced construction technologies and automation contribute to faster project delivery in urban areas.
• AI-powered analytics are expected to identify high-growth investment opportunities with greater speed and accuracy in the real estate investment field.
• Key Participants and Features:
• The event’s program will include ministers, global real estate leaders, executives, investors, and prominent figures from international organizations.
• It will host a “Brompathon of Artificial Intelligence” competition, designed to test participants’ AI skills and their ability to interact with AI directly. The competition will focus on AI use cases within the real estate sector, challenging participants in prompt engineering to generate smarter insights and better commercial results.
• The event also launched an Innovation Challenge for startups in real estate and construction, offering two prizes totaling $100,000, a speaking opportunity at the 2025 conference, and free exhibition booths.
• It will present insights into the development of the global construction technology market.
• Significance: This is the third consecutive year the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosts the exhibition. The growth of such events reflects the dynamic transformation of Riyadh’s entertainment sector, with strategic investments focused on providing innovative and renewed entertainment content that meets the needs of residents and visitors.Cityscape Global 2025 is an international exhibition focused on the future of real estate and technology, with a particular emphasis on the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI).

Here are the key details about the event:

• Dates and Location: The exhibition will be held from November 17 to 20, 2025, at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center, which is located north of Riyadh.
• Theme: It will be hosted under the slogan “Future of Life”.
• Organizers and Partners: Cityscape Global 2025 is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing. It is organized in partnership with the General Authority for Real Estate, which is part of the housing program under Vision 2030. The event is jointly managed by “Tahalf,” a joint venture between the Saudi Cybersecurity, Drones and Programming Federation, the Event Investment Fund, and Informa Global.
• Objectives and Importance:
• The exhibition aims to highlight the importance of innovation in shaping the future of the urban environment.
• It seeks to drive the development of mega and massive urban projects in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
• It serves as a crucial platform for leaders in the real estate sector to explore actual commercial opportunities enabled by AI technologies.
• It underscores AI’s status as a major trend in the real estate and construction sectors, where it is utilized across all stages, from design and construction to sales and asset management.
• The event will showcase how AI technologies have brought about a qualitative leap across all stages of the real estate value chain.
• Market Growth: The global real estate technology market reached over $36.55 billion in 2024, with projections for it to more than double to approximately $88.37 billion by 2032.
• Technological Focus:
• AI is highlighted for its use in improving operations and enhancing communication with clients for brokerage firms.
• The event will feature a dedicated new area for real estate technology and AI solutions, bringing together investors, architects, engineers, and developers from around the world.
• It will showcase innovative technology platforms that redefine property development, management, and investment across all facets of the real estate sector.
• Discussions will cover how advanced construction technologies and automation contribute to faster project delivery in urban areas.
• AI-powered analytics are expected to identify high-growth investment opportunities with greater speed and accuracy in the real estate investment field.
• Key Participants and Features:
• The event’s program will include ministers, global real estate leaders, executives, investors, and prominent figures from international organizations.
• It will host a “Brompathon of Artificial Intelligence” competition, designed to test participants’ AI skills and their ability to interact with AI directly. The competition will focus on AI use cases within the real estate sector, challenging participants in prompt engineering to generate smarter insights and better commercial results.
• The event also launched an Innovation Challenge for startups in real estate and construction, offering two prizes totaling $100,000, a speaking opportunity at the 2025 conference, and free exhibition booths.
• It will present insights into the development of the global construction technology market.
• Significance: This is the third consecutive year the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosts the exhibition. The growth of such events reflects the dynamic transformation of Riyadh’s entertainment sector, with strategic investments focused on providing innovative and renewed entertainment content that meets the needs of residents and visitors.

Gaza Under Siege: Displacement, Starvation, and Stalled Peace

The Gaza Crisis is characterized by ongoing Israeli military operations, a severe humanitarian catastrophe, and efforts towards forced displacement of the population, amidst stalled political negotiations and a deteriorating living situation.

Military Operations and Displacement:

• Israeli occupation forces continue their incursions into the southern and eastern parts of Gaza City, in anticipation of plans to fully occupy the area.
• There has been an escalation of shelling on Gaza City, targeting homes in areas like the Nusairat camp, resulting in deaths and injuries.
• A recent incident saw 7 Palestinians martyred due to Israeli shelling on the courtyard of the Al-Ma’amadani Hospital in Gaza City.
• The occupation army has announced and begun implementing a plan to forcibly displace residents of Gaza City southward, providing tents and shelter equipment. This is seen as a “crime of mass displacement” and “ethnic cleansing” aimed at uprooting Palestinians and destroying what remains of life in the Strip. The plan intends to move about one million Palestinians from Gaza City to coastal and southern regions. The Palestinian National Council has warned international organizations against complicity in this displacement under a “deceptive humanitarian cover”.
• The UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) has stated its refusal to be part of any project aimed at forcibly displacing Gaza residents.
• The Israeli army plans to encircle and fully control Gaza City, with an invasion expected in the coming weeks. Existing refugee camps are insufficient for the displaced population, necessitating the allocation of new humanitarian shelters. Four regular brigades and several reserve brigades, totaling tens of thousands of soldiers, are expected to participate in the operation.

Humanitarian Catastrophe:

• The crisis is deepening due to an ongoing siege and a severe shortage of food and medical supplies.
• Hospitals in Gaza reported 7 new deaths, including two children, within the past 24 hours, primarily due to starvation and malnutrition. The total number of fatalities from famine and malnutrition has reached 251 martyrs, including 110 children.
• The occupation authorities closed all crossings into the Gaza Strip on March 2, 2025, preventing the entry of most food and medical aid, which has exacerbated the famine.
• The UNRWA warned that malnutrition rates among children under the age of five have doubled between March and June due to the ongoing siege. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also stated that malnutrition levels in Gaza are alarming, attributing many deaths to the deliberate siege and delayed aid.
• The government media office has described Israel’s policy as “engineering of slow death” through starvation, affecting over 2.4 million people, including 1.2 million Palestinian children, and categorizing it as a “full-fledged crime of genocide”.
• More than 40,000 infants under one year old are reportedly suffering from severe malnutrition and are at risk of gradual death. The entry of infant formula, nutritional supplements, and essential food items like frozen meats, dairy products, fruits, and frozen vegetables is being prevented.
• Even when a few aid trucks manage to enter, they are reportedly left vulnerable to looting by affiliated groups, and safe delivery to recipients is obstructed, with those attempting to secure them being killed. The government media office holds the US administration, Israel, and the international community fully responsible for this “crime of engineering starvation”.

Impact on Healthcare and Aid Distribution:

• Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported a threefold increase in daily injuries among Palestinians since the establishment of aid distribution centers (which are supported by Israel and the US). These centers have tragically become “killing zones”.
• MSF’s Deputy Medical Coordinator in Gaza witnessed severe injuries, including amputated limbs, severe infections, shattered bones, and ruptured arteries, all requiring urgent surgery and intensive care that are collapsing in Gaza’s remaining hospitals. He reiterated the critical need for an immediate ceasefire and sustained medical and humanitarian access to save lives.
• Since May 27, 2025, when Tel Aviv initiated an aid distribution plan through what it calls the “Gaza Humanitarian Relief Foundation” (a US- and Israeli-backed entity rejected by the UN), 1924 Palestinians waiting for aid have been killed by occupation forces’ fire, and over 14288 others injured.

Negotiations and Political Stances:

• According to the “Haaretz” newspaper, Egypt and Qatar, the mediating parties in Gaza negotiations, may soon propose a new framework for a deal, potentially leveraging a renewed flexibility from Hamas.
• However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has reiterated that his government will not agree to any deal unless all hostages are released simultaneously. Furthermore, conditions for an agreement include the disarming of Hamas and the Gaza Strip, Israeli security control, and the establishment of a new government entity in the Strip.
• Netanyahu’s rhetoric, including statements about “Greater Israel,” has been widely condemned by Arab nations and the international community as dangerous expansionist ambitions that contradict international law and undermine peace. Arab countries have firmly rejected these statements, reaffirming the two-state solution with East Jerusalem as the capital of an independent Palestinian state.

Internal Israeli Reactions:

• The decision by the Israeli “Cabinet” to proceed with the occupation of Gaza City has led to intensified protests from Israeli hostage families, who view it as a “death sentence” for their relatives held in the Strip.
• Numerous major Israeli companies and organizations have joined calls for the hostages’ return, participating in a comprehensive strike. The Tel Aviv municipality and others halted community and cultural events in solidarity, emphasizing that the hostage issue is the top priority.

Broader Context:

• The conflict in Gaza occurs within a broader regional and international context marked by complex crises in the Middle East, a stalled political process between Palestinians and Israelis, and international polarization.
• The repeated failures to achieve a political settlement or stop the conflict have led to significant human and economic costs, with broader regional implications.

Global Oil Market: Volatility, Geopolitics, and Supply Dynamics

The oil market is currently experiencing volatility, characterized by price fluctuations and a decline in liquidity, with Brent crude trading around $66 per barrel. This instability is influenced by a complex interplay of supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and policy decisions.

Supply and Demand Dynamics:

• Forecasts: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has issued warnings about inflation in the oil markets, projecting a significant increase in global oil supply by 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025-2026. This contrasts sharply with OPEC’s predictions and is attributed to the anticipated return of OPEC+ production to previous high levels.
• Economic Indicators:The Japanese economy expanded more than expected in the second quarter, with resilient exports and capital spending despite US tariff pressures.
• China’s industrial output in July was below forecasts, and retail sales also missed expectations, indicating weak consumer spending and a contraction in external demand, partly due to US tariffs.
• US producer prices registered an unexpected rise in July, suggesting that higher costs might soon be passed on to consumers.

Geopolitical Factors and Sanctions:

• Russian Oil Exports: Analysts predict that stricter restrictions on Russian energy exports could worsen existing supply constraints, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia that are heavily dependent on Russian crude and refined products. The market could see a sharp reversal if the United States decides to ease sanctions or Moscow offers limited concessions. Ukraine has continued to target Russian refineries, impacting their production capacity. The war in Ukraine has already led to disruptions in global energy and food markets.
• US Sanctions and Policy:US President Donald Trump has linked oil purchases to geopolitical situations, threatening tariffs on countries buying Russian oil unless steps are taken to end the war in Ukraine.
• Despite US threats, India has continued its significant purchases of Russian oil, which sources indicate has helped to mitigate global oil price surges.
• The US Trump administration is committed to opening up more federal lands and waters for oil and gas exploration, with plans to double crude oil passing through Alaskan pipelines and to build a major gas project. This includes reversing restrictions in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska, a move criticized by environmental and indigenous groups for its potential environmental impact.
• Venezuelan Oil: Chevron has begun shipping Venezuelan oil again after receiving a new US license, marking a shift from the stricter sanctions policy imposed by the Trump administration. This resumption highlights how concerns for energy security can override stringent sanctions. Venezuelan oil exports reportedly decreased by 10% in July. Heavy Venezuelan crude grades are particularly valued by US refineries, especially those in the Gulf of Mexico, for their compatibility with coking units.
• African Production: Angola’s oil production is currently around 1.1 million bpd, with forecasts indicating a further decline.

Summit and Diplomatic Efforts:

• A recent summit in Alaska between the US and Russian presidents, Trump and Putin, could potentially open a new chapter in relations and influence the geopolitical landscape affecting oil markets. During the summit, Putin reportedly proposed a ceasefire if Ukraine cedes the entire Donetsk region. Trump expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, acknowledging Russia as a “very big power”.

Refinery Operations:

• Mexico’s reduced heavy crude exports and limitations on Canadian pipeline flows could make the return of Chevron’s Venezuelan supplies critical for US refineries.

Global Economic Shifts and Saudi Vision 2030

Economic growth in various regions is influenced by a combination of factors, including economic reforms, investment, trade, and geopolitical stability.

Global Economic Trends and Forecasts:

• Oil Market Volatility: The International Energy Agency (IEA) warns of inflation in oil markets, projecting a significant increase in global oil supply by 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025-2026, contrasting with OPEC’s forecasts. Analysts suggest that stricter restrictions on Russian energy exports could exacerbate existing supply constraints, particularly for Europe and parts of Asia.
• Japan’s Economy: The Japanese economy expanded more than expected in the second quarter of 2025, driven by resilient exports and capital spending, despite US tariff pressures. This stronger-than-expected result could prompt the Bank of Japan to consider further tightening.
• China’s Economy: China’s industrial output in July was below forecasts, and retail sales also missed expectations, indicating weak consumer spending and a contraction in external demand, partly due to US tariffs.
• US Economic Indicators: US producer prices registered an unexpected rise in July, suggesting that higher costs might soon be passed on to consumers. This came after the US consumer price index also rose in July. US government data from July also indicates that the costs absorbed by importers are currently increasing, which could eventually be passed to consumers.

Saudi Arabia’s Economic Transformation (Vision 2030 Initiatives): Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant economic and social transformation, primarily driven by its Vision 2030 goals.

• Female Labor Force Participation:The percentage of Saudi women participating in the labor force reached 36.2% in the third quarter of 2024, an increase of 0.8 percentage points from the previous quarter.
• An IMF report from August 2025 noted that the current female participation rate has nearly doubled in five years from less than 20%, making it one of the fastest growth rates globally.
• The Saudi Finance Minister stated that the Vision 2030 target of 30% female participation has already been surpassed, and the country now aims for 40% by 2030.
• This growth is attributed to expanding job opportunities for women across diverse sectors, including traditional fields like education and health, and modern sectors such as technology, finance, tourism, and creative industries.
• The World Bank indicates that each 1% increase in female labor force participation can add billions of riyals to the national economy.
• This trend also enhances Saudi Arabia’s attractiveness for foreign investments, as international investors increasingly value diversity and inclusion in business environments.
• Non-Oil Export Growth and Diversification:The “Exemption for Export” service, launched in October 2024, aims to enhance the competitiveness of industrial establishments, reduce production costs, and contribute to the growth of non-oil exports, thereby diversifying the economic base in line with Vision 2030. This service provides customs exemptions on inputs for exported products.
• The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources actively participates in global exhibitions, such as the World Battery Industry Expo in China, to showcase investment opportunities in the mining sector and critical minerals, supporting the transition towards advanced industries and industrial transformation.
• Real Estate and Technology Investment:Cityscape Global 2025 in Riyadh highlights the pivotal role of artificial intelligence and real estate technology in shaping the future of urban environments. The global real estate technology market reached over $36.55 billion in 2024, with projections to more than double to $88.37 billion by 2032. AI is being used across all stages of real estate, from design and construction to sales and asset management.
• IPO Activity:The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region recorded 14 initial public offerings (IPOs) in the second quarter of 2025, generating $2.5 billion in proceeds, a 4% increase from the previous quarter. This reflects continued investor confidence and the resilience of regional capital markets.
• Saudi Arabia accounted for the largest IPO in Q2 2025 (Nair Aviation, representing 44% of total IPO proceeds), followed by offerings from Specialized Medical Company and United Carton Industries.
• The diversity of sectors involved in IPOs, including technology, finance, tourism, creative industries, and manufacturing, indicates the depth of opportunities available in the region.
• EY-Parthenon anticipates continued momentum for IPO activity throughout the remainder of 2025, with Saudi Arabia expected to lead with 10 anticipated IPOs.
• Media Sector Contribution: The media sector is projected to significantly contribute to the national economy, with an expected local output of over 45 billion Saudi riyals by 2030, aiming to create 160,000 jobs compared to 67,000 in 2024.
• Infrastructure and Investment Environment:The Riyadh region launched the Infrastructure Projects Code in August 2025, aiming to standardize technical requirements and enhance the quality of work in infrastructure projects.
• Efforts by entities like the Eastern Province Municipality and the National Center for Environmental Compliance are aimed at enhancing economic, industrial, and environmental development and encouraging investor participation to achieve Vision 2030 goals and create a sustainable and attractive investment environment. They discuss attracting investors, promoting tourism and recreation, and investing in environmental projects like waste recycling and carbon credits.
• Ministerial press conferences in Saudi Arabia are highlighted as a means to enhance transparency and involve citizens in the details of government plans, fostering trust and contributing to economic development.

Impact of Geopolitical Events:

• The conflict in Ukraine has caused significant economic losses for Ukraine, which lost approximately 30% of its GDP in one year, and led to an unprecedented economic slowdown in Russia due to sanctions and rising food and energy prices globally. The war has also disrupted global energy and food markets.
• The gradual return of Syria to the international arena has prompted Iraq to propose rebuilding the Kirkuk-Baniyas oil pipeline, which was damaged during the 2003 US invasion. This initiative aims to open new markets for Iraqi oil.

These initiatives and economic trends highlight a dynamic global economic landscape with significant efforts towards diversification, increased participation, and strategic investments in key sectors.

Saudi Women’s Economic Empowerment: A National Transformation

Women’s empowerment, particularly in Saudi Arabia, is highlighted as a significant national achievement reflecting a profound economic and social transformation.

Key aspects of women’s empowerment include:

• Increased Female Labor Force Participation:
• The percentage of Saudi women participating in the labor force reached 36.2% in the third quarter of 2024, marking an increase of 0.8 percentage points from the previous quarter.
• This current participation rate has nearly doubled in five years from less than 20%, representing one of the fastest growth rates globally in women’s labor market participation, according to an IMF report from August 2025.
• The Saudi Finance Minister confirmed that the Vision 2030 target of 30% female participation has already been surpassed, and the country now aims for 40% by 2030.
• Drivers of Growth and Policy Support:
• This significant leap is not merely a static figure but an expression of accelerated economic empowerment, positioning Saudi women as active partners in building a diverse and sustainable national economy.
• The growth is attributed to expanding job opportunities for women across diverse sectors, including traditional fields like education and health, and modern sectors such as technology, finance, tourism, and creative industries.
• The achievement reflects the effectiveness of national programs like “Women’s Empowerment” and employment support initiatives launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, alongside economic development policies approved by the Council of Economic and Development Affairs.
• The leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has been crucial in elevating women’s representation and enabling their access to decision-making positions within the national agenda.
• Economic Impact and Investment Attraction:
• Data from the World Bank indicates that each 1% increase in female labor force participation can add billions of riyals to the national economy.
• This trend also enhances Saudi Arabia’s attractiveness for foreign investments, as international investors increasingly value diversity and inclusion in business environments.
• The sustained momentum in female participation is expected to solidify it as a fundamental pillar for achieving sustainable development, making the Kingdom a global model in transforming ambitions into achievements.

This comprehensive transformation signifies that previously closed doors are now open for Saudi women, reflecting a clear political will, a comprehensive economic vision, and growing societal support.

Columns: Reflections on Global Politics and Societal Shifts

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

1. column title: word detail paragraph 1: in politics, as in wars, the greatest outcome may be the absence of an outcome. this was clear after the meeting of the american and russian presidents in alaska: after three hours of closed sessions, there were no official pictures, no statements, and no tangible outputs for a ceasefire. detail paragraph 2: there was no agreement, not even a timetable for future steps. the crisis continued without fundamental change on the ground. military operations are still ongoing, and cities and civilians continue to be exposed to attacks. according to international estimates, the number of casualties since the war broke out has exceeded one million, including dead and wounded from both sides, while the war has left thousands of civilian casualties, including 55 children killed in 2025.
2. column title: investing in peace detail paragraph 1: the depth of the crisis is not what remains in pictures or data, but rather the ability to break the cycle of blood. the kingdom reads the war as an extended chapter into the future. it also reads peace as an investment. detail paragraph 2: if this cycle is not broken through serious negotiations, no one will emerge victorious; for the war will remain a losing one, no matter how long it lasts.
3. column title: the article – 36% female participation in the labor market detail paragraph 1: a national achievement reflecting the depth of the economic and social transformation witnessed by the kingdom: the general authority for statistics (gastat) confirmed in its quarterly report for the third quarter of 2024 that the percentage of saudi women’s participation in the labor force reached 36.2%, an increase of 0.8 percentage points compared to the previous quarter. the percentage of women’s employment also increased to 31.3% in the same period. detail paragraph 2: this leap is not just static figures, but an expression of accelerated economic empowerment that places saudi women in the position of active partners in building a diverse and sustainable national economy. according to an international monetary fund (imf) report issued in august 2025 on article iv consultations with the kingdom, the current female participation rate represents an almost doubling of what it was five years ago, when the rate was much less than 20%, making it one of the fastest growth rates in women’s labor market participation globally.
4. column title: the article – alaska summit and economic variables detail paragraph 1: russians look at alaska, which was once considered part of their country, in the same way arabs look at spain – an irreplaceable loss. but the historic summit held last friday between the russian and american presidents may open a new page in relations between russia and the united states. detail paragraph 2: i remember in september of last year the silence that prevailed at the higher school of economics in moscow – at that time the election campaign in the united states was at its peak – when i raised the possibility of future russian-american rapprochement among some russian experts during a coffee break between activities. at that time, i wanted to hear their opinion and benefit from their expertise, and i expected them to object to rapprochement with the united states, as relations between washington and moscow were at their most strained at the time.
5. column title: on my mind – media scholarships.. saving the profession from the noise of celebrities detail paragraph 1: the joint announcement by the ministry of media and the ministry of education regarding media scholarships for specialists came to revive hope for the return of prestige to the profession, especially with the suffering our society is experiencing with social media and the painful chaos in this vital and important field, after influencers dominated the scene without tools or standards, leaving behind a huge professional void. detail paragraph 2: the media arena has transformed in recent years into an open platform for what is known as “celebrities,” where it is enough to have a number of followers to become a “media person,” without the need for study or professional ethics. the problem is not in appearing, but in the content; as attractive content has become that which contradicts public taste and ethics.
6. column title: ta’s (dune) detail paragraph 1: sulaiman al-taweel, may god have mercy on him, said: “my prominent dune, untouched, the rear dune shining after the rain, and the ear of corn drooping with its moisture”. detail paragraph 2: and rasheed al-khalaoui said: “oh lord, how many times has longing led to moans, and the weighty (camel) does not yield”.
7. column title: contributions – where are the shailat going? detail paragraph 1: in recent times, a new artistic genre has spread, called (shaila) or (shila). if we go back to the beginnings of this genre, we find that it started as conservative chants, with the singer’s voice not exceeding the emotional harmonies and effects, and the number of singers was limited to the fingers of one hand. detail paragraph 2: after years, this genre witnessed a great development and attracted a large number of singers and listeners. you even find that some works of these singers are sold in art stores.
8. column title: the middle east’s message to the world: “power without justice is tyranny” detail paragraph 1: the current situation reflects the greatest imbalance in the formulation of justice in israel and leads it to dangerous turning points. the biggest turning point in the system was netanyahu’s announcement of his support for the idea of “greater israel” as a torah project linked to the talmudic heritage. what does this mean, and what does “greater israel” mean? detail paragraph 2: it simply means one outcome: the collapse of international values, and it qualifies the idea to pass into a more chaotic path in the international system, starting with the indicators of this dangerous transformation when netanyahu presented the map of “greater israel” before the general assembly of the united nations in september 2023.
9. column title: cultivating dependency detail paragraph 1: some educators talk about an educational method for children that contributes to cultivating dependency in stages, and this dependency grows with them in later stages. detail paragraph 2: this method can be described as the method of love and responsibility: parents’ love for children and sincerity in carrying out responsibility. this is an emotional method that provides a source of safety, but if it exceeds the level of moderation to the level of exaggeration, it then leads to negative results, the most prominent of which is dependency.
10. column title: ministerial press conferences and the citizen’s relationship with the state detail paragraph 1: since a period not short in the era of the custodian of the two holy mosques king salman bin abdulaziz and his royal highness the crown prince mohammed bin salman – may god protect them – press conferences have begun where one or more ministers speak about important issues and topics that concern citizens, and which are awaited by everyone interested, analysts, and media professionals. in these conferences, ministers speak with high transparency, supported by facts, figures, and percentages, and then the ministers listen to media questions and answer them. detail paragraph 2: the current scene reflects the transparency of the state and the involvement of the citizen in the details of the plan and decision. ministerial press conferences in the kingdom have emerged as one of the most prominent tools for governmental communication with the public. these periodic conferences are not just announcements of numbers and initiatives, but have transformed into a real platform to convey the voice of the state to the citizen, and in return, receive the street’s feedback and questions.
11. column title: prince turki al-faisal and the kingdom’s messages in a time of regional turmoil detail paragraph 1: the interview of his royal highness prince turki al-faisal, former head of saudi intelligence, with christiane amanpour on cnn, surpassed a mere media event to become a political speech that puts the dots on the letters in a very sensitive regional moment. his statements, in which he described benjamin netanyahu as “the criminal and the deranged,” carried dimensions that transcend the personal stance to embody the essence of saudi policy on the palestinian issue, and a saudi red line against any attempt to normalize relations with israel under the current reality. detail paragraph 2: prince turki al-faisal did not equivocate with diplomatic language or leave the door ajar; rather, his speech was decisive: “there is no way for the kingdom to normalize the situation completely with the current situation.” this stance aligns perfectly with the saudi vision set early on since the arab peace initiative in 2002, when riyadh linked any normalization to ending the occupation and establishing a palestinian state, a just and comprehensive peace in accordance with international legitimacy decisions.
12. column title: league scheduling.. the new detail paragraph 1: the announcement by the saudi professional league regarding the schedule of roshen league matches for the 2025-2026 season sparked a wide debate due to what was considered a clear absence of transparency in announcing the mechanism on which the scheduling was based. detail paragraph 2: the league announced the schedule that will officially start on thursday, august 28, and presented the details of the schedule, which included 306 matches distributed over 34 rounds, interspersed with many justifiable stoppages due to the national team’s participation in the world cup qualifiers, and unjustifiable stoppages due to the national team’s participation in the arab cup tournament.
13. column title: artistic identity at al-nassr detail paragraph 1: since 2019, successive administrations at al-nassr club have failed to address a chronic weakness point: the choice of coaches. the same mistakes are repeated every season, with repeated experiences of unsuitable names or hasty contracts without a clear vision or project, which negatively affects the team’s performance and wastes talent and potential. detail paragraph 2: you can imagine the extent of administrative confusion when you look at the period of musali’s management, where the administration contracted with coaches from different schools and nationalities, in chaotic attempts that lacked stability and vision. the best of them was the french rudi garcia, who managed to achieve remarkable technical stability and lead the league.
14. column title: the “rescue” player detail paragraph 1: if i wanted to change a concept that we have gotten used to in sports, i would rename it with a certain designation that implies personal frustration and a negative impact on the souls of players. this is when we say “bench player,” meaning a substitute player who only gets help when needed or in the field during emergencies. detail paragraph 2: i have not found a more beautiful and kinder word than “rescue player” to be motivating and strong for substitute players. perhaps a simple word, if we change its meaning to reflect it, will have a great positive impact on the clubs in the first place, and on the fans, and on the spectators who love football.
15. column title: the attention economy in sports: how the game changed outside the green rectangle? detail paragraph 1: in the world of modern sports, winning matches or breaking records is no longer the only factor to attract fans and sponsors. we are now in the era of the attention economy, where athletes and clubs compete for the most valuable currency: the audience’s focus. before two decades, attending matches in the stands or watching the game on television was the primary means of interaction. detail paragraph 2: but the real battle today takes place on small screens—smartphones and social media platforms. a clip of a player celebrating a goal can gain wider popularity than the match itself, and a human moment, such as a player hugging his coach or crying after a loss, can surpass any sporting achievement in fame.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 sources predominantly highlight Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 initiatives, showcasing significant investments in diverse sectors. They cover the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) strategic role in economic diversification, including its global acquisitions and focus on a “blue economy” for sustainable growth. The texts also detail advancements in education with new projects and scholarship programs, alongside efforts to enhance digital infrastructure through GIS and AI. Furthermore, they touch upon food security strategies, healthcare improvements, cultural events like the Riyadh Season, and the Kingdom’s dedication to religious affairs, particularly the Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque. Finally, the sources address ongoing regional conflicts, especially in Gaza, and international efforts to achieve a ceasefire, while also reporting on natural disasters and global economic trends affecting oil prices.

Podcast

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Economic Transformation

Saudi Arabia’s economy is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by its Vision 2030 framework, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce its reliance on oil. This ambitious vision positions the Kingdom as a global leader in various sectors, enhancing its stability and influence on the international stage.

Here’s an overview of key aspects of the Saudi economy:

• Public Investment Fund (PIF): The PIF is a central strategic driver for economic diversification and achieving Vision 2030’s targets.
• In 2024, it became one of the largest sovereign wealth funds globally.
• Its assets under management significantly increased to 3.424 trillion Saudi Riyals in 2024, up from 2.871 trillion Riyals in 2023.
• The PIF has contributed 10% to the non-oil Gross Domestic Product (GDP), totaling 642 billion Riyals since the launch of Vision 2030.
• It aims to reach 10 trillion Riyals in assets by 2030, with annual local investments of 150 billion Riyals.
• The fund invests across 13 key sectors to diversify revenue sources and minimize risks.
• The PIF also focuses on human capital development, with 2,962 employees (84.5% Saudi nationals) and over 1,800 internal and external training programs.
• Key Economic Sectors and Initiatives: The Kingdom is investing heavily across diverse sectors:
• Agriculture and Food Security: Saudi Arabia implements strategic investments to support food sustainability and diversify supply chains, aiming to build an integrated food system.
• The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) has 13 investments across 7 countries and 5 continents, enhancing food security and supply stability.
• SALIC’s managed assets grew fivefold to over 27 billion Riyals in six years, with a 33% profit growth.
• The agricultural sector contributed 118 billion Riyals to the national GDP in 2024, marking a 39% growth since 2020.
• The Kingdom has achieved 100% self-sufficiency in dates, fresh milk, and table eggs, and over 70% in vegetables and poultry meat.
• Saudi Arabia is the world’s leading exporter of dates by value, with exports exceeding 1.7 billion Riyals in 2024.
• Aquaculture is a promising sector, aiming for self-sufficiency in fish and exporting surplus, supported by the National Center for Fishery Wealth.
• Blue Economy: This initiative focuses on optimally investing in marine wealth along Saudi Arabia’s extensive coastline (over 1,800 km and more than 300 islands).
• It is expected to contribute nearly 22 billion Riyals and create around 100,000 job opportunities by 2030.
• Key projects include Amaala, Sindalah, and Oxagon in NEOM, and the King Salman International Complex for Maritime Industries and Services in Ras Al-Khair, integrating technology, environmental sustainability, and marine tourism.
• Tourism and Entertainment: This sector is a cornerstone of Vision 2030, transforming the Kingdom into a global tourist destination.
• Riyadh Season is a significant national project combining art, culture, tourism, and economy, attracting millions of visitors and contributing to the GDP. It also ranked first globally in tourism revenue growth from outside the Kingdom.
• AlUla is highlighted as a potential global film production hub, offering integrated services and financial incentives to filmmakers, contributing to cinematic tourism and increased tourist numbers.
• Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI): The Kingdom is investing in software companies, cloud computing, and AI, with plans for a global AI center in the Eastern Province.
• Initiatives like the “Discover, Innovate, Change” camp aim to empower youth in modern technologies and AI, fostering a knowledge-based economy.
• The Community Responsibility Association organizes an AI hackathon to support innovation and technology aligned with Vision 2030.
• The Ministry of Education is integrating AI into the curriculum from elementary to high school levels.
• Mining: Focused on enhancing the production of essential and rare minerals for future industries, supporting companies like Ma’aden.
• Logistics and Infrastructure: Investments in ports, free zones, and transport networks (land, sea, air) aim to establish Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub.
• Healthcare: Investments in developing hospitals, research centers, and medical device manufacturing seek to improve service quality and achieve self-sufficiency in vital equipment.
• King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah is a leading center in pharmaceutical safety, aligning with Vision 2030 goals for healthcare quality.
• Cultural Sector: The Cultural Fund has supported over 120 cultural projects, creating over 3,500 job opportunities and adding over 1 billion Riyals to the non-oil GDP. It emphasizes investment in human capital and aligns with Vision 2030’s cultural strategy.
• Real Estate: The implementation of “white lands” fees (10% of value for undeveloped lands over 5,000 sqm) aims to stimulate urban development, balance the real estate market, and increase home ownership opportunities.
• Education and Human Capital Development: Over 1 billion Riyals has been invested in 314 educational projects in Riyadh, benefiting 188,000 students. The Ministry of Media and Education launched the “Media Scholarship” initiative to train national talents in global media institutions across 15 countries. The Minister of Health met with Saudi students abroad, highlighting the importance of investing in human capital for Vision 2030.
• International Economic Role:
• Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic efforts, exemplified by hosting and mediating international discussions such as the Trump-Putin summit, underscore its growing influence and role in shaping global understandings and stability.
• The Kingdom ranked 6th globally and 2nd among G20 nations in economic performance according to the Brand Finance 2023 Global Soft Power Index.
• It actively uses cultural diplomacy and soft power through various initiatives in arts, tourism, and education to enhance its global standing.
• Economic Context: The global economic landscape, including oil price stability and discussions around sanctions, also plays a role in the Kingdom’s broader economic considerations.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s economic strategy is characterized by ambitious diversification efforts, significant investments through entities like the PIF, and a focus on developing human capital and leveraging soft power on the global stage, all underpinned by the transformative goals of Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Infrastructure Transformation

Saudi Arabia is undertaking an extensive program of infrastructure development as a core component of its Vision 2030 framework, aiming to diversify its economy and enhance its global standing. This transformation encompasses a wide array of sectors, with significant investment from entities like the Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Key areas of infrastructure development include:

• Strategic Investment by the Public Investment Fund (PIF): The PIF plays a pivotal role by investing across 13 key sectors, including infrastructure, to diversify revenue sources and minimize risks. Its assets under management reached 3.424 trillion Saudi Riyals in 2024, reflecting its strategic success in managing a complex and diverse portfolio.
• Logistics and Transportation Networks:
• The PIF is specifically investing in logistics services, including the development of ports and free zones, as well as land, sea, and air transport networks.
• The overarching goal is to establish Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub, leveraging its strategic geographical location.
• Massive infrastructure projects are underway, such as the construction of high-speed railways.
• New Urban Icons and Mega-Projects:
• The Kingdom is developing exclusive urban projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and Diriyah, which are designed to represent global standards in innovation and tourism.
• Within NEOM, specific “blue economy” projects like Amaala, Sindalah, and Oxagon are being developed. These initiatives focus on optimizing marine wealth, integrating technology, environmental sustainability, and marine tourism, and are expected to contribute nearly 22 billion Riyals and create around 100,000 job opportunities by 2030.
• The King Salman International Complex for Maritime Industries and Services in Ras Al-Khair is also a key part of the blue economy development.
• Smart City Initiatives and Digital Transformation:
• Efforts are underway to develop smart cities across the Kingdom. In the Eastern Province, the launch of GIS 2.0 (Geographic Information Systems) and the “My City” application aims to enhance municipal services and support digital transformation.
• The future vision includes integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into geospatial data management (GIS AI) and planning processes (Planning AI) to improve service quality and user satisfaction.
• The Eastern Province Municipality provides over 15 electronic services through its geographic portal, having completed more than 100,000 electronic transactions, including digital certification, plot sorting, and service project licenses.
• Al-Khobar is being transformed into the first green smart city through a project to document and digitize 100,000 trees. Al-Khobar is already ranked 61st globally in the 2025 Smart Cities Index. This initiative aims to foster environmental awareness and contribute to the “Saudi Green” and “Middle East Green” initiatives.
• Basic Services Infrastructure (Water and Education):
• In Jeddah, the National Water Company has launched 22 capital projects exceeding 1.8 billion Riyals to enhance water and environmental services. These projects include 984 kilometers of main and sub-water lines, environmental service networks, and surface water drainage systems, aiming to expand service coverage, improve operational efficiency, and achieve sustainability targets for water and environment by 2030.
• Over 1 billion Riyals have been invested in 314 educational projects in Riyadh, benefiting 188,000 students. These projects focus on enhancing educational environments and providing attractive and safe infrastructure for students, supporting Vision 2030’s educational goals.
• Real Estate Market and Urban Development Regulation:
• The Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs, and Housing has implemented the executive regulation for “white lands” fees, which levies a 10% fee on undeveloped lands exceeding 5,000 square meters within urban areas. This measure is designed to stimulate urban development, balance the real estate market, and increase opportunities for home ownership. It also aims to enhance the efficiency of land use and combat monopolistic practices.
• The “Etimam” platform facilitates development procedures, streamlining the approval of master plans and licenses.
• Urban Greenery and Beautification:
• Municipalities like Al-Malijah are actively engaged in improving urban aesthetics through lighting projects, tree planting (320 trees in 60,000 sqm), and maintaining green spaces, contributing to the “green cities” concept and quality of life.
• Dhahran Municipality also conducts extensive cleaning and sterilization campaigns for public facilities, parks, and roads to ensure a healthy and safe urban environment.
• Cinematic Tourism Infrastructure: AlUla city, along with studios like Big Hissn in Riyadh, is developing integrated production facilities and filming locations to attract international filmmakers. This initiative leverages the relationship between tourism and the film industry to boost tourism revenue, offering incentives and logistical support.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure development is a multi-faceted endeavor, driven by strategic national goals and significant investment, aiming to create a modern, diversified, and sustainable economy and society.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Cultural Initiatives

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a comprehensive array of cultural initiatives as a vital part of its Vision 2030 framework. These efforts are designed to strengthen national identity, preserve rich heritage, foster creativity, and enhance the Kingdom’s global standing as a vibrant cultural hub.

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s cultural development include:

• Strategic Investment and the Cultural Fund:
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a significant role, with investments extending to new urban icons that incorporate strong cultural dimensions.
• The Cultural Fund, established under the Ministry of Culture, is a cornerstone of this strategy. It has supported over 120 cultural projects, leading to the creation of more than 3,500 job opportunities and contributing over 1 billion Saudi Riyals to the Gross Domestic Product.
• The fund actively provides training, developmental solutions, advisory sessions, and financial vouchers to new cultural projects and entrepreneurs, underscoring its commitment to human capital development and fostering a sustainable environment for innovation.
• Preservation and Promotion of Heritage:
• King Abdulaziz Public Library stands as a major cultural institution, dedicated to preserving and promoting Islamic and Arab heritage. It houses rare books, manuscripts, coins, and historical documents.
• The library organizes specialized exhibitions both domestically and internationally, such as the Holy Quran Exhibition showcasing rare copies, the “Camels: Jewels of the Kingdom” exhibition, and the Arabic Poetry Exhibition featuring historical texts. These events connect new generations with their cultural roots.
• Initiatives like the “World Arabic Calligraphy Exhibition” and the “Heart of the Arabian Peninsula” exhibition (featuring rare photographs by explorer John Philby) highlight diverse aspects of Saudi and Arab heritage.
• The preservation of traditional activities like falconry is supported through events such as the “Saqar Future” auction and the King Abdulaziz Falcon Festival, encouraging youth engagement and ensuring the continuity of this ancient practice.
• Historical locations like Mudrakah, significant for its ancient marble quarries used in the Grand Mosque’s construction, are recognized for their historical depth and potential for cultural tourism.
• Performing Arts and Entertainment:
• The Riyadh Season is a prime example of large-scale cultural and entertainment events, attracting millions of local and international visitors. It serves as a “soft power” tool, fostering cultural exchange and projecting a vibrant image of the Kingdom.
• The “Tarhal” performance, featured in Riyadh Season, vividly showcases Saudi regional cultures, identity, and heritage through a blend of music, dance, visual effects, and traditional attire, creating an immersive cultural experience.
• Visual Arts and Film Industry Development:
• The Visual Arts Commission launched “Zawaaya wa Afkar” (Angles and Ideas), an international initiative for dialogue in contemporary art, held in major global cities like Seoul, Paris, and Riyadh. This initiative aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and global engagement among visual artists.
• The Film Commission is preparing for the third “Saudi Film Forum,” aimed at empowering and developing the film industry. The forum will include conferences, workshops on film financing and content development, and an exhibition featuring over 130 local and international entities.
• Dedicated film production facilities are being developed in AlUla and Riyadh (e.g., Big Hissn studios) to attract international filmmakers. These initiatives highlight the growing cinematic tourism sector, offering incentives and logistical support to boost tourism revenues. The sources highlight global examples where films have significantly increased tourism to their filming locations.
• Literary and Musical Endeavors:
• The Kingdom sees a continuous release of new literary works, spanning various genres from novels to poetry and critical analyses, contributing to the cultural landscape.
• The Tareq Abdulhakim Museum and the Saudi Music Center organize programs like summer camps to enrich musical experiences for children, fostering creativity and preserving the legacy of Saudi music.
• Contemporary musical projects, such as Hussein Al Jassmi’s “HJ2025” album, demonstrate a modern vision for Arab and Gulf music, reaching wide audiences.
• Religious and Community-Focused Initiatives:
• The King Abdulaziz International Holy Quran Competition is a significant annual event, bringing together contestants from numerous countries to compete in Quranic recitation and memorization. It emphasizes Saudi Arabia’s leadership in serving the Holy Quran and utilizes advanced electronic arbitration for transparency.
• The Agency for Judicial Affairs at the Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque implements extensive Quranic, volunteer, and guidance programs for pilgrims, reinforcing the spiritual and cultural experience of visitors to the holy sites.
• The “Mawaddah wa Yusr” (Affection and Ease) initiative focuses on easing marriage burdens by promoting simplicity and combating excessive dowries and celebration costs, reflecting a societal effort to preserve cultural values related to marriage.
• Traditional Festivals and Culinary Arts:
• Festivals like the Buraidah Dates Carnival showcase local agricultural heritage and contribute to regional economic and social vitality.
• The “Wasl” Aseer Cuisine Festival highlights traditional culinary arts and folk performances, supporting local producers and artisans while promoting domestic tourism and cultural exchange.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s cultural initiatives are a dynamic and interconnected set of programs aimed at fostering a rich cultural ecosystem that supports economic diversification, promotes national identity, and enhances the quality of life for its citizens and visitors alike.

Saudi Vision 2030: Social Development and Well-being

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 framework places a strong emphasis on social development, aiming to enhance the quality of life for its citizens and build a vibrant, inclusive society. This comprehensive national transformation is supported by extensive investments and initiatives across various sectors, focusing on human capital, community well-being, and cultural preservation.

Key aspects of social development efforts include:

• Human Capital Development and Job Creation:
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF)‘s strategic investments across 13 key sectors are designed to diversify the economy and create job opportunities, contributing significantly to the national GDP.
• The “Blue Economy” projects, particularly those within NEOM like Amaala, Sindalah, and Oxagon, are projected to create around 100,000 job opportunities by 2030.
• The Cultural Fund has supported over 120 cultural projects, leading to the creation of more than 3,500 job opportunities and contributing over 1 billion Saudi Riyals to the GDP.
• The PIF’s human capital strategy includes a substantial increase in its workforce (2,962 employees, 84.5% Saudis) and the implementation of over 1,800 internal and external training programs in management, finance, and technology. It also funds a university qualification program to prepare high school students for top global universities, aiming to produce a new generation of economic leaders.
• Education and Skill Enhancement:
• The Ministry of Education has undertaken significant educational projects, with over 1 billion Riyals invested in 314 projects in Riyadh alone, benefiting 188,000 students. These projects aim to create attractive and safe learning environments, increase school capacity, and improve educational quality in line with Vision 2030 goals.
• A “Media Scholarship” initiative, a joint effort by the Ministries of Education and Media, aims to train and qualify national competencies in media, offering diverse academic degrees and professional training in 15 countries, including digital media, AI in media, and content production.
• The Ministry of Education is integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into curricula from primary to secondary levels to keep pace with technological advancements, enhance personalized learning, and provide smart assistance to students, including support for those with disabilities.
• The “Discover, Innovate, Change” technical summer camp, organized by King Khalid University and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, equipped over 400 students with modern digital skills in AI, robotics, and virtual reality, fostering innovation and promoting a knowledge-based economy.
• Health and Well-being:
• In Jeddah, the National Water Company has launched 22 capital projects exceeding 1.8 billion Riyals to enhance water and environmental services, including 984 kilometers of water and environmental networks, which will serve approximately 260,000 residents across 30 neighborhoods, improving quality of life and sustainability.
• King Abdullah Medical City in Mecca is implementing initiatives to strengthen pharmaceutical safety, aiming for quick access to educational and awareness materials regarding safe drug use and enhancing the overall quality of healthcare.
• Preventive healthcare is highlighted by the successful removal of 20 polyps from a young patient’s colon, preventing potential cancer and emphasizing the importance of early detection and public awareness about colon health.
• The Minister of Health has engaged with Saudi students studying abroad, emphasizing their crucial role in developing a vibrant society and providing high-quality services as part of Vision 2030.
• Housing and Urban Living:
• The Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs, and Housing’s executive regulation for “white lands” fees aims to stimulate urban development, balance the real estate market, and increase home ownership opportunities for citizens by encouraging land development and curbing monopolistic practices.
• Municipalities are actively improving urban environments: Al-Khobar is transforming into the first green smart city through tree digitization, fostering environmental awareness. Dhahran and Al-Malijah municipalities conduct regular cleaning, sterilization, and greening campaigns to ensure healthy and aesthetically pleasing urban spaces.
• Community Engagement and Social Cohesion:
• The Community Responsibility Association organizes initiatives like the AI Hackathon to support innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, fostering social responsibility.
• The “Mawaddah wa Yusr” (Affection and Ease) initiative, launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, aims to reduce the phenomenon of marriage aversion by promoting simpler and less costly marriage procedures, emphasizing affection and understanding over excessive expenses.
• Riyadh Season and other large-scale entertainment events promote social interaction and cultural exchange, contributing to community vitality and offering diverse experiences for residents and visitors.
• Traditional events like the Buraidah Dates Carnival and the Aseer Cuisine Festival “Wasl” support local producers, artisans, and cultural heritage, fostering community pride and domestic tourism.
• Public Safety and Regulatory Oversight:
• Intensive campaigns by Riyadh Municipality address food safety and product quality in various establishments, ensuring public health and safety.
• The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) actively thwarts smuggling attempts, such as the seizure of cocaine in “frozen meat”, underscoring efforts to protect society from harmful substances and maintain national security.
• Joint security campaigns enforce residency, labor, and border security laws, leading to thousands of arrests and highlighting efforts to maintain public order and safety.
• Digital Transformation in Services:
• The Eastern Province Municipality launched GIS 2.0 and the “My City” smart application to enhance municipal services and support digital transformation, providing over 15 electronic services and aiming to integrate AI for improved service quality and user satisfaction.

These initiatives collectively demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving the social fabric, empowering its citizens, and creating a sustainable and prosperous future in line with Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Governance, Economy, and Society

Saudi Arabia’s approach to governance and policy is deeply intertwined with its ambitious Vision 2030 framework, aiming for comprehensive national transformation across various sectors. This involves strategic investments, regulatory reforms, and a focus on sustainability, human capital, and international engagement.

Key aspects of Governance and Policy include:

• Economic Governance and Diversification:
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a pivotal role as a strategic leader, translating national visions into tangible achievements. Its core mission is to diversify the national economy and implement Vision 2030 objectives.
• The PIF is committed to injecting 150 billion Saudi Riyals annually into local investments, with a target of reaching 10 trillion Saudi Riyals by 2030.
• Its investment strategy involves diversifying its portfolio across 13 key sectors to ensure varied returns and mitigate risks. These sectors include defense, aviation, technology (with investments in cloud computing, AI, and a global AI center), renewable energy, healthcare, mining, logistics, infrastructure, tourism, culture, entertainment, and financial technology.
• The PIF has achieved significant milestones, including being ranked second globally and first in the Middle East in the governance and sustainability index among sovereign wealth funds, with a 96% score. It has also adopted a strategic goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, with a 30% reduction in carbon emissions by 2022.
• Human Capital and Social Development Policies:
• Education Reform: The Ministry of Education has initiated over 314 educational projects in Riyadh alone, with investments exceeding 1 billion Saudi Riyals, to enhance infrastructure and create attractive, safe learning environments. This aligns with Vision 2030 goals to improve educational quality and expand school capacity.
• A notable initiative is the “Media Scholarship” program, a collaboration between the Ministries of Education and Media, aimed at training and qualifying national media professionals in 15 countries across diverse specializations like digital media and AI in media.
• The Ministry of Education is also integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into curricula from primary to secondary levels to enhance personalized learning and provide smart assistance, including for students with disabilities.
• Educational transformation involves consolidating administrative structures to reduce bureaucracy, improve efficiency, and empower schools as direct decision-making centers.
• Healthcare Policy: King Abdullah Medical City in Mecca has implemented initiatives to strengthen pharmaceutical safety, including a “Risk Reduction Methods List,” in collaboration with the General Food and Drug Authority. These efforts aim to provide quick access to drug safety information, raise awareness among medical staff, and promote a culture of safe drug use.
• Family and Community Well-being: The “Mawaddah wa Yusr” (Affection and Ease) initiative, launched by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, aims to reduce marriage aversion by promoting simpler, less costly marriage procedures based on affection and understanding.
• Urban and Environmental Governance:
• Housing Policy: The Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs, and Housing has implemented an executive regulation for “white lands” fees. This policy, which sets fees at 10% of land value, aims to stimulate urban development, balance the real estate market, and increase home ownership opportunities by encouraging land development and curbing monopolistic practices. Funds collected from these fees are specifically allocated to housing projects.
• Smart and Green City Initiatives: Khobar Municipality is transforming into the first green smart city by digitizing 100,000 trees in the first phase, a project aligned with the “Saudi Green” and “Middle East Green” initiatives. This aims to enhance sustainability, reduce carbon emissions, and increase green spaces, contributing to net-zero emissions by 2050.
• Digital Transformation in Municipal Services: The Eastern Province Municipality launched GIS 2.0 (Geographic Information Systems) and the “My City” smart application to enhance municipal services and support digital transformation, integrating AI for improved quality and user satisfaction.
• Water and Environmental Services: The National Water Company in Jeddah has invested over 1.8 billion Saudi Riyals in 22 capital projects to enhance water and environmental services, including the expansion of water and environmental networks, serving over 260,000 residents. These projects are critical for improving quality of life and ensuring environmental and water sustainability.
• Public Safety and Regulatory Oversight:
• Law Enforcement: Joint security campaigns are actively conducted to monitor and apprehend violators of residency, labor, and border security laws, with severe penalties for those who facilitate illegal activities.
• Food Safety: Riyadh Municipality conducts intensive campaigns to ensure food safety and product quality, leading to closures, fines, and confiscation of non-compliant products, with a system for public reporting of violations.
• Anti-Smuggling Efforts: The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) actively thwarts smuggling attempts of illicit substances, emphasizing its role in protecting national security and public health.
• Digital Platform Regulation: There are calls for the General Authority for Visual Media to regulate and monitor digital platforms to ensure alignment with societal values and address concerns about the spread of harmful content.
• International Relations and Soft Power:
• Saudi Arabia continues to play a leading and influential diplomatic role in fostering global stability, mediating major international discussions, and contributing to peaceful resolutions for conflicts, including the Russian-Ukrainian crisis.
• The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 places strong emphasis on cultural diplomacy as a key component of its soft power strategy. This involves establishing new cultural, tourism, and entertainment entities, enhancing international cultural exchange, and supporting initiatives recognized by organizations like UNESCO.
• These efforts have positioned Saudi Arabia as a significant global soft power, ranking highly in international indices.
• Food Security Policy:
• The General Authority for Food Security is developing monitoring tools and an early warning program for essential food commodities.
• The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) employs a long-term investment approach across 7 countries and 5 continents to ensure national food security and market resilience.
• Significant progress has been made in increasing local agricultural production, achieving self-sufficiency in key products like dates, fresh milk, and table eggs, and notably reducing non-renewable water usage in agriculture.

These multi-faceted policies and governance initiatives highlight Saudi Arabia’s strategic commitment to holistic development, aiming to build a vibrant society and a sustainable economy in line with its ambitious national vision.

Columns: Saudi Progress and Global Challenges

Here are the column titles and their first two paragraphs of detail from the newspaper, translated into English:

• Word In the past nine years, the Kingdom has succeeded in strengthening Vision 2030, optimally investing in the state’s comparative advantages and resources, especially the vast marine wealth extending over 1800 kilometers on the coasts of the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea, in addition to over 300 islands. These advantages fall under the umbrella of the “Blue Economy,” which the wise leadership has prioritized, and in which the Kingdom has made accelerated strides, armed with modern science and the launch of major projects. The “Red Sea National Sustainability Strategy,” launched by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, is considered one of the most prominent Saudi initiatives to protect the Red Sea ecosystem, enhance cooperation frameworks for its sustainability, and support the transition to a sustainable blue economy, achieving economic diversification, and aligning with the goals of Vision 2030, and the national priorities for research, development, and innovation that were launched previously.
• A Call for Questioning? The annual sales market for dates exceeds three billion riyals. This is in addition to what is sold directly in Buraidah and its surrounding farms, entering the Buraidah Date City (the largest date market in the world). I reflect on this market, bustling with commercial and economic activity, which reminds me of what I have read and heard about the stories of the Al-Aqilat and their journeys, and the Al-Jardah market in ancient times. The question is: how can we expand this positive activity to contribute more significantly to the economy of Qassim and our beloved country, which has adopted the palm tree as an official symbol?
• Transformation in Education The Ministry of Education has taken a qualitative step by closing a large number of administrative offices and departments across the Kingdom, with the aim of concentrating resources and support on the student and teacher. I believe that the features of this studied and different transformation will become clear in the upcoming academic year. This is especially important for the previous situation, where schools suffered from fragmentation and repetition of administrative roles, which negatively affected efficiency and increased the gap between administrative support and the actual needs of the school. The tangible impact of this step will primarily be to reduce bureaucracy and overlapping decision-making layers, allowing direct and immediate support to schools. This will empower the school to be more of a decision-making center, operating with flexibility and clarity in managing its affairs according to performance indicators that measure quality and outcomes. The resulting growth in this transformation will contribute to enhancing the efficiency of education itself.
• The Philosophy of Living Lightly More often than not, it is not the situations themselves that exhaust us, but the heavy layers of importance we excessively attach to them, leading to suffocation. We magnify minor mistakes, give undue weight to others’ words, and create animosity around us, as if every event is an existential threat. This is not just a passing cognitive error; it is an evolutionary behavior linked to human survival mechanisms. The brain is programmed to automatically focus on negative threats and situations more than positive ones, a bias known as the negative bias. This pattern helped our ancestors survive in dangerous environments—because ignoring a danger could be fatal—and even though our environments have radically changed today, we are still clinging to the same old survival mechanisms. From here, it is essential to adopt a neuroscientific perspective to understand what happens within us. The limbic system in the brain reacts quickly to signals and triggers emotions before conscious thought centers intervene. Specifically, the amygdala automatically amplifies emotional signals as a “fight or flight” mechanism—responsible for protection—which can lead to exaggerated responses. In contrast, the prefrontal cortex needs more time to objectively evaluate events, and if we do not allow enough time for conscious thought before responding, we fall into the trap of psychological and emotional exaggeration.
• The New Economics of Artificial Intelligence In two previous articles, I presented the problems of AI agents or digital workers who quietly benefit from our data and working methods to increase their value daily. The owners of models who employ these digital workers, or the companies and individuals who train these models, obtain great gains for their benefit. I have also clarified how to calculate shared contributions supported by a licensing model, along with adjustments to public policies. But what if we do not implement these adjustments and do nothing? We will see an undesirable future. Let’s go back to the late nineteenth century. The railway company did not just transport goods; it controlled the entire trade infrastructure. If you wanted to reach the market, you were bound by the rules of the game. It built cities, warehouses, and roads at its own expense, adding value to the network, but the benefits often flowed to the railway owners, and the cities did not get returns until much later, after great effort.
• Riyadh Season.. Targeting Success Riyadh Season, since its launch, has been a prominent landmark in the cultural, artistic, and tourism movement that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing, as part of the comprehensive transformation within Saudi Vision 2030. The season was not just an entertainment event, but a massive national project that combines art, tourism, culture, and economy, embodying the Kingdom’s ability to create a unique creative model that attracts global attention. Throughout its years, the season has embraced symbols of culture and art in the Arab world, with Arab artists and intellectuals at the forefront, whose presence has been a qualitative addition, confirming the strength of historical ties between the two peoples and extending beyond the political boundaries to the depth of shared culture. In every season, we have witnessed sincere cooperation and wide public turnout, making the season a comprehensive platform for all Arab innovators.
• Entertainment.. Quality of Life The cultural movement in the Kingdom has gifted us touristic joy and opened doors to the pleasures of life, making us advance steadily with the guidance and support of my master, HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud – may God protect him – who paved our way to challenge and innovation, and this continuous work and awe led to radical changes in all aspects of life, in line with our religious constants. The Kingdom recently ranked first globally as the highest tourist destination in terms of growth in tourism revenues from outside the Kingdom, according to the Barometer for Global Tourism report, issued by the United Nations World Tourism Organization. We see Riyadh seasons and festivals with numerous events that have captivated the world and attracted millions of visitors to the Kingdom’s capital, Riyadh, the capital of Arab culture. Indeed, it is a great and dazzling achievement that we are proud of, and the participation and follow-up from within and outside the Kingdom have been a source of admiration, painting an innovative picture that embodies joy and happiness and illuminates in every corner a story of passion and desire for this diversity and excellence to continue, and its success lies in providing options that suit all segments of society.
• Affection and Ease Allah says: “And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.” Life is beautiful when it is built on simplicity, love, and affection between a husband and wife, without material greed or extravagance. From the beginning, she is his life partner, carrying all its burdens, joys, and everything it holds, for it is a journey of life between them, a journey of familiarity and ease, not a fleeting one. From the dowry and marriage contract, and what is written therein, the beginning should be without burdening the husband with excessive expenses and avoiding extravagance and high costs for a ceremony lasting an hour or two on one night. From this perspective and the call for ease and affection, and based on the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Northern Borders Region, the branch of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in the Northern Borders launched the “Mawaddah wa Yusr” (Affection and Ease) initiative, which aims to reduce marriage aversion rates and promote the concept of marriage based on affection and understanding.
• Al-Hilal is Without Super and the Rest are Super Hat-trick! What is happening to the global leader Al-Hilal is unbelievable, even beyond imagination, with strange treatment from the Ministry of Sports and the Investment Fund that owns the club and the recruitment committee. This great and huge popular team, which has honored the nation in more than one global and continental forum, and forced major state figures, newspapers, channels, programs, and social media sites worldwide to talk about its performance and presence under the name Al-Hilal (Saudi) after it led the continent and finished as runner-up globally and seventh in the last edition, which was held only a few months ago, embarrassing Real Madrid by defeating the previous champion Manchester City 4-0. This was followed by a complete and strange neglect of its historical achievements, as we learned that its two new French and Uruguayan signings, Theo and Nunez, receive no support from the Investment Fund, but rather from the club’s profit and non-profit company. As of this writing, it does not have a “superstar” player in category A, as is the case with other clubs supported by the fund, which have more than one A-category player. While fans witness a different and exciting summer for Al-Nassr, with contract breaks and new signings, Al-Hilal remains far behind. O Al-Zaeem, may Allah be with you!
• Support Between Supposed and Reality In the world of sports, support is supposed to be a reward for achievement and an incentive for continued excellence. Clubs that excel and win championships raise their profile and increase their fan base. It is logical that these clubs receive greater support, not as a luxury, but as an investment in their success on the field itself. However, reality often goes in a different direction. We find that support is distributed equally between the successful and the unsuccessful, as if achievement and non-achievement are the same. In some cases, support for successful clubs may even be halted or reduced under the pretext of “achieving competition fairness,” a pretext that appears fair on the surface but aims to weaken the excelling and appease those who have not yet reached their level.
• From Club Income There are words uttered without acknowledging the truth, a common occurrence from media figures affiliated with clubs, especially when they sign high-value technical and financial deals, claiming that these are from “the club’s income,” fostering a sense of wealth and self-sufficiency. We all know that the club’s income from sponsorships and marketing companies is meager and cannot cover even one such deal. It is a gross exaggeration to claim that it can bring in global deals in abundance. Is it reasonable that clubs have become financially rich and prosperous within just two seasons, and what about before the known recruitment program supported by state funds?
• Al-Hazm and Dispensing with Al-Khalifa I was surprised, and it is confirmed, by the decision of Al-Hazem Club’s management to dispense with one of the club’s sons who grew up and served it as a fan and player before anything else. I mean the decision to dispense with brother Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Khalifa, who has worked for eight years as a sports media coordinator for the first football team, with an official contract that continues and renews automatically every season. I realize that the decision is a private matter and I or anyone else has no right to interfere with it. However, if Al-Hazem’s decision-making process was more transparent, and if they knew the details of dispensing with someone like him, it would have been expected and natural, as the goal is profit and investment. But Al-Hazem is still a club, not a group or individual immune from the commercial consequences of privatization. The decision to dispense with those who sacrificed their time, health, and youth for the club without pay pains me, even if they received “crumbs.”
• The Quran and the Scientific Method Many researchers believe that the scientific method lies in the mechanism of collecting and analyzing information, while the essence of any scientific research is its philosophy and intellectual direction. As I have been working for a long time on urban theory in the Holy Quran, considering that urbanism is the spatial and sensory realm where humans practice their daily lives and activities, and there is no human civilization unrelated to it, I was looking for the methodological link that connects any theory to reality. It is assumed that this link comes from the Quran. I happened to hear a methodological interpretation of Surat Al-Takathur, verse (51) of Surat Al-Haqqa, by Sheikh Al-Shaarawi, in which he mentions “knowledge of certainty,” “eye of certainty,” and “truth of certainty.” He explains that “knowledge of certainty” is knowledge of something without seeing it, reaching the level of faith. However, “eye of certainty” is seeing and witnessing it directly, a higher level of knowledge to reach certainty. But it is completed by “truth of certainty,” which is knowledge through experience and lived reality.
• The Chaos of Digital Platforms The world has witnessed a technological and scientific development in recent times that has contributed to raising the welfare of our lives in a surprising way in all fields, even during a short period. Along with this advanced technology and the ease of production and dissemination in the field of media and communication, many specialized companies emerged that created and innovated in the field of visual and audio media, and developed programs and applications that facilitated their use and acquisition among the general public. As a result, we have seen a decline in the level of social media platforms, culturally, religiously, ethically, and even in entertainment.
• Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power Effective communication between cultures is a pressing necessity in a world with increasing cultural tensions. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has played a pioneering role in promoting cultural dialogue and consolidating cultural diplomacy throughout its history, as the cradle of religions and the home of Islam, which calls for peaceful coexistence among religions and cultures. Since the launch of Saudi Vision 2030 in 2016, the Kingdom has paid great attention to the concepts of cultural dialogue, both verbal and non-verbal, and cultural diplomacy, which has contributed to enhancing its regional and international presence. The Kingdom has developed distinctive strategies to highlight culture as a pivotal element in cultural diplomacy.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 articles from a Saudi newspaper, Al-Riyadh, addresses a diverse range of topics relevant to the Kingdom and the broader world in mid-2025. Several pieces focus on domestic Saudi initiatives, including educational reforms like the shift back to a two-semester system, efforts to secure and sustainably manage water resources, the development of a resilient “blue economy” through marine conservation and tourism, and the strategic redistribution of universities in Riyadh. Internationally, the newspaper covers geopolitical analyses, particularly concerning the “Greater Israel” concept and its impact on peace, and highlights global health concerns like the surge in whooping cough cases in Japan and Europe, alongside issues of counterfeit medicines. Economic discussions include Saudi Arabia’s dominance in regional IPOs and the negative impact of rising crime in London on British tourism, particularly from Gulf visitors. Finally, the collection features cultural and literary reflections on the symbolism of coffee in Arab poetry and prose, explorations of human psychology, and reviews of acclaimed novels.

Podcast

Saudi Vision 2030: A Kingdom Transformed

Saudi Vision 2030 is a comprehensive and ambitious strategic framework that aims to transform the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia across multiple sectors, moving beyond oil reliance to build a diverse, sustainable, and vibrant society. It represents a pivotal shift in the Kingdom’s approach to development challenges, emphasizing human development, community well-being, and environmental sustainability.

Key aspects and initiatives of Saudi Vision 2030 highlighted in the sources include:

• Economic Diversification and Tourism
• Tourism and Entertainment are foundational pillars for diversifying income sources and creating job opportunities. The Vision targets increasing the tourism sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 10%. This involves stimulating domestic tourism to keep capital within the local economy and fostering large-scale projects like the Red Sea Project and NEOM, which are designed with high environmental standards to ensure sustainability.
• Coastal Tourism Development is a significant focus, with the Saudi Red Sea Authority working to regulate and develop coastal tourism activities to attract tourists and investments, thereby diversifying the economy and positioning the Kingdom as a leading global tourist destination. By 2030, the Red Sea Authority aims to host approximately 250,000 yachting visitors, generating about $2.9 billion in tourism spending and creating around 28,000 jobs in the sector.
• The “Blue Economy” is projected to contribute nearly 22 billion Saudi Riyals and create approximately 100,000 job opportunities by 2030. This initiative emphasizes the sustainable utilization and protection of marine resources. The Red Sea National Sustainability Strategy, launched under Vision 2030, aims to increase the coverage of marine and coastal protected areas to 50% by 2030 and support a 50% contribution of renewable energy to the target energy mix.
• Major events such as Expo Riyadh 2030 and the World Cup 2034 are strategically aligned with the Vision, influencing policies like the academic calendar to ensure synergy between national events and the educational system.
• Water Sector Development
• Water management is a central strategic priority due to scarcity, high consumption rates, and reliance on limited non-renewable sources. Vision 2030 aims to build a robust and efficient water sector that relies on innovation and technology, involves the private sector, and ensures environmental sustainability.
• The National Water Strategy 2030 outlines efforts to unify initiatives, prioritize investments, regulate consumption, and improve water and sanitation networks. Key actions include reducing dependence on non-renewable groundwater through expanded desalination projects, reusing treated wastewater, and benefiting from rainwater harvesting.
• The establishment of the National Water Company as an independent executive entity has enhanced service quality and operational efficiency. Infrastructure projects, including large-scale desalination plants (like those in Shuaiba and Jubail) and smart water distribution networks, are being developed to meet increasing demand and reduce water loss.
• Education Reform
• The shift from a three-semester to a two-semester academic system from the academic year 1447/1448 AH (2025/2026 AD) is a strategic step reflecting a comprehensive assessment of previous experiences.
• This reform aims to enhance the efficiency of the educational process, balance study periods with longer holidays, and reduce psychological stress on students and teachers.
• It aligns the Saudi education system with most Saudi and international universities, which operate on a two-semester basis, facilitating academic transitions.
• The new system also allows for broader curriculum planning, deeper periodic evaluations, and enhances students’ mental and physical well-being. Despite the change, the minimum number of study days remains 180 per year, aligning with international standards set by organizations like the OECD and G20 countries.
• The adjusted holiday schedule also provides families with more flexibility for travel and social activities, contributing to family cohesion and reducing financial burdens related to frequent school preparations.
• Cultural Initiatives
• The declaration of 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts underscores the importance of traditional crafts as a fundamental part of national identity.
• Initiatives focus on highlighting local crafts, providing platforms for display and marketing, and offering training programs to ensure these professions continue for future generations.
• The “Bisht” and “Muzand” garments are cited as examples of handicrafts with deep historical, social, economic, and cultural significance, reflecting the richness and diversity of Saudi heritage across different regions.
• Financial Markets
• Saudi Arabia is a leading market in the region for Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), having captured 76% of total IPO proceeds in the Middle East and Africa during the second quarter of 2025.
• The Capital Market Authority (CMA) is developing a regulatory framework for financial investment funds to enable direct and indirect financing activities, which will support economic growth, diversify investment assets, and provide additional funding channels. This includes permitting public offerings and listings on the main and parallel markets, a significant expansion from previous private offerings.
• Urban Development and Quality of Life
• Vision 2030 supports balanced urban growth in major cities like Riyadh, ensuring the equitable distribution of services, including educational institutions.
• The strategic relocation and expansion of universities are aimed at alleviating traffic congestion, stimulating economic activity, improving the quality of life for residents, and fostering cultural interaction across different areas of Riyadh.
• The “Green Riyadh” initiative is mentioned as an artistic representation of the Vision’s transformative goals for the city, symbolizing its future prosperity and environmental harmony.

In essence, Saudi Vision 2030 is described as a dynamic and data-driven strategy that continuously assesses its outcomes, adapting to foster innovation and sustainable development across all facets of society and the economy. It aims to build a resilient and prosperous future by integrating various sectors and empowering its people.

Saudi Vision 2030: Education Reform and Calendar Transformation

Saudi Vision 2030 encompasses a significant reform of the education system, primarily characterized by a strategic shift in the academic calendar. The Kingdom is transitioning from a three-semester system to a two-semester academic year, effective from the academic year 1447/1448 AH (2025/2026 AD). This change is not merely an administrative adjustment but a fundamental transformation aimed at enhancing the overall quality and efficiency of education.

Reasons and Objectives for the Reform:

• Enhanced Efficiency and Balance: The primary goal is to improve the efficiency of the educational process and achieve a better balance between study periods and holidays. The previous three-semester system, while aiming to increase study days and outcomes, led to widespread debate and was found to cause psychological stress and fatigue for students and teachers due to its intensity and frequent exams.
• Alignment with Higher Education: The two-semester system aligns with the academic structure of most Saudi and international universities, facilitating smoother academic transitions for students between different educational stages.
• Improved Curriculum Planning and Evaluation: The new system allows for broader curriculum planning and deeper periodic evaluations, which were more challenging with shorter, more fragmented semesters.
• Student and Teacher Well-being: It is designed to reduce the psychological stress and exhaustion experienced by students and teachers, promoting their mental and physical health.
• Family Support: Longer, less frequent holidays provide families with more flexibility for planning travel and social activities, thereby contributing to family cohesion and reducing the financial burdens associated with frequent school preparations.
• Synergy with National and International Events: A key strategic reason for this shift is to align the academic calendar with major national and international events that Saudi Arabia will host, such as Expo Riyadh 2030 and the World Cup 2034. This flexibility allows for better integration of event-related activities into study plans and reduces pressure on urban infrastructure during peak event times.

Key Aspects and Implementation Details:

• Maintenance of Study Days: Despite the change in structure, the Ministry of Education has committed to maintaining a minimum of 180 study days annually, which aligns with international standards set by organizations like the OECD and G20 countries.
• Retention of Positive Initiatives: The Ministry will retain beneficial elements introduced during the three-semester trial, such as the inclusion of vital skills subjects and the enhancement of digital curricula.
• Focus on Quality and Empowerment: The reform emphasizes a focus on quality education, effective practices, teacher development, curriculum improvement, school environment enhancement, and institutional governance, rather than solely concentrating on the number of semesters.
• Increased School Autonomy: Schools in specific regions, including Makkah, Madinah, Taif, and Jeddah, will be granted greater flexibility and authority to adjust their schedules to accommodate the unique needs of Hajj and Umrah seasons.
• Community Engagement: The Ministry encourages community participation in the planning and evaluation processes of the educational system.

Impacts and Benefits Across Sectors:

• Educational Outcomes: The reform is expected to raise the quality of educational outcomes by allowing for deeper engagement with subject matter and more comprehensive extracurricular activities. It also aims to offer a “second chance” for students who might struggle in the first semester, enhancing overall success rates.
• Economic Impact: The new holiday schedule is anticipated to boost domestic tourism, keeping financial resources within the local economy. It will also create clearer commercial seasons, benefiting small businesses and traders.
• Urban Planning and Quality of Life: Beyond the academic calendar, the sources also touch upon the Vision 2030’s broader aim for balanced urban growth. This includes the strategic relocation and distribution of universities in major cities like Riyadh. This initiative seeks to alleviate traffic congestion, stimulate economic activity in various city sectors, and enhance the quality of life for residents by ensuring more equitable access to educational services.

Challenges to Implementation:

• The transition will require careful redistribution of curriculum content to fit the new two-semester structure and intensive training for teachers on in-depth teaching strategies.
• There is a need to ensure that the new assessment methods encourage critical thinking rather than rote memorization, and to establish standardized training and evaluation practices across the system.
• Successful implementation will depend on strong and sustained coordination among the Ministry of Education, schools, and the wider community.

In summary, the education system reform under Saudi Vision 2030 is a multifaceted initiative designed to create a more efficient, balanced, and responsive educational environment, closely integrated with the Kingdom’s ambitious economic and social development goals.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Water Transformation

Saudi Vision 2030 places water resource management as a critical strategic priority, recognizing its fundamental role in national security and future prosperity. Given Saudi Arabia’s desert climate and limited natural water resources, the Kingdom faces significant challenges in this sector.

Key Challenges in Water Management:

• Water Scarcity: The Kingdom’s desert climate leads to a severe scarcity of natural water resources.
• Reliance on Groundwater: There is a heavy dependence on limited and non-renewable groundwater sources, which are experiencing depletion and pollution.
• High Consumption Rates: Rapid population growth, urban expansion, and high demand from various sectors, particularly agriculture (which is the largest water consumer), exacerbate water stress.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Any imbalance in the water system can slow down development, threaten food and health security, and reduce the quality of life.

Vision 2030’s Strategic Approach to Water Reform: To address these challenges, Vision 2030 aims to build a strong and effective water sector, managed with high efficiency. This reform is not merely about providing water but ensuring its sustainable supply, improving its quality, and optimizing its use. The Kingdom’s leadership recognizes water as a key driver for achieving its grand national ambitions.

Core Strategies and Initiatives:

1. Institutional and Legislative Restructuring:

• The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture was formed by integrating these three critical sectors under one umbrella to enhance cooperation, policy coordination, and avoid duplication in projects and spending.
• The National Water Strategy 2030 was launched under Vision 2030. This strategy serves as a comprehensive executive framework to unify efforts, prioritize investments, regulate consumption, and improve the quality of services.
• A National Water Company was established as an independent executive institution responsible for managing water and sanitation networks across the Kingdom, improving service quality and operational efficiency.
• Legal and regulatory frameworks have been updated, including water conservation regulations and new tariffs to encourage efficient use.

1. Diversifying Water Sources and Advanced Technologies:

• Desalination Projects: Expansion of major desalination projects is a cornerstone of the strategy. Facilities like the Shoaiba desalination plant and the Jubail integrated project utilize advanced technologies to meet increasing demand while aiming for a reduced carbon footprint.
• Wastewater Treatment and Reuse: Advanced techniques are implemented for treating and reusing wastewater for multiple purposes, including agriculture, industry, and cooling, thereby conserving fresh water resources.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Projects are underway to capture and store excess rainwater and floodwaters for use during dry periods, reducing reliance on traditional sources.

1. Efficiency, Conservation, and Smart Systems:

• The focus is on enhancing the efficiency of water usage and reducing water losses due to leaks.
• Implementation of smart networks and advanced monitoring systems to track water flow, identify leaks instantly, and manage operations remotely, contributing to network efficiency.
• Progressive tariffs and public awareness campaigns are used to promote a culture of water conservation.

1. Private Sector Engagement and Capacity Building:

• Vision 2030 encourages active participation of the private sector (local and international) in water projects, particularly in desalination and treatment, to accelerate implementation and ease the financial burden on the state.
• Emphasis is placed on developing human capabilities and training specialized technical cadres to manage and operate the sector efficiently, adopting international best practices.

Broader Impacts and Vision Integration: The water sector reforms are deeply intertwined with other national development goals, including environmental sustainability, economic diversification, and enhancing the quality of life.

• Economic Impact: Ensuring water availability and sustainability contributes to boosting investments, creating job opportunities, and supporting the local economy. It also enhances the competitiveness of cities and industrial zones. The “Blue Economy” initiative, which involves protecting marine environmental systems, is projected to contribute nearly 22 billion riyals and create 100,000 jobs by 2030.
• Environmental Sustainability: The strategy balances development with environmental protection, emphasizing sustainable use of marine resources and supporting biodiversity. This includes establishing marine protected areas and restoring natural habitats.
• Quality of Life: By ensuring stable and high-quality water supply, the reforms aim to improve the overall quality of life for citizens and residents.
• Regional Leadership: Saudi Arabia’s transformation in water management has made it a notable model for other countries with similar climatic conditions, demonstrating how challenges can be converted into opportunities for growth and development. The National Strategy for Sustainable Red Sea, for example, aims to position the Kingdom as a leader in marine sustainability.

Saudi Vision 2030: Tourism, Entertainment, and Sustainable Growth

Saudi Vision 2030 recognizes tourism and entertainment as crucial pillars for economic diversification and a driving force for national development. The Kingdom aims to transform its entertainment sector into an attractive global destination for both citizens and tourists, thereby supporting the overarching goals of Vision 2030. This ambitious vision is underpinned by strategic initiatives focused on leveraging Saudi Arabia’s natural, historical, and cultural assets, while ensuring sustainability.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of water resource management under Vision 2030:

• Strategic Importance and Economic Impact:
• Tourism and entertainment are identified as fundamental pillars for diversifying income sources and enhancing the local product within Saudi Arabia.
• The “Blue Economy,” which involves protecting marine environmental systems and promoting sustainable marine activities, is projected to contribute nearly 22 billion Riyals and create 100,000 jobs by 2030.
• The Kingdom aims to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 10%.
• Domestic tourism is a key enabler, ensuring that financial resources circulate within the local economy when Saudi citizens choose to spend their holidays domestically. This boosts local investments, creates job opportunities, and benefits small and medium-sized businesses and traders.
• Longer holidays, whether school, university, or employee vacations, are seen as a primary catalyst for stimulating domestic tourism. These periods encourage travel to diverse regions, from cooler areas like Abha and Tabuk to historical and heritage sites like AlUla and Diriyah.
• Entertainment events are also significant, generating substantial revenues and stimulating related sectors such as transportation, restaurants, and cafes.
• Yacht tourism is a specific focus, with targets to receive around 250,000 yacht visitors and generate approximately $2.9 billion in tourism spending by 2030, expected to create 28,000 jobs in the sector.
• Key Initiatives and Projects:
• The Kingdom is developing mega-projects like the Red Sea project and NEOM, which are designed with the highest environmental standards to safeguard natural resources for future generations.
• The Saudi Red Sea Authority plays a pivotal role in organizing and developing coastal tourism. In 2024, it issued 28 licenses for various marine tourism operators and established four codes for planning, designing, and operating marine tourism facilities.
• The Authority has actively promoted Saudi Arabia as a coastal tourism destination by representing the Kingdom in over 25 regional and international exhibitions and conferences.
• Strategic partnerships with international entities, such as the Monaco Yacht Club, are being forged to enhance the coastal tourism sector.
• Beyond specific tourism projects, the broader water resource management reforms under Vision 2030 aim to ensure a sustainable water supply and developed water infrastructure, which is crucial for supporting the growing tourism and industrial sectors.
• Enhancing Visitor Experience and Cultural Connection:
• The strategy emphasizes the unique appeal of Saudi hospitality, rich heritage, stunning coastlines, and diverse entertainment options.
• Efforts are made to connect new generations with the Kingdom’s heritage through direct experiences at historical sites, fostering a sense of belonging and national pride.
• Investment in human capital development includes training Saudi youth in hospitality and tourism management, ensuring a high quality of service.
• The Kingdom actively supports Saudi artists and creatives, providing platforms for various talents in singing, poetry, acting, directing, and writing.
• Major events, such as “Riyadh Season” and “AlUla Festivals,” have gained international recognition, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s image as a modern, open, and multicultural destination.
• Sustainability and Environmental Protection:
• A significant focus is placed on environmental sustainability, with the Saudi Red Sea Authority monitoring tourism activities to ensure nature protection and adherence to clean energy standards.
• The National Strategy for Sustainable Red Sea aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in marine sustainability, balancing development with environmental protection and supporting a sustainable blue economy. This includes establishing marine protected areas and restoring natural habitats.
• Scientific projects are underway to monitor and manage environmental threats, such as invasive marine species, to safeguard coastal ecosystems.

In essence, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 outlines a comprehensive and integrated approach to developing its tourism and entertainment sectors, transforming them into significant economic drivers while prioritizing environmental sustainability and cultural preservation.

GCC Public Offerings Market: Q2 2025 Performance and Outlook

The public offerings market in the GCC region, particularly in Saudi Arabia, demonstrated strong activity and resilience in the second quarter of 2025. This market is a key component of economic diversification efforts outlined in national visions like Saudi Vision 2030.

Here are the key aspects of the public offerings market:

• Overall Performance (Q2 2025):
• Gulf stock markets continued to attract investors and capital, raising approximately $2.4 billion.
• This was achieved through 4 initial public offerings (IPOs) in the main market and 8 listings in the parallel market.
• Despite initial fluctuations in stock markets at the beginning of the quarter, regional indicators showed a capacity for stability, reinforcing the region’s position as a financial market hub.
• Saudi Arabia’s Dominance:
• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia maintained its leading position as the most active market, capturing 76% of all IPO revenues.
• This leadership was bolstered by prominent listings, including the IPO of Na Aviation Company, which was the first aviation IPO in the GCC in over 15 years.
• The Medical Specialization Company also conducted a significant IPO, raising over $500 million in June.
• The Nomu parallel market in Saudi Arabia also performed strongly, with 8 listings generating $128 million, an increase from $81 million in the second quarter of 2024.
• Performance in the UAE:
• In the United Arab Emirates, the listing of the Dubai Properties REIT Fund marked the first IPO for such a fund since 2014, highlighting the focus on real estate and alternative assets.
• The Dubai Financial Market and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange exhibited a notable rebound, achieving gains of 15% and 7% respectively.
• Outlook and Future Prospects:
• Experts, including PwC Middle East, anticipate further economic stability across the GCC, which is expected to lead to a significant resurgence in IPO activity during the third quarter of 2025 and early 2026.
• Many major entities in GCC countries are preparing for potential listings, indicating continued strength and diversification of IPO opportunities.
• However, market performance in the GCC during Q2 2025 showed varied results, with initial turbulence affecting investor confidence. The recovery witnessed later in the quarter helped restore some of this confidence.
• Fluctuations in energy prices continue to influence market indicators, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where the main market index “TASI” saw a 6% decline following a roughly 20% drop in Brent crude oil prices.

Diverse Perspectives: Geopolitics, Economy, Health, and Culture

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

column: editorial/word the discussion about ‘greater israel’ is not new; this ideological narrative has been present in the minds of extremists among the jews who dream of it, and about whom legends have been told since ancient times. what is new is discussing it now, even though netanyahu was not the first israeli prime minister to talk about it; david ben-gurion and chaim weizmann preceded him. and despite the official and popular criticisms of the mass genocide that netanyahu and his government are committing in gaza, which are still ongoing, the israeli prime minister makes his statements at a time when dozens of palestinians are falling as martyrs, and the israeli army will use the hunger that has swept them away.

the specific israeli illusions that extremists, who form the current israeli government, dream of cannot be tolerated. even if they are just statements, they clearly reveal israeli intentions, although they also involve an assault, even if verbal, on existing sovereign states that must be respected. netanyahu’s statements further complicate the situation, despite the diligent and sincere efforts being made to resolve the palestinian issue, based on the optimal arab initiative and the two-state solution, led by the kingdom, which has received unprecedented international support and aims to put an end to the longest crisis in modern history. however, the extremist israeli government wants to escape international pressure by making statements that divert attention from what is happening in gaza, and also to gain more votes from extremist israelis domestically, as a behavior reflective of its extreme politics and its inability to confront the problem constructively or a desire to ‘escape forward’.

column: escaping forward the kingdom of saudi arabia continues its efforts to protect marine environmental systems and ensure the security of the marine economy, known as the ‘blue economy,’ which is expected to contribute approximately 22 billion riyals and provide about 100,000 job opportunities by 2030.

in light of this ambitious direction, environmental challenges emerge, foremost among them the threat of invasive marine species that transfer to new environments through shipping or aquaculture activities, which puts increasing pressure on coastal environmental systems and may lead to economic losses estimated at tens of billions annually worldwide.

column: the economist – the article by ahmed ghawi in the past few months, britain has witnessed repeated theft incidents. among the strangest statistics recorded is a phone theft every seven minutes, especially in london. store robberies in britain have increased by 20% in the current year 2025, and many observers and specialists in economic affairs believe that the spread of theft and violence, and the destabilization of security across britain, especially in london, is due to the weakness of the economy, the spread of inflation and unemployment.

however, the continued spread of thefts and the absence of security on british streets will significantly impact tourism, causing the economy to worsen, and visitors to london and other british cities will feel insecure, especially in tourist streets, public places, parks, and various tourist attractions, unless strict government measures are taken to raise the level of security.

column: illusions of “greater israel” hinder peace by talha al-ansari the statements of israeli prime minister benjamin netanyahu about what he calls ‘greater israel’ were not mere media stunts, but rather reflected a deep-seated ideological conviction he holds for local consumption. in a televised interview with i24news, when asked if he believed in the biblical vision of israel within its expanded borders, he replied ‘strongly,’ adding that he felt a ‘historical and spiritual mission’ to achieve it. netanyahu did not shy away from supporting a map of ‘the land of israel’ that includes vast parts of neighboring countries – from occupied palestinian territories to parts of jordan, lebanon, syria, and egypt – affirming his strong support for this expansionist vision. these statements are not a rhetorical whim; they came just about 50 days after the knesset approved a plan to annex the entire west bank to israel, indicating that netanyahu is giving practical form to his illusions about ‘greater israel’ and does not consider them mere temporary slogans.

a radical religious entity. anyone who follows israeli media, knesset debates, and politicians’ tweets will realize that the region has been afflicted with a religious nationalist entity, which has become more dependent on extremism itself as a source of its survival and cohesion. for the first time, the religious zionist movement occupies a central place in the israeli government, and netanyahu openly boasts of his alliance with the most extremist religious right-wing figures such as bezalel smotrich and itamar ben-gvir. analysts have pointed out that netanyahu was intellectually raised in a home that followed the revisionist zionist approach of jabotinsky, a theoretician who advocated for the expansion of israel, and this explains his embrace of the extremist settlers’ agenda. his recent statements about ‘greater israel’ send a clear message that the extremist ideas of his ministers are no longer exclusive to them, but are the ideology of the prime minister himself, elected by a wide segment of israelis.

column: reflection by ibrahim al-wafi al-thubaiti says in his masterpiece, ‘the migration of caravans and rain’: ‘give us more from the heat until the sun sets, and pour your bitter coffee on the heads of the people, the desired morning dew.’ coffee, those crushed dark beans that transform into a dark, thick beverage, was not merely a drink in the human psyche, but became a cultural and exclusive symbol throughout ages, especially in literature. since its spread in the arab east, coffee has been associated with gatherings, conversations, and introspection, becoming a companion to thought and contemplation, and featuring prominently in poetic and narrative texts as more than just a drink; it is a ritual of consumption, with all its temporal and spatial components. in modern arabic poetry, coffee often appeared as a symbol of intimacy, tranquility, and moments of healing, when the poet secludes himself with it or with a loved one. mahmoud darwish, for example, made it a complete poetic entity, expressing the start of the day and the warmth of affection, the anticipation of life, and the ritual of belonging. in his poems, it appeared as more than food or drink, but as a bridge between the senses and thought, and a passage from the material moment to the spiritual moment.

as for prose, many novelists have used coffee as a narrative structure, as an entry point or background for a dialogue scene, or as a symbol for the story itself. for naguib mahfouz, it serves as a means of social communication and a stage for the clash of ideas in neighborhood cafes. the cafe, where the aroma of coffee wafts, becomes an open space for exchanging opinions, and coffee almost becomes a silent character that observes events, touching on the characters’ feelings. its symbolism transcends the realistic scene to the philosophical aspect, whether in eastern or western literature, representing a moment of pause in the flow of time, a moment when one lays their worries on the table, sips, as if rearranging their thoughts and life. a cup of coffee appears to us as an invitation to contemplate the path of the self, or a window to read the other, or even a trick to prolong the modern age. from here, coffee takes on the symbolism of conscious slowness in facing life’s acceleration, and of enjoying the small details that give existence its flavor.

column: introductions of selections by dr. fahad ibrahim al-bakr to my dear brother, professor: abdullah al-hussain. the ‘sobabah al-qawl’ (essence of speech) corner in the cultural section is the thing: the beginning of any literary text, and from that, the introductions and beginnings of texts are not the same. the introduction of a technical poem differs from others in its specifications as the introduction of a story, and the beginning of a novel is not like the beginning of an article, and the first part of a play is not like the first part of a maqama, and the opening of a sermon is not like the beginning of a letter, and so on. despite this diversity and variation, the introductions of literary texts have not received much attention and care from scholars, researchers, critics, and analysts, as they were not viewed as having high aesthetic value, but rather as merely a key or a gateway through which the reader enters the text; hence, little attention was paid to studying them at both the academic and critical levels.

indeed, introductions in literary texts are a first spark that ignites emotion, awakens feeling, and the more beautiful and skillful the introduction, the more attractive and influential it becomes. therefore, ancient critics alluded to the beauty of the beginning, the opening, and the good commencement in poetry, focusing on what they described as the ‘preludes’ with their thematic diversity, which were stages for ‘atlal’ (ruined dwelling) themes. and most importantly, those poetic introductions, where critics like ibn rashiq al-qairawani (d. 456 ah) stopped beautifully, who called them ‘beginnings of explanations,’ and ibn al-atheer (d. 637 ah) also stopped at introductions, when he said: ‘the reality of this type is to make the introduction of the discourse, whether poetry or letters, indicative of the intended meaning of that discourse..’.

column: the dialectic of inclination and will by dr. najwa al-kahloot among the most common concepts where consciousness intertwines with philosophical and psychological perceptions is the concept of (the soul and the self), and despite the widespread use of both in our daily lives, delving into the subtle differences between them reveals deeper dimensions in understanding human beings’ self-awareness and responsibility for their actions.

in language, the soul denotes the spirit and the inner being of a human, carrying meanings of responsibility and divine obligation, for which one is rewarded or punished, as in his almighty’s saying: ‘every soul, for what it has earned, is a pledge’ (al-muddathir: 38). it has famous ranks: 1. the commanding self (amara): which is drawn to desires without restraint. 2. the blaming self (lawwama): its moral vigilance holds itself accountable for shortcomings. 3. the tranquil self (mutma’inna): it has settled on obedience and contentment. this conceptualization makes the soul amenable to purification and refinement, and it is the core of human striving.

column: universities and spatial balance in riyadh by dr. abdulaziz al-yousef riyadh, the capital, is witnessing unprecedented urban expansion, accompanied by an increase in population. however, this expansion, especially concerning major educational institutions like universities, is largely unbalanced, with most of them concentrated in the northern part of the city. this concentration imposes a daily traffic chokehold and creates psychological stress due to repeated commuting on the road network.

students, coming from the south, west, and east, daily cover long distances to reach their university seats, which negatively affects their mental and physical health, consuming much of their time and effort, in addition to the economic and environmental impact related to intense daily movement. yes, this concentration might be due to certain factors such as land availability in previous periods, but the current reality dictates a comprehensive review of the educational map in the capital, which must keep pace with urban and developmental transformation, especially in light of saudi vision 2030, where it is difficult for major universities in the northern region to continue their concentration while the city expands in every direction.

column: the most important investment by dr. essam aman allah bukhari i have written more than once about the most important investment in life, and of course, it goes beyond work and what brings one closer to paradise for their afterlife. and certainly, the investment in children is the most important; they are prophets, thinkers, specialists, scholars. many have pointed to this. but in our current era, amidst the rapid pace of life and the dominance of technology, direct ‘parenting’ seems closer to extinction, threatening the family structure. this neglect and irresponsibility on the part of parents, who seem unaware, is what the messenger (peace be upon him) emphasized, saying: ‘every one of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock.’ concern for children stems from a noble educational principle, a family and social trust, and a moral duty for which parents will be held accountable for any shortcomings in raising future generations, and there is no blame except on the parents if the children fail.

it is redundant to talk about the concept of good upbringing, as logic dictates: ‘it is easy to give birth, but it is not easy to raise.’ and before anyone looks at their sons and daughters, and says ‘let this happen,’ for without it, raising children becomes like a spark that generates complex intellectual chaos for every individual, and what it carries from technologies, that threatens the structure of the family. here, the importance of the family and the urgent need for it in raising and guiding children emerge more than ever before, not to mention that some children are exposed to a continuous intellectual attack that attempts to distort their ideas and corrupt their authenticity, with hostility and distortion against everything that belongs to our nation and society.

column: does diplomacy work in management? by musaed al-otaibi years ago, during my diplomatic work in a certain arab country, one of the ambassadors, who was then leading the arab ambassadors in that country, was approached by representatives from the american administration to urge them to rebel against their country’s government. the representative of the american government said to him: ‘and what will we do if the authority takes revenge on us and our families and homes as a result of this rebellion you are calling us to?’ the american government representative replied: ‘don’t worry at all! america will never be silent about any aggression against you.’ that group of rebels was encouraged and committed violence and cruelty. as expected, the government responded strongly, and the rebels sought help from the representatives of the american government, expecting them to save them as promised. and indeed, the american government issued a statement condemning the attacks on the rebels, and confined itself to that statement. the rebels were angry and denounced it, saying: ‘we were deceived.’ the american government representative replied to them: ‘we did not deceive you; we told you we would not be silent, and that is what happened when we issued the statement. we did not promise you anything else, and it is not our problem that you understood our words differently’.

naturally, the narrator remains responsible for the accuracy of this story, but what matters to me here is how diplomacy can create so much misunderstanding through a policy of deliberate ambiguity, and at a time when diplomatic language has its presence and impact in international relations between countries, can diplomacy succeed in the work of management?.

column: 10 minutes but.. by mohamed al-haidar a typical workday, and you are immersed in your tasks, and suddenly that innocent invitation arrives: ‘an urgent meeting not exceeding ten minutes to discuss such and such.’ what quickly turns into a timeless epic extending for hours, from which another ‘urgent’ meeting emerges with new promises to everyone, of course!.

it’s a practical phenomenon, ‘an urgent meeting but…’ those magic words that open the doors to temporal hell. companies start with bright faces, and everyone is ready for accomplishment, but then their features gradually change as the tenth minute passes, reaching the peak of despair when the manager’s eternal phrase is heard: ‘i have one last point to raise.’ here, all hopes of returning to productive work collapse.

column: sleep and respiratory medicine clinic by prof. dr. ahmed salem bahammam a medical page prepared by specialized consultants concerned with health education and aims to raise the level of awareness and quality of life for the individual and society.

this column contains several sub-sections addressing specific health queries related to sleep and breathing:

• i cannot sleep at night greetings and peace be upon you. to dr. ahmed, i would like to present my problem, which is related to sleep at night. my problem is that i cannot sleep at night. i am 24 years old. when i try to sleep, i wake up after two hours at most, and i feel a headache after which i cannot sleep again until after several hours or rather until dawn. i tried sleeping early, but i couldn’t, and i have been suffering from this condition for about two years or more, knowing that i do not suffer from high blood pressure, heart diseases, or breathing problems… so, i hope you can help me, and thank you very much.
• in some individuals and in the teenage years (and sometimes the problem continues until the age of thirty), there is what is known as ‘delayed sleep phase disorder,’ where these individuals prefer to sleep during the day and stay awake at night. they may sleep for long hours during the day, which can cause them problems with discipline in school or at work. the main cause and treatment for this problem are behavioral, and the treatment depends on adjusting the sleep time according to a fixed schedule. of course, a precise diagnosis cannot be made without examining the patient, taking medical history, and ruling out other causes of sleep disorders.
• waking up a short time after falling asleep greetings and peace be upon you. i would like to ask for an explanation of a specific condition: waking up a very short time after falling asleep, accompanied by shortness of breath and chest pain. i consulted many doctors in egypt and had more than one ecg, all of whom confirmed that there is no underlying cause for this condition, knowing that i am a smoker, suffer from obesity, and am going through a bad psychological state.
• waking up from sleep with shortness of breath and chest pain during sleep could be a symptom of sleep apnea, especially since you suffer from weight gain. you did not mention whether you suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness or snoring. i advise you to consult a sleep specialist and undergo a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis and treat it if found. another possible cause for the problem could be acid reflux from the esophagus to the stomach during sleep.
• numbness in my hand or fingers when waking up every day, when i wake up from sleep, i feel numbness in my hand or fingers, usually in one hand. do i unconsciously put my hand under me or on my stomach while sleeping? what actually happens is that i find my hand numb. sometimes, i wake up with a severe cramp in one of my legs. what should i do? are there specific tips?.
• numbness in the hands during sleep may be caused by pressure on the nerves passing through the carpal tunnel, which causes numbness in the hand and may be accompanied by pain in the hand and may extend to the arm. this problem appears more in pregnant women or those with thyroid deficiency and some other glandular diseases, so i advise you to visit a neurologist to assess the condition.
• asthma patients and herbs i am an asthma patient and have used all the medications for the disease, but i heard that some herbal plants in indonesia are used to treat this disease. is this true? and are there such herbs in the kingdom?.
• as the reader knows, asthma is a global problem that costs millions annually, and scientific institutions and specialized laboratories worldwide spend hundreds of millions of dollars to develop new treatments for asthma. therefore, the reader should not be deceived by what some promote about discovering a new treatment for this disease, because any medical treatment undergoes several experimental stages, starting with animal trials, then human trials, to ensure its effectiveness and freedom from side effects before it is approved by official bodies for use. therefore, i do not recommend using any herbs unless they have been fully studied and prescribed by a professor or a specialist doctor in medicine or herbal science.
• sleeping next to people i have a problem that some may not consider a problem, especially as it causes me some issues with my family, and i am preparing for marriage, god willing. the problem is that i cannot sleep next to people who snore, even if the person makes a slight sound when sleeping. also, i have difficulty sleeping if there are loud noises, especially since i live in a noisy neighborhood. please advise me. may god reward you, especially since i am the only one in my family who suffers from this problem, as most of my family can sleep in these conditions without problems.
• it is known that the function of hearing remains active during sleep, but the sensitivity varies. some people have high sensitivity to sounds during sleep, which causes them to wake up. you can put earplugs in your ears during sleep to reduce the effects of external noise, or have a constant sound or a single tone during sleep, or what is called white noise, which covers other sounds like the sound of an air conditioner, or set the radio dial to one end of the radio to produce a constant, single-tone sound.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 sources provide an extensive overview of Saudi Arabia’s progress and initiatives across various sectors, aligning with its Vision 2030. The content highlights efforts to diversify the economy away from oil, emphasizing growth in technology, education, culture, and tourism. Furthermore, the texts address significant social advancements, including healthcare and support for individuals with disabilities, while also touching upon regional geopolitical concerns like the conflict in Gaza and international relations.

Podcast

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Growth

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing economic diversification as a core objective under its Vision 2030, aiming to reduce its reliance on oil and foster sustainable economic growth. This transformation is spearheaded by figures such as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The nation is committed to building a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation.

Key Pillars of Diversification:

• Public Investment Fund (PIF): The PIF plays a central role in this diversification, demonstrating strong performance and continuous progress in achieving its economic transformation goals and generating sustainable returns. The fund’s assets under management grew by 19% annually, reaching 3.42 trillion Saudi Riyals (approximately $913 billion) by the end of 2024. Since 2017, it has achieved a total shareholder return of 7.2% annually. The PIF’s contribution to the non-oil Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached 910 billion Riyals cumulatively from 2021 to 2024, accounting for up to 10% of the non-oil GDP. The PIF’s portfolio focuses on diversifying the Saudi economy and strengthening global partnerships.
• Strategic Investments: In 2024, the PIF directed 213 billion Riyals towards priority sectors, bringing total investments in these sectors to over 642 billion Riyals since 2021. This includes establishing companies in advanced technology sectors like Alat, and launching tourism projects such as Maghna in NEOM and the New Murabba project in Riyadh. Other initiatives include partnering with companies like BlockRock for asset management, forming the largest telecom towers company in the region with stc, and launching Qiddiya. The PIF also signed memorandums of understanding worth 187.5 billion Riyals with Chinese financial institutions. It is investing in renewable energy, hotel management through “Adira” company, and acquiring a 15% stake in Heathrow Airport’s owner. Furthermore, the PIF is establishing “Sharak” company for smart residential complexes and has acquired a minority stake in Selfridges Group as part of a strategic partnership. A key initiative is the launch of an advanced AI center in the Kingdom in partnership with Google Cloud.
• Mining Sector: The mining sector is poised for sustainable long-term growth, with over 246 billion Riyals in allocated investments and untapped natural resources estimated at $2.5 trillion. This sector is considered a third pillar for national economic diversification. Reforms, including the establishment of the Saudi Geological Survey, have created an attractive environment for investors, accelerating exploration for gold, bauxite, phosphates, and rare minerals.
• Tourism and Entertainment: The Kingdom is expanding its tourism and entertainment sectors, reflected in events like “Riyadh Season” and “Jeddah Season”. The King Salman Oasis for Sciences is also intended to translate passion into tangible results. Jeddah became the first million-plus healthy city in the Middle East, meeting WHO standards, which supports health tourism. The Al-Ula Royal Commission is developing projects like the production of agricultural fertilizer from palm waste, demonstrating sustainable environmental practices that also foster economic growth.
• Culture and Arts: Culture is placed at the heart of Vision 2030, serving as a driver for a creative and cohesive society. The Ministry of Culture, established in 2018, has created specialized cultural bodies such as the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Authority; the Films Authority; the Music Authority; and the Architecture and Design Authority. These entities aim to foster creative industries and create new economic opportunities. Cultural initiatives include the “Year of Arabic Calligraphy” and various national cultural awards. Investments in cultural infrastructure include building modern museums, developing cinemas (over 600 screens by 2024), and establishing creative centers and modern public libraries. The Kingdom is also fostering international cultural partnerships.
• Education and Human Capital Development: The Ministry of Education has achieved over 19 strategic goals under Vision 2030, including curriculum development, teacher training, AI integration, and establishing modern model schools in partnership with the private sector. Initiatives like the “Media Scholarship” program aim to qualify students for the job market in media. The “Arts and Culture Academy” focuses on discovering and developing artistic and cultural talents among students, providing academic and specialized programs.
• Housing and Real Estate: The Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing has implemented new regulations for “white lands” (undeveloped urban lands) to increase supply and balance the real estate market, aiming to boost real estate offerings and combat monopolistic practices. This reflects the Crown Prince’s focus on the housing sector, addressing rising prices and enabling coordination to protect stakeholders’ rights and stabilize the market.
• Digital Transformation and Innovation: Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in digital transformation, with the PIF itself completing 58 digital projects and launching 15 new applications, automating over 477 processes. The Kingdom’s ranking in the “Startup Genome Report 2025” for supporting startup companies jumped 60 places to 23rd globally.

These efforts demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering a diversified and sustainable economy by leveraging its strengths and creating new opportunities across various sectors, moving beyond traditional oil revenues.

Saudi Vision 2030: Culture at its Heart

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 places culture at its heart, recognizing it as a crucial driver for building a vibrant, creative, and cohesive society. This strategic focus aims to reduce the nation’s reliance on oil and foster sustainable economic growth through diversification. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has emphasized that culture is fundamental to national identity and a bridge for communication with the world, asserting that investment in culture unlocks economic opportunities and enhances the Kingdom’s soft power.

Key Pillars and Initiatives of Cultural Development:

• Establishment of the Ministry of Culture and Specialized Bodies: In 2018, the Ministry of Culture was established to oversee and accelerate cultural development. It has since created several specialized cultural authorities, including:
• Literature, Publishing, and Translation Authority.
• Films Authority.
• Music Authority.
• Architecture and Design Authority.
• Performing Arts Authority.
• Heritage Authority.
• Museums Authority.
• Fashion Authority. These bodies are tasked with designing and implementing programs that bolster creative industries and generate new economic opportunities within the cultural sector.
• Strategic Objectives and Economic Impact: Cultural initiatives under Vision 2030 aim to:
• Increase citizen and resident participation in cultural and artistic activities.
• Boost the cultural industries’ contribution to the non-oil Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
• Strengthen national identity and preserve tangible and intangible heritage.
• Develop human capabilities in creative fields.
• Support local cultural production to reach international markets. The Kingdom acknowledges that culture is not merely for entertainment or intellectual pursuits but a growing economic sector.
• Major Programs and Events:
• “Year of Arabic Calligraphy” (2020-2021) was launched to enhance the presence of Arabic calligraphy in arts and education.
• National Cultural Awards have been established to honor innovators across various fields from literature to music.
• Seasonal Festivals like “Riyadh Season” and “Jeddah Season” are significant cultural and entertainment events held in different regions of the Kingdom.
• The King Salman Oasis for Sciences aims to translate passion into tangible results in scientific fields.
• The “Communities of Passion” initiative was launched, coinciding with International Youth Day, to create communities led by young people interested in science and technology, fostering an environment that enables communication and activates innovation.
• Infrastructure Development: The Vision includes significant investments in cultural infrastructure, such as:
• Construction of modern museums (e.g., Al-Soudah Museum, Taif Regional Museum).
• Development of cinemas, with the number of screens projected to exceed 600 by 2024.
• Establishment of creative centers and modern public libraries.
• The Al-Ula Royal Commission is developing projects like producing agricultural fertilizer from palm waste, showcasing sustainable environmental practices that also foster economic growth.
• International Cultural Openness: Saudi Arabia is actively building partnerships with international cultural institutions, participating in global events like Expo 2020 Dubai and the Venice Biennale for Arts, and signing cultural cooperation agreements with countries like France and South Korea to exchange expertise and launch joint projects.
• Education and Talent Development:
• The Arts and Culture Academy, launched by the Ministry of Culture in partnership with the Ministry of Education, is a pioneering model that combines accredited academic education with specialized cultural programs. It aims to discover and nurture artistic and cultural talents in general education, covering fields such as drawing, theater, acting, playing musical instruments, and singing.
• The Academy will begin its first phase for the academic year 2025/2026, targeting students from fourth grade primary to second grade intermediate, with plans for gradual expansion. The first two schools will open in Riyadh (for boys) and Jeddah (for girls), with future expansion to cover all regions and stages for both genders.
• Admissions involve an electronic platform for submitting artistic works, performance evaluations, and personal interviews.
• The Academy is fully funded by the Ministries of Education and Culture, ensuring free tuition for students, reflecting the state’s commitment to supporting talent and providing equal opportunities.
• Graduates will receive official certificates from the Ministry of Education and specialized cultural certificates, enabling them to pursue higher education in creative fields locally or internationally through cultural scholarship programs.
• The “Media Scholarship” program, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, aims to qualify students for the media job market through training and scholarships to top universities and companies globally.
• The Literature, Publishing, and Translation Authority also organizes open forums to identify and develop children’s talents in creative writing, emphasizing the role of families, schools, and cultural institutions.
• Inclusivity in Cultural Access: The Museums Authority has implemented a policy to exempt people with disabilities and their companions from entry fees to all museums, temporary exhibitions, and accompanying programs. This initiative aligns with global practices and aims to ensure that cultural activities are accessible to all, fostering their active participation and emphasizing respect for everyone’s right to engage with culture and art without discrimination.

Overall, these efforts underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to a holistic transformation, where cultural development is integral to its economic diversification strategy, nurturing creative industries, and enriching the lives of its citizens and residents.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Healthcare Transformation

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing healthcare advancement as a key component of its Vision 2030, aiming to enhance the quality of life and foster a vibrant society. This commitment is demonstrated through significant achievements, strategic investments, and the adoption of innovative technologies.

Key aspects of healthcare advancement include:

• Global Recognition and Infrastructure Development:
• The Kingdom has achieved a prominent presence on the international health stage through various qualitative accomplishments.
• Sixteen cities have been accredited as “healthy cities,” with Jeddah and Madinah being the first two million-plus cities in the Middle East to meet World Health Organization (WHO) standards for healthy cities. This embodies the Ministry of Health’s success in partnership with the Quality of Life Program and various governmental and community entities.
• Seven Saudi hospitals were listed among “Brand Finance’s” top 250 best hospitals globally for 2025, reflecting the strength of the healthcare infrastructure and its competitive capabilities.
• Advanced Medical Procedures and Research:
• King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) has achieved significant milestones, reinforcing its position as a global leader in organ transplantation.
• It successfully performed 10 kidney exchange transplants in two consecutive days on August 12-13, 2025, marking the largest number of exchange transplants performed by a single center globally. This achievement highlights the hospital’s high clinical readiness, multidisciplinary medical teams, and advanced technological systems for managing donor-recipient compatibility.
• Since its program inception in 2011, KFSH&RC has completed over 500 kidney transplants, and in the past year, it conducted 80 pediatric kidney transplants, the largest number worldwide for children in a single year.
• The hospital is also recognized as the first in the Middle East and Africa, and 15th globally, among the top 250 academic health institutions for 2025.
• KFSH&RC was also ranked among the top 10 highest-impact research studies on liver transplantation using robotics by the American Society for Organ Transplantation for 2024.
• The Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Medical Complex in Al-Olaya successfully performed a rare tumor removal in a three-decade-old patient’s hip joint using endoscopy, showcasing advanced surgical capabilities.
• Digital Transformation and Innovation:
• The Ministry of Interior’s Medical Services General Administration, in cooperation with the Artificial Intelligence Centre, held a workshop on the role of AI technologies in improving healthcare quality, covering diagnosis, treatment, and service management.
• The Riyadh Health Cluster launched its first media campaign for “Remote Clinics”, a service designed to enhance access to modern healthcare options for the community. This digital service allows beneficiaries to receive medical consultations and follow-ups remotely via the “Sehhaty” application, saving time and effort, particularly for patients with chronic diseases, the elderly, and employees. The initiative aligns with Vision 2030’s Health Sector Transformation Program to utilize innovative digital solutions and empower beneficiaries.

These efforts demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s dedication to improving the health and well-being of its population by investing in cutting-edge medical services, technology, and strategic partnerships, all contributing to its broader economic diversification goals.

Saudi Vision 2030: Transforming Education for a Knowledge Economy

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 prioritizes comprehensive education reform as a cornerstone for societal and economic transformation. The Kingdom is actively working to develop a competitive and knowledge-based economy by investing heavily in its human capital through a wide array of initiatives and strategic programs.

Key Aspects of Education Reform:

• Strategic Goals and Achievements:
• The Ministry of Education has already accomplished over 19 strategic goals under Vision 2030, demonstrating its commitment to delivering an exceptional educational model.
• Education is recognized as a fundamental pillar for developing human capabilities and shifting the national discourse from mere information dissemination to knowledge creation, fostering deep understanding and critical thinking.
• Curriculum and Digital Transformation:
• There is a strong focus on curriculum development.
• The National Center for Curricula has been instrumental in this, producing 27 digital courses and re-shaping 19 courses into interactive books. It also reviewed 50 other courses to support an advanced digital learning environment and updated over 6,700 digital content pieces.
• Starting from the 2025-2026 academic year, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) curriculum will be introduced across all educational stages, along with a cybersecurity curriculum as an elective for high school students.
• Curriculum guidelines have been updated to be more flexible, including a special plan for schools teaching the Chinese language, and a guiding handbook for using generative AI in education has been issued.
• Teacher Development and Empowerment:
• The Ministry has provided over 520,000 professional training opportunities for male and female teachers through the National Institute for Professional Educational Development.
• International partnerships have been forged to enhance teachers’ global competitiveness, including professional master’s programs in Singaporean teaching and development programs with Finnish institutes and University College London.
• These efforts aim to empower teachers, enabling them to concentrate on their core role, as they are considered the cornerstone of human development and national progress.
• School Environment and Management:
• A significant reform involves empowering schools and improving their operational efficiency and governance by reducing administrative levels.
• Educational administrations have been restructured, decreasing their number to 16, with all operational, maintenance, and quality management of school environments fully assigned to the Education Development Company.
• Large-scale infrastructure projects are underway, including 75 new construction projects (over 920 million riyals) and maintenance/rehabilitation of over 15,000 school buildings (worth 2 billion riyals), ensuring 100% readiness and an inclusive learning environment.
• The Ministry of Education stresses the importance of school safety for children and their protection from violence or harassment, and is committed to qualifying teachers to align with contemporary developments.
• The Ministry also emphasizes that education should not be treated merely as a commodity.
• Talent Identification and Specialized Education:
• The Ministry is establishing modern model schools in collaboration with the private sector.
• The Arts and Culture Academy, a pioneering model launched in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, aims to discover and nurture artistic and cultural talents in general education, covering fields like drawing, theater, acting, music, and singing. It will start its first phase for the 2025/2026 academic year with free tuition, starting in Riyadh and Jeddah, and plans for gradual expansion.
• There has been a notable increase in the discovery of gifted students, with over 28,000 identified (a 10% increase) and over 100,000 registered in discovery programs (a 72% increase).
• Specialized schools are being established for gifted students, including the first technical school for gifted students, the first sports school, and an Arts and Culture Academy.
• Inclusivity and Support:
• The Kingdom is dedicated to enhancing opportunities for people with disabilities, with over 94,000 students already integrated into various programs. Collaborative efforts with the Ministries of Health, Human Resources, and Social Development aim to provide comprehensive services across all regions.
• Higher Education and Scholarships:
• Saudi universities have shown significant progress in global rankings, with 12 universities ranked in Times Higher Education, 32 in Shanghai ranking, and 20 among QS’s top 250 global universities for 2025.
• The “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program” aims to enhance citizen competitiveness. Since its launch in 2022, 3,388 Saudi students have been sent to top 30 global universities, with 938 in 2025.
• An AI unit has been established to develop smart educational solutions.
• The National Unified Admissions Platform has facilitated over 339,000 admission opportunities across more than 4,000 specializations in 28 government educational entities.
• A Unified Support Portal provides integrated services to all education staff, including parents, teachers, and students.
• Universities are working on strategic roadmaps to shape the future of university education, link it to the job market, and activate scientific research in national priority areas.
• The Chinese language is now being taught in over 140 public intermediate schools, supported by scholarships for teachers.
• King Abdullah University and the Royal Commission for Mecca have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance cooperation in courses, research projects, consultations, and the development of academic and professional programs.
• Taibah University has opened registration for a “Finance and Investment” diploma via distance learning.
• Challenges with Private Schools:
• The sources highlight concerns regarding some private and أهلية (non-governmental) schools. It is noted that their contracts may sometimes disregard student rights and exploit parents.
• There are calls for the Ministry of Education to strengthen its oversight and ensure these schools respect student rights and responsibilities, preventing practices like denying certificates or enrollment over fees or attempting to impose contracts that waive fundamental rights.
• The article implies that some private schools are perceived as prioritizing profit over educational quality, potentially turning education into a “commodity”.

Global Conflicts and Geopolitical Challenges

Regional conflicts continue to pose significant challenges, with ongoing crises in various parts of the world, including the Middle East and Eastern Europe. The sources highlight several key conflict zones, detailing humanitarian impacts, political dynamics, and international responses.

Gaza Conflict

The Gaza Strip continues to face a severe humanitarian crisis due to ongoing Israeli military actions.

• Humanitarian Crisis: The situation is described as “catastrophic,” with hunger and malnutrition destroying lives. More than 55,000 pregnant women in Gaza are living with daily life-threatening risks, with nearly all suffering from severe deficiencies in essential nutritional supplements like iron, calcium, and folic acid. Acute anemia is prevalent among most pregnant women, leading to physical exhaustion and a high risk of dangerous bleeding during childbirth. A new report in The Lancet warned of the spread of antibiotic-resistant diseases, citing over 1,300 samples from Al-Maamadani Hospital, indicating a higher danger of infection and transmission throughout the Strip, especially given the lack of medical supplies.
• Military Actions and Consequences: Israeli occupation forces have launched a series of massacres, causing widespread destruction and direct targeting of civilians, leading to numerous casualties and injuries. Specific areas like the Sanfour area and Salah al-Din Street in Al-Tuffah neighborhood in eastern Gaza City have been targeted by artillery shelling and aerial raids. Residential homes in southern Gaza were also partially destroyed by air raids during dawn hours. Attacks have been reported near “Kissoffim” east of Deir al-Balah, targeting people waiting for aid, resulting in fatalities and injuries. Hospitals, such as Al-Aqsa Hospital, have received casualties from these attacks.
• Political Stance and International Calls: The Palestinian Foreign Minister, Farsin Agapakyan Shaheen, condemned Israel’s decision to occupy Gaza, stating it deepens the humanitarian catastrophe and constitutes a war of genocide and forced displacement. She emphasized that the occupation has no justification and aims to make Gaza uninhabitable to forcibly displace its citizens. The Palestinian leadership’s priority is a ceasefire in Gaza and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid. They advocate for a comprehensive vision, including the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, the Palestinian state assuming full responsibility for Gaza, and a plan for early recovery and reconstruction. There is also a strong emphasis on continuous diplomatic efforts to gain recognition for the Palestinian state.
• “Greater Israel” Vision: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statements about a “Greater Israel” vision have been strongly condemned by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which expressed its absolute rejection of Israel’s expansionist and settlement projects. This vision, which some Zionist founders also promoted, aims to include Palestinian territories, Gaza, the West Bank, and parts of Jordan and Egypt. The Palestinian National Council’s Chairman, Rouhi Fattouh, called this vision a “colonial and Judaizing mentality” backed by U.S. protection, warning that continued Israeli policies, unchecked by international pressure, threaten regional and international peace and security.

Lebanese Internal Affairs

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized Lebanon’s rejection of any external interference in its internal affairs, including disarming Hezbollah.

• Non-Interference Policy: Aoun stressed that Lebanon does not interfere in the affairs of any other state and respects their specificities, including Iran. He clarified that carrying weapons is not allowed for any party without exception, stating that the Lebanese state is solely responsible for the security of all Lebanese citizens.
• Hezbollah Disarmament: The Lebanese government had previously mandated the army to implement a plan for disarming Hezbollah. This move comes amid U.S. pressure and fears of a new large-scale Israeli military campaign, following a devastating conflict with Hezbollah. Hezbollah, however, views the disarmament decision as a “grave mistake” and will act “as if it doesn’t exist”.
• Iranian Influence: Iranian officials, including Ali Akbar Velayati, have stated that Iran “certainly opposes disarming Hezbollah” because it has “always helped the Lebanese people and resistance, and continues to do so”. Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry deemed Velayati’s statements a “flagrant and unacceptable interference”.

Syrian Conflict

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Sheibani stated that Syria faces external interventions aimed at driving the country into sectarian strife, particularly from Israel, which he accused of fomenting sectarian sedition in Suwayda.

• External Interventions: Al-Sheibani asserted that what happened in Suwayda was “fabricated by Israel”. He reiterated Syria’s commitment to holding perpetrators of violations accountable and protecting all its citizens, emphasizing the need for wisdom to overcome challenges. Syria is determined to counter external attempts to impose a partition and spread chaos.
• Turkish-Syrian Relations: Syria seeks to enhance political cooperation and security coordination with Turkey, welcoming the gradual return of displaced Syrians. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed that Turkey’s perspective is clear: peace in Syria and the unity of its territories. He acknowledged new qualitative leaps in the relationship but noted that “some parties are disturbed by Syria’s development and seek to pass conspiracies”. Both ministers stressed the importance of joint efforts to avoid chaos and provide support to Syria.

Russia-Ukraine War

The conflict continues to have broad geopolitical and economic impacts, including on global oil markets.

• Economic Impact: Oil prices have fallen after the International Energy Agency indicated that supply would exceed demand this year. OPEC also revised its global oil demand forecast for the coming year downwards but increased its forecast for supply growth from non-OPEC+ countries. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) also projected that Brent crude prices would average less than $60 a barrel in the fourth quarter, the lowest average price since 2020.
• Diplomatic Efforts and Tensions: U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to meet in Alaska to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine. This meeting, the first between a U.S. president and a Russian president since 2021, comes as Trump seeks a mediating role to end the ongoing war. Ukraine, however, fears that the summit might result in conditions that force concessions of territory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Moscow of “deceiving Washington” and affirmed that Ukraine will not allow such deception.
• International Support: Zelenskyy secured diplomatic support from Europe and NATO allies ahead of the Alaska summit. NATO Secretary General Matthew Whitacre stated that he does not rule out inviting Zelenskyy to the U.S.-Russia talks, though the final decision rests with President Trump.
• North Korea’s Role: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to enhance cooperation, with Kim affirming full support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. North Korea reportedly sent over 10,000 troops to the Kursk region in 2024, in addition to artillery shells and long-range missiles, and has sustained significant casualties fighting alongside Russian forces.

Iran’s Nuclear Program and Sanctions

Concerns remain regarding Iran’s nuclear program, with international powers asserting their right to reimpose sanctions.

• Sanctions Mechanism: Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have affirmed their readiness to activate the “snapback” mechanism to reimpose international sanctions on Iran if no diplomatic solution to the nuclear file is reached by the end of August 2025. This mechanism would allow for the re-imposition of all international sanctions on Iran.
• Iran’s Stance: Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, stated that the European “E3” countries do not have the legal right to reactivate the sanctions mechanism.
• Internal Challenges: Internally, Iran is grappling with severe water and electricity shortages, leading to public discontent. Netanyahu, exploiting these issues, called on Iranians to “take to the streets” and build a better future for their families, offering Israeli expertise in water management.

Saudi Arabian Vision 2030: Progress and Challenges

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

1. A Word His Royal Highness, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the visionary leader who established the idea of “passion,” made it a bright and exciting concept, not just for enthusiasm. He emphasized passion as a fundamental criterion for his team, as he confirmed in one of his meetings, reaffirming the definition of “passion” within the national standards framework. This concept has taken its place at the heart of public discourse, specifically in the minds of youth, becoming an unwritten pact that links ambition with achievement, and dreams with work. It has even become one of the most prominent features and vocational attributes in the rapid formation of the new Saudi personality in the era of transformation. Yesterday, King Salman Science Oasis launched the “Communities of Passion” initiative, coinciding with International Youth Day, which falls on August twelfth of each year. The news stated that the initiative aims to establish communities led by youth interested in the fields of science and technology, providing a stimulating environment and enabling tools for communication and activities to translate passion for science into a tangible impact. The initiative also targets various segments of society, including students, researchers, professionals, universities, schools, businesses, and entrepreneurs, whose passion is to contribute to achieving the goals of each community.
2. A Homeland Led by Passion This news truly embodies the value of passion; how the leadership has embraced the concept of “passion” and its value as a strategy that transcends the narrow, limited concept, and how it has become closely linked to our vision, our future projects, and all our aspirations for creative technological innovation and sustainable development in all cognitive and human fields, and beyond. There is no doubt that an important initiative, King Salman Science Oasis, best translates this passion into action and achievement, utilizing the capabilities, talents, and creativity of our youth; this oasis has pledged to itself to be a supportive environment for the members of various specialized partnerships, working through teams that embody passion.
3. Gaza… The Spread of Antibiotic-Resistant Diseases The Gaza Strip witnessed a series of Israeli massacres during the past hours, which left widespread destruction and direct targeting of civilians, leading to the martyrdom and injury of many Palestinians, amid the continued severe humanitarian suffering due to the siege, starvation, and lack of medical supplies. In eastern Gaza City, the occupation shelling left massive destruction in the Sanfour area and Salah al-Din Street in al-Tuffah neighborhood, coinciding with artillery shelling and raids that targeted several eastern areas of the city, in addition to partially destroying residential homes in southern Gaza during dawn hours.
4. Crown Prince Discusses Cooperation Opportunities with Korean President His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received a phone call yesterday from His Excellency President Yoon Suk-yeol, President of the Republic of Korea. During the call, they lauded the historical relations that bind the two friendly countries. They also discussed ways to develop bilateral relations between the two countries in several areas of cooperation that serve the common interests of both sides and strengthen the bonds of cooperation between them.
5. Minister of Media: There is coordination to publish decisions issued by “Housing”… And good news soon His Excellency the Minister of Media, Salman bin Yousef Al-Dossary, affirmed that the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 continues to lead the change process on various regional and international levels, as the Kingdom has undergone transformations in various fields, led by an ambitious vision that anticipates the future and believes in the capabilities of people and place. This came during the 24th government press conference, which hosted His Excellency the Minister of Media to talk about the latest developments and achievements of the Kingdom, and His Excellency the Minister of Education, Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Bunyan, to talk about the latest developments in the education system, the transformation and development journey for the academic year 1447 AH, empowering schools, and creating a flexible and value-enhancing educational environment with the beginning of the new academic year, and developments in improving the digital experience in education.
6. Public Investment Fund Strengthens its Sovereign Position Globally, Assets Under Management Rise to 3.42 Trillion Riyals The Public Investment Fund published its annual report for 2024, which reflects strong performance and continued progress in achieving its objectives to drive economic transformation in the Kingdom and achieve sustainable returns. The report showed an increase in the Fund’s assets under management by 19% on an annual basis, reaching 3.42 trillion riyals (approximately 913 billion dollars) by the end of 2024, with a total shareholder return of 7.2% on an annual basis since 2017. Total revenues increased by 25%.
7. Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Condemnation of the So-Called “Greater Israel Vision” The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the Kingdom’s strongest condemnation of the statements made by the Prime Minister of the Israeli occupation government regarding the so-called “Greater Israel Vision,” and its absolute rejection of the expansionist and settlement projects and ideas adopted by the Israeli occupation authorities, reaffirming the historical and legal right of the Palestinian people to establish their independent and sovereign state on their lands, based on relevant international laws. The Ministry said in a statement: “The Kingdom warns the international community against the Israeli occupation’s persistence in blatant violations that undermine the foundations of international legitimacy, infringe upon the sovereignty of states, and threaten regional and global peace and security.”
8. Gaza.. Spread of Antibiotic-Resistant Diseases This title appears twice, once as a headline and once as a column title. I will provide the content from the column source. The Gaza Strip witnessed a series of Israeli massacres during the past hours, which left widespread destruction and direct targeting of civilians, leading to the martyrdom and injury of many Palestinians, amid the continued severe humanitarian suffering due to the siege, starvation, and lack of medical supplies. In eastern Gaza City, the occupation shelling left massive destruction in the Sanfour area and Salah al-Din Street in al-Tuffah neighborhood, coinciding with artillery shelling and raids that targeted several eastern areas of the city, in addition to partially destroying residential homes in southern Gaza during dawn hours.
9. Begin Enforcement of the Executive Regulations for White Lands Fees: Annual fees up to 10% of land value The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing announced the adoption of the executive regulations for white lands fees, a regulatory step aimed at increasing developed land supply to achieve balance between supply and demand, increase the supply of real estate units, and protect fair competition and combat monopolistic practices. The Ministry explained in a press statement that the regulations adopt a refined mechanism for applying fees by dividing targeted geographical areas into categories based on urban development priorities within the city, where annual fees are imposed at a rate of 10% of the value of the land for the category with the highest priority for urban development.
10. The Kingdom Enhances its Health Leadership with Achievements and International Classifications The Ministry of Health confirmed that the national health system has demonstrated its presence on the international stage through qualitative achievements, most notably the accreditation of 16 health cities, including Jeddah and Madinah, which are considered the first two million-person health cities in the Middle East according to World Health Organization standards, embodying the Ministry’s success, represented by its program, in partnership with various governmental and community entities to enhance the quality of life, through the application of more than 80 international standards distributed among 9 main themes covering areas of health, development, and sustainability. The Kingdom has achieved remarkable progress in the field of medical research and innovation, as a study conducted by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center on liver transplantation using robotics was ranked among the top 10 most influential research papers globally in 2024, according to the American Society of Transplantation.
11. Crown Prince Honors Winners of Tabuk Emirate Innovation Competition 2025 His Royal Highness Prince Fahd bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Tabuk Region, honored yesterday in his office at the Emirate the male and female winners of the first three places in the “Tabuk Region Emirate Innovation Competition 2025”. The honoring ceremony was attended by the President of Tabuk University, Dr. Ahmed bin Nasser Al-Ghamdi, and the Assistant Undersecretary for Development Affairs at the Emirate of Tabuk, Sheikh Awn bin Abdulaziz Al-Khairisy. The competition was organized by the Emirate in partnership with the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center at Tabuk University, with the aim of stimulating creativity and enhancing the role of innovation in achieving the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The competition included several tracks, including: Government Services and Data, improving customer experience, enhancing government performance and smart education, building capabilities and risk management, and sustainability, environment, and traffic safety.
12. Prince of Al-Baha and Minister of Tourism Discuss Development and Tourism Investment His Royal Highness Prince Hussam bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Al-Baha Region, received yesterday in his office at the Emirate the Minister of Tourism, Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb. During the reception, ways to develop the tourism sector in the region were reviewed, and efforts were highlighted in developing the licensing and oversight system for tourism activities by the Ministry, ensuring the improvement of service quality and enhancing the tourist experience through comprehensive monitoring of all activities subject to the Ministry’s supervision in the region.
13. Saud bin Nayef Reviews Updates on “Eastern Development” Work His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Region and Chairman of the Eastern Region Development Authority Council, chaired yesterday the Authority’s council meeting at the Emirate, with the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Bandar bin Abdulaziz bin Salman, Deputy Governor of the Eastern Region, and His Excellencies and members of the Executive Committee and the Council. The Governor of the Eastern Region praised the great support received by the development authorities in various regions of the Kingdom, and specifically the Eastern Region Development Authority, from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and the diligent attention and follow-up from His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister – may God protect them – and this comes within the framework of the wise leadership’s keenness to raise the quality of life and achieve comprehensive and sustainable development in various regions of the Kingdom.
14. Abdulaziz bin Saad Celebrates “Hail Development” Obtaining ISO Certification His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Hail Region, received yesterday in his office the CEO of the Hail Region Development Authority, Abdullah bin Omar Al-Abduljabbar, and the General Director of Information Technology and Digital Transformation at the Authority, Eng. Mohammed Al-Buqami, on the occasion of the Authority’s achievement of ISO 20000-1:2018 certification for meeting international standards in information technology service management. During the reception, His Royal Highness received the ISO certificate, and stressed the keenness of the nation’s sons to keep pace with the latest developments and best international practices and standards.
15. Nasser bin Mohammed: The Nation’s Youth are the Promising Future and Glorious Present His Royal Highness Prince Nasser bin Mohammed bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Jazan Region, met yesterday evening with a number of distinguished young men and women from the region in various fields, at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Cultural Center in Jazan City. During the meeting, His Royal Highness watched a visual presentation organized by the General Administration of Institutional and Media Communication at the Emirate of the region, about the efforts of the wise leadership – may God protect them – in supporting the youth of the nation in various fields, and the support of His Royal Highness the Governor of Jazan Region and his deputy for the youth of the region to achieve what meets the aspirations of the leadership, and keeps pace.
16. Kingdom and India: Deep-Rooted Historical Relations India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia share deep-rooted historical relations built on centuries of cultural exchange, trade, and interactions between the two peoples. Cooperation remains at the core of the strong partnership between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and today we have expanded its scope and essence. To give momentum to this important aspect, a new ministerial committee for tourism and cultural cooperation was formed during the official visit of the Prime Minister of India to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in April 2025, within the framework of the Strategic Partnership Council. Recent years have witnessed remarkable developments in this field. India was the guest of honor at the Saudi Janadriyah Festival in 2018, and recently, a large Indian cultural troupe performed artistic shows in the King Abdullah Park in Riyadh within the framework of the Global Harmony Initiative. Indian cinema and music have always enjoyed great popularity in the Kingdom, and many Saudi radio stations and specialized channels broadcast Bollywood films.
17. Deputy Minister of Municipalities Reviews Eastern Province Secretariat Efforts His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, Ihab Al-Hushani, visited the Eastern Province Secretariat yesterday, during which he inspected the urban design unit at the Saudi Design Studio, which was launched by the Secretariat to enhance urban identity and improve the quality of the urban landscape. Its activation will begin on November 1, 2025. He also inspected the crisis and disaster management center, as the Secretariat has moved to the temporary headquarters, which is equipped with all devices that ensure continuity of services during the rehabilitation period of the main site. The Deputy Minister watched a presentation about the project to rehabilitate the crisis and disaster management center at the Secretariat, which contains an infrastructure for systems, including a UPS system, which is equipped with an integrated and uninterruptible power supply that ensures the continuity of the center’s operation, in addition to multiple infrastructures for communications networks, to provide multiple alternatives to ensure uninterrupted service in any case.
18. Minister of Media: Vision 2030 Leads the Change Process His Excellency the Minister of Media, Salman bin Yousef Al-Dossary, affirmed that the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 continues to lead the change process on various regional and international levels, as the Kingdom has undergone transformations in various fields, led by an ambitious vision that anticipates the future and believes in the capabilities of people and place. This came during the 24th government press conference, which hosted His Excellency the Minister of Media to talk about the latest developments and achievements of the Kingdom, and His Excellency the Minister of Education, Professor Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Bunyan, to talk about the latest developments in the education system, the transformation and development journey for the academic year 1447 AH, empowering schools, and creating a flexible and value-enhancing educational environment with the beginning of the new academic year, and developments in improving the digital experience in education, and improving the service provided to beneficiaries and education employees.
19. Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Complex in Al-Olaya Removes a Rare Tumor in a Thirties Woman’s Hip Joint with an Endoscope Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Medical Complex in Al-Olaya succeeded in ending the suffering of a woman in her thirties, who had been complaining for several years of continuous and increasing pain in her left hip joint, which caused her limited movement and inability to perform her daily tasks comfortably. Dr. Youssef Tawfiq Khoja, Consultant in Orthopedic Surgery, Joint and Extremity Reconstruction, and Endoscopy, and Head of the medical team treating her, mentioned this. He added that the patient had previously visited several doctors to treat her problem, but without success, as they only prescribed painkillers and advised her to follow physical therapy programs, which exacerbated the severity of the symptoms and pain.
20. “Internal Medical Services” Holds a Workshop on “Artificial Intelligence” The General Department of Medical Services at the Ministry of Interior, in cooperation with the Artificial Intelligence Center at the Ministry, held a specialized workshop titled “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Improving the Quality of Medical Services,” with the presence of His Excellency the General Director of Medical Services at the Security Forces Hospital and Program, Dr. Saleh bin Zaid Al-Muhsin, at the Ministry of Interior’s clubs in Riyadh yesterday. The workshop reviewed the role of artificial intelligence technologies in improving the quality of healthcare, exploring practical applications in diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare management, and developing integrated strategies for adopting these technologies, understanding and analyzing data to support decision-making, and empowering partnerships with relevant parties to achieve the development and efficiency of health services.
21. More Than 48,000 Benefit from “Children’s Hospitality” Center More than 48,000 children from 100 nationalities have benefited from the services, activities, and educational, awareness, and entertainment programs provided by the Children’s Hospitality Center near the Prophet’s Mosque for children aged two to nine years. The General Authority for the Affairs of the Prophet’s Mosque stated that 32,410 children speaking Arabic benefited from the center’s services during the past year 1446 AH, in addition to 15,596 children not speaking Arabic, indicating that the satisfaction rate of children and their families with the center’s services and diverse programs, according to a survey of their opinions, reached 96%. The center, which is located near the Prophet’s Mosque, has a capacity of 100 children and provides diverse activities suitable for their ages, aiming to develop the religious and cultural heritage in the child.
22. Media Campaign to Introduce “Remote Clinics” Service Riyadh Health Cluster One launched its first media campaign through its digital platforms to introduce its programs within the “Remote Clinics” service, supporting health transformation and aiming to enhance community awareness of modern healthcare options, which it places at the forefront of attention. The campaign highlights the advantages of the service, which allows beneficiaries to access medical consultations and follow-up treatment at any time and place through the “Sehhaty” application, contributing to saving time and effort and reducing the need for physical visits to health facilities. Cases that can be followed up digitally are also highlighted, while maintaining the privacy and quality of care for the beneficiary.
23. King Abdulaziz University and the Royal Commission for Makkah.. Memorandum of Understanding King Abdulaziz University signed a memorandum of understanding with the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, aiming to enhance cooperation between the two parties and define areas of common interest between them. Representing the two sides in the signing were the University President, Dr. Yousef bin Tareef Al-Amaary, and the CEO of the Commission, Eng. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al-Rasheed. The memorandum of understanding included topics of common interest, including providing courses, implementing research projects, and providing consultations, in addition to establishing and developing academic and professional programs, exchanging experiences and knowledge in scientific, academic, administrative, technical, training, and applied fields, in addition to forming joint research teams, forming work teams, and encouraging the exchange of visits for faculty members, researchers, and students, and participation in meetings, conferences, seminars, and educational and professional workshops locally.
24. Buraydah Date Festival.. Vibrant Market and Economic Engine In the heart of Buraydah city, within the vibrant commercial strip and amidst the auction squares and the date city, the Buraydah Date Festival witnesses a multitude of date varieties and types competing to display the finest dates. The slogan “Minds Before Prices” highlights that the auctioneers are not just middlemen between the seller and buyer; rather, they have become symbols of a long past history of knowledge and experience, with a permanent presence in seasonal markets. In this year’s date season, the market proved that its auctioneers possess a forward-looking vision and do not merely rely on advertising and negotiations; they have become true creators, generating a new generation of young auctioneers and youth who learn this profession and craft before mastering financial calculations. The visitor to the auction market observes in the depths of the festival young boys and youth sitting next to the elder auctioneers, listening, observing, and guiding them through the minute details of the profession, from the method of auctioning and the quality of date varieties to the tone of voice, the timing of the call, and the type of attractive movements, and how to lower or raise prices, whether by explicit hint or by a glance with a commonly understood meaning.
25. Security Urges Grand Mosque Visitors Not to Sit in Passages The Public Security directed a public awareness message in several languages to the guests of Allah in the Grand Mosque, urging them to avoid sitting in the passages inside the mosque and its courtyards, as this obstructs the movement of worshippers and pilgrims, making it difficult for them to perform their rituals smoothly and safely. Public Security explained that this directive comes within the framework of continuous efforts to organize the movement of crowds and ensure the comfort of visitors, especially during peak times, which contributes to providing a spiritual, safe, and prepared environment for everyone.
26. Launch of the On-Site Phase of “Aseer Innovates Hackathon” The on-site phase of “Aseer Innovates Hackathon” will be launched at the King Khalid University Exhibition Center in Al-Faraa, and its activities will continue for three days, after a rich virtual experience that helped prepare participants to transform their creative ideas into realistic, implementable projects. The event will include an integrated live experience, with an accompanying exhibition featuring 12 booths for the initiative’s partners, in addition to interactive dialogue sessions with a selection of speakers and judges, and specialized workshops aimed at enhancing innovation, expanding perceptions, and creating a stimulating environment for creativity and interaction.
27. Taibah University Opens Registration for “Finance and Investment” Taibah University, represented by the College of Applied Management, announced the opening of registration for the Diploma in Finance and Investment program through distance education, as part of its efforts to qualify national cadres to meet labor market needs. The program is accredited by the National Center for Applied Universities, and graduates, upon completion, are awarded an accredited diploma. The program also qualifies a number of enrolled middle school graduates for jobs such as financial management employee, financial statement analyst, financial market broker, finance and investment technician, and financial risk analyst.
28. Oil Falls as Supply Exceeds Demand Oil prices fell yesterday, Wednesday, after the International Energy Agency indicated that supply would exceed demand this year, while investors await a meeting on Friday between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding agreements to stop the war in Ukraine, which could ease some of the risks of sanctions on the market. Brent crude futures fell by 45 cents, or 0.7%, to $65.67 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell by 53 cents, or 0.8%, to $62.64.
29. US Treasury Imposes Sanctions on Iranian Oil Companies This article does not have two paragraphs of detail. It only has a title.
30. Public Investment Fund Assets Under Management Rise to 3.42 Trillion Riyals: 2024 achievements culminate in an Aa3 rating… and 910 billion riyals contributed to non-oil GDP The Public Investment Fund published its annual report for 2024, which reflects strong performance and continued progress in achieving its objectives to drive economic transformation in the Kingdom and achieve sustainable returns. The report showed an increase in the Fund’s assets under management by 19% on an annual basis, reaching 3.42 trillion riyals (approximately 913 billion dollars) by the end of 2024, with a total shareholder return of 7.2% on an annual basis since 2017. Total revenues increased by 25%.
31. Accelerated Pace of Gold, Phosphate, and Bauxite Exploration: Strong Motivator for Mining Alvarez & Marsal, the global company specializing in providing advisory services, issued a new document urging companies to adopt excellence in cost management as a fundamental pillar in their operating models. This step comes amidst the accelerating growth of the mining sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is heading towards solidifying its position as a third pillar in the structure of national economic diversification. The mining sector in the Kingdom is preparing to achieve sustainable long-term growth, relying on investments exceeding 246 billion Saudi riyals and untapped natural resources estimated at about 2.5 trillion US dollars, according to data issued by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources during the Future Minerals Forum.
32. Iran Stipulates Lifting of Sanctions for “Nuclear Negotiations” European Readiness to Activate Snapback Mechanism by August The Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, Majid Takht Ravanchi, announced that Iran is open to negotiating an agreement that achieves the interests of all parties in exchange for lifting the imposed sanctions. He affirmed that uranium enrichment is a necessity that cannot be abandoned, and that Tehran may be flexible regarding enrichment capabilities and limits, but it refuses to stop enrichment. He added that the agreement will not be achieved if the other side rejects Iran’s basic conditions. For their part, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France announced that they are ready to activate the mechanism to reimpose sanctions on Iran if a diplomatic solution to the nuclear file is not reached by the end of August, as stated in a letter to the United Nations.
33. Trump: Strongly Tied to the “Greater Israel” Vision Due to Folic Acid Deficiency.. 55,000 Pregnant Women in Gaza Face Risk of Fetal Deformities The Gaza Strip witnessed a series of Israeli massacres during the past hours, which left widespread destruction and direct targeting of civilians, leading to the martyrdom and injury of many Palestinians, amid the continued severe humanitarian suffering due to the siege, starvation, and lack of medical supplies. In eastern Gaza City, the occupation shelling left massive destruction in the Sanfour area and Salah al-Din Street in al-Tuffah neighborhood, coinciding with artillery shelling and raids that targeted several eastern areas of the city, in addition to partially destroying residential homes in southern Gaza during dawn hours.
34. We Reject Any Interference in Our Internal Affairs: Lebanese President: No Party, Without Exception, is Allowed to Carry Weapons Lebanese President Joseph Aoun informed the Secretary General of the Supreme Defense Council, Ali Larijani, yesterday of “Lebanon’s rejection of any interference in our internal affairs,” describing some recent Iranian statements regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah as “unacceptable.” Larijani’s visit to Beirut came after Iranian statements, upon his arrival yesterday morning from Baghdad, in which Tehran opposed the government’s decision to disarm Hezbollah, which it funds, before the end of the year.
35. Al-Shaibani: Syria Faces External Interventions Aimed at Driving the Country Towards Sectarian Strife Syrian Foreign Minister and Expatriates, Asaad al-Shaibani, affirmed yesterday that the country faces external interventions seeking to push it towards sectarian strife, considering that “what happened in Suwayda was fabricated by Israel to sow sectarian discord in that region.” The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) quoted Al-Shaibani as saying, in a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in the Turkish capital Ankara today, that “Suwayda is an integral part of Syria and a part of the Syrian people’s social fabric, and we do not accept Israel’s attempts to exclude or marginalize them. What happened was fabricated to sow sectarian discord in the region.”
36. Putin and Kim Pledge to Enhance Cooperation Ahead of Alaska Summit Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged to strengthen cooperation between their countries, days before the expected summit in Alaska between the US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart in the Kremlin yesterday, Wednesday. According to official North Korean news agency KCNA, Putin and Kim spoke by phone on Tuesday in a “warm and friendly atmosphere” and “reaffirmed their readiness to enhance cooperation in the future.” The call comes three days before the anticipated summit between Putin and Trump, which will be the first between a US president and a Russian president since 2021, at a time when Trump is seeking a mediating role to end Russia’s war in Ukraine, which has been ongoing for more than three years.
37. NATO Supports Zelenskyy: Ukrainian President: Moscow Deceives Washington Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy secured diplomatic support from Europe and NATO allies yesterday, Sunday, in an effort to rally diplomatic support ahead of the Alaska summit concerning the conflict in Russia this week in Ukraine. Kyiv fears that the summit between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin might impose conditions to end the war that has been raging for three and a half years. Trump had announced weeks ago that he would impose new sanctions on Russia for its failure to stop the war, but he announced last Friday that he would hold a summit on August 15 with Putin in Alaska. A White House official said on Saturday that Trump is open to Zelenskyy’s presence, but preparations are currently underway for a bilateral meeting with Putin.
38. US Regrets Deterioration of Human Rights in Europe Washington yesterday, Tuesday, expressed its regret over the “deterioration” of human rights in several European countries, particularly concerning freedom of expression, according to an annual report issued by the US State Department. The State Department indicated that human rights deteriorated during the past year in Germany, the United Kingdom, and France, in a report on the human rights situation in the world that is supposed to show the priorities of the new foreign policy of US President Donald Trump. Regarding France, the report spoke of “credible reports of serious restrictions on freedom of expression.”
39. Culture at the Heart of Saudi Vision 2030 Since its inception, the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 has placed culture as one of the main drivers for building a creative, cohesive society, and through its development, it has sought a special program, the Quality of Life program, which includes initiatives to enhance participation, develop infrastructure, and support the arts and creative activities. His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, has stated on more than one occasion that culture is the basis of national identity, a bridge of communication with the world, and that investing in culture opens economic doors and strengthens the Kingdom’s soft power.
40. Our Children Towards a Future of Creativity and Art.. The Academy of Arts and Culture is considered one of the leading national initiatives launched by the Ministry of Culture in partnership with the Ministry of Education, with the aim of discovering and developing cultural and artistic talents among male and female students in public education, including drawing, theater, acting, playing musical instruments, and singing. These academies represent the first model of its kind in the Kingdom that combines accredited academic education with specialized cultural programs, within a stimulating educational environment that supports creativity and celebrates talents. The first phase of the academy will begin in the upcoming academic year 2025/2026, targeting students from fourth grade primary to second grade intermediate, with a plan for gradual expansion to include all academic stages in the coming years.
41. “Literature and Publishing” Explores Children’s Talents The Literature, Publishing, and Translation Authority organized an open virtual meeting titled “Discovering Children’s Talents in Creative Writing and Ways to Develop Them,” which addressed the concept of creative talent and the difference between it and skills, its role in shaping the child’s literary personality, in addition to strategies for identifying and nurturing these talents from an early age. The meeting reviewed the most prominent challenges that may hinder the process of discovering talent in children, and how to address and develop it, and the importance of providing a stimulating and supportive environment, and continuous encouragement that contributes to developing their creative abilities and highlighting their literary identity.
42. “Museums” Exempts People with Disabilities from Entering its Assets and Exhibitions The Museums Authority, represented by the Ministry of Culture, issued a decision yesterday to exempt people with disabilities and their companions from entry fees to all museums, temporary exhibitions, and accompanying programs and cultural assets, given the cultural and cognitive value these events and museums achieve, and in line with accredited international practices in cultural institutions. Museums and their assets and temporary exhibitions play a vital role in showcasing culture, history, and art, and are platforms for enhancing national identity, and from this standpoint, the importance of including people with disabilities in these events emerges, not only as visitors but as active participants in the cultural movement.
43. The German Daniela.. When the Painting Challenges the Artist The German artist Daniela Schweinsberg is a contemporary abstract artist who believes that an abstract painting challenges the artist greatly because it is a creative process from which the artist expresses his inspiration. She finds her drawings in acrylic to be mixed materials, like the faded gray color of concrete in the city. Her work begins based on these impressions and inspiration, and her artworks often come to life in small series, each painting unique, and the creation and development of each painting can take up to several months in some cases.
44. The Inferential Philosophical Form in Sultan Al-Ziad’s Representations The philosophical reflection and activity, which relies on extracting conclusions and results from specific premises, touches upon the special values and means of art to develop philosophical thinking, through a methodology that relies on analyzing philosophical concepts and ideas reflected in artworks. Inferential philosophy, in interpreting art, representing philosophical concepts through it, and exploring that state and its extent, as a value of beauty and the philosophical concepts it expresses, the artist uses them to express the consistency of beauty with meaning and idea within the work, and reviews a methodology that outlines complex philosophical ideas and concepts, and the role of art in formulating philosophical awareness, sharpening philosophical thinking, and pondering and interpreting fundamental philosophical issues, as a philosophical tool for meditation and inquiry, and caring for how the recipient’s paths of vision (the relationship between art and philosophy – and art and mind) are used to express different visions, topics, and philosophical ideas, such as: (existence – knowledge – values – ethics – beauty), and the aesthetic correspondence (sensory form – spiritual content – mythological thinking).
45. Abdulaziz Bobbi I had sent an invitation to the artist Abdulaziz Bobbi to attend his exhibition, which opened on June 30th at Atelier Jeddah, for the fourth time. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend. Therefore, upon my return from outside the country after a month of the opening, and to my delight, and because the exhibition season had been suspended, I was able to view the exhibition, except for a beautiful mural whose picture I had seen, which had already gone to its owner. Abdulaziz Bobbi, a skilled artist, has a story that gives us an idea about life and its capabilities, before which we can only surrender, yet struggle at the same time. This balance forms the victory in its battle.
46. Schools in Bahrain: Problems Without Solutions Emotional neglect is not just the absence of love, but the absence of response to basic emotional needs that constitute the language of human communication. According to a 2020 World Health Organization report, approximately 30% of children are emotionally neglected during critical developmental stages, without many realizing that this “silence” can redraw their future paths. Unlike physical abuse, which leaves visible scars, emotional neglect remains a hidden wound that worsens over time, threatening psychological health and family bonds. Emotional neglect is defined as a repeated failure to acknowledge or ignore an individual’s emotional needs, whether by failing to express support, ignoring feelings, or imposing unrealistic expectations that marginalize the emotional aspect.
47. Oil Rises Amid Anticipation of Rate Cuts… And Global Stocks at Record Levels Gold prices rose yesterday, Wednesday, amid increasing expectations of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut in September, following the release of moderate inflation data. A weaker dollar boosted demand for bullion. Spot gold rose 0.3% to $3,354.77 an ounce as of 08:02 GMT. US gold futures for December delivery rose 0.1% to $3,403.20.
48. Outside the Brackets In a world where the pace of economic, financial, and political events accelerates, in addition to social changes and technological developments, the need for accurate information and a reliable official voice increases. This highlights the importance of the official spokesperson’s role for governmental or private entities, as a pivotal element in building bridges of communication between the entity on the one hand, and the media and the public on the other, making the effective and capable official spokesperson a strategic tool in conveying messages, clarifying policies, and enhancing transparency and credibility. The official spokesperson in governmental and non-governmental entities is considered one of the main pillars in building the image and strengthening the mental connection of the entity with the public. Their tasks go beyond merely conveying information or issuing press releases, as they represent the voice of the entity and embody its message and vision before society and the media.
49. Our Sun and Their Sieves One cannot definitively deny that some envious and resentful people are active in using the policy of “throwing dust in the eyes” and attempting to deceive and mislead. Their goal is to confuse and mix truth with falsehood. However, how can this “malicious” policy of “throwing dust” succeed against the sun of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its compass, and its direction? And how do these delusional people and their supporters think that their rumors and propaganda can obscure a glorious history of giving and sacrifice, and honorable stances that only great leaders and wisdom can achieve?!
50. Mangrove Trees.. Care and Cultivation God has endowed mangrove trees with immense and numerous benefits for humans, the environment, and animals in general. Trees provide food, purify the air, preserve soil, and provide shade and beauty, in addition to their contribution to climate regulation. All trees have environmental, social, and economic benefits, enhancing psychological and physical health, providing habitats for wildlife, and even improving property values. Mangrove trees are evergreen trees and shrubs that grow in tropical and subtropical coastal areas. They are characterized by their strong aerial roots that help them anchor themselves in soft saline soil. Their flowers are yellow and limited in inflorescences. Mangrove trees provide a habitat for many living creatures and contribute to the protection of the marine and coastal environment. They are long-lived trees that grow in shallow saline water along the coasts and are considered one of the most important coastal ecosystems. They are known by several names in Saudi Arabia, such as “Qandal” and “Shura” and “Qurm.”
51. The Meaning Doesn’t Float: Secrets of the Seas The story of that woman who I met in a social gathering one day, without any prior acquaintance with her, attracted my attention with some of her actions with her little daughter. My mind involuntarily settled on her voice; her fear and keenness for her daughter was the loudest voice I heard in the place, despite the variation, entanglement, and overlap of conversations. It was remarkable and exaggerated attention. She seemed unable to engage in discussion with anyone or even look at them, due to her excessive attention to her daughter! It wasn’t until one of my acquaintances later told me that this woman had previously lost two daughters at different times, both of whom were close in age to her current daughter—may God protect her—and what was more tragic was that the cause of death in both cases was a sudden rise in body temperature! And indeed, as the popular saying goes, “If the reason is known, the wonder ceases.”
52. Reading is the Gateway to Development Indeed, one of the good foundations from which details emerge is the wonderful path. However, for Muhammad’s Sunnah and Sharia, it is the conclusion of all laws, and no new law will abrogate it. And since the Prophet, peace be upon him, was sent to perfect noble morals, as narrated in the hadith of Abu Hurayrah, may God be pleased with him, who said: “Indeed, I was sent to perfect noble morals.” Al-Bukhari extracted it in “Al-Adab Al-Mufrad” and Al-Albani authenticated it. This also reinforces the features of this nation being the best of nations brought forth for mankind, if it is based on pure hearts and the purification of souls from the impurities of evil sayings and deeds that contradict noble aspirations. These are great results, and only those of sound mind strive for them, except for those who belittle themselves. However, it is expensive and not easily obtained, but for those who neglected to pursue its causes and did not care how they behaved. It is a reward for those who strive to seek good things, to take a share of them, and to be always vigilant and resolute in avoiding evil intentions, words, and actions. There are steps that help him with this, and the individual must not exchange good for bad, but rather strive for what is good.
53. Najaf Bin Saad, President of Al-Hilal.. Sindi for Al-Ittihad.. Al-Ghamdi for Al-Ahly Prince Nawaf bin Saad won the presidency of Al-Hilal Club yesterday by acclamation, succeeding Fahd bin Nafal. Al-Hilal published on its “X” platform: “After his acclamation in the General Assembly.. Prince Nawaf bin Saad, as president of Al-Hilal non-profit organization.” Prince bin Saad was the sole candidate in the elections held yesterday. Al-Hilal, which apologized for not participating in the Saudi Super Cup that will be held in Hong Kong later this month, will open the professional league competitions in its new season with a match against Al-Riyadh on August 28th.
54. Al-Ittihad Signs Al-Jleidan and Al-Absi Al-Ittihad, the league title holder, announced its signing of right-back Ahmed Al-Jleidan, coming from Al-Fateh. Al-Ittihad posted on its X account a video announcing the deal, stating, “The real tiger does not lose its identity.” Al-Jleidan, who graduated from Al-Fateh Academy, shined with the first team last season, playing 31 matches in the league.
55. Al-Khaleej Draws with Dutch Utrecht Al-Khaleej team drew with Dutch Utrecht 2-2 during their friendly match held in the Netherlands as part of their external training camp, which continues until August 19. Al-Khaleej managed to equalize in the second half with a goal by Murad Hawsawi, who also scored Al-Khaleej’s second goal. This match is the fourth friendly, as Al-Khaleej lost two matches, won one, and drew the last one. Al-Khaleej’s strikers scored 9 goals, while their goal conceded 8 goals.
56. Honoring Fahad bin Jalawi with the Asian Paralympic Medal The Asian Paralympic Committee honored Prince Fahd bin Jalawi bin Abdulaziz bin Nasser Al Saud, Vice President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, with the Asian Paralympic Medal 2025 (Asian Paralympic Award 2025), during the Asian Paralympic Awards ceremony held on the sidelines of the General Assembly conference in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, in recognition of his outstanding efforts and contributions to the development of sports for people with disabilities and his continuous support for the Paralympic movement at regional and international levels, with the presence of the President of the International Paralympic Committee, Mr. Andrew Parsons. This event, which is being held for the first time in Astana, Central Asia, is one of the most prominent continental and Asian Paralympic forums, as it witnessed the presence of more than 45 countries with the participation of heads of national committees and sports experts and Paralympic figures.
57. Al-Duhail of Qatar Qualifies for the Asian Elite League Qatari Al-Duhail reached the group stage of the Asian Champions League Elite football competition yesterday, Tuesday, after defeating Iranian Sepahan 3-2 in the play-off. Adel (11), Algerian Ibrahima Bamba (24), and Polish Piotek (33) scored for Al-Duhail, while Iranian defender Amin Hazbawi (3) and substitute Milad Zakipour (90+3) scored for Sepahan. Al-Duhail joined the West group in the league stage, which includes 12 teams, while Chinese Changchun Yatai joined the East group, which includes 12 teams, after defeating Thai Bangkok 3-0.
58. Nunez: Happy to Be at Al-Hilal Club Portuguese striker Darwin Nunez, Al-Hilal’s competitor in the Saudi Professional Football League, said yesterday, Wednesday, that he feels great comfort since joining the team, coming from Liverpool, the English Premier League champion, and that the phone call from Al-Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi was crucial to his joining. The two sides did not disclose financial details of the deal. Nunez (26 years old) said in a long video clip published by Al-Hilal on his X account: “I feel great, and I am very happy to be here with the group. I have spent a few amazing days here.” He added: “Everyone in the team has been great with me since the first moment I arrived. I feel comfortable and that I am part of the group, and this is the most important thing. I am here to make a difference and help the team.”
59. “Youth Stories” Concludes with the Participation of a Select Group of Athletes The “Youth Stories” program concluded, which was held from August 10 to 11, 2025, for two days in Taif Governorate, as part of the initiatives of the Ministry of Sports, represented by the General Administration of Youth Activities. The program witnessed great interaction from the youth of the governorate, through a variety of activities including dialogue sessions, workshops, and an interactive exhibition for a number of sports authorities and federations. The first day of the program witnessed the presence of Prince Saud bin Nahar, Governor of Taif Governorate, and His Excellency the Assistant Minister of Sports, Professor Abdulilah bin Saad Al-Dalk. The first session began with an inspiring title “Dialogue Sessions with a Select Group of Athletes,” with the participation of a number of Saudi sports stars, including: Majed Abdullah, Hussein Noor, and Muhammad Abdu.
60. Young Women’s Green Team Concludes Asian Qualifiers The national youth women’s team concluded its participation in the qualifiers for the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 by achieving a valuable 2-1 victory over hosts Bhutan in the match that brought them together today, Saturday, at Changlimithang Stadium in the Bhutanese capital Thimphu, as part of the group stage competitions. Amira Abu Samah scored the first goal for the national team, adding a touch to the second goal, which gave the Green team the match points. The Green women’s team finished third in its group, which included North Korea, Nepal, and Bhutan.
61. 64 Horsemen Compete in “Tent Pegging” Championship The Equestrian Field in Namas Governorate witnessed, on the sidelines of the Namas Summer 2025 activities, the second edition of the Tent Pegging Championship, organized by the governorate municipality over four days, with the participation of 32 teams represented by 64 horsemen, including 17 professionals from local clubs, in addition to a number of Saudi national team players who won the Tent Pegging World Cup in South Africa in 2023, and two horsemen from Qatar. The Mayor of Namas Governorate, Eng. Khalid bin Meghdi Al-Wadei, honored the winners of the top places, with Rashid Al-Amri winning first place, Abdulaziz Al-Shahreen second, Mohazal Al-Qahtani third, Mohammed Al-Dossari fourth, and Mohammed Al-Hajri fifth, amid a competitive atmosphere and great public interaction. Tent pegging is considered one of the ancient military arts that was practiced during wars and requires.
62. Aikido Concludes its Participation in the World Games The Saudi Aikido team concluded its participation in the World Games Chengdu 2025, where the participating Saudi teams were honored with a visit from the CEO and Secretary-General of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Abdulaziz Baeshen. The President of the Saudi Aikido Federation, Eng. Basem Zura, expressed his thanks and gratitude to the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee and the Aikido Federation for their support and for providing the opportunity to participate in this distinguished international sporting event. He affirmed that this participation was more than just a sports exhibition, as it brought together experiences and skills of players from different countries of the world in an atmosphere of harmony and mutual respect.
63. Al-Saaedi as Head of Uhud The Ministry of Sports appointed an interim board of directors for Uhud Club, headed by Khaled Al-Saaedi, until new elections are held for the club, under a new decision issued on the eighth of August. The club announced and broadcast a statement on its “X” social media platform, revealing the decision to appoint the interim board. The statement read: “Further to the media statement issued on August 8, 2025, a decision was received from the Ministry of Sports to appoint an interim board of directors for the club, headed by Khaled bin Ruwaifid Al-Saaedi, and membership of Majed bin Bilal Al-Saqiri and Hazem Abdullah Al-Mutairi, provided that the term of the board is until a new board of directors is elected.”
64. “Asian” Sets “Roshen League” Matches The Saudi Roshan League رابطة (Association) announced the schedule for the first six rounds of the Saudi Roshan League competitions for the 2025-2026 sports season. The رابطة clarified that a number of scheduled matches may be subject to change according to the results of the Asian tournaments draw. This includes Al-Ittihad vs. Al-Fateh in the second round, Al-Ahly vs. Al-Qadsiah, and Al-Hilal vs. Al-Ettifaq. Also, the fourth round in the match between Al-Hazm and Al-Ahly, and the fifth round between Al-Hilal and Al-Fayha, and Al-Ettifaq and Al-Shabab, and Al-Ahly vs. Al-Ittihad. Also, the sixth round match between Al-Najma and Al-Ahly.
65. Former Al-Riyadh Star Saleh Al-Najrani Hospitalized for Two Months Al-Najrani is considered one of the great talented stars who wore the colors of “Madrasat Al-Wusta” (Central School), and their history was adorned with more than a title. Saleh joined Al-Riyadh in 1975, and he played for them in his early career under the coaching of the late Khamis Basheer, and then his talent was refined by the late Captain Abdulaziz bin Hamad, the former coach of Al-Riyadh youth and Al-Ahly defender. Among the well-known qualities of Al-Najrani’s personality is that he is a calm player, a peacemaker, and a human being, beloved by everyone inside and outside the field. His teammates remember him fondly, and their continued communication with him and visits to him in the hospital reflect this, which confirms the high status this player enjoys in their hearts and his refined character and ideal dealings with them, especially since he was their former leader in Al-Riyadh’s golden era more than three decades ago.
66. King Faisal Specialist Hospital Successfully Performs 10 Kidney Transplants in 48 Hours King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center succeeded in performing 10 kidney exchange transplant operations over two consecutive days, coinciding with World Organ Donation Day on August 13th of each year, thus achieving the largest number of exchange transplants performed in one center globally. This is an unprecedented achievement that strengthens the Specialist Hospital’s position as a global leader in organ transplantation. This qualitative achievement reflects the “Specialist Hospital’s” high clinical readiness, specialized medical teams working in precise harmony, an advanced technical system for managing compatibility between donors and recipients, in addition to extensive cumulative experience that makes the hospital capable of performing complex operations of this type of exchange transplantation according to precise standards and within a short time frame.
67. Three Causes of Fires: Electrical Short Circuit The General Directorate of Civil Defense affirmed the importance of periodic maintenance of electrical systems in homes and establishments, to avoid electrical short circuit fires. The Civil Defense attributed the occurrence of these incidents to three main reasons: poor wiring, overloading, and the lack of automatic circuit breakers.
68. Palm Waste in Al-Ula.. Fertilizer Revitalizes Agriculture The Royal Commission for Al-Ula Governorate is working on implementing an integrated project for the production of organic agricultural fertilizer extracted from organic materials, primarily palm waste, with the aim of improving soil fertility, increasing agricultural production efficiency, and reducing the environmental impact resulting from burning waste. The project is considered one of the pioneering environmental initiatives that contribute to promoting sustainable development and supporting environmentally friendly agricultural practices. The project has succeeded so far in recycling more than 50 thousand cubic meters of waste and converting it into high-quality fertilizer, which has been distributed to more than 1,300 farmers, with continued distribution to reach more than 3,000 beneficiaries.
69. Teacher’s Square.. Appreciation for Giving The Municipality of Oyoun Al-Jawa Governorate, affiliated with the Qassim Region Municipality, completed the implementation of the Teacher’s Square project, with an area of 25 square meters and a height of 9 meters, as part of its continuous efforts to develop the urban landscape and enhance public facilities in the governorate. The implementation of this square comes as a practical embodiment of attention to teachers, in appreciation of their giving and their effective role in building future generations and shaping society. The head of Oyoun Al-Jawa Municipality, Eng. Majed bin Mohammed Al-Shamil, explained that the square’s design reflects the local identity of the governorate in an overall aesthetic style, with the addition of 12 decorative lighting poles that give the place a distinctive night view and increase its visual attractiveness.
70. “Horse Hoof Plant” for More Than 300 Riyals Per Kilo A “horse hoof” plant, one of the date varieties hosted by Al-Zulfi Governorate, was sold for 335 riyals per kilo in the Al-Zulfi date auction. The “horse hoof” plant is considered one of the rare types of dates hosted by Al-Zulfi Governorate, and there is high demand for it these days from various regions of the Kingdom and Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 Saudi Arabian newspaper, published on August 13, 2025, covers a wide array of topics from domestic affairs to international events. It features articles on Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation and its investment in youth as a future asset, alongside discussions about cultural initiatives like the Royal Arts Complex in Riyadh and the Buraydah Dates Carnival’s impact on youth employment. The publication also addresses economic concerns such as rising food prices, particularly for staple items like mandi, despite global price drops, and provides updates on global oil markets and the latest in esports, including the esports cup held in Jeddah. International news includes Israeli actions in Gaza and violations against journalists, as well as Australia and New Zealand’s recognition of a Palestinian state, highlighting a diverse and comprehensive news agenda.

Podcast

Saudi Council Decisions: Global Stances and National Progress

The Saudi Council, specifically the Council of Ministers, holds regular sessions chaired by the Crown Prince to discuss and make decisions on a wide range of national and international issues. The sources highlight several key decisions and stances taken by the Council:

I. International Affairs and Foreign Policy

The Council of Ministers has demonstrated a strong and clear stance on various international developments:

• PalestineThe Council condemned the Israeli occupation’s decision to occupy the Gaza Strip and its persistent commission of starvation crimes.
• It also denounced the brutal practices and ethnic cleansing against the Palestinian people.
• The Council emphasized that the continued inability of the international community and the UN Security Council to halt these aggressions and violations undermines the foundations of the international system and international legitimacy, posing a risk of severe consequences, encouraging genocide, and forced displacement.
• The Council reiterated its support for a two-state solution, affirming the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
• It welcomed the international consensus supporting this path and praised the efforts of various nations, including Australia and New Zealand, for announcing their intention to recognize the Palestinian state.
• The Council stressed the urgent need for the international community to take decisive and deterrent actions to end the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and enable the implementation of the two-state solution.
• This stance aligns with the broader position articulated by the ministerial committee of the Arab-Islamic Summit, which also condemned Israel’s announced intention to impose full military control over Gaza.
• UkraineThe Council reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at resolving the Ukrainian crisis and achieving peace, and facilitating dialogue.
• Armenia and AzerbaijanThe Council welcomed the announcement of a peace agreement between the Republics of Armenia and Azerbaijan, expressing hope for a new phase of understanding and cooperation that strengthens security and stability between the two countries.
• International ChallengesThe Council underscored the importance of activating international efforts to confront regional and global challenges and contributing to the stability of the global economy and sustainable development.

II. Domestic Affairs and National Development

The Council of Ministers reviewed and approved initiatives aimed at enhancing the Kingdom’s development and efficiency:

• Digital TransformationThe Council praised the tangible progress made by government agencies in the digital experience development index for government services for 2025.
• This achievement reflects the government’s commitment to providing optimal services to citizens, residents, and visitors, facilitating business practices, and improving the Kingdom’s ranking in international indices.
• The Kingdom has achieved advanced positions globally and ranked first regionally in digital transformation indicators. This digital momentum contributes to enhancing performance efficiency, improving quality of life, boosting competitiveness, and activating community participation towards a comprehensive digital government.
• Strategic Partnerships and AgreementsThe Council approved numerous memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements across various sectors:
• A strategic partnership between the governments of Saudi Arabia and Singapore.
• An MoU between the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and Morocco’s Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development for environmental protection.
• An MoU for cooperation in social development between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia.
• An MoU for cooperation in the logistics services sector between the Saudi Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services and Singapore’s Ministry of Industry and Trade.
• An MoU for developing trade relations between the Saudi General Authority for Foreign Trade and Cambodia’s Ministry of Commerce.
• An agreement on joint customs cooperation between the Saudi Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority and its counterpart in Tajikistan under the Authorized Economic Operator program.
• An MoU between the Saudi Export Development Authority and Tajikistan’s Export Agency concerning the development of non-oil exports.
• An MoU between the Saudi Space Agency and the Korean Space and Aviation Administration for cooperation in the peaceful use of outer space.
• Legal and Administrative AdjustmentsThe Council extended for one year a royal decree stipulating that labor disputes must first be submitted to the labor office for amicable settlement before being filed in court.
• It approved amendments to some articles of the Saudi Bar Association’s regulation.
• Development MonitoringThe Council reviewed the progress rates of national strategies and programs and their achievement of development and prosperity goals across public and private sectors.

These decisions underscore the Saudi government’s multifaceted approach to both domestic progress and its active role in regional and international stability.

Saudi Arabia’s Digital Transformation Journey

The Saudi Council, particularly the Council of Ministers, has demonstrated a strong commitment to digital transformation across various sectors, recognizing its crucial role in national development and enhancing the quality of life.

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation journey include:

• Government Commitment and Progress
• The Council of Ministers has consistently praised the tangible progress made by government agencies in the digital experience development index for government services for 2025. This ongoing improvement is seen as a reflection of the government’s dedication to providing optimal services to citizens, residents, and visitors, and to facilitating business practices.
• The Kingdom has achieved advanced positions globally and ranked first regionally in digital transformation indicators. Notably, it was ranked sixth globally in the e-government development index by the United Nations for 2024.
• This digital momentum is aimed at enhancing performance efficiency, improving the quality of life, boosting competitiveness, and activating community participation towards a comprehensive digital government. The progress is described as the “fruit of diligent and continuous work” based on “accelerations and well-governed digital initiatives,” making government services more accessible and easier to use. The Kingdom aspires to be a “global model in digital transformation”.
• Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships
• While not explicitly “digital,” many of the approved memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements are geared towards modernizing and streamlining processes in various sectors, which often involves digital solutions. Examples include cooperation in logistics services, joint customs cooperation under the Authorized Economic Operator program, and collaboration in the peaceful use of outer space.
• Digital Skills Development and Innovation
• Beyond government services, digital transformation extends to education and skill-building. King Khalid University, for instance, has organized various programs and technical camps to foster digital skills development and technological innovation among youth and young women.
• These initiatives cover areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), programming, cybersecurity, and application design, aiming to enhance students’ digital competencies and enable them to design and program robots.
• The university also offers a professional e-learning and training certificate supported by the Human Resources Development Fund, emphasizing the goal of equipping individuals with necessary skills for e-learning and training according to global standards.
• Broader Digital Ecosystem
• The widespread adoption of digital tools is also evident in other sectors, contributing to a broader digital ecosystem. For example, sports teams utilize online platforms like “X” (formerly Twitter) for official announcements and engagements, and events often rely on online ticketing platforms.
• The importance of robust digital infrastructure, including internet and communication services, is recognized as a key factor in reflecting a country’s progress and reliability, and service providers are urged to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. The role of official spokespersons now also heavily involves digital communication.

Overall, the Saudi Council’s decisions and initiatives highlight a concerted effort to leverage digital transformation to achieve Vision 2030’s ambitious goals, focusing on improving public services, fostering innovation, and enhancing the Kingdom’s global standing.

Saudi Youth Empowerment and Vision 2030 Leadership

Saudi Arabia places significant emphasis on youth empowerment, integrating it as a cornerstone of its national development agenda, particularly under Vision 2030. The Kingdom views its youth as a “treasure” and a “bet towards the future,” recognizing their critical role in the nation’s progress.

Key aspects of youth empowerment initiatives include:

• Strategic National Priority and Leadership Development:
• The government is deeply committed to qualifying a generation capable of leading national transformation and building young national cadres to assume leadership positions.
• This is achieved through various programs, projects, and initiatives designed to support youth and provide them with ample opportunities.
• Youth empowerment is a main focus within the national development journey, aiming to stimulate innovation and create diverse opportunities.
• Skill Development and Innovation:
• A strong emphasis is placed on fostering digital skills development and technological innovation among young men and women.
• Programs cover crucial areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), programming, cybersecurity, and application design, aiming to enhance digital competencies and enable participation in cutting-edge fields like robot design and programming.
• Institutions like King Khalid University organize technical camps and offer professional e-learning and training certificates, with support from the Human Resources Development Fund, to ensure skills meet global standards.
• Beyond digital skills, there are efforts to cultivate professional and creative writing skills, as demonstrated by cultural programs held on International Youth Day.
• Economic Participation and Entrepreneurship:
• A core objective is to increase youth participation in the economy.
• The Kingdom acknowledges and supports the growing trend of entrepreneurship and freelancing, driven by digital transformation and e-commerce.
• Initiatives are designed to help young individuals in starting their own businesses and projects.
• The Buraidah Dates Carnival is cited as an example where youth actively manage market operations, including auctions and marketing, fostering an attractive work environment and cultivating a new generation of entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector.
• There is a recognition of the need for a balanced approach between traditional employment (for acquiring skills and building capital) and pursuing private ventures as a natural progression of ambition.
• Community Engagement and Quality of Life:
• Youth empowerment contributes to improving the quality of life and fostering active community participation.
• Efforts include creating attractive recreational and sports environments to encourage physical activity and social interaction among youth.
• Data-Driven Approach and Monitoring:
• Statistics highlight the demographic significance of youth, with 69.4% of the Saudi population being under 35 years old, and 35.9% aged 15-34.
• The progress of digital transformation in government services, which directly impacts youth, is monitored through dedicated indices.
• To ensure initiatives are aligned with their needs, over 35 workshops have been conducted with more than 11,000 young individuals to gather their aspirations and priorities.
• The launch of the “Youth Development Award” under the slogan “Our Youth are a Treasure” further signifies national efforts to empower youth and highlight their vital role.

In essence, Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive approach to youth empowerment seeks to equip young people with advanced skills, foster their economic participation, and integrate them into society, ensuring they are prepared to drive the Kingdom’s future development in line with Vision 2030.

Global Economic Challenges and Crises

Economic challenges are evident across various scales and sectors, from global market dynamics to local consumer behavior and individual financial struggles, as well as severe humanitarian crises.

Key aspects of these challenges include:

• Inflation and Consumer Price Increases
• Despite a global decrease in rice prices by 5% since 2017 due to a record harvest and the lifting of India’s export ban, this reduction has not been effectively reflected in the local Saudi market, remaining limited to marketing offers.
• Several experts attribute this to various factors, including the principle of market freedom, which grants importers and traders full liberty in determining product prices.
• There has been a continuous and significant increase in the prices of food and beverages sold by restaurants, whether popular or fast-food establishments. For instance, a Mandi dish can cost over 90 riyals, and a fast-food meal can exceed 40 riyals in many restaurants, despite raw materials reportedly constituting only 15% of these prices.
• Experts like Marwan Bukhari point to consumer behavior and lack of objection to price increases or failure to decrease them as a major contributing factor. Shamel Baajaja also highlights the exploitation of demand by traders, especially from the youth demographic.
• “Ideologized Consumption” and its Societal Impact
• A significant challenge is the rise of what is termed “ideologized consumption” or “consumer dependency,” where purchasing decisions are driven by social image, imitation, and perceived status rather than genuine need or value.
• This phenomenon manifests in the consumption of luxury goods, absolute loyalty to specific brands or tourist destinations, and excessive spending on non-essentials.
• This behavior, often influenced by “beneficiaries” and “influencers,” leads to individuals spending vast sums on non-essential goods and services, reducing savings and investment opportunities, and increasing consumer debt.
• Such consumption patterns also cause psychological pressure, anxiety, and a feeling of inadequacy, threatening mental health, social cohesion, and hindering productivity and innovation.
• Challenges in the Labor Market and Entrepreneurship
• The rising cost of living and stagnant salaries have diminished the appeal of traditional employment, making the path to financial stability less secure.
• This has led to a surge in entrepreneurship and freelancing, especially among the youth, driven by digital transformation and e-commerce. While this offers freedom and self-realization, it also involves significant financial and psychological risks.
• The “Al-Shabab” football club, for example, is noted to be suffering from financial issues preventing foreign player acquisitions, highlighting funding challenges in specific sectors. The discussion around “justice of competition” also points to concerns about uneven financial support from a central fund leading to disparities among clubs.
• In the UK, the labor market faces a slowdown, with declining job offers and stable but slower wage growth, particularly in the hotel and retail sectors.
• Infrastructural and Utility Challenges
• In Iraq, there are severe difficulties in providing stable electricity to citizens due to inadequate national grid capacity and mismanagement. This has forced farmers and residents to increasingly adopt solar energy solutions to cope with high electricity bills and frequent outages, despite the initial high cost of installation.
• Illegal Economic Practices
• Commercial concealment (Tasttur), where citizens allow residents to conduct commercial activities under their name, can lead to severe financial repercussions. One citizen, for example, became a victim of fraud after his foreign partner left the country, leaving him with demands of nearly 4 million riyals from suppliers. The Ministry of Commerce warns that this is a serious violation that can lead to accountability and penalties.
• Humanitarian and Economic Crises (Gaza and Sudan)
• Gaza faces a catastrophic humanitarian situation due to prolonged conflict, including widespread starvation, severe malnutrition among children (over 100 child deaths reported), and a near-complete collapse of the local food system. Hospitals are operating at over 200% capacity, and medical supplies are critically low. Aid efforts are hampered by insufficient quantities of food, medicine, and fuel being allowed into the strip.
• Sudan is also grappling with widespread famine and disease, with reports of people eating animal feed to survive and millions suffering from acute malnutrition, particularly children under five. The ongoing civil war has led to over 100,000 cholera cases, mass displacement, and the collapse of the health system. Funding cuts from international donors have exacerbated the crisis, leaving children deprived of essential services like clean water, health care, and food.

Media: Roles, Challenges, and Impact

Media coverage, as depicted in the sources, encompasses a wide range of topics from conflict reporting and economic analysis to cultural events and government communications, highlighting its diverse roles and challenges.

Media in Conflict Zones: The Case of Gaza

The sources extensively detail the perilous environment for journalists and the severe restrictions on media coverage, particularly in Gaza. Since October 7, 2023, journalists in Gaza have been cast as “witnesses to killing, destruction, arrests, and injuries,” operating in an environment where media infrastructure is “undesirable” and foreign coverage is “prevented”. This period has been characterized as “the deadliest war for journalists in modern history”.

• Systematic Targeting of Journalists:The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reported that by August 5, 2025, at least 186 journalists and media workers had been killed, with 178 of them being Palestinians. The CPJ identified 20 cases of “direct targeting of journalists,” considering these to be “war crimes”.
• The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) recorded 175 journalists and media workers killed by July 31, 2025, describing Gaza as “the deadliest zone for media professionals in the modern era”.
• The UN Office for Human Rights (OHCHR) verified the killing of 227 Palestinian journalists since October 7, 2023, noting that the true numbers might be higher due to the “difficulty of verification in the field due to bombardment and siege”.
• This targeting is described as an “extension of a long-standing pattern”, with prior investigations, such as that into the assassination of Shireen Abu Akleh, concluding an Israeli soldier’s bullet was responsible, yet Israeli official investigations did not accuse any individual.
• Instances like an Israeli tank firing two consecutive shells at journalists wearing “PRESS” vests and helmets were condemned by human rights organizations as “deliberate attacks on civilians” and a “war crime”. Despite denials, no transparent investigation was opened.
• Suppression of Media Infrastructure and Coverage:In May 2021, an Israeli airstrike destroyed the Al-Jalaa tower in Gaza City, which housed offices for AP, Al Jazeera, and other media outlets. AP demanded an independent investigation, stating Israel provided no justification for demolishing an international journalistic base. This was seen as a message that “any platform reporting the truth could become a target”.
• Later, Israel enacted a new law allowing the banning of foreign media on national security grounds, immediately applied to Al Jazeera, leading to the closure of its offices, withdrawal of accreditations, and confiscation of broadcasting equipment.
• Israeli officials also confiscated AP’s broadcasting equipment and cameras, claiming its live footage was being used by Al Jazeera. This was condemned by AP as “arbitrary exploitation” of the law. International pressure, including from the US government, led to the return of AP’s equipment, though other restrictions on foreign journalists entering Gaza remained.
• International Condemnation and Recognition:The CPJ labeled these actions as a “direct and unprecedented attack on press freedom”.
• OHCHR repeatedly warned against targeting journalists, condemning attacks as a “blatant violation of international humanitarian law,” stating that targeting journalists is “strictly prohibited”.
• UN experts stated that Israel’s military operation since October 2023 had turned into a “war on witnesses”.
• UNESCO awarded its 2024 World Press Freedom Prize to Palestinian journalists in Gaza, acknowledging their courage and sacrifice despite the “most deliberate and bloody attacks on press freedom in history”.
• Organizations like Reporters Without Borders (RSF) called for international action and accountability for crimes against journalists.
• The overarching message is that “truth has become a military target,” and journalism is the “last guarantee against the obliteration of truth”.

Role of Official Spokespersons and Government Communication

The sources underscore the critical function of official communication, particularly from government bodies:

• Strategic Importance: An official spokesperson is “not merely a conveyor of information” but a “voice and intellectual spokesperson” that safeguards the institution’s image and ensures information comes from a “reliable source” with clarity and responsibility.
• Crisis Management: In times of “crises and disasters,” the spokesperson acts as a “safety valve,” the “first line of defense,” and the “face of the media cannon,” requiring courage and the ability to act swiftly under pressure.
• Impact of Timeliness: Releasing early statements during crises can reduce negative news by 45%.
• Building Trust: The presence of an active and reliable spokesperson ensures a “single voice” for the institution, mitigating the “spread of rumors and misleading information,” and contributing to up to 30% higher trust levels compared to institutions lacking this role.
• Digital Engagement: Government bodies utilize platforms like X (formerly Twitter) for public awareness campaigns, such as the Ministry of Interior’s “#DrivingResponsibility” initiative.
• Official Reporting: The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) frequently serves as the medium for official statements and government decisions, including ministerial announcements and communiques from international summits. Official spokespersons, such as those from the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, regularly detail their operations and findings.

Media’s Influence on Public Behavior and Opinion

The concept of “ideologized consumption” is highlighted as a silent threat to quality of life, significantly influenced by media and public figures:

• Influence of “Beneficiaries” and “Influencers”: Purchasing decisions are increasingly driven by social image, imitation, and perceived status, rather than genuine need, a phenomenon fueled by “beneficiaries” and “influencers” on social media. This leads to excessive spending on non-essentials, reduced savings, increased debt, and psychological pressure.
• Call for Regulation and Awareness: There is a recognized need for a “comprehensive and integrated approach” to counter this trend. This includes the General Authority for Media clarifying guidelines for commercial content in advertisements on visual and audio media, and promoting “positive content” that reinforces a “balanced lifestyle”. Public awareness programs should address “hidden marketing methods” and differentiate between needs and desires.

Economic and Sports Journalism

Media plays a significant role in reporting and analyzing economic trends and sports developments:

• Economic Reporting: Journalists rely on reports from experts and official data (e.g., recent reports on rice prices, analysis from economists, IMF data) to discuss inflation, consumer behavior, and market dynamics. Major news agencies like Reuters also report on global financial markets, including oil and gold prices, and central bank decisions. Official bodies, such as the National Statistics Office in the UK, release data that is then reported and analyzed by media.
• Sports Coverage and Commentary: Sports media covers league schedules, club news, player transfers, and tournament results. Beyond simple reporting, there’s extensive analysis and commentary by “analysts” and “experts” on strategic decisions, team performance, and issues like “competition fairness” and financial disparities among clubs. This includes critical views, for example, on the management of Saudi football clubs. Esports events are also covered, detailing tournament outcomes and player achievements.

General News and Cultural Reporting

Beyond specific sectors, media outlets like Al Riyadh newspaper (جريدة الرياض) provide broad coverage of various events and cultural activities within the Kingdom:

• Local and Cultural News: This includes reports on tourism and natural beauty (e.g., Namas region), cultural forums, artistic events, historical figures, and entertainment news related to TV series, films, and concerts.
• Public Service Information: Media reports on government initiatives such as environmental security efforts and warnings about legal violations.
• Journalism as a Craft: The sources also provide insights into the practice of journalism and related fields, discussing the “successful news bulletin” as a tool for intellectual leadership and the importance of “accurate research” and “deep listening” in cultural interviews. There is also discussion about the role of AI in writing and translation, emphasizing ethical considerations.

Current Events and Societal Reflections

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

• Digital Movement The international youth day, which falls on August 10th of each year, is an occasion approved by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 with the aim of shedding light on youth issues. The Kingdom’s role in supporting youth and betting on them, by creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurs among youth to start laying the first stone for their projects, and the country’s interest in developing, rehabilitating, and empowering Saudi youth to play their role in a promising and bright renaissance and future, also affirms its deep commitment to rehabilitating a generation capable of leading national transformation.
• And building young national cadres to assume leadership positions through the launch of many programs, projects, and and initiatives to support and qualify them and provide opportunities for their participation and increase their participation in the economy, as one of the most important priorities of the Kingdom to achieve sustainable development. In light of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, empowering youth has been a central axis in the national development process, through many initiatives and programs that aim to develop skills, stimulate innovation, and provide job opportunities. The Kingdom has kept pace with global developments in the statistical field, through the General Authority for Statistics, which provides an accurate statistical data base as a reliable basis for drawing economic and social policies, and supporting decision-makers in developing local, regional, and national development plans for various sectors, and measuring the performance of government agencies, and conducting comparative and international comparisons with accuracy and transparency.
• Outside the Box The path to success is no longer a straight line as it was for many years past, when a job was the safe dream, a financial and living stability pass, with a fixed income and insurance benefits and job security. But with the rise in living costs and the slowdown in promotion opportunities for fixed salaries, this luster began to fade gradually. The paradox is that Saudis decades ago used to see self-employment as the norm, and a job as merely an exception. Markets were bustling with traders and professionals, and financial independence was an attainable dream through hard work and risk-taking, without waiting for the end of the month.
• Today, the star of entrepreneurship has shined again, laden with promises of freedom and self-realization. Technological transformations and the e-commerce revolution, along with the spread of social media, have removed many of the barriers that used to separate individuals from starting their private projects. A whole generation has eagerly ventured into self-employment, excited by the prospects of growth despite the financial and psychological risks involved. However, the absolute reliance on a private project can always have another side of the coin, as the success of entrepreneurs is not always guaranteed, and failed experiences are no less common than dazzling success stories. Many jump over essential stages, such as gaining experience and refining themselves, to find themselves facing a harsh reality that does not resemble their dreams.
• “Ideologized Consumption” a Silent Threat to Quality of Life Led by Influencers The grand vision drawn by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, in the heart of its aspirations, is not limited to striving and working towards building a prosperous economy and a leading global position, but rather expands to include achieving a greater human goal embodied in the quality of life and sustainable well-being for every individual living on the land of this nation. The vision in its ambitions transcends the traditional concept of development to place the human being at the center of its attention, offering him multiple and diverse options in all aspects of life, from entertainment and culture and sports, to opportunities for learning and personal development, and finally to choices of living and work that align with the aspirations and ambitions of every individual. It is a vision that seeks to build a vibrant society, where the individual not only chooses what suits him, but also possesses the necessary tools and awareness to make decisions that enrich his human experience.
• In the context of the rapid economic and social transformations witnessed by the Kingdom, silent and profound behavioral phenomena emerge that require deep reflection and precise academic and scientific analysis, until we agree, then and there, on naming them here as ‘the culture of ideologized consumption’ or ‘consumer dependence’. These are not merely fleeting individual practices, but rather deeply rooted collective behavioral patterns that form a complex challenge intersecting with the axes of sustainable development, and burdening individuals and society alike. The essence of the problem lies in deviating from the principle of consumption based on actual need or true value, and shifting towards consumption driven by hidden, ideological, societal, and advertising dimensions that repeatedly instill in the individual the conviction that owning certain patterns of consumption or imitating specific social images is the way to achieve status, happiness, or even self-affirmation.
• Letters and Ideas Security is one of the most important basic human needs for human beings; without security, chaos prevails and fear controls people’s lives and their relationships. All human societies have systems and laws to provide security and punish anyone who violates these laws and regulations, especially regarding security.
• Sometimes, painful news occurs in some countries, leading to killing for reasons such as theft or racism or recklessness, stemming from ignorance or political reasons and imbalance of thinking. For example, if a person is exposed to killing because the killer does not agree with his politics, then as for theft, the thief commits a crime, and adding murder to it is a foolish and criminal act at the same time. As for the intelligent person who is confronted by a street thief trying to steal his watch while traveling, among the advice given to tourists is to avoid asking others about a specific thing, such as: the market or a restaurant or taxi cars or a train station. These questions have disappeared in some ages of technology, but they still remain necessary in some cases. For example, a group of students in a Western country were on vacation, so they took a car trip and traveled a long distance. They entered a small village to rest, and stopped at a gas station where a group of young men were standing next to it. They directed them to the motels in this village, and in the morning they found the contents of their car stolen.
• Psychological Preparation for Athletes My brothers among athletes, especially those I know and others, know that our sports clubs do not pay any attention to this aspect, which is the psychological aspect of the athlete. If we go back a little, we would find that advanced countries in sports pay attention to this aspect. We should also find that studying the psychological state of the athlete is important because it has a very good and very bad impact on his life. Unfortunately, as clubs and fans, we also want this player to be 100% sound, regardless of any other consideration, forgetting or pretending to forget that this player is a human being with his own feelings, emotions, and private problems that have nothing to do with us: perhaps this player attends training or one of the matches, and on the same day of the match, perhaps his father or brother or a dear friend is lying on a sickbed in one of the hospitals.
• When we felt that this player was deficient in his role, whether in matches or training, we got very angry and started swearing at him, forgetting that the player has feelings and circumstances that he may encounter seconds before entering the field: therefore, it is necessary to have someone within the coaching staff who masters this approach, and it would be great if the team manager is the one who masters this approach, given his very close relationship with the players. We all know that psychology has its independent study in which specialists exist, and it has a thorough study that builds self-confidence, and its benefits will be everlasting, as this study is considered an acquired trait and not hereditary. For example, many players, when injured and leave the fields for a period then return, we find that their sensitivity to the ball and their morale are lower than before, and their feeling that they are strangers among their teammates and on the field as well. Therefore, it is necessary to have someone who masters the study of these things and guides this player, and I do not think that the physiotherapy room is the only treatment for this player, as I see that when any player is injured on the field, he is transferred by the masseur, and then an ice pack is placed on the injury site, and after that he is asked to go to the physiotherapy room.
• Ronaldo and Al-Hilal What the great international player Cristiano Ronaldo, who is considered the first star in the Saudi league, said a few days ago, is a clear proof and the best evidence of the strength of the league, and his participation in the impressive club world cup finals that took place recently, and this acknowledgment indicates his follow-up of Al-Hilal’s participation, and giving every rightful person his due, even though Al-Hilal is a rival team for him. Saying words of acknowledgment of the truth is not insignificant for the seasoned, great Al-Hilal, and Ronaldo’s acknowledgment of what Al-Hilal has achieved is proof of its limitless field strength and its ability to offer the best and more in upcoming competitions, God willing.
• Ronaldo’s statement clearly indicates that a Saudi club has offered a lot, and is capable of repeating what it has offered. It is a great club that hopes to reach its dream. This statement by Ronaldo represents a project for Al-Nassr club as a whole, and every Al-Nassr fan respects and appreciates it. Al-Hilal is proud that a star like him praises their club with impactful words, and he said it at a time when his team failed to achieve part of it, but he fully realizes that what Al-Hilal has achieved is something great, and if he had been given more opportunity, he would have said a lot about you and praised you, and commended you and what you offer in the sports arena worldwide.
• Support Based on Demand The official responsible for the previous player recruitment program, Saad Al-Lathidh, came out on the ‘Ball’ program and explicitly stated that support for big popular clubs would be limited within three years, and that support among them would be equal. Among the things he mentioned during the interview was that Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal clubs have exhausted the financial support allocated to them from the program’s treasury.
• The sports fan and supporter still harbors the phrase ‘equal support’ since two seasons ago, as if saying to himself: ‘I heard your words, Saad, and I believed you, but when I see the reality, I am surprised and amazed!’ Meaning, they determine the support according to what the big clubs demand, and they influence any player, with the cost fully paid, without any burden on the clubs. The evidence for this is what we see from the bulk signings for Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli, specifically this season, while Al-Ittihad, until this moment, has no budget, even though they would ask for the same as others.
• The Official Spokesperson: Safety Valve in Times of Crisis The official spokesperson emerges as one of the pillars of communication, whether in the private or governmental sector, he is not merely a conveyor of information, but rather a voice and an intellectual spokesperson who preserves the institution’s image and ensures that information comes from a reliable source with clarity and responsibility. Therefore, regulations have made the existence of an official spokesperson a mandatory requirement in every government entity, in recognition of the importance of unifying and controlling the media discourse, so that information reaches its reliable source in a clear and responsible manner.
• The importance of the official spokesperson is not limited to conferences or periodic statements, but extends to playing a vital role in times of crises and disasters, where he acts as the safety valve for the entity, the first line of defense, and the person who receives shocks and bears the burden of media storms. He stands in the face of the media cannon when storms intensify, preserving the institution’s image and reputation. This role requires courage and a high sense of responsibility, and the ability to act quickly under time and situational pressure.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 a Saudi Arabian newspaper, dated August 12, 2025, covers a diverse range of topics, reflecting the Kingdom’s multifaceted progress and global engagement. Several pieces highlight Saudi Arabia’s advancements, including efforts to boost the mining sector, enhance digital public services, and improve water sustainability, aligning with Vision 2030 goals. The collection also addresses international affairs, such as diplomatic efforts concerning the Ukrainian crisis and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, emphasizing humanitarian concerns and calls for peace. Additionally, the articles touch upon various domestic initiatives, like vocational training for prisoners, cultural projects promoting the Arabic language and traditional arts, and local sports news, underscoring a blend of national development and social well-being.

Podcast

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Economic Transformation and Diversification

Economic development in the context of the provided sources primarily focuses on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a prosperous future through modern technologies and a diversified economy. This vision is seen as a comprehensive national project designed to accelerate progress and reshape the Kingdom’s future based on ambition, efficiency, and modernity.

Key aspects and drivers of economic development highlighted in the sources include:

• Vision 2030’s Core Objectives:
• Economic Diversification: The Vision aims to restructure the national economy, moving away from its heavy reliance on oil by diversifying income sources. New sectors like tourism, entertainment, technology, renewable energy, and national industries are being developed. This has already led to growth in the GDP, increased private sector contribution to development, and the creation of unique investment opportunities, resulting in some of the highest economic growth rates in the region.
• Job Creation: By 2030, the Kingdom aims to create approximately 200,000 high-tech jobs, specifically in the field of Artificial Intelligence.
• Global Competitiveness: The goal is for Saudi Arabia to become one of the top ten countries globally in AI research and application by 2030, attracting around $20 billion in AI investments.
• Strategic Investments and Sectoral Growth:
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): The Kingdom recognized the importance of AI early on, incorporating it as a key pillar for national economic transformation. Saudi Arabia is highlighted as the fastest-growing country globally in AI development, ranking among the top twenty nations in AI talent density and 14th globally in the AI index, while leading Arab countries.
• Food and Agriculture (SALIC): The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC), a Public Investment Fund company, plays a crucial role in enhancing food sustainability and diversifying sources through strategic investments. Since its establishment in 2009, SALIC has made 13 diversified investments across 7 countries and 5 continents, aiming to build a comprehensive food system that connects local and global supply chains. This is not merely an economic activity but a strategic pillar for achieving supply sustainability and strengthening the local market’s resilience, aligning with the Kingdom’s aspirations for a diversified and food-secure economy. SALIC’s managed assets have increased fivefold to over 27 billion Saudi Riyals, with an average profit growth of 33%.
• Mining Sector: The Saudi mining sector has made significant global progress, jumping 81 places in the Fraser Institute’s “Mining Investment Attractiveness Index” to rank 23rd globally in 2024. This reflects international confidence in the Kingdom’s stable legislative and regulatory environment, and its vast mineral resources. The mining sector is now a key driver for industrial and economic growth, with continued focus on maximizing economic value from mineral resources and localizing supply chains.
• Aramco’s Role: Aramco is described as having a strong financial position, low debt, high productivity, and operational efficiency, enabling it to fund long-term projects and distribute significant dividends to shareholders. The company’s strategy focuses on the pivotal role of hydrocarbons and chemicals in energy markets, aiming for significant gas sector growth by 2030, and committing to carbon neutrality by 2050. Increased oil production is expected to boost Aramco’s operating cash flows by approximately $12 billion annually.
• Judicial Sector: The Ministry of Justice has introduced initiatives like the “Claim Preparation Center” to enhance judicial efficiency, reduce litigation time, and improve the quality of judgments. These reforms aim to improve the judicial system’s efficiency, encourage investment, and ensure justice.
• Human Resources and Youth Development: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development launched the “Our Youth are a Treasure” campaign to raise awareness about the importance of youth in national development, enhance their global competitiveness, and highlight their achievements in various sectors, supporting Vision 2030’s goal of building a prosperous economy.
• Entrepreneurship and Scientific Innovation: These are considered fundamental pillars for sustainable development and building a diversified economy, going beyond mere reliance on natural resources. The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) supports applied innovation and scientific entrepreneurship, connecting researchers with investors and fostering a research environment for developing national capabilities.
• Cultural and Entertainment Sectors: Initiatives like the King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language’s “Children of Arabic” project and the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (“Werth”) showcasing national living treasures at Expo 2025 Osaka contribute to cultural enrichment and economic value. MBC Group’s financial performance shows strong revenue growth, particularly from broadcasting, digital services, and entertainment initiatives, highlighting the growth of the creative economy and local content production.
• Underlying Principles:
• Strategic Planning and Political Will: The Kingdom’s achievements are attributed to ambitious visions, sound planning, and strong political will. This includes the government’s commitment to supporting sectors like endowments (Awqaf) to enhance their role in economic development and social welfare.
• Private Sector Partnership: The private sector is viewed as a principal partner in the national transformation journey, with efforts to expand its scope, adopt modern digital systems, and align with Vision 2030.
• Focus on Human Capital: Developing national capabilities and fostering talent are crucial for driving innovation and economic growth.

Overall, the sources illustrate a comprehensive approach to economic development in Saudi Arabia, driven by Vision 2030’s strategic goals of diversification, innovation, and human capital development, with significant investments in key sectors and a strong emphasis on private sector partnership and global competitiveness.

Global Humanitarian Crises: Gaza, Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine

The provided sources discuss several humanitarian crises, highlighting their severe impacts and the international responses to them.

Gaza The situation in Gaza is characterized by intense Israeli military actions, including shelling and fire belts, targeting displaced persons’ tents, residential buildings, and medical facilities. This has resulted in a high number of civilian casualties and injuries, with reports of 52 Palestinian martyrs in Gaza hospitals within 24 hours, including 26 children, and 18,000 injured in need of medical rehabilitation out of a total of 153,000 injured since the war began.

Key aspects of the crisis in Gaza include:

• Targeting of Journalists: There has been a deliberate targeting of journalists, with seven martyred in a tent near Al-Shifa Medical Complex. This is seen as a “systematic policy to silence witnesses of the truth” and part of a broader “crime of assassination”. Over 237 journalists and media workers have been killed in Gaza, marking the deadliest toll in modern history for the profession.
• Health Crisis and Famine: The occupation is accused of practicing “health genocide” by targeting hospitals and medical centers. Furthermore, 28,000 people suffer from malnutrition, and 41% of kidney patients die due to a lack of treatment, with accusations that the occupation denies the spread of famine.
• Forced Displacement and Settlement: There are ongoing attempts at forced displacement of the Palestinian people. Israeli officials have expressed intentions to occupy and settle large parts of the Gaza Strip. This has led to the establishment of new settlement outposts, destruction of olive trees, and the forced displacement of over 25 families, emptying three communities entirely.
• International Response: Saudi Arabia has renewed its condemnation of these “brutal practices” and “attempts at displacement,” emphasizing the need for the international community to end the “catastrophic repercussions” and protect civilians. International calls urge the UN Security Council to intervene, stop the war, end the use of starvation as a weapon, increase aid flow, and ensure the release of prisoners and hostages. The “Two-State Solution Conference,” co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, aimed to achieve a comprehensive solution, including ending the war, facilitating aid, and full Israeli withdrawal.

Sudan Sudan is facing what UNICEF describes as the “worst humanitarian crisis in the world,” necessitating expanded aid response, particularly in areas like Al-Fashir, Al-Daling, and Kadugli. Specific details include:

• Severe Malnutrition and Deaths: In Al-Fashir alone, 63 deaths were recorded in one week due to malnutrition, predominantly among women and children. This number reflects only those who reached hospitals, suggesting a higher actual toll. 40% of children under five in Al-Fashir suffer from malnutrition, with 11% experiencing severe acute malnutrition.
• Food Insecurity: The Rapid Support Forces have besieged Al-Fashir, leading to displacement and severe food shortages. Public kitchens are facing critical resource deficiencies, and families are reportedly resorting to eating animal feed or food scraps.
• Health Risks and Aid Obstacles: Areas like Khartoum and Jebel Awliya are heavily burdened by malnutrition and face a severe risk of cholera due to the ongoing violence and difficult access. Aid delivery is further complicated by the rainy season. An attack on a UN aid convoy in June resulted in the death of five aid workers, exacerbating the humanitarian challenge.
• Conflict-related Displacement: The conflict has led to the displacement of tens of thousands, with many seeking refuge within Al-Fashir itself.
• Lack of Services: Basic health services are severely lacking, and communities are in direct confrontation with the attackers.

Syria Internal violence and clashes have also contributed to a humanitarian toll. In Al-Suwaidaa, there have been reports of deadly clashes resulting in significant casualties, with an incident involving the killing of a man inside Al-Suwaidaa National Hospital. Military reinforcements and calls for liberation of areas in Aleppo and Raqqa countrysides indicate ongoing conflict and associated displacement.

Ukraine The ongoing war in Ukraine continues to cause deaths and injuries due to Russian strikes, including an attack on a bus station in Zaporizhzhia that injured 20 people. While diplomatic efforts are underway, with Saudi Arabia expressing support for peace efforts and a summit involving the US, Russia, and Ukraine, there are concerns about potential agreements being reached at Kyiv’s expense. Russia’s continued control over 20% of Ukrainian territory and its non-negotiable demands prolong the conflict.

Global Relations: Conflicts, Diplomacy, and Saudi Arabia’s Role

International relations, as depicted in the sources, are characterized by a complex interplay of diplomacy, cooperation, conflict, and humanitarian crises across various global regions. Saudi Arabia emerges as a significant actor, actively engaged in mediation, economic diversification, and humanitarian efforts.

Key aspects of international relations highlighted in the sources include:

1. Conflicts and Humanitarian Crises:

• Gaza: The situation is described as a humanitarian catastrophe due to intense Israeli military actions, including shelling and fire belts targeting displaced persons’ tents, residential buildings, and medical facilities. There are deliberate attacks on journalists, with over 237 killed, marking it the deadliest conflict for media professionals in modern history. The crisis also involves a severe health emergency, with accusations of “health genocide” and widespread malnutrition. Attempts at forced displacement and Israeli intentions to occupy and settle large parts of the Gaza Strip are also noted.
• Sudan: UNICEF has labeled the situation in Sudan as the “worst humanitarian crisis in the world,” urging expanded aid, particularly in areas like Al-Fashir, Al-Daling, and Kadugli. Significant deaths from malnutrition, particularly among women and children, are reported in Al-Fashir, alongside severe food shortages due to besiegement by the Rapid Support Forces. Aid delivery is further complicated by violence and a lack of access, including attacks on UN aid convoys.
• Ukraine: The ongoing war continues to result in deaths and injuries from Russian strikes. Analysts note Russia’s control over 20% of Ukrainian territory and non-negotiable demands, while Ukraine refuses to cede land. European concerns about potential agreements being reached at Kyiv’s expense are highlighted.
• Syria: Internal violence and clashes contribute to humanitarian tolls, with reports of deadly incidents in Al-Suwaidaa and military reinforcements indicating ongoing conflict.
• Korean Peninsula: North Korea condemned joint military exercises by the US and South Korea as a “direct military provocation,” warning of a response. This reflects heightened tensions despite South Korea’s efforts to ease them.
• Iran Nuclear Program: Iran suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) following Israeli and US attacks on its nuclear sites. European nations have threatened sanctions if no agreement is reached by late August.

2. Diplomatic and Collaborative Efforts:

• Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: This national project aims to transform the Kingdom into a global leader through modern technologies and a diversified economy, fostering international competitiveness and attracting significant foreign investment, particularly in AI.
• Palestinian-Israeli Conflict:
• Saudi Arabia renewed its condemnation of “brutal practices” and “attempts at displacement” against Palestinians, calling on the international community to end the “catastrophic repercussions” and protect civilians.
• The Kingdom, along with France, co-chaired the “Two-State Solution Conference,” advocating for a comprehensive solution including ending the war, facilitating aid, and full Israeli withdrawal.
• Saudi Arabia welcomed Australia’s and New Zealand’s announcements regarding their recognition of a Palestinian state, emphasizing the need for comprehensive recognition and an end to the war.
• Ukraine Crisis: Saudi Arabia expressed its support for peace efforts and hosted a summit involving the US, Russia, and Ukraine, demonstrating its role as a facilitator of dialogue.
• Global Food Sustainability: The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) has made 13 diversified investments across 7 countries and 5 continents to enhance food sustainability and diversify supply sources, integrating local and global supply chains.
• Mining Sector: The Saudi mining sector’s significant leap in the “Mining Investment Attractiveness Index” reflects growing international confidence in the Kingdom’s stable legislative environment and vast mineral resources.
• Cultural Exchange: Initiatives like the King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language and the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts’ participation in Expo 2025 Osaka showcase Saudi Arabia’s cultural engagement on a global stage.
• Water Sustainability: The UN’s selection of Saudi Arabia as a global model for best practices in water sustainability highlights the Kingdom’s effective strategies in water management despite its arid environment.
• Economic Partnerships: Saudi Arabia encourages private sector partnership in its national transformation journey, aligning with Vision 2030 to attract investment and expand digital systems. Aramco, with its strong financial position, continues to play a pivotal role in global energy markets.
• Iran-Iraq Security Agreement: Iran’s National Security Council secretary visited Iraq to sign a bilateral security agreement, indicating regional diplomatic engagement.

3. Economic and Geopolitical Influences:

• Global Market Dynamics: Geopolitical tensions, such as those in Ukraine and US-China trade disputes, impact global markets, leading to fluctuations in gold, oil, and stock prices.
• Soft Power and Global Presence: Saudi Arabia’s efforts in areas like arts, culture, and sports (e.g., hosting international events like the Masters Snooker Championship) contribute to its global image and soft power. The efficiency and distinctiveness of Saudi Royal Protocol during international visits, such as with former US President Trump, highlight its cultural diplomacy.

In summary, the sources paint a picture of international relations marked by significant geopolitical friction and humanitarian challenges, but also by active diplomatic engagement, particularly from Saudi Arabia, which seeks to establish itself as a stable and influential global partner through both economic and soft power initiatives.

Saudi Vision 2030: Transforming Government Services

Government services, as described in the sources, are undergoing significant transformations in Saudi Arabia, driven by Vision 2030, with a strong emphasis on digitalization, efficiency, quality of life, and international best practices.

Here’s a breakdown of key government services and initiatives:

• Digital Transformation and Efficiency:
• “Etimad” Platform: The National Center for Government Resources Systems’ “Etimad” platform ranked fourth globally in the “Digital Experience Index” for 2025, demonstrating an advanced level in digital government platforms. This platform leverages artificial intelligence (AI), including a smart assistant, to save over 2,250 working hours, accelerate procedures, and enhance responsiveness to beneficiary inquiries. This advancement reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to achieving the highest levels of digital excellence.
• Data Management: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) launched a “Data Classification Training Program” for government employees. This initiative aims to build capabilities in data management, enhance understanding of data classification mechanisms, and promote adherence to national policies and controls. The goal is to improve the efficiency of institutional work within the government sector and enhance readiness for applying best practices in data management.
• Civil Affairs (Ahwal Madaniya): The General Directorate of Civil Affairs in Najran emphasizes the importance of electronic services and digital transformation to facilitate transactions and procedures for citizens, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals.
• Justice Services: The Ministry of Justice has launched initiatives to improve the quality and efficiency of judicial work, reduce litigation time, ensure user satisfaction, and uphold procedural integrity.
• Lawsuit Preparation Center: This center provides supportive legal services, including preliminary studies and drafting of lawsuits, aiming to reduce litigation periods and improve the quality of judicial outcomes. It employs over 200 experts in legal and Sharia fields.
• Translation Center: This center provides simultaneous interpretation services remotely in 47 languages across all courts, ensuring that individuals who do not speak Arabic can effectively understand and participate in legal proceedings. This initiative enhances access to justice for all.
• Prisoner Services: The Ministry of Justice has an initiative to enable prisoners and detainees to access their legal and judicial services easily and with dignity from within prisons, including remote trial procedures and documentation services.
• Healthcare Services:
• 937 Health Support Number: This number is highlighted as an exceptional model of digital transformation in healthcare. It functions as a multi-dimensional health platform, providing consultations, emergency transport, and medical support. It integrates with other major government platforms like “Absher,” “Tawakkalna,” and “Balady”. The service received over 8.7 million calls and 2.5 million medical consultations in the first half of 2022, indicating widespread trust. Future developments are expected to include proactive health recommendations based on data analysis and user behavior.
• King Saud University Medical City: This institution is recognized as the first accredited government health entity to submit a sustainability report to the United Nations. It focuses on integrating healthcare with environmental and social standards, aligning with Vision 2030 and UN Sustainable Development Goals. It has achieved significant reductions in energy consumption (31%) and carbon emissions, and has implemented initiatives like planting over 47,000 trees and providing over 60,000 “doctor for every family” services. The Medical City also emphasizes empowering women in leadership roles (31% representation) and fostering innovation in healthcare.
• Saudi Red Crescent Authority (Jazan): The Jazan branch achieved the top rank in beneficiary experience indicators among the Authority’s branches, demonstrating its commitment to excellence and high-quality emergency services.
• Hospital Operations: Hospitals, such as King Fahd Central Hospital in Jazan, are performing advanced medical procedures like the removal of thyroid nodules using radiofrequency ablation, avoiding surgical intervention and ensuring quick recovery. In Al-Aflaj, a public hospital successfully saved a patient from a severe heart attack through prompt resuscitation and integrated care, highlighting the coordination and efficiency between health facilities.
• Public Safety and Infrastructure:
• Traffic Management: The General Directorate of Traffic issues awareness messages for drivers during high temperatures, urging adherence to safe driving instructions and necessary precautions to reduce risks like tire explosions and engine overheating. They also play a crucial role in road design and maintenance, emphasizing clear road markings to ensure safe and comfortable driving, reduce accidents, and improve traffic flow.
• Civil Aviation: The General Authority of Civil Aviation is actively involved in the development of airports, such as King Saud Airport in Al-Baha. This includes enhancing operational efficiency, increasing flight numbers, improving passenger services, and expanding future air destinations.
• Urban Development: Al-Bateen Municipality has undertaken projects to develop public parks in various neighborhoods, including installing new facilities, green spaces, and children’s play areas. These efforts align with Vision 2030’s objective to improve the quality of life and create attractive urban environments.
• Social and Cultural Services:
• Youth Empowerment: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development launched the “Our Youth is a Treasure” campaign to enhance youth participation in development, raise their global competitiveness, and highlight their role in national transformation.
• Endowment Management (Awqaf): The General Authority of Endowments plays a key role in providing sustainable funding for various social, charitable, religious, scientific, and economic services. It aims to strengthen financial sustainability for public good and support developmental initiatives.
• Inmate Rehabilitation: The General Organization for Technical and Vocational Training (TVTC) provides 120 diverse training programs within prisons across the Kingdom. These programs equip inmates with vocational skills to help them become productive members of society upon release, facilitating their employment or self-employment.
• Religious Guidance: The General Administration for Answering Inquiries in the Prophet’s Mosque offers scientific enrichment services to visitors during the Umrah season, including direct phone guidance and on-site points, aiming to enhance the spiritual experience and provide correct religious guidance. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs also directed Friday sermons to focus on “honoring parents,” emphasizing Islamic values and strengthening family bonds.
• Educational Initiatives: The Ministry of Education has implemented programs like “Our Schools Promote Positive Behavior” to enhance positive conduct in schools, aiming to create a positive educational environment. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, is launching the Academy of Arts and Culture to provide formal artistic and cultural education from primary school onward, aiming to cultivate a creative and culturally aware generation.
• Government Performance and Accountability:
• Local governors and officials, such as in Hail Governorate, are actively reviewing performance reports in developmental, economic, social, and environmental areas, emphasizing the importance of governmental agencies’ efforts in providing comprehensive services and addressing citizens’ needs.
• The Saudi Royal Protocol, while not a direct public service, is a governmental function that showcases the Kingdom’s cultural identity and hospitality in international engagements, reflecting its strategic approach to soft power and global presence.

In summary, Saudi Arabia is actively investing in and transforming its government services, moving towards a digitally advanced, efficient, and quality-focused model that aims to improve the lives of its citizens and enhance its global standing, all underpinned by the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Cultural Heritage and Identity

Saudi Arabia places a significant emphasis on cultural heritage, viewing it as a core component of its national identity and a key area for development under Vision 2030. This commitment is reflected in various initiatives aimed at discovery, preservation, promotion, and education across different facets of its rich history and traditions.

Key aspects of cultural heritage efforts include:

• Archaeological Exploration and Preservation:
• The Heritage Commission is actively involved in archaeological survey and excavation projects. One notable example is the project in Al-Qarainah, northwest of Riyadh.
• These efforts led to significant discoveries, including circular structures resembling graves from the 2nd and 3rd millennia BCE, an ancient road extending from the valley to the plateau near Al-Qarainah, and numerous pottery shards and stone tools dating back approximately 50,000 years (Middle Stone Age).
• The goal of these projects is to enhance scientific studies on historical sites and to re-map the archaeological landscape of Riyadh and surrounding areas using advanced research techniques.
• The Heritage Commission is dedicated to preserving national heritage assets and utilizing them as important cultural and economic resources for the Kingdom. It emphasizes that the Kingdom’s cultural heritage reflects successive civilizations that settled its lands, highlighting its richness in heritage, cultural, and historical resources.
• Another example of historical preservation is the renovation and development of the Al-Shanana Watchtower in Al-Rass governorate, Al-Qassim region. This project included restoring the tower, preparing external areas, installing parking, and informational signs, recognizing its significance as a historical landmark tied to the history of the Saudi state.
• Promoting Traditional Arts and Artisans:
• The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (“Wirath”) actively participates in international events, such as Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. At the expo, Wirath hosted a dialogue session titled “Celebrating National Living Treasures,” highlighting the vital role of Saudi artisans.
• The institute’s efforts include honoring Saudi artisans with the title of “National Living Treasure,” acknowledging their profound contribution to preserving crafts and transmitting them to future generations.
• Wirath supports artisans through specialized training programs, grants, and incentives, ensuring the continuity of their invaluable contributions to the Kingdom’s cultural identity.
• The institute aims to be a leading national entity in showcasing and enriching Saudi identity through traditional arts both locally and globally, encouraging interest, learning, and development in this field.
• Cultural Education and Language Preservation:
• The King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language organized a discussion focusing on the “Children of Arabic” series, a cultural initiative aimed at creating a comprehensive knowledge system for children.
• This initiative seeks to deepen children’s connection to the Arabic language and provide valuable linguistic and cultural content that respects children’s developmental needs.
• The Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, is launching the Academy of Arts and Culture. This academy will be the first government school of its kind to offer formal artistic and cultural education from primary school onward. This aims to bridge the gap between formal education and cultural upbringing, fostering a generation that is creative and culturally aware, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal of making culture an industry and a national responsibility.
• Archiving Personal and Historical Records:
• The King Abdulaziz Foundation (Darah) emphasizes the importance of personal archival collections (such as letters and memoirs) as rich historical and cultural sources. These collections are vital for documenting individual experiences and reflecting the social, political, and intellectual contexts of different eras.
• The Darah works to preserve and archive these personal collections using secure environments and modern techniques like sterilization, preservation, indexing, and digitization. This initiative, “Darah Documents,” aims to provide a select collection of historical documents to enhance national awareness and connect new generations with their historical roots across various fields like politics, economy, society, and culture.

These comprehensive efforts demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s strategic and multi-faceted approach to safeguarding, developing, and promoting its cultural heritage as a cornerstone of its national vision and an asset for global engagement.

Saudi Vision 2030: Progress and Global Engagement

Here are the titles of the columns in the newspaper and their two paragraphs of detail:

• Column Title: Word
• This column focuses on Saudi Arabia’s success in leveraging modern technologies, especially artificial intelligence, to serve its institutions and programs. It highlights that the Kingdom is reaping the fruits of its efforts, which are aligned with the foresight of Vision 2030, aimed at building a modern state.
• The column notes that the Kingdom, through Vision 2030, recognized early on the importance of AI in activating rapid technological development, increasing opportunities for innovation and growth in all fields, raising quality, enhancing capabilities, and improving the efficiency and productivity of those in charge of operations.
• Column Title: Aramco.. Distinguished Financial Center and Secure Energy
• The CEO of Aramco, Amin Nasser, affirmed the company’s strong financial position and low debt ratio, which is among the lowest globally, after announcing its Q2 2025 results. Aramco showed financial flexibility and achieved significant profits in the first half of 2025, with sound capital management for shareholders.
• The financial sustainability of the company, supported by high productivity and operational efficiency, enables it to finance long-term projects and distribute large profits to investors. The announcement of Q2 net income of 85.02 billion Saudi Riyals, a 22% decrease year-on-year, compared to 92.0 billion Saudi Riyals in Q2 of the previous year, with average net income reaching 190.8 billion Saudi Riyals in the first half excluding non-recurring items, aims to clarify the basic operational performance of the company and reflects its commitment to transparency and reliability.
• Column Title: Two-State Solution Conference
• This column discusses the conference on the two-state solution held in New York, chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, with broad international and UN participation. Its goal was to cement a binding path for the recognition of a Palestinian state, achieve peace in the region, and implement the two-state solution.
• The most important outcome was the demand for an immediate solution to Israeli violations in Palestine and an end to the conflict that claims dozens of Palestinian lives daily. The conference managed to gather important international and regional powers to pressure Israel and activate a follow-up and accountability mechanism, forming a global alliance to ensure the implementation of outcomes within a clear timeframe.
• Column Title: Saudi Arabia: A Brave Stand Against Israel’s Crimes
• This column states that the world, which seeks peace, security, justice, and human rights, hesitates to recognize an independent Palestinian state. It questions the justice of the world remaining silent while Palestinians are displaced, annihilated, and starved before its eyes, and criticizes Israel’s continued defiance of international laws and human values.
• It describes global chatter about peace as useless words that do not lead to practical action, emphasizing that Palestine is a state with a just cause, not just a problem, and its statehood should be recognized regardless of delays or vetoes at the UN. It asserts that Saudi Arabia’s sincere efforts will succeed in achieving Palestine’s legitimate demands, as the world has awakened to the truth of the issue and the impossibility of achieving peace without justice.
• Column Title: The Generation of YouTubers… and the Art of Oratory!
• This column notes that the childhood dream for today’s generation is no longer just being a pilot or doctor, but many children dream of becoming content creators and “YouTubers,” in natural harmony with their digital environment, becoming not just users but also producers.
• It highlights that 41% of children in the Kingdom aspire to be “bloggers” or YouTubers in the future, with 42% having already started developing their own blogs or producing visual content that expresses their interests and early career aspirations. This means facing a generation of “young bloggers” who might use social media platforms excessively and without awareness, necessitating empowering and preparing them to use these tools consciously for spreading meaningful content.
• Column Title: Why?
• This column emphasizes that we desperately need to ask questions and avoid being content with ready-made answers that keep the mind dormant. It identifies the most important means to awaken the mind: not fearing to ask questions, welcoming them with joy, especially from children, who are naturally curious and critical thinkers in their early years.
• It criticizes the tendency to stifle children’s inquisitive nature and make them believe they already possess all absolute truths, discouraging them from seeking different answers. It advocates for encouraging children to ask more questions and to seek answers themselves, fostering critical thinking and intellectual independence.
• Column Title: Entrepreneurship and Scientific Innovation: Two Pillars
• This column states that in today’s knowledge economy, natural resources alone are no longer sufficient for sustainable growth; rather, knowledge, innovation, and entrepreneurship have become the true drivers of ambitious and promising economies.
• Many experts agree that creativity does not arise from a vacuum but is the fruit of passion meeting institutional and societal opportunities. Only then can ideas be transformed into projects, problems into opportunities, and ambitions into executable and scalable products and initiatives.
• Column Title: Positive Behavior
• This column states that positive behavior, starting from good thinking, is one of the most important behaviors that contribute to improving the quality of life at personal and social levels. It embodies optimistic views towards life and others, and actions that reflect comfort when an individual adopts this behavior, creating a positive psychological energy.
• It also means a person’s feeling of contentment and acceptance of things as much as possible, and having the ability to face life’s difficulties positively, always striving to achieve their goals and projects. This positive behavior also enables individuals to communicate effectively with others, allowing them to offer help and solutions to their problems.
• Column Title: 937: The Health Support Code
• This column highlights that the number 937 in Saudi Arabia has emerged as an exceptional model for digital transformation in healthcare, transcending its traditional role to become a smart platform that interacts with people’s needs quickly and efficiently, serving as a role model for modern healthcare.
• In contrast to other health contact services that focus only on emergencies, 937 has chosen a different path by connecting the beneficiary with a multi-dimensional health platform that responds and is linked to an integrated health system. It has become a direct access point to comprehensive healthcare built on the integration of data and service, through a system that includes receiving reports, urgent case transfers, consultations, and medical support connected to the patient’s record via “Wasfati” and “Sehhati” applications.
• Column Title: What Does Syria Mean to Saudis?
• This column begins by stating that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded by King Abdulaziz Al Saud, with divine guidance, on the principles of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet. It blossomed from the heart of Najd’s plains into the rich modern oases of Riyadh, enriching its people and extending its shade of love, faith, and security to neighboring countries.
• It highlights the significant role of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in addressing the Syrian crisis, leveraging his global influence, political acumen, and prominent presence to position Syria as a major and powerful nation, leading a principal response path for the world to follow, culminating in the establishment of the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum in Damascus to revive its Arab and authentic spirit.
• Column Title: The Dean’s Summer is Disappointing
• This column expresses disappointment with Al-Ittihad Club’s summer transfer window, noting that despite entering the Super Cup tournament in a week, the club remains absent from the transfer scene. It states that there have been only talks and rumors about potential signings, but no concrete actions have been observed.
• The author also mentions being optimistic about Al-Ittihad’s ability to win the Asian title next season, repeating Al-Ahly’s achievement, but admits that the current signs are not reassuring. The author hopes that Al-Ittihad’s management will make last-minute moves to bring in exciting signings that will please the fans and alleviate their anger.
• Column Title: In the Net
• This column states that no club management incident is the first, nor will it be the last, unless there is control and oversight over all clubs without exception. It acknowledges that those who work in club managements are humans who make mistakes and are susceptible to errors, and are therefore subject to accountability and scrutiny for the public good.
• It adds that Al-Nassr, like any other club, has made mistakes and financial violations, and there are other major and popular clubs that have committed greater errors, accumulating huge financial debts and grievances from FIFA due to issues that have squandered public funds. It also supports Al-Qadisiyah’s right to protest its participation, as Al-Ahly did, and recognizes that the Super Cup is a symbolic tournament, which should not lose its technical, financial, and promotional strength for the sake of only three teams playing.
• Column Title: The Media Sector’s Guidance Manual.. A Partnership that Protects Creativity
• This column discusses the guidance manual for the media sector, launched by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property in cooperation with the General Commission for Regulating Media, to establish a comprehensive framework that protects intellectual rights and serves as a professional reference for media practitioners.
• This initiative aims to protect and enhance the presence of creators in a digital environment where the publication and content creation processes are accelerating, providing clear guidelines to regulate dealings with copyrighted works, safeguarding practitioners from violations, and enabling them to manage their rights confidently and knowledgeably.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 sources comprise a collection of articles from “20843.pdf,” a Saudi Arabian publication dated August 11, 2025. The articles cover a diverse range of topics, including economic developments like the real estate market slowdown and industrial production growth, the financial implications of the Israeli government’s plan to occupy Gaza, and cultural events such as the King Salman Complex’s initiatives to support Arabic language innovation and a dates festival. Additionally, the compilation features news on sports, a detailed piece on artificial intelligence and its ethical considerations, and a focus on social issues like homelessness in the US and Europe, along with discussions on national identity and the role of entertainment in Saudi Arabia.

Podcast

Saudi Arabia Real Estate: Transformation and 2025 Outlook

The real estate market in Saudi Arabia is currently undergoing a significant transformation, a direct result of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. This initiative aims to reshape the sector with clear objectives, influencing various aspects from consumer behavior to market dynamics.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of the real estate market:

• Market Transformation and Consumer Behavior
• The Kingdom is actively developing a new framework for its real estate sector.
• This transformation has led to a decline in demand for real estate loans, prompting some banks to re-evaluate their financing strategies.
• There is a noticeable shift in citizens’ attitudes towards property ownership, influenced by the state’s strategic development and urban expansion plans.
• Marketing Strategies
• In response to a slowdown in marketing, some real estate companies have started waiving commission fees for sales.
• Buyers consider this a promotional tool, allowing them to complete purchases without additional commission costs, which sometimes inflate property values.
• This strategy is expected to revitalize the real estate market and boost interest in new projects amidst increasing competition.
• Price Trends and Growth Rates (Q2 2025)
• The general real estate price index in Saudi Arabia showed a slowdown in its growth rate during the second quarter of 2025.
• The annual change rate was 3.2%, a decrease from 4.3% in the first quarter of the same year.
• Sector-Specific Performance:
• Residential Sector: This sector, which holds the largest weight in the price index, saw its annual change rate drop significantly from 5.1% in Q1 to just 0.4% in Q2. Within this sector, residential land prices increased by 3.2%, villa prices by 0.2%, floor prices by 1.5%, while apartment prices decreased by 0.7%.
• Commercial Sector: This sector continued to experience increases in its annual change rates. The annual change rate rose to 11.7% in Q2, up from 2.5% in Q1, primarily driven by a 12.7% increase in commercial land prices. Building prices increased by 2.7%, and exhibition prices by 4.1%.
• Agricultural Sector: Prices in this sector increased by 1.7% in Q2, with agricultural land prices rising by the same percentage.
• Regional Price Changes (Annual Change Rate)
• The overall average annual change rate for real estate prices across the Kingdom was 3.2%.
• Eastern Province recorded a 4.2% increase.
• Makkah region saw a 3.9% increase.
• Riyadh region experienced a 3.6% increase, notable after its Q1 2025 rate of 10.7%.
• Tabuk, Hail, and Qassim regions recorded annual increases of 4.7%, 2.9%, and 1.1% respectively.
• Conversely, Asir, Madinah, and Jazan regions registered annual decline rates of 3.9%, 3.2%, and 2.8% respectively.
• Future Outlook
• Economic expert Fahad Al-Sharif anticipates a balance in real estate prices and a growth in villa construction in the near future, supported by a new, encouraging regulatory environment.
• The implementation of the “white lands system” is designed to curb monopolistic practices and has already increased the supply of land available for development.
• The market is expected to attract more demand as a result of these initiatives, leading to increased sales volumes and overall market growth.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision, Global Conflicts, and Economic Shifts

The international relations landscape, as reflected in the sources, is characterized by ongoing conflicts, shifting economic dynamics, and the proactive diplomatic and strategic initiatives of nations like Saudi Arabia, driven by ambitious national visions.

Saudi Arabia’s Evolving Global Role and Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is depicted as a nation undergoing a significant transformation through its Vision 2030, which aims to reshape various sectors and enhance its global standing. The Kingdom is positioning itself as a pivotal player in international relations, capable of bridging divides between the industrial North and the developing South. Its unique geographical and diplomatic position allows it to translate global concerns into actionable plans.

A key aspect of this transformation is Saudi Arabia’s ambitious investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Kingdom, alongside the UAE, is ranked among the top 20 countries globally for AI talent density, surpassing nations like Italy and Russia. Saudi Arabia aims to attract $20 billion in AI investments and create 200,000 high-tech jobs by 2030, with the goal of becoming one of the top 10 countries worldwide in AI research and applications. This ambition is supported by the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) $1.5 billion investment fund dedicated to AI growth. Projects like NEOM exemplify this, with AI infrastructure accounting for over 30% of its $500 billion budget, setting a new standard for smart city development. To attract leading AI minds, Saudi Arabia offers the highest job offers for AI talent globally, including tax-exempt annual salaries averaging $420,000 for prominent scientists and signing bonuses up to $5 million for AI leaders in NEOM. Cultural restrictions have also been relaxed in areas like NEOM to foster an environment conducive to international experts.

Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s participation in international forums like the G20 summit in Johannesburg highlights its rapid ascent in international economic indicators and its growing influence as a mediator in regional and international issues. Its strategic relationships with both China and the United States enable it to serve as a neutral political environment for global technology companies and talents.

Major Global Conflicts and Diplomatic Efforts

The sources highlight several critical global conflicts:

• Gaza/Israel Conflict: The situation in Gaza is portrayed as a dire humanitarian catastrophe, with over 30 Palestinians, including starving individuals, killed in recent massacres by the Israeli army. There is escalating international rejection of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announced intention to occupy Gaza City and forcibly displace its residents to camps. The sources indicate that the United States and other mediators are pressuring both Hamas and Israel to return to the negotiation table. Israeli finance ministry officials have warned that a full occupation of Gaza could cost 120 to 180 billion shekels annually, potentially increasing the deficit to 7% this year and leading to further credit rating downgrades for Israel. The decision to occupy Gaza is expected to inflict significant economic damage on Israelis and businesses. The sources draw a parallel between the current situation in Gaza and the Holocaust in Warsaw during WWII, emphasizing the widespread starvation, destruction, and systematic ethnic cleansing. Israeli actions, such as building a colonial road on Palestinian land in Hizma and instigating against a girls’ school, are seen as attempts to change the demographic and geographical reality and prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state. The Israeli plan involves a two-stage process: evacuating approximately one million Palestinians from Gaza City to relief centers in the south, followed by a full military invasion lasting up to five months. This plan is criticized for endangering civilian lives, violating international humanitarian values, and potentially increasing Israel’s international isolation.
• Ukraine/Russia Conflict: European officials have presented peace proposals for Ukraine to the United States ahead of a scheduled meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska. Trump suggested that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Putin are close to a deal that could resolve the ongoing conflict, possibly involving an exchange of territories, where Ukraine might cede large parts of its land. However, European negotiators maintain that “no process can start with ceding territories in the midst of fighting”. Zelenskyy has reiterated Ukraine’s refusal to cede any territory and asserted that any peace decision made without Ukraine’s involvement is against peace and will achieve nothing. Despite some US officials indicating progress towards ending the war, European leaders insist that the path to peace “cannot be decided without Ukraine,” stressing that international borders should not be changed by force.
• Iraq/Armed Factions: The Iraqi government has announced its intention to refer to justice those involved in recent deadly clashes in Baghdad’s outskirts, attributed to “Kata’ib Hezbollah”. The government accused the former director of the Agricultural Department of coordinating with these armed elements and engaging in corruption. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani called on Iraqi tribes to support the rule of law and emphasized that there is no justification for the presence of weapons outside state institutions. Sudani also affirmed the Iraqi government’s commitment to ending the presence of the international coalition against ISIS once it is no longer needed, and its desire to maintain strong international relations.

Global Economic and Trade Dynamics

The global economic landscape is also experiencing shifts:

• Oil Market Fluctuations: Oil prices received temporary support following US President Trump’s announcements of increased restrictions on the Russian oil industry and significant tariffs on India. These tariffs, particularly the 100% tariffs threatened on Russian crude oil buyers like India, aim to reduce Russian oil revenues. Despite these threats, India continues to import Russian oil, citing national interests. Analysts, however, doubt that these measures will substantially reduce the flow of Russian oil to global markets. The US has also imposed new tariffs on Indian goods, and Trump has threatened similar tariffs on Chinese imports of Russian oil. These tariff actions are seen as likely to harm the global economy, affecting oil demand and potentially fueling inflation.
• Global Rice Market: Global rice prices have fallen by 5% to their lowest level since 2017, attributed to record harvests and India lifting its export ban. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization’s global rice price index has decreased by 13% this year, a stark reversal from the price surges seen early last year.
• International Trade Tensions: Beyond oil, the trade relationship between the US and China shows signs of tension, with Trump hinting at 100% tariffs on semiconductors from China, although exceptions might be made for US-manufactured components.

In summary, international relations are currently marked by multifaceted challenges, including ongoing conflicts with significant humanitarian consequences, and dynamic economic policies heavily influenced by major global powers. Saudi Arabia, through its Vision 2030, is actively seeking to expand its influence and redefine its role on the world stage, particularly in emerging sectors like AI, and through various cultural and entertainment initiatives that aim to enhance its soft power and global image.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Cultural Transformation Initiatives

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a wide range of cultural initiatives as a key component of its Vision 2030, aiming to enhance its global standing, diversify its economy, and enrich the lives of its citizens. These initiatives span arts, heritage, entertainment, technology, and urban development, reflecting a comprehensive approach to cultural transformation.

Here are some of the key cultural initiatives highlighted in the provided sources:

• Promoting the Arabic Language and Innovation:
• The King Salman Global Complex for the Arabic Language has launched the “Arabic Language Innovations Accelerator” program. This initiative aims to empower startups and entrepreneurs in language technologies, transforming creative ideas into scalable projects.
• It is described as the first specialized program to support Arabic language innovation, striving to build a generation of inspiring youth and leaders in linguistic innovation.
• The program supports the development of technical solutions for the Arabic language through practical training, advisory support, and connecting projects with investors and experts. For example, companies like Souq, Arabius, Abjadpulse, Lincol, and Asma’ Biyadi have developed digital educational and technological solutions for the Arabic language. This aligns with Vision 2030’s goals for linguistic innovation and empowering digital Arabic content.
• Preserving and Documenting Cultural Heritage:
• The “Worth” (Wurth) Royal Institute for Traditional Arts, in collaboration with the Culture Memory Center (part of the Ministry of Culture), has concluded a program for rehabilitating local cadres in documenting cultural heritage digitally.
• This initiative aims to develop national competencies, strengthen the professional pathway for heritage, and support national identity, aligning with the “Year of Handcrafts 2025”. The program covered theoretical and practical content over 15 days, enabling participants to acquire essential skills in documenting cultural heritage and managing cultural projects using modern methods.
• Showcasing Heritage in Modern Contexts:
• The Heritage Commission is actively participating in the Electronic Sports World Cup held in “Boulevard City” in Riyadh.
• This participation involves offering diverse interactive experiences that highlight Saudi cultural heritage in a contemporary style, targeting youth and technology enthusiasts.
• The Heritage Commission’s area combines live events with digital experiences, including workshops by craftsmen from various regions of the Kingdom showcasing traditional crafts like Sadu weaving, palm handicrafts, pottery, and ceramics.
• It also features a corner for traditional popular games and an immersive “Secrets of Al-Faw” experience, a mental adventure inspired by the history of Al-Faw ancient village, designed to educate visitors engagingly. This initiative aims to showcase Saudi heritage in new and renewed ways, integrating it into creative and technical spaces, and aligning with Vision 2030’s objective to expand interaction with national cultural components.
• Transforming Entertainment and Tourism:
• Riyadh Season is described as a “cultural turning point” in the Kingdom, led by Advisor Turki Al-Sheikh. It aims to reshape the map of entertainment production locally and provide Saudi talents with greater global exposure.
• The initiative focuses on supporting Gulf musicians and Saudi and Syrian plays, aiming to localize cultural production and transform it into an exportable product based on “talent and identity”.
• The season is seen as redefining entertainment as a component of Saudi soft power and a driver for cultural, social, and economic development. It attracted over 19 million visitors in its previous edition, focusing not just on numbers but on the quality of cultural impact and the export of the Saudi experience.
• Hada Al-Taif in Taif Governorate is highlighted as a major tourist attraction due to its unique geographical location, natural beauty, mountains, temperate climate, and historical significance. It is known for its Taif roses, fruits, and ancient farms, aiming to stimulate economic growth through tourism and provide a comprehensive tourism experience.
• Jabal Al-Aswad (Black Mountain) in Jazan is presented as an icon for environmental tourism and relaxation, offering a spiritual and human experience to visitors. Its unique features include a cool climate year-round, dense forests, traditional stone villages, and rich biodiversity. It’s envisioned as a strategic environmental tourism project aligning with Vision 2030’s goals for mountain and ecological tourism.
• AlUla’s “Manara AlUla” team organizes astronomical events for observing meteor showers and other celestial phenomena in its designated “dark sky” areas. This promotes cultural tourism related to astronomy and nature.
• Leveraging Technology for Cultural and Religious Initiatives:
• The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawa, and Guidance has developed an electronic judging system for the King Abdulaziz International Holy Quran Competition. This system introduces technological enhancements to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and transparency of the competition.
• The competition has also introduced interactive robots in its venues to provide information and assistance to participants and visitors. These robots are equipped with touch screens and support 96 international languages, enhancing the visitor experience.
• While primarily an AI investment, NEOM’s infrastructure allocates over 30% of its budget to AI, demonstrating a futuristic approach to city development. The relaxation of cultural restrictions in areas like NEOM is also a key cultural initiative aimed at attracting and accommodating top global AI talent, fostering an environment that blends their lifestyles with Saudi culture.
• Promoting Saudi Arts and Global Presence:
• The artist Fahd Al-Bariq has represented the Kingdom in numerous international exhibitions, including in Sweden, Denmark, France, England, Italy, Tunisia, and Morocco. His work, which draws inspiration from his Saudi environment, ancient tools, and historical sites like Diriyah, has even been acquired by the White House, making him the first Saudi artist to have a painting there. This highlights the Kingdom’s efforts to project its cultural identity and soft power on the global stage.
• The Electronic Sports World Cup is also a significant event where Saudi teams, like Twisted Minds, have achieved global victories. This showcases the Kingdom’s commitment to modern entertainment and its ability to host and excel in global events.

These diverse initiatives collectively demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision to develop its cultural and entertainment sectors, attract global talent and tourism, and enhance its international image, all within the overarching framework of Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s AI and Technology Revolution Under Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in the fields of Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a cornerstone of its Vision 2030, aiming to position itself as a global leader in innovation and diversify its economy.

Here’s a comprehensive discussion of key initiatives and impacts:

• Strategic Vision and Investment:
• Saudi Arabia and the UAE are ranked among the top 20 countries globally in AI talent density, surpassing nations like Italy and Russia, holding 0.4% and 0.7% of global AI talent respectively.
• The Kingdom aims to attract $20 billion in AI investments and create 200,000 high-tech jobs by 2030, with the goal of becoming one of the top 10 countries in AI research and applications.
• The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) was established to lead the national AI strategy, facilitating rapid approval processes for major AI projects, with decisions often made within 30 days.
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has launched a $1.5 billion investment fund to support AI growth.
• AI in Mega-Projects and Talent Attraction:
• In NEOM, AI infrastructure accounts for over 30% of its $500 billion budget, setting a new standard for smart city development.
• The Kingdom offers the highest AI job offers globally, with prominent scientists earning an average tax-free annual salary of $420,000. NEOM also provides signing bonuses up to $5 million for AI leaders.
• To attract top AI talent, Saudi Arabia has eased cultural restrictions, particularly in areas like NEOM, allowing foreign experts to live and work in conditions that blend their lifestyles with the Kingdom’s cultural fabric. This is exemplified by “The Line” city in NEOM, which will be the first city globally controlled entirely by AI, managing services like transport and energy.
• King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is among the top 150 global universities for training and graduating AI talent, making it the highest-ranked in the Middle East in this category.
• Technological Advancement Across Sectors:
• Arabic Language Innovation: The King Salman Global Complex for the Arabic Language launched the “Arabic Language Innovations Accelerator” program. This is the first specialized program to support Arabic language innovation, empowering startups and entrepreneurs in language technologies to transform creative ideas into scalable projects. Examples include companies like Souq, Arabius, Abjadpulse, Lincol, and Asma’ Biyadi developing digital educational and technological solutions for the Arabic language.
• Cultural Heritage and Digital Transformation: The Wurth Royal Institute for Traditional Arts, in collaboration with the Culture Memory Center, has trained local cadres in digital documentation of cultural heritage, enhancing national competencies and supporting national identity. The Heritage Commission is using technology to showcase Saudi cultural heritage in modern contexts at events like the Electronic Sports World Cup in Riyadh, combining live traditional craft workshops with digital, interactive experiences such as the “Secrets of Al-Faw” mental adventure.
• Religious and Public Services: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawa, and Guidance has developed an electronic judging system for the King Abdulaziz International Holy Quran Competition, improving efficiency, accuracy, and transparency. The competition also features interactive robots equipped with touch screens supporting 96 languages to provide information and assistance to visitors.
• Urban Development: The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing has implemented the “Riyadh Parking” project, using digital permits and automated monitoring systems with AI-powered cameras to manage parking in residential and commercial areas, aiming to reduce congestion and unauthorized parking.
• Healthcare and Research: A recent Danish study, published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, highlighted the use of AI techniques to detect “metabolic footprints” in adolescent blood samples, serving as early biomarkers for future heart disease risk linked to excessive screen time.
• Voluntary Carbon Credit Market: An initiative by the Receive Investment Foundation in cooperation with Aramco and Arthur D. Little, explored four main ways AI can contribute to enhancing the voluntary carbon credit market: improving the accuracy of carbon emission measurement, enhancing transparency through real-time monitoring, ensuring integrity by detecting misleading practices, and providing accurate price forecasts.
• Financial Transactions: Saudi Arabia has seen a rapid increase in electronic payment transactions via POS devices, reflecting a growing reliance on digital payments. The “Mada” network processed a significant volume of operations, with electronic payments constituting over 79% of total individual sector transactions in 2024, exceeding national transformation program targets.
• Education and Standards: Saudi students from the “Mawhiba” program participated in the International Olympiad for Standards (ISO 2025) in South Korea, demonstrating efforts to promote awareness of standards and quality concepts among youth and encourage new ideas in technology.
• Sports and Entertainment: The Kingdom hosted the Electronic Sports World Cup (NGSC2025), where Saudi teams like Twisted Minds achieved global victories, showcasing the nation’s commitment to modern entertainment and its capabilities in global tech-driven events.
• Philosophical and Ethical Considerations of AI:
• The sources highlight a philosophical debate around AI’s role, questioning whether trust should be placed in fallible humans or flawless, but emotionless, machines.
• AI applications in healthcare and mental health have shown positive impacts, such as reducing feelings of isolation among the elderly and improving accuracy in medical diagnoses and psychological treatment.
• However, concerns exist about over-reliance on AI potentially dulling human skills and fostering “lazy minds” that outsource critical thinking to algorithms. The discussion extends to whether AI can embody human values like compassion and kindness.

These initiatives demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive and ambitious approach to integrating technology and AI across its society and economy, aligning with its broader Vision 2030 goals for transformation and global leadership.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: AI and Public Service Transformation

Saudi Arabia is actively transforming its public services, integrating advanced technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency, transparency, and overall quality of life for its citizens and residents, as a key component of Vision 2030.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of key initiatives in public services:

• Digital Transformation and AI Integration:
• Strategic AI Leadership: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) spearheads the national AI strategy, significantly streamlining approval processes for major AI projects, with decisions often rendered within a swift 30-day timeframe.
• Smart City Development: In NEOM, the planned city of “The Line” is set to be the first city globally controlled entirely by AI, managing critical services like transport and energy. Over 30% of NEOM’s $500 billion budget is allocated to AI infrastructure, establishing a new benchmark for smart urban planning.
• Enhanced Religious Services: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawa, and Guidance has developed an electronic judging system for the King Abdulaziz International Holy Quran Competition, ensuring greater efficiency, accuracy, and transparency. The competition also features interactive robots with touch screens supporting 96 languages to assist and inform visitors.
• Smart Urban Mobility: The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing implemented the “Riyadh Parking” project, utilizing digital permits and automated monitoring systems with AI-powered cameras. This initiative aims to manage parking in residential and commercial areas, thereby reducing congestion and unauthorized parking.
• Financial Services Digitization: Saudi Arabia has witnessed a rapid surge in electronic payment transactions via Point-of-Sale (POS) devices, reflecting a growing reliance on digital payments. The “Mada” network processed a substantial volume of operations, with electronic payments accounting for over 79% of total individual sector transactions in 2024, surpassing national transformation program targets.
• AI in Healthcare Research: A recent Danish study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research highlighted the application of AI techniques to detect “metabolic footprints” in adolescent blood samples, which serve as early biomarkers for future heart disease risk associated with excessive screen time.
• Social and Citizen Support Services:
• Mobile Civil Affairs Units: These units provide essential civil registry services, such as issuing and renewing national identity cards, to both men and women across 18 different locations throughout the Kingdom, including remote areas. This initiative, part of “We Come to You” and “Majideen” programs, significantly reduces the time and effort required from citizens.
• Citizen Account Program: This program deposited three billion riyals for August beneficiaries, reaching over 9.7 million beneficiaries. Approximately 72% of beneficiaries received support, with the average family receiving 1475 riyals. The program has benefited over 2 million household heads and 7.4 million dependents.
• Support for Vulnerable Groups: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has shown strong support for beneficiaries from the “Ikhaa” (orphan care) foundation. Their participation in international scout meetings reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing leadership values and community integration among its youth.
• Funeral Services: The “Tahjeez” (Funeral Care Society) in Buraidah has launched a project offering free external transport of deceased individuals to and from the city, aiming to alleviate the burden on grieving families. In just three months, the service facilitated 46 funerals, covering approximately 12,900 kilometers.
• Healthcare and Quality of Life Initiatives:
• Breastfeeding Promotion: The Ministry of Health conducts comprehensive awareness campaigns for breastfeeding, targeting pregnant women, their families (husbands, grandmothers), doctors, and nurses. These efforts aim to improve maternal health (reducing risks of breast and ovarian cancer, diabetes, and postpartum depression, and promoting faster uterine recovery) and child health (reducing obesity, diabetes, ear infections, respiratory and digestive issues, while boosting immunity and cognitive development).
• High-Quality Emergency Services: The Saudi Red Crescent Authority in Jazan achieved the top rank in beneficiary experience indicators among all Red Crescent branches nationwide. This reflects the high quality of emergency services provided, with three centers scoring above 98% in performance.
• Urban Green Spaces: The Medina Development Authority is making significant progress on Sunset Park, which is 59.5% complete and spans over 1 million square meters. This project aims to enhance the quality of life by increasing green spaces and providing comprehensive recreational facilities, including investment areas, pedestrian and cycling paths, and children’s play zones.
• Cultural and Educational Advancement:
• Arabic Language Innovation: The King Salman Global Complex for the Arabic Language launched the “Arabic Language Innovations Accelerator” program. This is the first specialized program supporting Arabic language innovation, designed to empower startups and entrepreneurs in language technologies to convert creative ideas into scalable projects.
• Cultural Heritage Documentation: The Wurth Royal Institute for Traditional Arts, in collaboration with the Culture Memory Center, has trained local cadres in digital documentation of cultural heritage, enhancing national competencies and supporting national identity.
• Technology in Heritage Promotion: The Heritage Commission leverages technology to present Saudi cultural heritage at modern events, such as the Electronic Sports World Cup in Riyadh. This includes interactive experiences like “Secrets of Al-Faw,” a mental adventure game, alongside traditional craft workshops.
• Youth Engagement in Standards: Saudi students from the “Mawhiba” program participated in the International Olympiad for Standards (ISO 2025) in South Korea. This initiative promotes awareness of standards and quality concepts among youth and encourages new ideas in technology.
• Technical and Vocational Education: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in the Riyadh region supports technical and vocational training, with 44 educational facilities, including technical colleges for boys and girls, and industrial secondary institutes.
• Astronomy Tourism: “Manarat AlUla” (AlUla Lighthouse) organizes astronomical events, such as observing the Perseid meteor shower, in AlUla, designated as a “Dark Sky” area. This initiative promotes astronomical awareness and tourism, offering unique viewing experiences.
• Public Oversight and Safety:
• Judicial Oversight: The Public Prosecution asserts its core responsibility for oversight and inspection of prisons and detention centers and any facility where judicial sentences are carried out. This ensures legal compliance, protects the rights of detainees, and mandates release for those held without lawful cause.
• Maritime Safety: The General Directorate of Border Guards in the Mecca region successfully rescued two residents whose marine vessel broke down at sea, emphasizing adherence to maritime safety guidelines and immediate contact in emergencies.

These broad-ranging initiatives highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modernizing its public services through strategic investment in technology, AI, human capital, and infrastructure, all geared towards achieving the ambitious goals of Vision 2030.

Saudi Vision and Cultural Renaissance

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

Column Title: A Word The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have been classified among the top 20 countries globally in terms of artificial intelligence talent density, surpassing countries like Italy and Russia, according to the Global Artificial Intelligence Competitiveness Index. The UAE and Saudi Arabia respectively possess 0.7% and 0.4% of the total global artificial intelligence talent, reflecting their emergence as major forces in innovation and development in the field of artificial intelligence. Within the framework of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and the national economic blueprint, the Kingdom aims to attract investments worth $20 billion and create 200,000 high-tech jobs, with the goal of becoming one of the top 10 countries globally in artificial intelligence research and applications by 2030. The Kingdom has established the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) to lead the national artificial intelligence strategy.

Column Title: Real Estate Market.. Selling Without Effort The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is working on a new map for the real estate sector, and this transformation comes as a result of a clear vision within the objectives of “Vision 2030.” Economists state that with the decline in demand for loans, some banks may be forced to re-evaluate their financing strategies because there is a shift in citizens’ behavior towards real estate ownership, driven by strategic factors related to urban development and expansion led by the state. This slowdown also reflected on marketing, where some companies resorted to waiving the commission for effort and selling without effort, especially since this step could contribute to stimulating the real estate market and increasing demand for real estate projects.

Column Title: Voice of Moderation The Public Prosecution affirmed its primary responsibilities in overseeing and inspecting prisons, detention centers, and any facilities where judicial sentences are carried out. This is part of its oversight role to ensure the implementation of regulations and the protection of the rights of inmates and detainees.

Column Title: The Article In a scene reflecting the dynamism of the Saudi economy and the sustainability of its momentum, the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) showed in its weekly report issued for the week ending August 2, 2025, that the value of electronic point-of-sale transactions reached 15.6 billion riyals (approximately $4.16 billion), achieving a weekly increase of 31.5% compared to the previous week. The bank clarified that the number of operations executed through point-of-sale devices increased to 244.03 million operations, with an increase of 18.2%, which reflects a simultaneous growth in spending volume and the number of transactions.

Column Title: An Economy that Strengthens and Prospers The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is working on a new map for the real estate sector, and this transformation is a result of a clear vision within the objectives of “Vision 2030.” Economists state that with the decline in demand for loans, some banks may be forced to re-evaluate their financing strategies because there is a shift in citizens’ behavior towards real estate ownership, driven by strategic factors related to urban development and expansion led by the state. This slowdown also reflected on marketing, where some companies resorted to waiving the commission for effort and selling without effort, especially since this step could contribute to stimulating the real estate market and increasing demand for real estate projects.

Column Title: America and the Fight Against Poverty The executive order signed by the American president late last month, urging cities and states to remove homeless encampments and transfer them to treatment centers, is considered a step towards solving a stubborn problem that has long marred the image of the United States in the eyes of the world. According to statistics from the US Interagency Council on Homelessness, the number of homeless people in the United States on one night in 2024 reached approximately 771,480 individuals, an 18% increase from the previous year (2023), reaching its highest level in the country’s history.

Column Title: The Article Last month, the American president signed an executive order urging cities and states to remove homeless encampments and transfer them to treatment centers, which is considered a step to solve a persistent problem that has long tarnished the image of the United States in the eyes of the world. According to statistics from the US Interagency Council on Homelessness, the number of homeless people in the United States on one night in 2024 reached approximately 771,480 individuals, an 18% increase from the previous year (2023), reaching its highest level in the country’s history.

Column Title: The Pianist and the Gaza Holocaust There are scenes that remain etched in human memory because they reveal the cruelty of history and expose the fragility of the human conscience. The film “The Pianist” presented in silence a Polish-Jewish pianist who found himself alone during World War II, wandering through the ruined streets of Warsaw, picking up scraps of bread from garbage piles, searching in alleys, shivering from cold and trembling from hunger and fear, in scenes that brought tears to millions of eyes. Far from the memory of cinema, today in Gaza, millions, not just pianists, are emptying their full sorrow, and there is no actor playing a role, but rather life is being assassinated from their stomachs due to hunger and their streets due to bombing, and the recurring scenes: women digging in the rubble of mills searching for flour, children sharing a meal that is not enough for one of them, and old people drinking polluted water to deceive screaming intestines begging for sustenance.

Column Title: Between Siege and Image.. Gaza Awaits the Camera! Gaza is experiencing a suffocating media blockade that is no less severe than the military siege in the past weeks. More than 100 international and independent journalists and photographers have signed a petition demanding immediate access to the Gaza Strip, not for a journalistic scoop, but for humanity’s right to see and know. This demand is not a professional luxury, but an extension of the journalistic principle: the right to convey the truth from the heart of the field is part of the peoples’ right to knowledge.

Column Title: Lavender Under this title, we will review some poetry collections by poets or those interested in popular poetry, which were compiled in the past, and which the poets themselves or their descendants supervised and compiled, by presenting samples of poems from the first generation of popular poets. In this issue, we will review the diwan of the great poet Muhammad Abdullah Al-Qadi, which was compiled by his grandson Abdullah Al-Hamati, and which was published in Kuwait in 1984 (1404 AH) by Al-Salasil Publishing House, with an introduction written by his grandson Sheikh Muhammad bin Hamad bin Muhammad Al-Qadi. In it, it states: “He is Muhammad bin Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Ibrahim bin Abdulrahman bin Muhammad bin Abdulrahman bin Muhammad bin Ahmed bin Muhammad bin Munif bin Bassam bin Munif bin Asaker bin Bassam bin Uqbah bin Ra’is bin Zakher bin Muhammad bin Alawi bin Wahib bin Qasim bin Musa bin Uqbah bin Sini’ bin Nahshal bin Shaddad bin Zuhair bin Shihab bin Rabi’ah bin Abi Aswad bin Malik bin Hanzala bin Malik bin Zaid Manat bin Tamim bin Murr bin Ad bin Tabakhah bin Elias bin Musar bin Nizar bin Ma’ad bin Adnan”.

Column Title: A Poet’s Publication The verbal skirmishes are considered a truthful expression of the poet’s sentiments, where his feelings overflow with affection and appreciation, and the vastness of imagination. This is through the interactions and responses among poets, where they choose what is beloved and desirable, and this art is characterized by intellectual and poetic harmony among them. Among these are the poems of the falconry and hunting poets, and what took place between the two poets, Faisal bin Sulaiman Al-Jurays and Muhammad bin Khalid Al-Atishan, in a falconry hunt. The poet Faisal Al-Atishan says: “When Suhail drew near, we rejoiced first, but today, Suhail’s arrival has become ordinary for those who love hunting.

Column Title: The Falcon in the Sky, Its View is Different The falcon in the sky, its view is different. In its view, oh, how beautiful is the spread of its wing. And what the flying machine captures from it proves its success to us. It lands on the runway just as the bird lands, and it needs less time for takeoff and landing.

Column Title: The Super.. Public Glow and Legal Dimming At a time when the eyes of Saudi football fans are turning towards the anticipated edition of the Saudi Super Cup, the legal and administrative debate returns to the forefront. After the legal debate sparked by the Al-Nassr and Al-Wehda case, which has become a recurring part of the football scene even seasonally, the Al-Hilal club’s apology for participating in the Super Cup came to bring back to the surface the issue of conflicting regulations and varying interpretations, which is even more problematic.

Column Title: Reasons for Fanaticism If the poor lived with the rich in the same environment, there would be no problem. However, if the rich acted superior to the poor, then there would be a reaction from the poor towards the rich. This reaction would be negative and unnatural, not out of envy or hatred, but out of necessity.

Column Title: The Golden President Every president who comes to Al-Hilal finds an environment that helps him continue the journey and keep the club at the top, due to the high professionalism that distinguishes this great club from others. The Golden President, Nawaf bin Fahd, left the presidency of Al-Hilal after achieving championships that were difficult to achieve before his arrival.

Column Title: Najran Industrial City on the Table of Juluwi bin Abdulaziz Prince Juluwi bin Abdulaziz bin Musa’ed, Governor of Najran region, received yesterday in his office in Najran a report on the industrial city in Najran, presented by the Director of the Industrial City in the region, Eng. Ali bin Hassan Al-Bagirah. His Highness reviewed the contents of the industrial city, which is located about 45 kilometers northeast of Najran city, and extends over a total area of 6.5 million square meters, of which more than 3.6 million square meters have been fully developed.

Column Title: The Consulting Turk Al-Sheikh.. Trust that Made a Difference In a cultural turning point of great significance, the General Entertainment Authority, led by His Excellency Turki Al-Sheikh, announced that the upcoming edition of Riyadh Season will witness a broad Saudi and Gulf presence on the stages of musical concerts and plays. This is a strategic direction that aims to reshape the map of entertainment production locally and give Saudi talents a greater window to global reach. What Al-Sheikh announced about supporting Gulf musicians and focusing on Saudi and Syrian plays represents a link in a chain of escalating developments that Saudi Arabia is witnessing in localizing cultural production and transforming it into an exportable product, and an industry based on “talent and identity” rather than relying on temporary import of stars.

Column Title: Riyadh Season.. Saudi Talents Lead Soft Power What the Kingdom is witnessing in terms of cultural openness was not born out of the moment, but was preceded by Saudi talents who honed themselves and participated in international opera houses, and merged with European and Arab music groups. Today, the moment of truth has come for these talents to return to the stages of their homeland and lead the Saudi music orchestra in its most mature and integrated season. This direction not only reflects support for talents but is also an extension of a larger vision that seeks to redefine entertainment as part of Saudi soft power and a lever for cultural, social, and economic development.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 primarily focuses on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, highlighting economic diversification efforts to reduce oil dependency, particularly through non-oil revenue expansion and private sector growth. It also addresses social and cultural initiatives, including the impact of educational reforms and the promotion of arts and traditional crafts. Additionally, the texts cover regional and international affairs, such as Israel’s actions in Gaza and global market responses to geopolitical events, demonstrating the Kingdom’s evolving role on the world stage.

Podcast

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Growth

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing economic diversification through ambitious strategies and initiatives, primarily under the umbrella of Vision 2030. This transformation is seen as a tangible reality, not merely a strategy, supported by substantial investments and leading to significant growth in non-oil sectors.

Key aspects and achievements of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification efforts include:

• Strategic Investments:The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role, injecting no less than 150 billion Riyals annually into the local economy. This significantly boosts growth and creates job opportunities, particularly in non-oil sectors.
• Growth in Non-Oil Sectors:The non-oil GDP grew by 4.5% in 2024, driven by sectors such as construction, retail, and hospitality.
• The private non-oil sector’s contribution to the total GDP reached 56% in 2024, following a 14% growth in that year, signaling significant transformative shifts.
• The aim is to increase non-oil exports from 39% to 50% of GDP by 2030, and the private sector’s contribution to 65% of GDP by 2030.
• Financial Stability and Resilience:The International Monetary Fund (IMF) 2024 report praises Saudi Arabia’s economic performance as a “model of resilience and disciplined transformation”.
• The Kingdom’s strong financial reserves and sovereign assets enable it to lead regional economic stability. Its net foreign assets are projected to remain robust at 35.3% of GDP by 2027, the highest among its peers.
• Foreign reserves cover 12.8 months of current external payments, which is high compared to the 1.8-month average for similarly rated countries.
• The financial sector is strong, with high capital adequacy (19.3%) and low non-performing loans (1.2%), the lowest in years.
• The Saudi Riyal’s peg to the US Dollar is deemed appropriate for stability and investor confidence.
• Industry and Manufacturing (“Made in Saudi” Program):The “Made in Saudi” program aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a distinguished global industrial destination and enhance the competitiveness of Saudi products in regional and international markets.
• Industrial investments have seen a massive 2700% increase between 2020 and 2024.
• Examples include the local production of car components (e.g., Hyundai, Pirelli), export of paper to over 50 countries, local manufacturing of AC units with over 70% local content, and local ship and boat manufacturing.
• Tourism Development:The diversification and development of tourism facilities and services have encouraged citizens and residents to spend their holidays domestically, thereby reducing outbound travel and retaining spending within the local economy.
• The Eastern Province, for example, has seen significant foreign investment exceeding 1.7 billion Riyals due to its developed tourism infrastructure and diverse attractions.
• The goal is to move beyond seasonal tourism (like summer) to sustainable mountain tourism throughout the year, particularly in regions like Al-Sarawat (including Taif and Abha), by integrating nature, identity, and investment.
• Emerging Sectors (Data Economy):There is a recognition of genomic and health data as “the new oil,” marking a shift towards a data-driven economy.
• Saudi Arabia is actively building a national database through the Saudi Genome Program, which contributes to enhancing preventative medicine and the quality of healthcare. This signifies a forward-looking approach to diversification into the knowledge economy.
• Addressing Challenges:While economic growth is strong, the IMF highlighted challenges such as a financial deficit (4% of GDP in 2024) and rising public debt.
• Recommendations include expanding non-oil revenues, controlling public sector wages, reforming subsidies, and improving public spending efficiency.
• Despite these, the ratios are considered within safe limits, and proactive steps are being taken.
• Education Sector’s Role:The private education sector is contributing to diversification by aiming to increase its service delivery from 18% currently to 25% by 2030. This involves encouraging private sector participation and adapting to new educational models, such as the shift back to two academic semesters.
• International Events:Hosting major international events like the Asia Cup, Expo, and the World Cup are anticipated to stimulate domestic demand and energize the tourism and construction sectors, further supporting diversification efforts.

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification strategy is comprehensive and multi-faceted, focusing on leveraging its financial strength, fostering private sector growth, developing new industries, enhancing tourism, and investing in advanced sectors like the data economy, all while ensuring stability and long-term sustainability.

Saudi Education Reforms: Vision 2030 and Sector Changes

Saudi Arabia is actively implementing significant reforms in its education sector, primarily driven by Vision 2030’s ambitious goals to develop human capabilities and diversify sources of growth. This transformation aims to enhance educational quality and respond to the evolving needs of the Kingdom.

Key aspects of these reforms include:

• Shift to a Two-Semester System in General Education:
• The Council of Ministers approved the adoption of a two-semester system for general education schools starting from the academic year 1447/1448 AH (2025/2026), replacing the previous three-semester system.
• This decision followed a comprehensive study involving educational specialists, students, and parents, with the aim of improving the quality of education and fostering human capability development. It also seeks to achieve a balance between operational stability and educational quality.
• While the three-semester system was considered an important developmental step that increased school days to an average of 180 annually (aligning with OECD and G20 countries), the two-semester system is believed to offer sufficient time for content coverage, longer and more effective breaks, and simplified administrative and logistical planning for aspects like exams and holidays. It also aligns with many international educational systems, potentially facilitating academic exchange.
• The Ministry of Education emphasized that educational quality fundamentally depends on the teacher, the curriculum, and school governance, rather than solely on the number of semesters.
• To ensure smooth implementation, recommendations include issuing a detailed academic calendar, providing guidance booklets, organizing training courses for teachers, and launching awareness campaigns for parents and students.
• The reforms also aim for digital transformation, integrating technological solutions to facilitate learning and assessment and to reduce educational loss.
• Role of the Private Education Sector:
• The decision to revert to two semesters has led to divided views between parents and private school owners regarding tuition fees. Parents are demanding reduced fees due to perceived lower operational pressures on schools. However, school owners argue against reductions, citing the continuation of a minimum 180-day school year.
• Currently, private school registration fees range from 10,000 to 50,000 Saudi Riyals, with some international schools charging significantly more.
• The Ministry of Education maintains strict oversight of private and international school fees, requiring approval for any increases and establishing committees to review regulations, manage a comprehensive fee database, and handle complaints.
• The private education sector is a key contributor to Vision 2030’s diversification efforts, aiming to increase its share of educational service delivery from the current 18% to 25% by 2030, a target it is reportedly on track to achieve.
• Recent statistics indicate growth in the private education sector, with the number of private schools reaching 7,337 in 2024 (an increase of 490 from 2023), student enrollment rising to 1.1 million in 2024 (a 10% increase from 2023), and the number of teachers also growing.
• Training and Development for Religious Figures:
• The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance is actively involved in educational development by conducting training programs for imams and preachers.
• A program titled “Ethics of the Preacher and Traits of an Influential Personality” was held in Taif, focusing on developing personality, enhancing communication skills, and strengthening moral values among participants.
• The program aims to raise the competence of preachers and elevate religious discourse to promote moderation and enhance public religious awareness.
• International Educational Discussions (from the sources):
• Germany: A survey revealed that 80% of parents in Germany support banning mobile phones in schools, believing they hinder concentration and learning, though teachers are wary of such a measure. Some German states have already implemented bans in early primary school. The German Teachers’ Union, however, believes the focus should be on responsible use rather than a complete ban.
• United States: The University of California system faced a demand from the US President to pay a $1 billion fine due to its handling of pro-Palestinian student protests, which the university viewed as “extortion” and a threat to academic freedom. This highlights tensions between governmental authority and academic institutions regarding freedom of expression and protest management.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Environmental Protection and Sustainability

Saudi Arabia is demonstrating a strong and comprehensive commitment to environmental protection through various ambitious strategies and initiatives, primarily under the umbrella of Vision 2030. These efforts are designed to enhance the quality of life, diversify the economy, and ensure long-term sustainability.

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s environmental protection efforts include:

• National Greening and Reforestation Programs:
• The National Greening Program is a significant initiative that underscores the crucial role of the private sector in supporting its objectives and developing natural resources.
• This program aims to expand vegetation cover and ensure environmental sustainability. It aligns with the broader Saudi Green Initiative.
• It actively promotes investment opportunities in tree planting and land rehabilitation, emphasizing combating desertification and enhancing the quality of life.
• Tangible progress has been made, including the rehabilitation of over 500,000 hectares of degraded land and the planting of more than 151 million trees across various regions.
• These achievements highlight the importance of partnerships across public, private, and non-profit sectors to foster environmental preservation and sustainable development.
• Wildlife Conservation:
• The Special Forces for Environmental Security have issued strict warnings against hunting endangered wild animals, specifically highlighting the Arabian Gazelle (Reem Deer).
• Hunting an Arabian Gazelle is considered a serious violation, carrying a fine of 25,000 Saudi Riyals per animal.
• This penalty is part of a comprehensive violations schedule set by the Saudi Wildlife Authority, designed to protect biodiversity and maintain natural ecological balance.
• Citizens and residents are encouraged to report any instances of hunting or tampering with wildlife through designated emergency numbers (911 in Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, and the Eastern Province; 999 in other regions).
• Environmental protection is emphasized as a collective societal responsibility that requires close cooperation with relevant authorities.
• Sustainable Resource Management (Water and Agriculture):
• In Tabuk, 48 development projects totaling over 4.4 billion Riyals have been inaugurated for the environment, water, and agriculture system.
• These projects are designed to meet citizens’ needs, optimize the utilization of human and natural resources, and support sustainable development in the region, in line with Vision 2030 objectives.
• Specific initiatives within these projects aim to improve the quality of life, boost economic and social development, and localize competencies while stimulating innovation, all contributing to environmental, water, and food sustainability.
• Energy Transition and Emissions Reduction:
• Aramco is playing a significant role in clean energy and natural gas expansion as part of its long-term strategy.
• The company has set an ambitious target to achieve net-zero emissions from its Scope 1 and Scope 2 assets by 2050.
• Natural gas is recognized as a crucial fuel for energy transition and supports the Kingdom’s commitment to providing low-carbon energy.
• Aramco is developing unconventional gas resources, such as the Jafurah field, to meet domestic demand, reduce carbon emissions, and minimize the burning of liquid fuels for power generation.
• A pioneering achievement includes the launch of the world’s first large-scale battery energy storage system based on iron-vanadium flow battery technology in the North Wafra field, designed to efficiently supply electricity for gas production activities, even in challenging hot climates, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions.
• Nature-Based Tourism and Heritage Preservation:
• Efforts to diversify and develop tourism facilities, such as those in the Eastern Province, contribute to retaining domestic spending and fostering local engagement.
• There is a strategic focus on developing sustainable mountain tourism throughout the year in regions like Al-Sarawat (including Taif and Abha). This involves integrating nature, cultural identity, and investment, drawing inspiration from international models like the “Smoky Mountains” in the US.
• The importance of rehabilitating archaeological and heritage areas is highlighted, as they represent vital historical periods and cultural narratives, linking the past with the present and strengthening local identity.
• Specific regional examples like Al-Bashaer in Balqarn showcase environmental efforts through the maintenance of green spaces, recreational facilities, productive farms, and historical rural homes, contributing to both natural beauty and cultural heritage.

In essence, Saudi Arabia’s environmental protection initiatives are multi-faceted and deeply integrated into its national development goals, reflecting a holistic approach towards a sustainable and diversified future.

Aramco’s Strategic Expansion: Gas, LNG, and Sustainability Initiatives

Saudi Aramco is actively pursuing a comprehensive expansion strategy that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and human capability development. This strategy emphasizes increasing natural gas production, investing in clean energy technologies, and expanding its global footprint, while maintaining robust financial performance despite geopolitical challenges.

Key aspects of Saudi Aramco’s expansion include:

• Financial Strength and Strategic Capital Allocation:
• Aramco’s financial results for the first half of 2025 demonstrated the company’s resilience and flexibility despite geopolitical challenges.
• The company reported strong profits and stable dividends to shareholders, alongside disciplined capital allocation.
• Its financial position is robust, with the lowest debt-to-equity ratio among major global oil companies.
• Capital investments reached $12.4 billion in the second quarter of 2025, including $0.1 billion in external investments, and $25.5 billion for the first half of 2025. The full-year capital expenditure guidance for 2025 is between $52 billion and $58 billion. This strategic investment choice reflects Aramco’s long-term growth approach, differing from short-term focuses.
• Natural Gas Production and LNG Market Expansion:
• Aramco’s long-term strategy includes a significant focus on clean energy and natural gas expansion.
• The company’s total gas production, including natural gas and ethane, increased to 11,850 million standard cubic feet per day in Q2 2025.
• A key strategic target is to increase sales gas production capacity by over 60% by 2030.
• Major gas projects include:
• Ras Tanura Gas Plant: Construction continues as part of the Marjan field development, expected to be completed in 2025. It will increase crude gas processing capacity by 2.6 billion standard cubic feet per day from the Marjan and Zuluf fields.
• Jafurah Gas Field Development: Construction and procurement are ongoing for the Jafurah gas plant, aiming for the first phase to be completed in 2025. This unconventional gas resource is expected to reach a sustainable sales gas production rate of 2.0 billion standard cubic feet per day by 2030, alongside significant ethane and natural gas liquids production. This field is crucial for meeting domestic demand, reducing carbon emissions, and minimizing liquid fuel burning for power generation.
• Fadhili Gas Plant Expansion: Engineering, procurement, and construction have progressed, with an expected increase in crude gas processing capacity by 1.5 billion standard cubic feet per day by 2027.
• Aramco is actively strengthening its presence in the global liquefied natural gas (LNG) market, recognizing its vital role in energy transition.
• It has signed memoranda of understanding worth billions of dollars and has a binding agreement with NextDecade (an affiliate of Sempra Infrastructure) to supply 1.2 million tons per annum of LNG for 20 years from the Rio Grande LNG export facility. This signifies Aramco’s ambition to become a global leader in LNG production.
• Technological Advancement and Sustainability:
• Aramco has launched the world’s first large-scale battery energy storage system based on iron-vanadium flow battery technology in the North Wafra field. This system is designed to efficiently supply electricity for gas production, even in challenging hot climates, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions.
• This technological focus aligns with Aramco’s ambitious target to achieve net-zero emissions from its Scope 1 and Scope 2 assets by 2050.
• The company is continuously exploring local and international opportunities in key LNG markets to enhance synergy and meet the world’s increasing demand for secure, more sustainable, and affordable energy.

In essence, Aramco’s expansion is characterized by strategic investments in gas infrastructure and LNG capabilities, a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, and leveraging advanced technologies to secure its position as a leading global energy provider in a diversifying energy landscape.

Global Geopolitical Conflicts and Humanitarian Crises

Geopolitical conflicts are highlighted in the sources as significant challenges impacting various regions and global systems, encompassing traditional warfare, humanitarian crises, and economic tensions.

Here’s a comprehensive discussion based on the provided information:

• Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (Gaza Strip):
• The situation in the Gaza Strip involves escalation and a severe humanitarian catastrophe, including crimes of starvation. Gaza’s Ministry of Health reported 39 martyrs and 491 injuries in a 24-hour period due to Israeli aggression. There have been 11 deaths from starvation and malnutrition in Gaza within 24 hours, bringing the total to 212 deaths from these causes, including 98 children, and the crisis has intensified since Gaza crossings were closed five months prior. Since October 7, 2023, the total casualties in Gaza are 61,369 martyrs and 152,850 injuries.
• The Arab-Islamic Ministerial Committee has strongly condemned Israel’s declaration of full military control over Gaza, viewing it as a dangerous escalation, a violation of international law, and an attempt to entrench illegal occupation by force, which contradicts international resolutions.
• International discussions, including those involving Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and other foreign ministers, have focused on ending Israeli escalation, achieving humanitarian calm, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid, intensifying global efforts to end the war and starvation crimes, and preventing actions that could undermine the two-state solution or prolong the conflict. The committee also emphasizes the need for immediate reconstruction of Gaza and participation in upcoming conferences.
• There is a strong rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians from Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. The Palestinian Presidency views Israel’s plan to control Gaza as based on killing, starvation, and forced displacement, warning of an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe.
• The situation also highlights concerns about accountability for actions amounting to crimes against humanity or genocide.
• Internally, Israeli security leaders have expressed dissent regarding the Gaza occupation plan, suggesting more “suitable options” and indicating internal disagreements. This conflict is also noted to escalate suffering for families, undermine Israel’s international standing, harm its economy, and deepen trust issues between the government and the army.
• Furthermore, Palestinian prisoners face systematic torture and dire conditions in Israeli occupation prisons, with 10,800 prisoners reported as of early August 2025, the highest number since 2000. Settler incursions into historical sites like the Bab Al-Rahma cemetery in East Jerusalem are also noted as part of Judaization efforts.
• Lebanon’s Security and Stability:
• Lebanon has experienced the tragic consequences of past conflicts, with six Lebanese army members killed due to an explosion of unexploded ordnance from Israeli war remnants in southern Lebanon.
• The Lebanese government and military are actively working to assert national sovereignty and ensure security and stability across its territory.
• Humanitarian aid is being provided to 260,000 citizens affected by the Israeli war in southern Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing impact of the conflict.
• Despite a ceasefire agreement, Israeli airstrikes continue in southern Lebanon and Beirut’s southern suburbs.
• Ukraine Conflict:
• There are ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Russia to reach an agreement to end the war in Ukraine.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has cautioned against any peace decisions or territorial concessions made “without Ukraine’s involvement,” emphasizing that the war cannot end without their participation.
• A summit between US President Trump and Russian President Putin is planned, with potential discussions about a final agreement to end the war, possibly involving a “territorial exchange” beneficial to both sides.
• The conflict has led to economic pressures, with the US threatening to increase tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil, such as India and China. Canada has also lowered its price cap on Russian oil due to the ongoing war. Market volatility is directly linked to the conflict and diplomatic efforts surrounding it.
• Economic Tensions and Trade Wars:
• The global economy is impacted by “economic wars” and “fluctuations in international economic policies”.
• The US has imposed tariffs on gold, which has created uncertainty in the market, affecting gold prices and even leading to a halt in shipments from major refining hubs like Switzerland. These tariffs have contributed to global economic uncertainty.
• Humanitarian Crises and Aid Efforts:
• Saudi Arabia, through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, provides aid in conflict-affected regions. This includes distributing food baskets to returnees in Herat, Afghanistan, and supporting the reintegration of Yemeni children previously associated with armed conflict in Wadi Hadramout.
• The Kingdom also distributes food vouchers to Syrian and Palestinian refugees in Jordan and provides aid to displaced persons within Syria.
• Iraq’s Internal Political Obstruction:
• Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani has indicated that a promised ministerial reshuffle is stalled due to “political obstruction.” The government is, however, actively pursuing efforts to combat corruption.

Overall, the sources highlight that geopolitical conflicts, whether military, economic, or political, have widespread consequences, including humanitarian crises, market volatility, and diplomatic engagements aimed at de-escalation and resolution. Saudi Arabia, in particular, is noted for its humanitarian efforts in response to these conflicts and its resilience in navigating their economic impacts, as seen with Aramco’s performance despite geopolitical challenges.

Arabian Press Review: Society, Sports, and Global Insights

Here are the titles of the columns and their first two paragraphs of detail from the newspaper, translated into English:

• Title: Word/Editorial
• Detail Paragraph 1: Vision 2030, launched nine years ago, aims to transform the Kingdom and reorder its priorities to achieve a vibrant society that provides welfare and prosperity for citizens. The vision enhances and increases the nation’s pride in its deep cultural heritage and strong roots in the history of the Arabian Peninsula. What has been achieved on the ground is unique through many programs brought by the Vision, including the cultural goals, which define three main objectives.
• Detail Paragraph 2: These objectives state that “culture” should be a lifestyle lived by every citizen, in addition to its role in enhancing economic growth and investing in the Kingdom’s international standing. Under the umbrella of these combined objectives, the second edition of the performance show “Terhal” was launched in Diriyah Governorate as “A Homeland Story”. Through a simple and live musical narrative, it combines elements of nature with modern theatrical techniques.
• Title: Editor’s Papers
• Detail Paragraph 1: In our workplaces, in our gatherings, or even in public places, we often meet simple people who offer things to make those around them happy and optimistic. One carries coffee for his colleagues at work, another brings watermelons for his relatives to chat over in the evening, and a third designates a weekly day to host his friends at home. What do you think makes them do that?
• Detail Paragraph 2: A different kind of happiness seeps into the heart of one who helps others. Perhaps a joy settles deep within him, making him live rosy days, all because he offered a simple kindness that makes him happy to please others. Oh, for the big heart that delights in making others happy!
• Title: The New Oil from Our Bodies
• Detail Paragraph 1: Oil has been a strategic resource in the past century, moving economies and redrawing maps of global powers. Today, a new type of resource emerges, no less valuable or important, but even surpassing it in its connection to human life and privacy: genomic and health data. This resource has become a global topic of discussion.
• Detail Paragraph 2: Large institutions, such as the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the Rand Institute, view biological data as a commodity tradable for enrichment. In its July 2024 report, the Rand Institute described genomic data as “the new oil for the Middle East,” referring to Gulf countries – including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar – racing to build significant health databases as a strategic alternative wealth to oil. However, while these discussions often focus on economic returns, the human, ethical, and security dimensions remain, and need to be highlighted more deeply, especially in the Arab world.
• Title: Humanity Across Continents
• Detail Paragraph 1: The Kingdom’s leadership in charitable and humanitarian work globally stems from numerous humanitarian initiatives and aid efforts, rooted in its belief in the importance of the active humanitarian and developmental role. This establishes the humanitarian dimension as a constant approach in its policy towards needy and affected countries, solidifying its global standing and strong presence through relief programs, financial aid, and national support in disaster and war zones. This is achieved through its humanitarian arm, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, which represents a humanitarian and relief value worldwide.
• Detail Paragraph 2: From this perspective, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre serves as a leading global humanitarian model to be emulated, providing humanitarian, relief, and charitable services and aid. It also works to develop partnerships with leading humanitarian organizations globally, operating on principles of integration and aiming for the sustainability of the Kingdom’s charitable and relief efforts. These efforts are guided by noble humanitarian goals focused on providing aid to the needy and assisting those afflicted anywhere in the world, through precise monitoring, and advanced and rapid transfer methods, often in cooperation with trusted UN and international non-profit organizations in beneficiary countries.
• Title: Honoring the Guest: An Authentic Virtue
• Detail Paragraph 1: One of the oldest virtues known about Arabs, and among the highest values, is honoring the guest. This characteristic, by which they were distinguished, was a mark of chivalry, a sign of nobility, and a title by which the master of the house was known, with his open door and an unextinguished fire. There is no doubt that this authentic virtue has remained present in our Arab culture, generation after generation.
• Detail Paragraph 2: As Islam came to complete noble morals, it reinforced this noble virtue and linked it to faith itself. Honoring the guest became a branch of faith, as reported by Al-Bayhaqi in his book “Shu’ab al-Iman”: “Whoever believes in God and the Last Day should honor his guest”. I believe that this integration of faith and behavior sends a great message, confirming that values are not just social ethics, but a true reflection of the faith and sincerity of belonging in the heart.
• Title: When Slogans Rule Us
• Detail Paragraph 1: Has it ever happened to you that you met someone and formed an instant, perhaps strange, impression of them, only to later discover you were completely wrong? This is not rare, but common, more than our minds, with their amazing processing power, can imagine. They tend to make judgments quickly, without waiting for details or verifying the complete picture.
• Detail Paragraph 2: In our daily social lives, events quickly follow one another, and amidst this rush, we find ourselves – willingly or unwillingly – part of scenes that demand interaction or a reaction. The result is often a quick judgment, based on appearance or fleeting behavior, not on true knowledge or understanding.
• Title: The Fifth Shaqra Pepper: Diversity and Harmony
• Detail Paragraph 1: When I went to Shaqra Governorate, I had a strong desire to attend the Shaqra Pepper Festival, which in its fifth edition, is growing in presence, development, and expansion in all aspects. It combines the display of diverse agricultural products and multiple processing industries for pepper, which has become a distinctive mark for Shaqra. I was surprised by the huge number of attendees in all locations and facilities of the festival, both inside and outside the hall, and I moved with difficulty through its wings, which indicates the large turnout and number of visitors.
• Detail Paragraph 2: On the second day, I attended, expecting the number to be less than yesterday, but the number was similar, which is pleasing to everyone. This indicates the diversity in the exhibits and products offered for this event, which caters to the needs of attendees of all ages and categories. There are also sales for honey and its processed products, handicrafts, and industries, with participation from some Gulf countries and different regions of the Kingdom, with their diverse cultures.
• Title: When Slogans Rule Us
• Detail Paragraph 1: Has it ever happened to you that you met someone and formed an instant, perhaps strange, impression of them, only to later discover you were completely wrong? This is not rare, but common, more than our minds, with their amazing processing power, can imagine. They tend to make judgments quickly, without waiting for details or verifying the complete picture.
• Detail Paragraph 2: In our daily social lives, events quickly follow one another, and amidst this rush, we find ourselves – willingly or unwillingly – part of scenes that demand interaction or a reaction. The result is often a quick judgment, based on appearance or fleeting behavior, not on true knowledge or understanding.
• Note: The content for this column is identical to the entry titled “When Slogans Rule Us” found earlier in the source.
• Title: Nationalism and Loyalty Marketing
• Detail Paragraph 1: Investors and merchants exert a lot of effort and money to ensure the success of their investments and businesses, using many strategies, and one of the most prominent is the “Loyalty Marketing” strategy. Many companies and merchants rely on building customer loyalty by offering incentives to retain their existing customers, whether immediate or deferred. For the “local” merchant, this is an opportunity presented on a national platter for whoever grasps it and realizes that he is part of a whole, and that he has duties as well as rights.
• Detail Paragraph 2: The investment opportunities available to him and other merchants, and the logistical support provided to them, are merely the beginning of a national role expected by decision-makers and citizens alike. This role is not limited to increasing distinguished national products or high-quality services, but rather rests on the owners of national companies and merchants generally realizing the importance of employing national competencies, granting them suitable job opportunities, and promoting them to supervisory positions befitting their qualifications. This is because the positive return of employing national youth is not limited to increasing the merchant’s profits or the company’s success, but also achieves the desired direction for the national economy.
• Title: Al-Hilal’s Transfer Delays… Why?
• Detail Paragraph 1: With every summer, the same story repeats in the Al-Hilal house. The leader’s fans anticipate and wait, holding their breath until the last moments of the transfer period, hoping that the curtain will be lifted on deals that match the ambition of the blue stands. While Al-Hilal has accustomed everyone to big surprise deals, even if delayed, the delay itself has become a phenomenon that deserves attention.
• Detail Paragraph 2: There is no dispute that Al-Hilal’s management often excels in choosing foreign players, especially. However, what often causes concern is the timing; deals often come late, or even sometimes the season begins without the completion of foreign players or even local ones. This puts the technical staff in a difficult position, especially during the preparatory camp or the first rounds of the league.
• Title: Ronaldo: Al-Nassr Icon
• Detail Paragraph 1: Cristiano Ronaldo, the icon of enjoyment and a story of enchantment, how can I describe him, the creative legend? I begin with stories of enjoyment, performance aesthetics, and spirit that breathe life. Yes, his arrival at Al-Nassr was an addition that created excitement and follow-up in the Saudi League. He provided global channels with more viewing, broadcasting this athletic scene.
• Detail Paragraph 2: This has given our league renewed enthusiasm, reaching the highest levels of global competition and supporting popular attendance. Indeed, Don’s flame was within the stadium. Yes, an iconic leader who entertains with his presence, his goals, and his dedication for Al-Nassr, even creating joy in the stands. Yes, a rich sports history of global participation.
• Title: Successful Visit
• Detail Paragraph 1: The visit of the President of the Saudi Handball Federation, Hassan Nasser Hilal, to Al-Fateh Club and Al-Adalah Club, came to provide clear evidence of the federation’s interest in the two clubs and their participation in the Saudi Premier League. It reflects its interest in giving each team its rights; a visit was made to them, and their statements were listened to before entering the fray of the new football season.
• Detail Paragraph 2: This visit must be positive and indeed took place at the same time, but the benefit from them is great. The points were put on the table for each team, and their observations after the visit, which were presented with full transparency, were noted. We await active and highly beneficial participation from them after implementing the demands, and we have full confidence that both teams will present outstanding and dazzling performances in the league.
• Title: Football: A Game of Tactics, Not Just Stars!
• Detail Paragraph 1: The majority believes that success hinges on possessing huge budgets and shining names, but reality confirms that technical and tactical work is the decisive factor, even with limited resources. For example, Atlético Madrid under Simeone did not possess the financial capabilities or big names comparable to its rivals, yet through a tight defensive organization and amazing tactical work, he managed to lead the team to achieve local and European championships, and Atlético became one of the continent’s strongest teams.
• Detail Paragraph 2: The same applies to Hansi Flick at Barcelona, whose capabilities did not match those he had at Bayern, as the prominent names were not at their best and the team was going through a transitional phase with young players. Despite their lack of experience, Flick managed to rebuild the team through a modern technical philosophy and tactical organization, focusing on utilizing every strong point in the squad.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 articles from “20841.pdf” addresses a diverse range of topics, including Saudi Arabia’s evolving role in the Palestinian issue and its economic diversification efforts, with a focus on non-oil revenues and urban development. Several pieces discuss cultural and intellectual matters, such as the transformation of poetic debates into an economic market, the philosophical underpinnings of language and identity, and the profound impact of figures like Sheikh Hamad Al-Jasser on Saudi culture and journalism. The texts also explore legal education reforms, the strategic implications of AI in pricing, and shifting global trade dynamics, specifically China’s expanding influence and America’s import adjustments. Additionally, the compilation touches upon health-related advice, the financial evolution of club football with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, and the importance of tourism for national identity, alongside a poignant reflection on the communicative power of silence.

Podcast

The Transformative Power of the Professional JD Degree

Legal education reform has been a pivotal topic, particularly in the context of legal systems and their ability to adapt to societal and economic needs. The professional JD (Juris Doctor) degree in the United States serves as a significant example of how legal education can be transformed, and its influence extends to various countries, including Arab nations.

Here’s a detailed look at legal education reform:

• Historical Context and the Need for Reform in the US
• In the mid-19th century, the United States faced a legal education landscape that was fragmented and lacked clear academic standards amidst rapid industrial and social transformations.
• The prevailing educational system at the time heavily relied on traditional apprenticeships in law offices, often without proper scientific or institutional oversight.
• While the British LL.B. (Bachelor of Laws) model was adopted, it failed to genuinely develop legal professionals with the analytical and practical tools needed for the American environment. This resulted in an inconsistent quality of graduates, a strong emphasis on rote learning, and a deficiency in practical application, making law seem more like a static theory than a dynamic profession. This situation necessitated a bold approach to reform.
• Christopher Columbus Langdell’s Revolution
• A pivotal figure in this reform was Christopher Columbus Langdell, Dean of Columbia Law School at Harvard.
• Langdell believed that law, much like physics or medicine, should be taught through rational analysis, observation, and experimentation.
• He introduced three core principles:
• Adoption of analytical principles instead of rote memorization.
• Learning through practice.
• Innovation of a new methodology known as the “Case Method”. This method focused on analyzing judicial rulings to cultivate critical thinking and liberate students from the constraints of mere memorization.
• Langdell also implemented the Socratic method of continuous questioning, eliminated traditional textbooks, and immersed students in daily legal analysis, requiring them to read approximately a hundred thousand pages by graduation.
• Establishment and Impact of the JD Program
• Despite initial resistance, Langdell’s innovative ideas inspired institutions like Harvard Law and led to the establishment of the first professional JD program at the University of Chicago in 1902.
• The JD aimed to redefine the training of lawyers for the 20th century, achieving academic respect comparable to professional degrees in medicine (MD) and education (EdD).
• The transition to the JD was gradual, with most US universities continuing to offer the LL.B. until the 1970s, when the American Bar Association (ABA) began to shift towards accrediting JD programs. This gradual shift was driven by the proven quality of JD graduates and the program’s alignment with modern professional standards.
• By 1975, the JD became the sole qualification for the Bar Exam, serving as a unified gateway for qualifying lawyers, judges, and public prosecutors.
• The JD significantly enhanced the competence of legal graduates, strengthening legislative and judicial institutions. A large majority of members of Congress since the 1980s have held JD degrees, contributing to more flexible and robust legislation that supports economic growth.
• JD graduates have been instrumental in integrating economic analysis into legal jurisprudence, improving legislative drafting, and promoting institutional legal research, which has increased investor confidence and stabilized the legal environment.
• They boast one of the lowest unemployment rates globally, with approximately 85% securing jobs within a year of graduation. Studies also indicate higher rates of property rights protection, reduced investment disputes, and increased foreign investment among JD graduates. Notably, 56% of US presidents have held a JD degree, underscoring its role in leadership development.
• The JD program is seen as a comprehensive reform vision that interlinks deep analysis, professional training, and public service. It is a rigorous, three-year program following a bachelor’s degree, often requiring about seven years of total higher education, culminating in the bar exam, akin to medical school. Its philosophy emphasizes training a “family of quality” legal professionals, combining theoretical study with practical application and training, making the JD a trademark for legal quality.
• International Influence
• The success of the JD model inspired other countries, including Canada (adopting it in 2001), Australia, Singapore, and China (developing hybrid models).
• It also influenced reforms in the United Kingdom, which restructured professional qualification paths with the unified competence test (SQE).
• Some European universities have drawn inspiration from the JD program for their LL.M. programs in comparative law.
• However, differences between the Anglo-Saxon and Civil Law systems have influenced how these models are adopted; the latter typically focuses on theoretical legal understanding at the bachelor’s level, followed by additional practical training.
• Legal Education in Arab Countries and Saudi Arabia’s Opportunity
• In Arab countries, the traditional approach to legal qualification has led to significant gaps in legal education.
• An ESCWA (Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia) report from 2021 indicated that law faculties in the Arab world still suffer from traditional and stagnant curricula and teaching methods, which widens the gap between academic output and labor market demands.
• Employment rates post-graduation are low, often below 35%, due to a mismatch between academic content and required practical skills.
• The dominant model in the region continues to center on the “judge/professor” as the primary source of knowledge, rather than fostering the “practitioner/analyst” capable of applying knowledge flexibly in changing real-world contexts, thereby limiting critical thinking and practical legal application.
• Saudi Arabia has a unique opportunity to adopt this model through the development of its “Higher Diploma in Legal Sciences” program.
• While the current Saudi program focuses on national legislation, it lacks the critical analysis and intensive practical application seen in the JD, thus falling short of its comprehensive impact.
• The JD prepares graduates not merely for litigation but as strategic leaders, legislative engineers, and policymakers.
• The source emphasizes that reforming legal education must begin in the classroom, as it precedes broader justice reform.

From Langdell to Qadi: Judicial Evolution and Legal Education

The discussion of the judicial system, as reflected in the sources, encompasses its historical evolution, the critical role of legal education in shaping its personnel, and the characteristics of effective judicial practice, particularly within an Arab context.

Historically, legal education in the United States faced significant challenges in the mid-19th century, characterized by fragmentation and a lack of clear academic standards. The prevailing system, heavily reliant on traditional apprenticeships without proper scientific or institutional oversight, resulted in inconsistent quality among legal graduates, an overemphasis on rote learning, and a deficiency in practical application. This situation necessitated a fundamental reform to produce legal professionals with the analytical and practical tools required for a dynamic legal environment.

Christopher Columbus Langdell’s revolution at Harvard Law School was pivotal in this reform, introducing the “Case Method” which focused on analyzing judicial rulings to cultivate critical thinking, moving away from mere memorization. This innovative approach led to the establishment of the first professional JD (Juris Doctor) program at the University of Chicago in 1902. The JD aimed to redefine the training of lawyers, achieving academic respect comparable to professional degrees in medicine (MD) and education (EdD). By 1975, the JD became the sole qualification for the Bar Exam, serving as a unified gateway for qualifying lawyers, judges, and public prosecutors. This transformation significantly enhanced the competence of legal graduates, strengthening legislative and judicial institutions. Graduates of the JD program are seen as comprehensive legal professionals, combining deep theoretical analysis with practical application and professional training.

The impact of this reform is seen in the quality of legal professionals it produced. For example, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Wabel, a prominent figure, served as a judge (Qadi) and was recognized for his profound knowledge and wisdom in jurisprudence. His judicial career highlights key aspects of the judicial system:

• He was described as a strong, honest, judicious, strict, and decisive judge in his rulings, who did not show partiality regardless of a person’s status, treating all people equally before the law.
• He prioritized the prompt resolution of cases.
• He advocated for reconciliation between litigants, even citing the practice of Caliph Omar (may Allah be pleased with him) who would “send back the litigants until they reconcile”. This demonstrates a focus on dispute resolution and maintaining social harmony within the judicial process.
• Al-Wabel was a reference for the entire region in dividing inheritances and legacies, indicating a specialized and trusted role in legal matters outside of traditional court settings. His life and teachings underscored the importance of integrating religious knowledge, ethical conduct, and practical application in the legal profession.

The sources also provide insight into traditional legal and social control mechanisms. For instance, the practice of publicly announcing “black marks” (Sawdaa) against individuals in markets meant their testimony would not be accepted in court, requiring the judge (Qadi) to request “verifiers” to attest to their integrity. This illustrates a historical intersection between social reputation, public opinion, and the formal judicial process. Markets themselves functioned as significant platforms for information dissemination and social control, including the announcement of judgments, highlighting their role in the broader social and legal framework.

In contrast to the JD model, legal education in Arab countries has traditionally faced challenges, leading to significant gaps in legal qualification. A 2021 ESCWA report indicated that law faculties in the Arab world still suffer from traditional and stagnant curricula and teaching methods, creating a gap between academic output and labor market demands. The dominant model often centers on the “judge/professor” as the primary source of knowledge, rather than fostering a “practitioner/analyst” who can flexibly apply knowledge in changing real-world contexts. This limits critical thinking and practical legal application.

Ultimately, the sources emphasize that reforming legal education must begin in the classroom, as it precedes broader justice reform. The JD experience is presented as a model of comprehensive reform, interlinking deep analysis, professional training, and public service. It offers a vision for training “strategic leaders, legislative engineers, and policymakers,” rather than merely litigators. The JD model represents a rigorous approach to legal training that aims to produce a “family of quality” legal professionals, ensuring the strengthening of legislative and judicial institutions.

The Subtle Power of Cultural Authority

Cultural authority, as discussed in the sources, is presented as a pervasive and subtle force that shapes societal norms, values, and collective consciousness, operating distinctively from overt political or economic power. It is described as a “soft power” or a “hidden hand” that subtly influences daily life, individual tastes, and forms public “acceptance” of ideas and behaviors.

Here’s a detailed discussion of cultural authority:

• Mechanisms and Tools: Cultural authority does not rely on political slogans or enforceable legal decisions. Instead, it builds its dominance through language, education, media, and symbols. It is rooted in actual value rather than mere fame and constantly reshapes societal understanding rather than simply repeating existing narratives, aiming to foster genuine awareness over superficial fascination. Its significant impact stems from its presence in deeply ingrained aspects of life, including childhood memories, adolescent behaviors, and the choices of future generations, making it a profound and influential force, sometimes even deeper than political reform.
• Manifestations and Examples:
• Legal Education as a Driver of Cultural Shift: The reform of legal education, exemplified by the professional Juris Doctor (JD) program in the United States, represents a significant exercise of cultural authority. Figures like Christopher Columbus Langdell introduced a revolutionary approach focusing on analytical principles and the “Case Method” to cultivate critical thinking, moving away from rote memorization. The JD program aimed to redefine the training of legal professionals, preparing them not just as litigators but as “strategic leaders, legislative engineers, and policymakers”. This transformation in pedagogy and professional qualification (culminating in the JD becoming the sole qualification for the Bar Exam by 1975) significantly enhanced the competence of legal graduates and strengthened legislative and judicial institutions. This illustrates how changes in educational philosophy can exert cultural authority by shaping the very individuals who uphold and reform the legal system and broader society. In contrast, legal education in Arab countries often suffers from “traditional and stagnant curricula and teaching methods,” which limits critical thinking and practical application, highlighting a gap in their cultural authority regarding legal practice.
• Judicial Figures as Moral and Social References: The role of a judge like Sheikh Abdullah Al-Wabel, who was revered for his “profound knowledge and wisdom in jurisprudence” and served as a “reference for the entire region in dividing inheritances and legacies,” exemplifies a form of cultural authority extending beyond the courtroom. His emphasis on prompt case resolution and reconciliation between litigants underscores the judicial system’s embeddedness in promoting social harmony and ethical conduct. Historically, social reputation, as seen in the practice of publicly announcing “black marks” (Sawdaa) which could invalidate court testimony, also highlights the intersection of cultural norms and judicial process, where public perception held sway.
• Artistic and Intellectual Influence: The discussion of Al-Mutanabbi, described as a “prophet of vision” whose poetry and philosophy transcended his time, demonstrates how artistic expression can exert enduring cultural authority. His ability to “impose his vision on the world” and the timeless relevance of his work signify that ideas and artistic creations can continue to shape collective consciousness long after their creator’s demise.
• Deliberate Cultural Initiatives: Prince Khalid Al-Faisal’s cultural initiatives, particularly through the Makkah Cultural Forum, explicitly aim to “enhance good role models” and “erase all negative values”. His vision focuses on “building man on the basis of consciousness, wisdom, knowledge, giving, and generosity”, which represents a conscious effort to influence and direct cultural values and behaviors within society, thereby establishing a form of cultural authority.
• Challenging Norms through Inclusivity: The “Women in Translation Month” initiative seeks to empower female writers by promoting their translated works globally, thereby challenging existing cultural power structures within literature that may have marginalized their contributions. By striving for “equality of opportunity with men” and enhancing women’s literary presence, this initiative aims to reshape cultural perceptions and foster a more inclusive literary landscape.
• Linguistic Standardization and Identity: The proposal for a “linguistic center” in every government sector to improve “linguistic quality” reflects an understanding of language as a core element of cultural authority. By emphasizing the importance of preserving Arabic as “our identity,” “our origin,” and “the key to sciences”, this initiative aims to reinforce national, religious, and cultural identity through linguistic standardization, recognizing that the quality of a nation’s language reflects its civilization and progress.
• Value-Driven vs. Popularity-Driven Authority: The sources distinguish between intellectuals who conform to public taste (“star intellectuals”) and those who challenge norms and bring about “upheaval” in the cultural scene (“thoughtful intellectuals”). True cultural authority, it is argued, is not a reward for popularity but a responsibility that encourages questioning and critical engagement rather than merely providing answers. It can either awaken a nation or lead generations to complacency in the name of superficial acceptance.

The Invisible Hand of AI Pricing

AI pricing, as discussed in the sources, represents a significant shift in how prices are determined, moving from traditional human-centric methods to sophisticated algorithmic approaches. It is portrayed as a pervasive and often invisible force that leverages vast amounts of digital data to personalize pricing for individual consumers.

Here’s a detailed discussion of AI pricing:

• Core Concept and Mechanism:
• AI acts as a “magician” that weaves “invisible threads” to set the price of virtually anything a consumer buys, from airline tickets to dream cars or even a breakfast egg. The underlying idea is to charge different prices based on a customer’s perceived willingness to pay more.
• It transcends the traditional method where a seller would visually assess a customer’s financial capacity and then bargain. Instead, AI, as the “clever merchant,” does not need human intuition; it delves into a “sea of your digital data” to determine the price you will pay.
• AI analyzes various data points, including purchasing habits, geographical locations, and even potential income, to formulate a price that appears “fair… to the seller, of course”.
• The “goldmine” of electronic payments enables AI to understand each customer’s “appetite” for spending. Every click, purchase, and internet search is stored and analyzed to pinpoint the “optimal, or rather, the highest, price for each individual”.
• Distinction from Traditional Pricing:
• Prior to the AI era, companies typically relied on a cost-plus-fixed-profit model, which was akin to distributing sweets equally to children at a party without considering their individual appetites. AI pricing abandons this uniform approach in favor of dynamic, individualized pricing.
• Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny:
• The increasing prevalence of AI pricing has led to regulatory attention. In 2024, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued subpoenas to major companies like Mastercard and JP Morgan to investigate their use of AI in altering prices based on consumer data.
• A significant concern is the potential for AI algorithms to “collude among themselves to raise prices without human intervention,” leaving consumers at the mercy of a “smart network that shows no mercy”.
• Consumer Defense Strategies: Given the pervasive nature of AI pricing, the source suggests several strategies for consumers to protect their financial interests and privacy:
• Use physical cash for purchases in traditional stores, as it leaves no traceable digital footprint.
• Regularly clear browser history and cookies, which are described as “AI’s eyes” that monitor online activity.
• Employ Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to mask geographical location, as location data is a strong indicator used by merchants to estimate purchasing power.
• Implications and Future Outlook:
• AI pricing is considered more powerful than ever before, promising substantial profits for companies.
• However, it presents a new challenge for consumers: how to safeguard privacy in a world where AI knows more about them than they would prefer. The article concludes with a metaphor, likening AI to a cat and the consumer to a mouse, questioning the possibility of escaping these precisely designed prices.

Market Dynamics: AI, Diversification, and Sector Evolution

Market dynamics, as conveyed in the sources, refer to the forces and behaviors that shape prices, competition, supply, demand, and overall economic activity within various sectors. These dynamics are portrayed as being increasingly influenced by advanced technology and deliberate national strategies.

Here’s a detailed discussion of market dynamics:

1. AI-Driven Pricing and its Market Impact:

• AI is described as a “magician” that weaves “invisible threads” to set prices for virtually anything a consumer buys, from airline tickets to a breakfast egg. This is a profound shift from traditional pricing methods where sellers would assess a customer’s financial capacity and bargain.
• Personalized Pricing: AI acts as a “clever merchant” by delving into a “sea of your digital data” – including purchasing habits, geographical locations, and even potential income – to determine the “optimal, or rather, the highest, price for each individual”. This moves away from the traditional “cost-plus-fixed-profit model” towards dynamic, individualized pricing.
• Data as a “Goldmine”: The widespread use of electronic payments provides AI with a “goldmine” of data, as “every click, purchase, and internet search is stored and analyzed” to pinpoint a customer’s “appetite” for spending.
• Regulatory Concerns and Collusion Risks: The pervasiveness of AI pricing has prompted regulatory scrutiny, with entities like the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issuing subpoenas to major companies (e.g., Mastercard, JP Morgan) to investigate how AI is used to alter prices based on consumer data. A significant concern is the potential for AI algorithms to “collude among themselves to raise prices without human intervention,” which could leave consumers “at the mercy of a smart network that shows no mercy”.
• Consumer Response: In response to these dynamics, consumers are advised to use physical cash, regularly clear browser history and cookies, and employ Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to mask their geographical location, as these data points are used by merchants to estimate purchasing power. This highlights an emerging dynamic of consumer adaptation to AI-influenced markets.

1. Economic Diversification and Investment Trends:

• Saudi Arabia is undertaking a strategic transformation of its economic dynamics, moving away from reliance on oil revenues as part of its Vision 2030. This is evidenced by a significant increase in non-oil revenues, which constituted 49.7% of total revenues in the second quarter of the current year.
• This growth is primarily driven by investments in promising sectors such as tourism, technology, logistics, services, and industry. Efforts to enhance the investment environment through initiatives and updated tax systems have attracted substantial local and foreign investments, particularly in regions like Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and the Red Sea, which are experiencing large-scale projects.
• The real estate sector is identified as a major economic driver, second only to energy, contributing to job creation and attracting capital. Riyadh’s strategic ambition to become a global capital for international partnerships, hosting major events like Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034, further reflects a deliberate effort to shape its market dynamics and global economic standing.

1. Evolution of Sector-Specific Markets:

• Fisheries and Aquaculture: This sector demonstrates a shift from traditional fishing methods to modern fishing and aquaculture as a strategic investment to enhance food security and maximize natural resources. Government initiatives, including regulatory frameworks, environmental studies, and incentives, are designed to support the growth of this industry, with a target of producing half a million tons of seafood by 2030. The “Sayyad” project aims to encourage citizen participation and localize the profession, thereby impacting the labor dynamics within this market.
• Cultural Industry (Poetic Gatherings): Poetic gatherings have transformed from cultural events into a “competitive and thriving economic market”. This market involves numerous companies specializing in event organization, production, and promotion. Poet fees are determined by various market factors, including the poet’s fame, audience size, and location of the event, with top-tier poets earning significantly more than others. The sector is experiencing rapid growth in demand, leading to the establishment of hundreds of specialized companies and the creation of seasonal and permanent job opportunities.
• Global Sports (FIFA Club World Cup): The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup exemplifies the evolving financial dynamics in global sports, with a record prize pool of approximately $2.5 billion distributed among 32 clubs. The prize distribution model, which includes fixed amounts for participation and performance-based bonuses, has created significant financial opportunities. While European clubs generally receive the largest shares, the tournament’s expanded format has allowed clubs from outside Europe, and even smaller teams, to achieve substantial financial gains, diversifying the global football economy. Discussions regarding the tournament’s frequency reveal a tension between maximizing revenue for clubs (who desire a biennial event) and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sport and player welfare (FIFA’s preference for a quadrennial event). Additionally, FIFA’s commitment to transparency in prize distribution and the establishment of a $250 million solidarity fund for smaller clubs reflect efforts to manage wealth distribution and promote broader market health.

In summary, market dynamics are being reshaped by technological advancements like AI-driven pricing, strategic economic diversification initiatives led by national visions, and the commercialization and professionalization of various sectors, each introducing new competitive landscapes and revenue models.

Contemporary Saudi Perspectives: Politics, Culture, and Society

Here are the titles of all columns found in the newspaper, along with their first two paragraphs of detail, presented in English without any bold text, and with comprehensive source citations:

• Strategic Error
• From the era of the founder King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud – may Allah bless his soul – the Kingdom has always shown a firm and clear interest in the Palestinian issue, considering it the primary Arab and Muslim cause. The Kingdom continues its constant support for the rights of the Palestinian people to establish their independent state. This approach has been reinforced since that day, until the era of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz – may Allah protect him – and his Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Kingdom continues its political, diplomatic, and economic efforts to support a just and lasting peace, foremost among which is the two-state solution with a political vision and a legal basis rooted in United Nations resolutions, most notably Resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973), in addition to the Oslo Accord (1993). The international community recognizes the right of Palestinians to self-determination.
• Regarding the two-state solution, the Palestinian Authority has adopted it as a strategic option. While the Israeli position has varied between conditional acceptance and rejection, the United States of America has also supported the solution at different stages. One of the most important initiatives is the Arab Peace Initiative presented by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2002. It stipulates normalizing relations with Israel in exchange for its full withdrawal from the occupied territories. Considering the economic dimension for a two-state solution, a viable Palestinian economy requires lifting the blockade and empowering Palestinians to benefit from their resources. International reports and institutions, such as the World Bank, confirm that lifting restrictions will contribute to a 35% growth in the Palestinian GDP.
• Terhal… A Homeland Story on Stage
• The second edition of the “Terhal” performance show, organized by the Ministry of Culture, launched at “Mayadeen” site in Diriyah Governorate, and continues until the 25th of the current month, amidst remarkable public attendance and wide interaction with the artistic tableaux that embodied a homeland’s story through a live visual and musical narrative.
• “Terhal” is considered the first Saudi performance show of its kind, combining elements of nature and modern theatrical techniques, drawing inspiration from components of national heritage, to present an innovative spectacle that delves deep into the Saudi identity through a captivating story revolving around “Saad”, a Saudi youth who embarks on a journey across the Kingdom’s regions, searching for himself and his past to explore a future he creates with his own hands, carrying the legacy of ancestors and the passion for ambition. The show’s scenes were inspired by the stunning natural landscapes in the Kingdom, integrating them with contemporary lighting and visual techniques, alongside artistic tableaux inspired by musical and heritage arts, traditional cooking arts, handicrafts and traditional costumes.
• The Palestinian State is a Saudi Priority
• The pivotal Saudi role in political support for the Palestinian cause dates back to the era of King Abdulaziz, where the Kingdom was a steadfast patron of the issue. It also plays a balanced diplomatic role as an internationally and regionally accepted mediator. Its economic and humanitarian support is provided through the Saudi Fund for Development and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center. This area presents many challenges and opportunities, including settlement activities, Israeli rejection, Palestinian division, and international transformations. Opportunities lie in an active Saudi role, Arab support, economic initiatives, and the changing international climate.
• What makes the two-state solution more than just a diplomatic proposal is that it is an integrated strategic vision that ensures security and stability for the region. The Kingdom is considered today a pivotal element in reactivating the peace process towards achieving the aspirations of the Palestinians. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has assumed a renewed pivotal role in revitalizing the peace process, emerging as an active and central element in the efforts aimed at reactivating the peace process between Palestinians and Israelis, based on the principles of the two-state solution and the Arab Peace Initiative. Riyadh’s diplomacy, supported by figures, affirms its commitment to readapting the Palestinian issue into the international community’s priorities, within an integrated strategic vision aimed at ending the conflict and achieving a just and lasting peace.
• Riyadh, Capital of International Partnerships
• Many imagine that Riyadh will transform into a city of this size and scale, with its exclusive social and demographic diversity, cultural and economic presence. This transformation would not have happened without a firm will and diligent follow-up from the wise leadership, which has made the capital a global attraction center reflecting the Kingdom’s diversity and future aspirations.
• Riyadh has enjoyed the care and attention of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz – may Allah protect him – since he was its governor, and this care has continued to this day, and as an extension of this approach, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman – may Allah protect him – emphasizes on many occasions the pivotal position of Riyadh, and its role as a comprehensive capital that expresses various spectra and encompasses all fields.
• Half of the Kingdom’s Revenues Convert to Non-Oil – Article
• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been drawing economic plans in a non-realistic manner, as it has succeeded in touching reality, as revealed by the Ministry of Finance’s announcement of the Kingdom’s success in registering 50% non-oil revenues during the second quarter of the current year, reaching 149.8 billion riyals, representing 49.7% of total revenues.
• This increase is considered an affirmation of progress in achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to reduce reliance on oil as a main source of income and diversify the Kingdom’s economic base. In this regard, economic experts believe that this significant growth reflects the success of the strategic plans adopted by the Kingdom to support promising sectors such as tourism, technology, logistics, services, and industry. This has enabled the state to enhance non-oil revenues despite global challenges, confirming that these plans have contributed to creating an an attractive investment environment through initiatives and updated tax systems, and expanding the base of commercial and service activities, especially in attracting large local and foreign investments in regions such as Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and the Red Sea, which are currently witnessing huge projects.
• Artificial Intelligence… and the Pricing Game
• It appears that there is a global trend forming towards the use of artificial intelligence in personalized pricing, where it emerges as a “magician” weaving invisible threads to determine the price of everything you buy, from an airline ticket to your dream car, or even your breakfast egg. Imagine entering a humble restaurant, ordering an ordinary dish, and then being shocked by a bill with a tourist-meal price; why? Because, simply, you seem ready to pay more. This is not a fictional story, but a trend shaping up, led by artificial intelligence under the slogan of the new pricing revolution, and the latest example of this is the announcement by the American airline Delta, this week, to personalize ticket prices based on each passenger’s identity.
• In the past, personalized pricing was an art mastered by merchants in markets. The seller would look at his customer, read their body language, weigh their financial ability, and then begin bargaining that might end with a price satisfying both parties, or upsetting one. There is an old joke that explains this idea: a rich man orders an egg in a humble restaurant, and when he sees the bill, he asks astonished: “Is the egg rare here?”. Today, artificial intelligence is that cunning merchant, but it doesn’t need an eye-gaze or visual intuition. It is enough for it to dive into the sea of your digital data to determine the price you will pay.
• China Expands its Commercial Influence and America Redraws the Import Map
• Official customs data in China recorded a significant decline in the value of its exports to the United States during July 2025, by 6.1%, reaching $35.8 billion compared to $38.2 billion in June. This decline comes despite a slight improvement in the tone of bilateral relations following the recent round of trade talks between Washington and Beijing.
• In contrast, China’s exports to the rest of the world increased by 7.2% on an annual basis, while imports increased by 4.1%, at a time when the relative weight of the American market in China’s export equation is shrinking.
• Professional Doctorate JD.. When Legal Education Reform Begins in the Classroom
• It was said to Sheikh Muhammad Abdo when a man preserved Sahih al-Bukhari: “He has acquired a copy of the country’s heart!” In a biting allusion that memorization alone is not enough unless it is combined with awareness, understanding, and the ability to apply the text in a changing reality. This idea, which is spoken by traditional wisdom, was never strange to Islamic civilization, which recognized early on the importance of linking knowledge with practice and qualification through strict standards to empower those who deserve to bear scientific and professional responsibility.
• Great ideas do not die. Western industrial renaissance borrowed this very philosophy at the core of its industrial revolution when it made standardization a measure of quality, a tool for building effective institutions, and thus the concept of standardized tests was born as one of the pillars of the renaissance. In the mid-nineteenth century, the United States faced a legal requirement in light of rapid industrial and social transformations.
• Al-Mutanabbi and the Eternal Consciousness
• Abu al-Tayyib al-Mutanabbi was not just a poet whose genius overflowed and whose verses burned with pride, but a prophet of vision, transcending poetry as an expressive art to poetry as destiny and consciousness. He saw himself greater than time, wider than space, and stronger than the body, and from here precisely he did not write for his time, but for a time yet to come. He did not chase glory, as the various narrators say for or against him, but he embodied it as if he was created to speak on behalf of the entire Arab entity, past, present, and future.
• Al-Mutanabbi’s philosophy stems from his deep sense of self-uniqueness; for him, it is not merely a human entity, but a transcendental being, capable of imposing its vision on the world if it wishes. Therefore, he sees no justification for weakness, and no way to surrender, for man, according to Al-Mutanabbi, is measured by the extent of his ambition, not his body, and by the strength of his idea, not the weakness of his outcome. As he says: “If you embark on a quest for glory, do not be content with anything less than the stars”.
• The Cultural Voice of Khalid Al-Faisal
• In a different experience that left its mark on the forehead of the nation and was consistent with the emotional scene, with a delicate sensory feeling, it harmonized with geography and history and was organized with awareness and wisdom with the aesthetic and stimulating sensory inputs that this distinct poet possesses, different from others. He remained for decades steadily on a long journey raising a voice that flows from his soul overflowing with emotion and characterized by fertility and beauty.
• When we stand at the seasoned and challenging stages of his life, we look with the eye of time at the long journey and the artistic poetic experience, full of freedom and dignity, which transcends the material meaning confined within the framework of words. Indeed, those poems in which His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Al-Faisal presented the effort of the giving human poet towards different dimensions and paths, as well as the nation and its paintings, are inscribed in poetry collections. It is now time for us to record them in the memory of the nation, culture, art, and generations. How often does the opening of his poem “My Eighty Years” stop me, with its verses that capture the creative idea in its power, linked to memory by the freshness of knowledge and insight across years.
• Women in Translation: Voices Approaching
• In Tokyo, there lives the Japanese novelist Hiromi Kawakami, who tells the story of Tsukiko, whose name is associated with the moon. We feel for her and listen to Tsukiko’s story, and through it, we get to know her anxious and confused love relationship and the lifestyle in Tokyo, the mornings and evenings, and the cherry blossom festivals.
• The translator Elena carried a distant story to us, which happened there in Tokyo. There are other faint stories between other languages that must be heard, and quiet distant voices that must approach. Perhaps there had to be a global initiative for women, resembling crimson blooming roses. The initiative was to hear their stories with their voices, and feel them.
• Journey of a State
• I find no more eloquent title for an article than this, for it is a humble biography of a statesman who held important positions and had a long career with the state’s kings, each of whom had a presence, achievements, and a life journey, both in presence and absence. Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Anqari was an extension of devoted men who preceded him in holding positions within a great national historical race.
• And as his dutiful son Mazen Al-Barr indicated, this book is a documentation, out of loyalty from his children and the advice of his loyal friends, for the journey of this tall man of great impact, to be a beacon and guide for those who came after him and for the generation that contributes to completing the journey in the paths of the homeland; a documentation of the transformations and changes witnessed over half a century during his work in serving his homeland.
• The Importance of the Content of “Cratylus” Dialogue (3)
• After Plato explained the place of “language” from “existence”; regarding the relationship of “names” to “denotations” (existents). However, the completeness of this arrangement was not preserved by necessity, as the languages we have are not necessarily all from the arrangement of the gods. So the criterion for distinguishing the completeness of the gods’ designations is a deficiency, or.
• For the gods, according to the “namer” (assigner), they assign names that correspond to the denotation for their knowledge, as previously stated. So the gods’ designations are perfect. As for those other than the gods, the method of the wise or those beneath them; the first is a rising movement towards the assignment according to the “theory of imitation”. This idea is closely connected to the discussion of “assignment,” formerly as “metaphor”. This issue arises from the relationship of the signifier to the signified, not from the perspective of those who consider “metaphor” a long inference, until it became like an individual word.
• Expatriate
• “Freedom is the negation of belonging, and man does not realize himself except when he feels alienation,” it is said.
• Beneath a roof of fear and amidst the crowd, among those we know, a faint feeling comes to us, but it is overwhelming, as if the place says: “It doesn’t suit us, and the moment doesn’t suit us,” we move and live as if we are outside what we thought we were witnessing. We repeat words we don’t believe in, and smile with masks we don’t know when we put on.
• Self
• That unseen alienation is within us, not in the place. You may find it in the widening distance between what we are and what is asked of us to be, but alienation is not necessarily a negation of belonging. It is rather a precise perception of emptiness, a moment in which we realize that everything around us does not touch what is within us.
• The feeling of alienation is not an urgent, passing symptom, but rather a performance. The more our transparency increased, the more our inner self began to stir and become exposed, and the situation became tight for us. When we pay attention, it no longer returns to what we can bear, nor can we pretend to be what we once were, nor can we revert to what we no longer believe.
• The White or the Black
• “May Allah blacken so-and-so’s face,” or “May Allah whiten so-and-so’s face!” These are not free words, but they have their origin and connection to tribal honor and then also to legend.
• For the Arabs, there was no matter stronger than the authority of honor. It was considered one of the greatest means of social control. If anything related to chivalry was violated, it meant destruction for the one who committed it. Therefore, we see that ethical balance among individuals is maintained out of fear of blame, for an Arab is disturbed by nothing more than two things: “blame and debt”.
• The Speaking Silence
• Silence dissolves into wisdom, and clothes itself in consciousness, so it does not seek applause, nor does it seek attention. Simply, it is a state of contentment, a state of deep insight that not everything known should be spoken, and not everything spoken is understood, and not everything understood is appreciated.
• Speaking silence teaches you to weigh words with the balance of observation, to refuse to be a follower of noise that does not resemble you, or a participant in a dialogue that adds nothing to you. It is when you preserve your energy for what it deserves, and for whom it deserves, and when it deserves.
• Prostate with Pus
• I suffered from bacterial prostatitis 4 years ago with high pus, and it was treated and I only had simple symptoms. After taking medication for a month, I felt no symptoms and it returned to normal. Two years ago, the same problem, inflammation in the prostate, returned, and I continued taking medication for a month. Then I had a culture of prostate fluid and urine, and there is a bacterial infection and pus, and about four months ago, follow-up was done, and new examinations were performed, including a urethroscopy, an ultrasound of the testicles, an ultrasound of the bladder, and a cystoscopy. My testicles were normal except for the left one, which has grade three varicocele and the right one has grade four, and the problem goes and comes back. I had a catheterization for the testicular varicocele, but it was not possible to close the three veins in the left testicle. After follow-up, the treating physician informed me that there is no inflammation or pus, and that the inflammation I have is chronic and non-bacterial.
• Please answer the following questions: Is there a treatment for non-bacterial inflammation? Is it contagious to my wife since my marriage is soon? I have symptoms of heat in my thighs, anus, and feet. I want you to look into my case, knowing that I am 30 years old and all sexual tests are normal, thank God. If laboratory tests and urine culture and prostate fluid culture after prostate massage show no germs or pus, then if non-bacterial inflammation is found, it can be treated with antibiotics and alpha-blockers for the sympathetic nervous system, and some anti-inflammatory drugs like “Korsetin” and honey, with a high success rate in most cases.
• Hydrocele Swelling
• I am a 27-year-old man and I have a hydrocele swelling in my left testicle. It gets larger or the testicle enters the anus if I feel like defecating, and it also contracts. I also have premature ejaculation, which delays my marriage. Please find a solution to my problem.
• The presence of a hydrocele or fluid sac around the testicle does not constitute a dangerous disease and usually does not affect sexual energy or fertility. It only requires treatment if it becomes bothersome to the patient, either due to its bothersome and sometimes embarrassing size, or if it is accompanied by pain when standing or sitting or during intercourse. In such cases, it can be surgically removed in an operation that does not exceed half an hour, after which the patient can leave the hospital in a short period. As for premature ejaculation, the best therapeutic measures, as we explained previously in this newspaper clinic, are based on necessary behavioral modification from the doctor, following specific exercises, and taking medications from the specialist with good results in most of these cases.
• Dripping
• I am 53 years old and thank God I do not suffer from any chronic or serious health problems, but for 5 years I have been suffering from dripping urine after finishing urination. I have consulted several specialist doctors and taken many different treatments and antibiotics for many months without any benefit. The condition was diagnosed as relaxation in the bladder neck or relaxation in the sphincter. I do not suffer from pain during urination, God bless you, and my urinary flow is excellent. I also need your medical opinion, and thank you very much.
• The most prominent cause of what you are suffering from, my dear brother, is relaxation in the external urethral sphincter, which helps control urine. This can be strengthened by performing exercises, and it is recommended to do these exercises with repeated contractions of the sphincter in the morning, noon, and evening for best results. Also, massage the male organ from below the urethral opening after finishing urination to empty the urethra of residual urine after urination. There is no benefit from antibiotics or other drugs in such cases, and here I would like to point out a very important and common cause of dripping in many who suffer from this problem.
• Reasons for Change in Urine Odor
• Consumption of certain foods and beverages – such as asparagus, garlic, onions, salmon, coffee, and some spices like curry and excessive salt – can lead to a change in urine odor.
• Taking certain medications – especially antibiotics containing sulfonamide, or taking minerals and vitamins – can also affect urine odor due to the presence of different artificial flavors in these drugs.
• FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Changes the Map of Financial Returns for Clubs by a Billion Dollars
• The 2025 edition of the FIFA Club World Cup witnessed a major transformation in the structure of financial returns, making it the largest event in terms of prizes in the history of club football. This is due to its recent expansion to include 32 clubs for the first time in history, with a total prize pool of approximately $2.5 billion. This was confirmed by several reports, most notably a report by the Spanish newspaper El País published in March 2025, which stated that FIFA, the international football federation, decided to distribute this entire amount to participating clubs without retaining any percentage of it, which is a precedent of its kind in official FIFA tournaments.
• FIFA based the distribution of these prizes on a new system with two components. The first component is dedicated solely to participation, called “Participation Pillar”. Different amounts were set for clubs based on their continental federation’s participation record, and their sporting and commercial standing. For example, European clubs like Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain received between $12.8 and $38.1 million just for participation and qualification.
• Al-Dashishi: Al-Hilal’s Excellence Made the World Look at Saudi Football with Amazement and Awe
• The name of Muhammad Al-Dashishi has been recorded in the memory of sports and achievements, a player from the beautiful past. He carved his way with great difficulty to compete with the best stars Saudi football has ever produced, whose names are still in the minds of veteran athletes and will never be forgotten by the thirsty fans of art from that era. He lived alongside great stars like Majed Abdullah, Muhsin Al-Jam’an, Fahd Al-Huraifi, Saleh Al-Nu’aimah, Sami Al-Jaber, Anwar, Fahd Al-Hamdan, Amin, Youssef Al-Thunayan, Saleh Khalifa, Fouad Anwar, and many others including Muhammad Dabo and Al-Dashishi himself.
• He is one of this constellation of players who represented several teams in our league for over 25 years, including Al-Ahli, Al-Wehda, and Al-Nahda, and he represented these teams when they were at their absolute best. His beginnings were in his hometown, Qudaih, with Al-Masr Club, and as some like to call him “Al-Dashish” in Qatif, he was able to record his name as a former national team player with excellence.
• Al-Ittihad was the Best this Season and Outperformed Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr with Consistency
• How were your coaching beginnings and what teams have you worked with? I started coaching while I was a football player after returning from the big clubs I played for in the Premier League, Al-Ahli and Al-Wehda, and the First Division League with Al-Nahda. I played for one season in my hometown, Qudaih, where I was a player and a coach for the junior category. I obtained a coaching course in Romania, which was my first coaching course.
• After retirement, I obtained several coaching courses abroad and in Gulf countries, and I dedicated myself to coaching. I coached many clubs in the Eastern Province, including Al-Masr, Al-Noor, Al-Salam, Al-Ibtisam, Al-Hidayah, Al-Khaleej, and Al-Qadisiyah. I also assisted Captain Youssef Al-Ghadir in many clubs in the Saudi Professional League, such as Al-Qadisiyah and Al-Fayha, and lastly in an international experience with the Mauritanian U17 national team.
• I expect the success of Jesus with Al-Nassr
• I believe that success depends on several important factors for any coach’s success with a team. Not only is the coach the essential element, but there are also other important factors such as the players as individuals and as a group, and the supportive and wise management. If these factors are achieved, then in my opinion, Jesus is a good coach.
• He relies on an offensive style, high pressure, and exploiting spaces, and Al-Nassr needs that.
• Seven Thousand Steps Enhance Health
• Seven thousand steps a day might be enough to protect against a number of diseases, a new study concluded.
• Although many aim for 10,000 steps a day in their daily routine, some find this goal difficult to achieve. The British news agency (PA Media) reported that new research showed that a large number of health benefits, such as reducing the risk of dementia, early death, and heart disease, can be achieved from walking even fewer steps daily.
• Melting of Ice Mountains
• Ocean tides can cause huge icebergs to break off from Antarctica, according to researchers who confirm in their findings the possibility of predicting this phenomenon.
• The theoretical impossibility of knowing when a collapse will occur in the ice shelf, despite global changes in sea levels, means that this event can. However, when a huge iceberg, more than 15 times the size of Paris, broke off from the Brunt Ice Shelf in Antarctica in 2023, glaciologist Oliver Marsh was not surprised. This scientist explained that he then expected this detachment to be “imminent, within weeks or months”.
• Fisheries… Sustainability and Investment
• Since ancient times, the methods of fishing in our country have varied. Fishermen, before the advent of modern industries, strived to develop their tools in their quest for livelihood, so they invented many traps of various sizes to meet their needs. The marine fisheries sector is considered one of the economically and socially important sectors, and it is one of the sectors associated with the fishing profession for thousands of Saudi citizens, whether they practice fishing, trade, or diving. It has been a source of livelihood since ancient times for many residents of the Kingdom’s coastal areas.
• The Fisheries Agency supervises all matters related to fishermen, fishing vessels, and marine excursions, including permits, fishing methods and tools used, fishing ports, and landing points. According to the statistics of the Fisheries Department, the Kingdom’s fisheries in both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf produce about 70 thousand tons of fish. The Arabian Gulf’s production constitutes 63% of the total production, with over 44,500 tons annually, while the Red Sea’s production accounts for 36% with an annual production of about 26,500 tons.
• Exploring Writing and Critical Thinking Skills
• King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture “Ithra” in Dhahran concluded its “Iqraa” enrichment forum for young people, with the participation of male and female students from six Arab countries: Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Yemen, Sudan, Syria, and Tunisia. They underwent a different cognitive experience that included a series of lectures, workshops, and diverse dialogues, presented by a selection of writers, thinkers, and literati, over seven days.
• The forum comes as one of the stages of the “Iqraa” competition in its tenth cycle, where the best readers qualifying from the primary and intermediate stages from the Arab world gather for one week, and for two weeks for the secondary and university stages. The forum included workshops designed to enhance students’ writing and critical thinking skills. Among the most prominent was the “Professional Writer” workshop, which encouraged participants to explore their vocabulary, enhance their confidence, understand how to analyze and structure stories, critique books, and express their opinions. Meanwhile, the diverse sessions presented to them sparked their curiosity and encouraged them to think deeply about what they read.
• Tourism… Not About Weather
• Many people associate tourism with weather, heading to places with moderate climates, escaping cold or heat, believing that weather is the essential factor for a successful trip. However, tourism in our country, as I see it, is more comprehensive than measuring by temperature. It is an integrated experience for the soul, mind, and body, transcending climate to a sense of internal renewal and temporary detachment from life’s pressures.
• Travel is not just a physical movement from one place to another. Rather, it is an opportunity for self-discovery, broadening horizons, and resetting the mental rhythm. When the voices change, the journey brings moments that are never forgotten. We carry with us the scents, and the scenes, and our perspective on the world changes as well.
• The Concept of Fear for the Homeland
• There are websites that all revolve around the concept of national belonging, and there are those who lie and fabricate, and there are defenders, and there are abusers. Amidst all this, excellence is not found in those websites, but from the depth of the homeland itself. It is the homeland that distinguishes between opportunism and absolute loyalty. For those who love the land, the country, and the people who live on this land, a love for the leader and his defenders, wishing well-being and glory for it, even prioritizing it over everything else, and loyalty to it that reaches sacrificing oneself for it, is the true love.
• Even if it does not appear through those platforms and participates in refuting them. The basis of loving the homeland is fearing for it, and having strong belonging to it, and confirming that it lives within you, moving your feelings with it, and making you happy with its joy, and delighted with its progress. The fear for the homeland, as is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is the positive fear that has moved from justification to action and work, and wishing good for everyone, countries and peoples. We are not concerned if screeching voices appear, because our goals are noble and far-reaching, striving for the best.
• Passerby
• The last Friday sermon was not a coincidence, but a wise divine arrangement. I mentioned on the “X” platform that it was one of the most amazing things that happened regarding breaking family ties, and I am a witness to what happened. I swear that I am sure of the details of what happened. He was suffering and complaining about harm from a relative, saying: “I have done much good to him, and he has done much harm to me, and he has harmed me these days”. I was advised to pray against him, but I could not, and I prayed for his guidance and righteousness, or for Allah to protect me from his evil as He wills. He told me about his situation, and I supported him in his prayer, and that he should not pray against him but for him. Suddenly, we entered Princess Sarah Mosque in Al-Taawun district for Friday prayer, where Sheikh Dr. Asim Al-Hamad usually preaches to us with sermons that are highly effective in addressing community problems, and highly accurate, well-established, comprehensive, and based on and citing what is mentioned in the Quran and Sunnah.
• Then the preacher was his deputy, Sheikh Sufyan bin Maher Al-Qahtani, by coincidence of Sheikh Asim’s travel. And behold, the sermon was about those who break family ties and what they will face in this world and the hereafter of evil fate, and how to deal with a relative who broke ties with him. He should connect with those who cut him off, and continue to do good to those who harmed him, in an emotional sermon supported by what is mentioned in the Holy Quran and authentic hadiths. I looked at the wronged person, and behold, he was drowning in tears, as if he was thanking Allah that he did not pray against his relative.
• Surprise in Friday Sermon
• The last Friday sermon was not a coincidence, but a wise divine arrangement. I mentioned on the “X” platform that it was one of the most amazing things that happened regarding breaking family ties, and I am a witness to what happened. I swear that I am sure of the details of what happened. He was suffering and complaining about harm from a relative, saying: “I have done much good to him, and he has done much harm to me, and he has harmed me these days”. I was advised to pray against him, but I could not, and I prayed for his guidance and righteousness, or for Allah to protect me from his evil as He wills. He told me about his situation, and I supported him in his prayer, and that he should not pray against him but for him. Suddenly, we entered Princess Sarah Mosque in Al-Taawun district for Friday prayer, where Sheikh Dr. Asim Al-Hamad usually preaches to us with sermons that are highly effective in addressing community problems, and highly accurate, well-established, comprehensive, and based on and citing what is mentioned in the Quran and Sunnah.
• Then the preacher was his deputy, Sheikh Sufyan bin Maher Al-Qahtani, by coincidence of Sheikh Asim’s travel. And behold, the sermon was about those who break family ties and what they will face in this world and the hereafter of evil fate, and how to deal with a relative who broke ties with him. He should connect with those who cut him off, and continue to do good to those who harmed him, in an emotional sermon supported by what is mentioned in the Holy Quran and authentic hadiths. I looked at the wronged person, and behold, he was drowning in tears, as if he was thanking Allah that he did not pray against his relative.

Download PDF Newspaper

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 broad look at various aspects of Saudi Arabian society and global events. Several articles discuss cultural and economic initiatives within the Kingdom, such as adapting academic calendars for tourism, developing the King Salman International Airport, and establishing a King Abdulaziz Conference Center. Regional news includes the launch of a camel association in Najran and archaeological discoveries in Al-Ardiyat. Internationally, the texts cover political and humanitarian crises, specifically the ongoing conflict in Sudan and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting human rights concerns and displacement. Finally, there’s content on technological advancements, like AI and geospatial data platforms, alongside reflections on the human element in an increasingly digital world, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations and the preservation of humanistic values.

Podcast

Saudi Arabia: Advancing Education for Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is actively focusing on and implementing strategies to enhance the quality of education, viewing it as a cornerstone for national development and a key enabler of its Vision 2030.

Key initiatives and aspects related to education quality include:

• Systemic Reforms and Flexibility: The Council of Ministers has approved a return to a two-semester system for general education, a decision designed to enhance efficiency and flexibility within the educational framework. This reform is seen as a genuine review and reflection of commitment to educational outcomes, ensuring they align with the nation’s rapid development. The academic calendar for 1447H (2025-2026M) was announced early to support stability and boost educational quality, providing a clear roadmap for students, teachers, and parents to plan their academic and personal lives. This initiative is also noted for its qualitative transformation in educational philosophy, emphasizing a balance between education quality and the efficiency of educational time. It further grants flexibility and autonomy to universities, technical and vocational training institutions, and various schools (private, foreign, and Saudi abroad) to customize their academic calendars according to their specific needs and the Ministry’s regulations. This balance is crucial for building a knowledge-based economy as envisioned by Vision 2030.
• Developing Future-Ready Skills: There is a strong emphasis on cultivating skills essential for the future. For instance, integrating statistical thinking and data science into the educational process from an early age is deemed an “strategic investment” to foster a generation capable of innovation and adaptation in a changing digital world. This is not merely an elite skill but a “global language” for understanding the world. Universities are urged to restructure their academic programs to integrate data science and statistical thinking across all disciplines, including technical, scientific, and humanities fields. This involves establishing data analysis laboratories and engaging students in real-world problem-solving.
• Knowledge and Resource Management: Initiatives such as the “intellectual endowment” (distributing used books to students free of charge) highlight a collective societal commitment to knowledge. This behavior is seen as embodying the concept of intellectual endowment, affirming that a book’s value increases as it moves from one mind to another. This underscores the importance of fostering accessible knowledge resources to support learning and development. The commitment to developing specialized training content that empowers individuals to leverage opportunities in the local economy further aligns with Vision 2030’s goals for community empowerment and economic growth.
• Human Capital as a Foundation: Vision 2030 explicitly places the human being at the heart of development. Educational institutions like “Schools of Excellence” and “Research Universities” are crucial for graduating generations capable of driving change. This focus on human capital through quality education is fundamental to the Kingdom’s aspirations for a vibrant society and a prosperous economy.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Cultural Transformation and Global Reach

Saudi Arabia has been actively pursuing various cultural initiatives as a cornerstone of its national development, aligning with the objectives of Vision 2030 to foster a vibrant society and a prosperous economy. These initiatives span a wide array of fields, from heritage preservation and arts promotion to language dissemination and the embrace of new technologies in cultural expression.

Key Cultural Initiatives and Focus Areas:

• Promoting Saudi Arts and Heritage Globally:
• The Saudi Theater and Performing Arts Authority actively supports the international presence of Saudi artistic works. An example is the participation of the play “Touq” (Necklace) by director Fahad Al-Dowsari in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where it achieved significant audience engagement and positive critical reception. This initiative aims to project the “voice of Arab man to the global stage” and promote Saudi culture internationally.
• The Diriyah Center for New Media Arts has been established as the first specialized center for new media arts in the Middle East and North Africa. It offers interactive sessions, workshops, and advanced courses, featuring local, regional, and international artists. Its inaugural exhibition, “Mechanization,” showcases over 70 works by more than 40 artists, exploring the evolution of new media arts in the Arab world, blending technology with imagination.
• Efforts are being made to preserve and promote traditional crafts. For instance, a workshop in Namas province focuses on the craft of traditional weaponry like “Al-Maqma” and “Abu Fatil,” highlighting its historical and social significance. The King Abdulaziz Public Library at the Medina Book Fair also exhibited rare works documenting traditional handicrafts as part of the “Year of Handicrafts 2025” initiative.
• The Saudi aesthetic taste is being highlighted, particularly in home furnishings and design, emphasizing a blend of deep-rooted heritage with modern innovation. This creative industry is recognized for supporting the national economy and enhancing visual identity.
• Advancing Arabic Language and Cultural Diplomacy:
• The King Salman Global Complex for the Arabic Language is undertaking “cultural diplomacy” by establishing initiatives like “Month of Arabic Language” in Azerbaijan. This program aims to support the teaching of Arabic to non-native speakers, disseminate Arabic globally, and foster cultural exchange, thereby promoting Saudi Arabia’s role as a global patron of the Arabic language. This initiative builds bridges of understanding and enhances cross-cultural dialogue.
• The UNESCO Chair for Translation of Cultures published a special issue of an international journal, “Reconsidering the Translation of Cultures,” focusing on translation as a profound cultural act that goes beyond mere linguistic transfer. It challenges Eurocentric perspectives and emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural and historical contexts in translation, especially in the Arab world.
• Fostering Knowledge and Intellectual Development:
• There is a focus on enhancing academic and literary criticism. An article discusses the evolution of critical thought in Saudi Arabia, advocating for a deeper, more analytical “critique of critique” to refine literary, cinematic, and artistic discourse. It calls for strengthening academic foundations, promoting open dialogue, and re-evaluating the history of Saudi criticism.
• The King Abdulaziz Public Library participates in major book fairs like the Medina International Book Fair, showcasing new publications, scientific, artistic, and literary works, and rare documents. It also offers interactive educational activities for children, aimed at instilling cultural and historical values in younger generations.
• An initiative by an academic in Riyadh involves collecting and distributing used books to students for free, embodying the concept of “intellectual endowment.” This highlights a societal commitment to accessible knowledge and fostering a reading culture, emphasizing that a book’s value increases as it moves between minds.
• Leveraging Technology for Cultural Engagement:
• Workshops are exploring the integration of Artificial Intelligence in creative writing, viewing AI as a “supportive tool” that can enhance idea generation, content organization, and audience reach for authors.
• The “I am Medina” pavilion utilized Virtual Reality (VR) technology to offer immersive journeys through historical sites in Mecca and Medina. This initiative aims to document Islamic heritage, support interactive tourism, and enhance visitors’ spiritual and historical experience by allowing them to “return in time” to these cities as they were centuries ago.
• Discussions are also taking place regarding the challenges posed by AI to translation, particularly in poetry, as AI “lacks cultural and rhetorical sense” and cannot fully convey the nuanced meanings and symbols found in poetic texts.
• A workshop titled “Noise of Knowledge” implicitly suggests the need for quality over superficial consumption in cultural content in the digital age, stressing the importance of effective marketing that considers audience behavior.
• Promoting Cultural Tourism and Events:
• Saudi Arabia is transforming into a global destination for major events, including Expo 2030, Asian Games 2027/2029, and the FIFA World Cup 2034. These events are expected to diversify the economy and create various job opportunities.
• Riyadh Season hosts a range of global events, including electronic sports championships, comedy festivals, musical concerts, and sports matches, attracting international attention and participation.
• The Hajj pilgrimage is emphasized not only as a religious ritual but also as a significant cultural and social event that enriches pilgrims’ communities upon their return, serving as a “bridge for cultural and spiritual communication”. Vision 2030 aims to facilitate Hajj and Umrah procedures for Muslims worldwide.
• The Hijri calendar is highlighted as a symbol of Islamic unity, a record of historical events, and a guide for religious observances, reinforcing religious and cultural identity.
• Local festivals like the Al-Qassim Dates Carnival contribute to cultural identity by celebrating agricultural heritage and local products.
• Medina and Al-Ula are being positioned as significant tourism destinations, with Medina listed among the “top 100 global tourist destinations” and Al-Ula as the “first tourism destination” in the Middle East, showcasing the Kingdom’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Global Humanitarian Crises: Gaza, Sudan, and Afghanistan

Saudi Arabia and international bodies are deeply concerned about and actively involved in addressing various humanitarian crises, particularly highlighting severe situations in Gaza, Sudan, and Afghanistan, primarily stemming from conflict, displacement, and resource scarcity.

Key Aspects of Humanitarian Crises Discussed in the Sources:

• Crisis in Gaza:
• Ongoing Deterioration: The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip continues to worsen due to an ongoing siege and severe lack of essential supplies. The Israeli army’s repeated evacuation warnings for residents to move south have been criticized, as these “safe areas” are also subjected to shelling, leading to the displacement of tens of thousands of citizens. The UNRWA reports that 82% of areas in Gaza lack safe havens for citizens.
• Famine and Malnutrition: Medical sources have reported a significant increase in deaths due to starvation and malnutrition. In one instance, five people died within 24 hours from these causes, raising the total to 193 martyrs, including 96 children. The UNRWA had warned that malnutrition rates among children under five could double between March and June due to the ongoing siege. The WHO also confirmed that malnutrition levels in Gaza have reached “alarming levels” and that the siege and delayed aid have caused many deaths, with nearly one in five children under five in Gaza City suffering from severe malnutrition.
• Aid Obstruction and Attacks: Israeli authorities have closed all crossings since March 2, 2025, preventing the entry of most food and medical aid, which has exacerbated the widespread famine. There have been reports of aid trucks being deliberately forced onto unsafe roads, leading to incidents like a truck overturning on starving people, killing 20 and injuring dozens. This is described as part of a deliberate “chaos and starvation engineering” policy by the occupation forces. Despite some limited permission for trucks to enter, the occupation reportedly prevents their security and access to the needy, forcing drivers onto routes where trucks are attacked and looted. Gaza requires at least 600 aid and fuel trucks daily to meet the basic needs of over 2.4 million people.
• Targeting Infrastructure: There is also concern over the destruction of facilities and shelters, and the deliberate targeting of Palestinian educational infrastructure, including the demolition of schools like Al-Aqaba Basic Mixed School. Medical and ambulance teams have also been targeted.
• Calls for Action: There are strong demands for the international community and human rights organizations to intervene urgently to halt these crimes, open all crossings permanently and safely, and ensure the uninterrupted flow of aid. Accountability for the occupation and supporting countries, particularly the United States, is also emphasized.
• Crisis in Sudan:
• Catastrophic Human Rights Situation: The UN has warned of a catastrophic deterioration in human rights conditions in Sudan, where the conflict is expanding, and women and girls bear a disproportionate burden of insecurity, food scarcity, and displacement, coupled with a lack of protection and adequate aid.
• Impact of Conflict: The ongoing war has destroyed the lives of civilians, turning daily survival into a continuous struggle.
• Widespread Famine: Famine has reached several areas, and 25 million people suffer from acute food insecurity. Thousands in El Fasher face starvation. UNICEF reported that children in Khartoum are “skin and bones” due to severe malnutrition, with 40% of children under five afflicted by acute malnutrition.
• Lack of Resources: The crisis is exacerbated by fewer resources and greater risks for vulnerable populations.
• Urgent Access Needed: There are calls for immediate access to basic resources to address the deteriorating situation.
• Crisis in Afghanistan:
• Severe Child Malnutrition: Afghanistan is experiencing its most severe wave of child malnutrition, with one in three children suffering from stunted growth.
• Root Causes: This crisis is intensified by an economic crisis, successive droughts, and the forced return of thousands of migrants, which collectively strain already limited local resources. A decline in humanitarian aid due to reduced donor support, including cuts by the US administration, has further exacerbated the situation. Climate change also significantly impacts the population, particularly in rural areas.
• Food Insecurity: Approximately 10 million people in Afghanistan face severe food insecurity.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: A Technological Leap Forward

Saudi Arabia is undertaking a comprehensive and strategic push towards technological advancements across various sectors, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals to foster a vibrant society and a prosperous economy. These initiatives leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance public services, promote cultural expression, develop infrastructure, and bolster economic diversification.

Here are some key areas of technological advancement:

• Digital Transformation in Government Services
• The “Absher” electronic platform from the Ministry of Interior achieved first place in the Digital Experience Maturity Index for 2025 among government platforms in Saudi Arabia, with a remarkable score of 93.95%. This accomplishment highlights the Ministry’s leadership in digital transformation and its commitment to delivering smart and integrated services to enhance government efficiency and improve the quality of life for citizens and residents. Absher offers over 350 electronic services, including traffic, passports, civil affairs, and public security.
• The overall National Index for Digital Government reached 86.71%, categorized as “advanced,” reflecting continuous efforts by government entities to develop and improve their digital experiences.
• New Media Arts and Cultural Expression
• The Diriyah Center for New Media Arts has been established as the first specialized center for new media arts in the Middle East and North Africa. This center offers interactive sessions, workshops, and advanced courses, featuring local, regional, and international artists. Its inaugural exhibition, “Mechanization,” showcases over 70 works by more than 40 artists, blending technology with imagination and exploring the evolution of new media arts in the Arab world. This initiative aims to deepen understanding and engagement with new media arts, integrating knowledge with practice and technology with imagination.
• The “I am Medina” pavilion at the Medina Book Fair utilizes Virtual Reality (VR) technology to offer immersive digital journeys through historical sites in Mecca and Medina, as they appeared centuries ago. This project aims to document Islamic heritage, support interactive tourism, and enhance visitors’ spiritual and historical experience by allowing them to “return in time”. It’s a testament to Saudi Arabia’s digital development in Islamic civilization and aligns with Vision 2030’s cultural and technological objectives.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration
• AI is seen as a “supportive tool” that can enhance creative writing by aiding in idea generation, content organization, and expanding audience reach for authors.
• In a broader sense, AI is recognized for its capability to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, discovering patterns and making predictions. This is crucial for large-scale “gigaprojects” like Neom, Red Sea, and Qiddiya, which require national cadres capable of handling massive data related to infrastructure, environment, and population behavior, and providing accurate statistical and predictive models.
• However, discussions also highlight challenges posed by AI, particularly in nuanced fields like poetry translation, where AI “lacks cultural and rhetorical sense” and cannot fully convey symbolic meanings. There’s also a cautionary perspective on the potential for “artificial stupidity” if AI is burdened with ethical or emotional responsibilities it cannot grasp, emphasizing that human intelligence encompasses aspects beyond mere calculation.
• Space Technology and Earth Observation
• The NSG UP42 platform has been launched as the first dedicated market for Earth Observation (EO) space data in Saudi Arabia. This platform by Neo Space Group (NSG), a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, is a strategic step to enhance Saudi Arabia’s position in the space technology sector. It provides a comprehensive solution for accessing and utilizing satellite imagery, fostering growth in geospatial industries, and removing technical and commercial barriers to accessing data from a growing number of Earth observation satellites. It serves various sectors, including infrastructure, environment, energy, and transportation, and aims to contribute to building a knowledge-based economy aligned with Vision 2030.
• Advanced Infrastructure and Logistics
• A new unified infrastructure code for Riyadh projects has been implemented, aiming to enhance integration between government and private entities, standardize criteria, and improve the quality of infrastructure development for services like telecommunications, energy, water, roads, and sanitation.
• The King Salman International Airport project is a key element in transforming Riyadh into a global center for transport and logistics services, driving economic growth and job creation.
• The General Authority for Roads is expanding the use of demolition waste in asphalt mixtures, an innovative approach that supports environmental sustainability and contributes to creating a safer, more efficient, and sustainable road network, thereby enhancing Saudi Arabia’s standing as a global logistics hub.
• The aviation sector’s digital transformation capabilities are vital for enhancing air cargo safety and reducing costs.
• Healthcare Technology
• The successful implantation of the first wireless pacemaker in Saudi Arabia signifies a significant advancement in interventional cardiology, offering a more precise, safer, and effective treatment option for patients. This aligns with Vision 2030’s objectives to enhance healthcare quality.
• The Global Health Forum supports nascent companies in health technology through initiatives like the “Youth Vision 2025” competition, connecting innovators with investors to accelerate the adoption of digital health solutions.
• Energy Technology
• Saudi Aramco has demonstrated its commitment to technological advancement in the energy sector, including increasing gas production capacity through major projects.
• Aramco has also pioneered the first global industrial application of an iron-vanadium flow battery system in northern Saudi Arabia, providing an alternative to solar energy solutions and demonstrating its commitment to investing in renewable energy and efficiency towards net-zero emissions by 2050.

These multi-faceted technological advancements demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to innovation, digital transformation, and leveraging technology to achieve its ambitious Vision 2030 goals across various vital sectors.

Saudi Arabia: A Global Sports Hub by 2030

Saudi Arabia is making a comprehensive and strategic push towards establishing itself as a global hub for sports events, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and quality of life. This involves hosting major international competitions, developing world-class infrastructure, and fostering growth across various sports.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of sports events discussed in the sources:

• Hosting Major International Events:
• The Kingdom is set to host several high-profile global events, including the FIFA World Cup 2034, Expo 2030, and the Asian Winter Games 2029.
• Riyadh is transforming into a global center for transport and logistics services through projects like the King Salman International Airport, which is crucial for accommodating these large-scale events.
• The “Six Kings Slam” tennis tournament is a prominent event, scheduled from October 15 to 18, 2025, featuring top global tennis stars like Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Jack Draper, and Taylor Fritz.
• Riyadh’s “Season” of events also includes the Esports World Cup (with over $70 million in prizes), a Riyadh Comedy Festival (featuring over 50 comedians), musical concerts, football matches, boxing bouts, UFC, and WWE Royal Rumble.
• The early announcement of the academic calendar (1447H / 2025-2026) is seen as a strategic move to facilitate the planning of entertainment, tourism, and national events, allowing organizers to align their schedules with available non-study periods. This synchronization of school holidays with peak tourism seasons is intended to boost domestic tourism and family participation in events.
• Sports Infrastructure and Development:
• Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in new sports infrastructure, such as developing a new stadium for the Asia 2027 Cup and integrated facilities in “Trojena” for the Asian Winter Games 2029.
• The Kingdom’s rapid rise in the global aviation sector, as indicated by its jump from 27th to 13th place in IATA’s air connectivity index, supports its ability to host major events.
• The General Authority for Roads is expanding the use of demolition waste in asphalt mixtures, an innovative approach that supports environmental sustainability and contributes to creating a safer, more efficient, and sustainable road network, thereby enhancing Saudi Arabia’s standing as a global logistics hub. This infrastructure development indirectly supports major sports events.
• The new unified infrastructure code for Riyadh projects aims to enhance integration between government and private entities, standardize criteria, and improve the quality of infrastructure development for various services, including telecommunications, energy, water, roads, and sanitation, which also supports large-scale events.
• Specific Sporting Events and Teams:
• The sources highlight various developments within Saudi football clubs, including:
• Al-Hilal: Recently won a friendly match against Germany’s Balinken with a 6-1 score. The team is reportedly close to signing Ecuadorian defender Joel Ordóñez. The return of Prince Nawaf bin Saad to lead Al-Hilal’s presidency is also noted as a significant positive development for the club.
• Al-Khaleej: Won a friendly match against Dutch team AZ Alkmaar (3-2) during its training camp in the Netherlands.
• Al-Qadsiah: Signed young player Musab Al-Juwair from Al-Hilal for five years. They also signed veteran striker Abdullah Al-Salem and Italian international striker Matteo Retegui.
• Twin Players: The Saudi league has seen the emergence of twin players, such as Ali and Qassem Al-Jami (Al-Nassr and Al-Fateh, respectively), and Saleh and Mohammed Abu Al-Sammat (Al-Qadsiah and Al-Khaleej). Their face-offs in matches have created new rivalries.
• Handball: The Saudi Youth Handball team (U19) drew with Brazil (26-26) in the U19 World Championship. The goalkeeper, Salman Al-Muaini, was named best player of the match.
• Falconry: The International Falcon Production Auction 2025 is being held in Riyadh by the Saudi Falcons Club, reflecting the Kingdom’s leadership in the falconry sector. It’s a global platform for displaying and selling high-quality falcon breeds and fostering investment in this promising sector.
• Camel Heritage: The establishment of the Najran Camel Association aims to preserve camels as a cultural heritage, document their breeds, increase community awareness about their importance and breeding methods, and improve services for camel breeders. This supports events related to traditional camel activities.
• Impact and Challenges:
• Saudi Arabia’s efforts in sports are contributing to economic growth and job creation, with sports events driving activity in related sectors like construction, facilities, and transport.
• The sources emphasize the significant growth in domestic tourism fueled by these events, transforming holiday periods into opportunities for family gatherings and travel within the Kingdom.
• The rise of e-sports has introduced new types of sports injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, neck and shoulder pain, spinal issues, and visual fatigue due to prolonged sitting, repetitive hand movements, and high mental stress. This necessitates new types of medical intervention, including preventive and rehabilitative care.
• While the national football league schedule aims for stability, there are ongoing discussions and criticisms regarding its timing, especially concerning the absence of African professional players during the African Cup of Nations.

Overall, Saudi Arabia is actively leveraging technology and strategic planning to position itself as a leading global destination for diverse sports events, driving both economic and social development.

Dispatches from a Changing Kingdom

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

1. Word/Editorial The early announcement of the academic calendar for the year 1447 AH / 2025-2026 AD has clarified the temporal outline of the academic year from now on, as the new academic year officially begins on Sunday, Rabi’ al-Awwal 1, 1447 AH (August 24, 2025 AD), after the return of administrative and educational bodies for preparation days before that. It is scheduled that studies will conclude on Muharram 10, 1448 AH, followed by a summer vacation lasting eight weeks before the start of the next academic year. This transformation was not limited to the temporal scope only, but was accompanied by a structural adjustment in the study system, which enhances early academic planning and allows students, teachers, and parents to arrange their family and professional schedules according to pre-known dates. This step is seen as supporting the stability of the academic year and consolidating educational quality, as it gives everyone a clearer vision for the beginning and end of the year and examination times, and avoids surprises or last-minute adjustments in the schedule.
2. Awareness: The Gateway to the Era of Artificial Intelligence In line with the aspirations of Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince, within Vision 2030, which seeks to build an ambitious nation, a vibrant economy, and a prosperous society, the importance of statistics as a strategic tool for achieving this transformation is evident. Giant projects like Neom, the Red Sea, and Qiddiya require huge quantities of national cadres capable of dealing with data related to infrastructure, environment, and population behavior. From here, the integration of statistics into the educational process from its early stages becomes a strategic investment in the future of the nation, ensuring the graduation of a generation capable of innovation and adaptation in a changing digital world. Dr. Abdullah bin Hamoud Al-Nuaimi emphasized that the world is witnessing a massive flow of data and accelerating transformations in the era of artificial intelligence, highlighting the urgent need for statistical awareness as an indispensable tool for understanding this changing reality.
3. Marketing Domestic Tourism Domestic summer tourism in the Kingdom is witnessing accelerated growth, driven by an ambitious vision that aims to make tourism one of the main pillars of the national economy. It has become an ideal choice for those seeking unique experiences that combine beautiful nature, moderate climate, and cultural and heritage sites, especially in the mountainous cities such as Abha, Al-Baha, and Taif. These cities have become a preferred haven and an ideal refuge for citizens, residents, and visitors to the Kingdom who seek refreshing atmospheres during the hot summer months, opening doors to a world of beauty and enjoyment. Eyes are turning towards resorts like Abha, Al-Baha, and Taif, which are distinguished by their high altitude above sea level on towering peaks. They embrace clouds and are covered by dense forests, bathed in foggy atmospheres mixed with summer rains, making them an ideal opportunity for marketing as unique resorts. This is done while highlighting their local identity, which is reflected in the ancient architecture and heritage villages that captivate visitors with their rich history, especially culture enthusiasts, in addition to the adventure opportunities and hiking activities they offer in the heart of nature.
4. Workshop Warns of Cognitive Noise Dr. Khalid Al-Harbi affirmed that marketing cultural content does not begin with publishing, but rather with understanding the audience, and that cognitive messages that are not translated into awareness and influence remain in the circle of superficial consumption. “Strong content may fail, while weak content may spread, if it is not formulated in a way that suits the audience’s reception pattern and behavior”. This came during a workshop titled “Between the Reader and the Message: Understand Your Audience to Market Your Cultural Content,” organized by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Authority as part of the activities of the Madinah Al Munawwarah International Book Fair 2025. Al-Harbi added at the beginning of the workshop: “If the writer does not understand his audience, what will he write for him? And if he only understands him to win something, then what?”.
5. Is Criticism of Criticism a Luxury or a Necessity? The Kingdom has witnessed an advanced critical openness since the eighties, and has gone beyond the stage of modernity and the preliminary stage to direct engagement with literary and artistic texts, seeking deeper levels of thinking and analysis. This is a critical trend known as “criticism of criticism,” where critics use methodologies to deconstruct the critical discourse itself in their dealings with creative texts, which gives the cultural scene a broader cognitive horizon. And regarding the Saudi cultural scene, it has witnessed significant critical shifts in recent years, and creative works have emerged in the fields of literature, cinema, visual arts, and theater, but the critical discourse has not kept pace with this movement with the same vitality and depth – as we discussed in a previous article – and here arises the need for criticism of criticism as a tool to control and develop the critical path.
6. Small Details If an ordinary person reaches the stage of discernment, he realizes the broad general lines of human right not to be aggressed; as evidenced by his distinguishing between one who complains to him and one who refrains from harming him, so he does not complain about him. Awareness of the ugliness of aggression against others illuminates a human instinct, yet the soul that commands evil finds countless fabricated excuses and flimsy justifications that tempt it to transgress or encroach upon his brother’s honor or property. And it is fitting for a Muslim not only to resist these temptations and not to be swayed by those justifications but also not to make light of violations of public and private rights a habit. What helps him resist this is to put himself in the place of the other, to think if he would accept anyone encroaching upon his privacy, and if he would see a legitimate excuse for the aggressor, or a customary loophole, or a systematic support. And certainly, he will not find in law, custom, and system any loophole that permits people to aggress upon any of his sanctities. So he must be aware that this right is guaranteed to others, and it is unjust to open one’s eyes to those rights only when one is the wronged party, and to make light of aggression when one is the aggressor, repeating “it is merely a transgression”.
7. Academic Plagiarism (4) Following the story of academic plagiarism, “The Evolution of Religious Thought in the Arabian Peninsula: A Historical Study of the Quranic Narrative,” which was taught by a faculty member at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in 2013, as we discussed it over the past three weeks, we continue today to talk about some of the most important conclusions related to this academic plagiarism. At the top of these conclusions is the reality of the existence of faculty members in some universities who do not hesitate to commit this heinous act, and which must be fought strongly because it relates to the most important functions of the university: “scientific research”. If scientific research, which is the cornerstone, loses its value and credibility, what value and credibility can we hope for? One of the important conclusions here is the lack of a proper indexing system for scientific journals in the Arab world, which makes it difficult to detect academic plagiarism. This is in contrast to foreign scientific journals, where it is easy to detect any act of research plagiarism. This is considered a weakness in the Arab research movement that needs to be addressed.
8. Awareness In the bustle and hustle of daily life, some initiatives appear quietly, yet they carry profound messages, reminding us that for books, knowledge renews itself in every reader. Among these inspiring initiatives is what one academic did in Riyadh, dedicating a corner of his home to receiving used books, sorting them, and offering them to students of knowledge for free, in an elegant gesture of giving back to knowledge. This noble behavior is not merely a casual donation of surplus books, but an embodiment of the concept of intellectual endowment in its societal context, and a belief that a book does not lose its value over time, but rather its impact increases when it moves from one mind to another. We have already noticed the growing phenomenon of donating personal libraries, whether after the death of their owners or their advancement in age, which is what I witnessed when I was a member of a university committee concerned with library donations, where the university received many requests monthly to hand over personal libraries, although the resources were not sufficient to accept them all, due to limited space, duplication of titles, or lack of cataloging capacity.
9. We Live in an Era of Transparency While the wheel of wisdom spins and the wise are often admonished by it, the deluded wander in their illusions. People in gatherings and social media circulate negative phenomena related to some officials who do not meet their visitors at appropriate times, where the citizen’s complaint only reaches them after a limited period, or they close their doors and isolate themselves on the pretext of reviewing papers or calling a friend, and so on. These phenomena do not reflect the behavior of everyone; on the contrary, the majority are different. We live today in an era of transparency and open-door policy, but some continue to live in illusion and delusion, becoming arrogant when the doors of happiness open to them, forgetting important aspects, especially some of their friends and officials, office managers, and secretaries who deal directly with the public about citizens’ affairs. These people have forgotten the wisdom: “If it had lasted for others, it would not have reached you”.
10. Riyadh: The World’s Compass Riyadh has made itself a commercial and business hub, as it opens today and closes markets, creates new markets, and concludes global acquisitions, with the capital becoming a global center for finance and business summits. With these relative advantages for the city of Riyadh, the need for a different work environment in terms of working hours seems urgent, as it combines finance, business, tourism, hospitality, tourist attractions, and entertainment programs in one place. This requires programming working hours to be longer. It is possible for the weekly holiday to be shorter, with work extending throughout the week, perhaps four days to three days, allowing them more time to visit tourist and entertainment places for work and creativity. Riyadh, with its energy that fuels infrastructure, businesses, and its bustling capital with good administrative capabilities, is now considered one of the world’s centers for finance and business.
11. Artificial Stupidity At a pivotal moment in human history, humanity found itself facing a new challenge that did not arise from nature or from political conflicts, but from that grey area that separates many aspects of the mind and the machine, an era known as “the era of artificial intelligence,” but it may turn into what can be called “the era of artificial stupidity”. Here emerges a paradox that deserves deep contemplation: we burden machines with tasks that exceed their capacity, and we expect them to perform roles beyond what they were created for. The machine may excel in organization, repetition, automated learning, and data storage, but it remains limited to a digital logic that lacks compassion, is unable to grasp freedom, and has no sense of loss.
12. Saudis and the Shaping of Beauty In our beloved Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, the sands harmonize with the sky, and originality blends with modernity. Saudis are reshaping the details of daily life and confidently moving towards arenas that were once exclusive to distant cultures. From this, they shine in the industry of furnishings, beautifying spaces and giving them a soul and identity. The Saudi taste, with its deep heritage and modern inspiration, is a taste that expresses identity. Today, it invents, teaches, and takes its place on global design platforms, from the heart of Riyadh to the capitals of elegance worldwide. In every corner of modern Saudi furnishings, we find a professional fingerprint that grows steadily, driven by conscious national minds and young talents who master the language of design as they master the language of roots.
13. Making an Impact in Society In a world where the pace of change accelerates, the true value of a person remains in the impact they leave behind, an impact that time cannot erase, like an inscription on a rock that winds cannot wear away. Making a social impact has become a fundamental pillar for building a vibrant society, a prosperous economy, and an ambitious nation, in light of Saudi Vision 2030. Impact is that part of us that remains when we are gone; it is the giving that does not dry up, and the idea that does not die. For a person without impact is like a tree without shade, and a sky without stars. True impact is not in the quantity of what we produce, but in the depth of what we change. This is what Vision 2030 confirms, as it seeks to empower the individual to become active, society to become productive, and the nation to become a beacon of progress.
14. The Importance and Significance of the Hijri Calendar With the beginning of each new Hijri year, the importance of this calendar, which carries many deep meanings and connotations, is renewed in the minds of Muslims. The Hijri calendar, which began with the Prophet Muhammad’s migration (peace be upon him) from Mecca to Medina, is more than just a system for counting years; it is a symbol of the unity of the Islamic nation and a crucial historical and cultural landmark in its events. At the beginning of Islam, there was no unified system for recording dates, and correspondence and documents were limited to mentioning events or months without precise year specification. With the increasing Islamic conquests and the need to document important events, especially after that, the Caliph Omar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) saw the necessity of establishing a unified system that would facilitate the setting of dates and strengthen the unity of the nation.
15. An Intellectual Endowment in a New Guise In the bustle and hustle of daily life, some initiatives appear quietly, yet they carry profound messages, reminding us that for books, knowledge renews itself in every reader. Among these inspiring initiatives is what one academic did in Riyadh, dedicating a corner of his home to receiving used books, sorting them, and offering them to students of knowledge for free, in an elegant gesture of giving back to knowledge. This noble behavior is not merely a casual donation of surplus books, but an embodiment of the concept of intellectual endowment in its societal context, and a belief that a book does not lose its value over time, but rather its impact increases when it moves from one mind to another. We have already noticed the growing phenomenon of donating personal libraries, whether after the death of their owners or their advancement in age, which is what I witnessed when I was a member of a university committee concerned with library donations, where the university received many requests monthly to hand over personal libraries, although the resources were not sufficient to accept them all, due to limited space, duplication of titles, or lack of cataloging capacity.
16. When Moments Do Not Repeat As you grow older, you realize that time means little, and you are no longer tempted by all the major events, nor by crowded places, nor by the most popular choices. You realize that your mother’s whispering on Saturday afternoon is sweeter than an intricate and complex discussion with a professor holding a doctorate, one of three certificates, on desert cats in the Empty Quarter!. You realize that your daily discussions with your siblings over afternoon coffee, which usually end in a gentle disagreement, are dearer to your soul than a luxurious dinner at a restaurant that requires prior booking; and that dawn coffee before sunrise with your grandfather in your remote village, far from the city’s clamor, is sweeter to you than having it by the Interlaken lake.

Download PDF Newspaper

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!