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الوسم: Saudi Arabia

  • Saudi Arabia Announces New Visiting Hours for Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH)

    Saudi Arabia Announces New Visiting Hours for Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH)

    Saudi officials have updated the schedule and procedures for visiting Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) tomb at Al Masjid-e-Nabawi, including guidelines for voluntary prayers in Riazul Jannah. These arrangements feature separate timings for men and women and regulate access through the Nusuk platform.

    The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques stated that visitors must secure permits via Nusuk. Permits are typically limited to one per year, but there is an “Instant Track” option for worshippers nearby the Prophet’s Mosque.

    Access to the blessed Roza-e-Rasool is designated through the southern courtyards, in front of Makkah Gate 37. Elderly visitors are permitted entry using manual wheelchairs.

    On regular days, male visitors can access the tomb from 2:00 a.m. until Fajr prayer, and again from 11:20 a.m. until Isha prayer. On Fridays, three slots are available: from 2:00 a.m. until Fajr, from 9:20 a.m. to 11:20 a.m., and after the Jummah prayer until Isha.

    For women, visits are scheduled from after Fajr until 11:00 a.m., and from after Isha until 2:00 a.m. on non-Friday days. On Fridays, women may visit from after Fajr until 9:00 a.m., as well as during the night slot from after Isha until 2:00 a.m., according to official sources.

  • Riyadh Revises 2026 Deficit to $44B Amid Non-Oil Revenue Drive

    Riyadh Revises 2026 Deficit to $44B Amid Non-Oil Revenue Drive

    Saudi Arabia has approved its 2026 national budget, predicting a reduced fiscal deficit as the government shifts spending towards sectors like industry and logistics to boost non-oil revenue. The projected deficit stands at 165 billion riyals ($44 billion), approximately 3.3% of GDP—down from an estimated 245 billion riyals this year, which was affected by lower oil prices and output, along with a 4% overspend.

    Saudi Arabia, the world’s leading oil exporter, is over halfway through implementing its Vision 2030 plan for economic reform. Launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016, the plan involves investing hundreds of billions of dollars to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on hydrocarbon income.

    The 2026 budget marks the beginning of what’s termed the “third phase” of Vision 2030, shifting focus from just launching reforms to maximizing their impact. The Crown Prince has described this phase as one aimed at accelerating progress and creating more growth opportunities, ensuring a sustainable effect beyond 2030, according to state news agency SPA.

    While there is a general shift in spending priorities, specific details remain sparse. The budget aims for more than 20 million foreign visitors for the Umrah pilgrimage to Mecca in 2026, a notable increase from the 15 million pilgrims expected this year.

    Total expenditures are expected to be around 1.31 trillion riyals in 2026, slightly less than this year’s estimated 1.34 trillion riyals, while revenues should rise modestly to about 1.15 trillion riyals from roughly 1.1 trillion riyals in 2025. Finance Minister Mohammed Al Jadaan stated that the government intends to operate a deficit intentionally until 2028, implying the budget will be designed with a policy of sustained deficits.

    The 2025 deficit is expected to more than double the initial target of 101 billion riyals, reaching 5.3% of GDP, with revenues falling short of estimates by about 7.8%, and spending exceeding the budget by 4%. Public debt is projected to hit approximately 1.5 trillion riyals, or 31.7% of GDP, up from 1.2 trillion riyals in 2024, to help finance the deficit.

    Authorities are also recalibrating project priorities, including a review of the Public Investment Fund’s spending. Some overly ambitious projects have been scaled back, and no specific gigaprojects like NEOM or Sindalah island resort are mentioned in the 2026 budget, signaling a focus on delivering value and impact from existing initiatives.

    Overall, Saudi Arabia remains committed to adjusting its fiscal strategy to ensure projects deliver tangible benefits while maintaining an intentional deficit approach for the coming years.

  • MBS Meets Trump at White House, Pledges $1 Trillion U.S. Investment

    MBS Meets Trump at White House, Pledges $1 Trillion U.S. Investment

    Donald Trump praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s commitment to invest nearly $1 trillion in the U.S. during their White House meeting on Tuesday, amid a warm welcome for the Saudi leader. The president showcased his strong alliance with MBS, orchestrating a display that included horseback soldiers and a military flyby featuring F-35 jets, which Trump indicated Washington plans to sell to Riyadh soon.

    The meeting began with Trump commending the prince’s “incredible” human rights record, before MBS surprised Trump by announcing an escalation of the Saudi investment pledge from $600 billion to close to $1 trillion. “We’re going to boost that $600 billion to nearly a trillion in investments,” said Prince Mohammed in the Oval Office, with Trump eager to confirm the figure, to which MBS responded with a confident “Definitely.”

    Trump rolled out an elaborate welcome, treating MBS as if he were visiting as a head of state. The Crown Prince was greeted on the South Lawn with cannon fire and observed an active flypast by US military aircraft. Trump then took MBS to a new gallery of presidential portraits in the Rose Garden, including one depicting his predecessor Joe Biden as a robotic signature machine, reflecting Trump’s ongoing criticism of Biden’s handling of official documents and pardons.

    Later, First Lady Melania Trump hosted a gala dinner that saw participation from Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays in Saudi Arabia, according to a White House official. Trump’s focus remains on strengthening ties with the Gulf kingdom, especially amid efforts to turn the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas into a sustained regional peace. He urged MBS to pursue normalization with Israel within the framework of the Abraham Accords first launched during his presidency, with MBS signaling an intent to do so “as soon as possible,” provided a clear path to a two-state solution for Palestinians is established.

    Trump reiterated his intention to proceed with selling Saudi Arabia F-35 stealth fighters, despite concerns expressed by Israel and warnings from U.S. officials about potential technological theft by China. In addition, a framework agreement concerning civilian nuclear cooperation is set to be signed, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. Over the years, MBS has cultivated a close relationship with Trump and his family, partly through significant investment commitments that have helped cement diplomatic ties.

  • Trump welcomes Saudi crown prince in lavish, deal-focused visit

    Trump welcomes Saudi crown prince in lavish, deal-focused visit

    President Donald Trump welcomed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House on Tuesday, marking his first visit to the White House in over seven years. The crown prince was greeted with a grand ceremony on the South Lawn, overseen by Trump.

    The upcoming discussions are anticipated to strengthen security partnerships, advance civil nuclear cooperation, and secure multi-billion dollar commercial agreements with Saudi Arabia. However, significant progress on normalizing relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel is unlikely, despite Trump’s encouragement for such a historic development.

    This visit emphasizes a critical alliance—between the world’s largest economy and its top oil exporter—that Trump has prioritized during his second term. The warm reception signals a recovery in relations that had previously faced serious strain.

    Throughout the day, bin Salman will meet with Trump in the Oval Office, participate in a luncheon in the Cabinet Room, and attend a formal black-tie dinner—elements typically associated with a state visit. The White House is decorated with flags from both nations.

    Trump aims to expand on the $600 billion Saudi investment commitment made during his trip to the kingdom in May, with plans to announce numerous targeted projects, according to a senior U.S. official. The U.S. and Saudi Arabia are expected to finalize deals on defense sales, civil nuclear energy cooperation, and a large-scale investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure, the official added, speaking anonymously.

    On Monday, Trump indicated plans to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, which has requested approval to purchase 48 of these advanced aircraft. This would be the first sale of F-35s to Saudi Arabia and would represent a noteworthy shift in U.S. policy. Such a deal could impact regional military dynamics and challenge the U.S. commitment to maintaining Israel’s qualitative military edge, as the F-35 has previously been exclusive to Israel in the Middle East.

    In addition to military hardware, bin Salman is seeking new security assurances. Experts believe Trump might issue an executive order establishing a defense agreement similar to the recent one with Qatar, though it would likely fall short of a formal NATO-style treaty that Saudis initially desired.

  • Trump Approves Saudi F-35 Deal Before MBS Meeting

    Trump Approves Saudi F-35 Deal Before MBS Meeting

    President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he intends to approve the sale of U.S.-manufactured F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. He made this statement in the Oval Office, just one day before hosting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) for diplomatic discussions.

    “I will say that we will be doing that,” Trump told reporters. “We’ll be selling the F-35s.”

    This potential sale signifies a major shift in U.S. policy, with the possibility of altering the strategic military balance in the Middle East and challenging the United States’ commitment to preserving Israel’s qualitative military superiority.

    Saudi Arabia has requested up to 48 of these advanced fighter jets, a deal worth several billion dollars. The purchase has already cleared a crucial Pentagon approval step ahead of bin Salman’s upcoming visit, according to Reuters. The kingdom has long expressed interest in Lockheed Martin’s F-35 jets. A White House official suggested Trump wanted to discuss the deal with the crown prince before making a final decision.

  • Dozen Indian Umrah Pilgrims Reported Dead in Madina Bus Crash

    Dozen Indian Umrah Pilgrims Reported Dead in Madina Bus Crash

    A bus accident near the city of Madina in southern Saudi Arabia resulted in multiple casualties involving Muslim pilgrims, according to the Indian embassy’s statement on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the tragedy and prayed for the injured’s swift recovery.

    He stated on X, “Extremely saddened by the accident in Madina involving Indian nationals. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of those who lost loved ones.” He continued, “We are doing everything we can to assist the victims and their families through our embassy in Riyadh and the consulate in Jeddah.”

    Reports from Indian media suggest that dozens may have been killed in the crash, although official numbers have not yet been released. Every year, millions of devotees travel to Saudi Arabia for the Umrah pilgrimage, which takes place outside the main Hajj season.

    This incident follows other recent pilgrim-related tragedies, including a March 2023 bus fire on a bridge that resulted in 20 fatalities and more than two dozen injuries. In October 2019, around 35 foreigners lost their lives, and four others were wounded in a collision involving a bus and a heavy vehicle near Madina.

    Pilgrimages are a vital part of Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism industry, which officials hope will contribute to economic diversification away from reliance on fossil fuels. The kingdom is also home to over two million Indian expatriates, who significantly support the local workforce, contribute to major infrastructure projects, and send billions of dollars back home annually.

  • MrBeast opens Saudi’s first themed amusement park

    MrBeast opens Saudi’s first themed amusement park

    Cristiano Ronaldo, Naomi Campbell, Sofia Vergara — and now, MrBeast, the latest celebrity to make a splash in Saudi Arabia’s growing entertainment scene. As part of the kingdom’s broader efforts to position itself as a global entertainment hub, popular YouTuber MrBeast—whose real name is James Donaldson— was in Riyadh to inaugurate Beast Land. This new theme park, inspired by his videos featuring large-scale endurance challenges with hefty cash prizes, opened its doors on November 13, 2025.

    During a series of interviews prior to the launch, the 27-year-old star expressed excitement, saying, “It might be one of the best days of my life.” He added, “Everyone keeps asking: I want to be in a MrBeast video. Now, we’re bringing it to life so visitors can step into a real MrBeast experience.”

    Saudi Arabia has undergone rapid cultural change in recent years, breaking away from its historically conservative roots. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, the country has introduced a plethora of entertainment options, transforming Riyadh into a vibrant hub for events. The city’s annual Riyadh Season now hosts daily concerts, competitions, and festivals — from boxing matches and slap contests to house music nights and sports tournaments.

    Beast Land, located in Riyadh, features both traditional theme park rides such as rollercoasters and the signature challenges familiar to MrBeast fans. One such game involves participants slapping a lit-up button, with the last person to do so falling into a cushioned pit. Donaldson noted that a significant portion—around 70%—of his audience is outside the US. Saudi Arabia was an obvious choice for filming because of the accessible studio space, enabling him to produce his latest seasonal videos. He encourages others to visit: “Give it a shot. It’s more developed than you might think.”

    The kingdom has also been luring international stars with substantial financial incentives. Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr is reportedly worth over $200 million. While MrBeast’s presence has been mostly welcomed, it has occasionally stirred controversy; Mexico, for instance, filed a lawsuit earlier this year against a company he collaborated with during a visit to the ancient Maya pyramids.

  • Saudi Crown Prince MBS to Meet US President on Nov 18, White House Confirms

    Saudi Crown Prince MBS to Meet US President on Nov 18, White House Confirms

    Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman will visit the White House on November 18 for an official working trip with President Donald Trump, according to a White House official. This visit occurs as Trump encourages Saudi Arabia to join the Abraham Accords, which in 2020 saw the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco establish normalized relations with Israel. Saudi Arabia remains cautious, mainly due to the lack of progress on Palestinian statehood.

    During a recent interview on CBS’s “60 Minutes,” Trump expressed optimism that Saudi Arabia will ultimately participate in the accords. Discussions between Trump and MBS are also expected to include a potential U.S.-Saudi defense pact. Two weeks prior, The Financial Times reported hopes of finalizing such an agreement during the crown prince’s visit.

    A senior U.S. administration official told Reuters that negotiations are ongoing regarding a formal security arrangement, with specifics still being finalized. Saudi Arabia has sought official U.S. guarantees of defense support and access to more sophisticated American weaponry.

    The relationship between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia has historically been strong, primarily based on mutual interests—Saudi Arabia supplies considerable oil, and the U.S. provides security. During Trump’s May visit to Riyadh, the two nations agreed on arms sales valued at nearly $142 billion, reinforcing this strategic partnership.

  • Saudi Arabia Updates Umrah Visa Regulations

    Saudi Arabia Updates Umrah Visa Regulations

    Saudi Arabia’s Hajj and Umrah Ministry has updated its regulations for issuing Umrah visas, according to sources cited by Al Arabiya. Going forward, if a pilgrim doesn’t enter Saudi Arabia within 30 days of receiving their visa, it will be automatically canceled. The new policy is set to take effect next week, reducing the visa’s validity window from three months to just one month from the date it’s issued. However, the maximum duration of stay after entry remains unchanged at three months.

    Ahmed Bajaeifer, an advisor for the National Committee for Umrah and Visit, explained to Al Arabiya that these changes come as the ministry anticipates a surge in pilgrims after summer ends and temperatures in Makkah and Madinah drop. The goal is to better control crowd management and avoid overcrowding in the two holiest cities.

    This season is seeing unprecedented activity, with over four million Umrah visas issued to international visitors since the early June start of the season. Compared to previous years, this year is on track to set a record for international pilgrims in just five months.

    Last month, officials announced that all categories of visas—such as tourist, family, transit, work permits, and others—would now be eligible for performing Umrah during a visitor’s stay in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the country’s Vision 2030 initiative. This move aims to make it easier for Muslims from around the world to fulfill their religious duties comfortably and securely.

  • Saudi Arabia Names Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan as Grand Mufti

    Saudi Arabia Names Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan as Grand Mufti

    Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has appointed Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan bin Abdullah Al-Fawzan as the new Grand Mufti, according to official government sources. The announcement was made via the state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA), which stated that the appointment was made by royal decree. Sheikh Al-Fawzan succeeded Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, who passed away on September 23.

    Sheikh Al-Fawzan has been involved in Saudi religious scholarship since 1992, serving on the Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta, as well as being part of the Council of Senior Scholars, as reported by the Saudi Gazette. He has also contributed to the Supervisory Committee for Preachers during the Hajj pilgrimage, the Islamic Fiqh Council, and the Muslim World League.

    Born in 1935 in Al-Qassim, Sheikh Al-Fawzan studied in Buraidah and later earned both a master’s degree and a doctorate in Fiqh from Riyadh’s College of Shariah. He eventually became the director of the Higher Institute of Judiciary. Apart from his scholarly work, he is also a published author and has hosted several radio programs, including the popular Nur Ala Al-Darb show.

    His appointment comes on the recommendation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the de facto leader of Saudi Arabia, who has been spearheading wide-ranging reforms aimed at diversifying the country’s economy and modernizing its institutions. Sheikh Saleh bin Fawzan’s leadership marks a new chapter in Saudi religious life following the long tenure of his predecessor.

  • Saudi Arabia bans employers from charging domestic workers fees

    Saudi Arabia bans employers from charging domestic workers fees

    Saudi Arabia has introduced a significant update in labor laws, explicitly prohibiting employers from charging domestic workers any fees. This includes costs related to recruitment, work permits, transferring services, or changing job titles. The new guidelines are detailed in the “Guide to the Rights and Obligations of Domestic Workers,” published by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

    Offenders who violate these regulations could face fines reaching SAR 20,000 and a ban from hiring domestic staff for up to three years. Repeat violations will result in even more severe penalties, reports Saudi Gazette.

    The regulations aim to protect workers’ rights by ensuring they have a decent quality of life and a secure working environment. Among the protections, domestic employees are entitled to full salary payments, weekly days off, daily breaks, and paid leave every two years. They also have the right to retain their personal documents—such as passports and residency permits (iqama)—without employer interference.

    Employers are required to provide suitable housing, meals or a cash allowance, health coverage, and support in maintaining communication with their families. The guide also specifies recognized roles within the domestic sector, including drivers, home nurses, cooks, tailors, butlers, and household managers. It allows for the addition of new job categories as needed.

  • King Salman Gate Project Opens Near Makkah’s Grand Mosque

    King Salman Gate Project Opens Near Makkah’s Grand Mosque

    An aerial view capturing the atmosphere of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, March 17, 2025. — X/@AlharamainSA

    Saudi Arabia has announced the debut of the “King Salman Gate,” a major mixed-use development project in Makkah’s Holy City. The project aims to improve urban access and services around the Al-Masjid Al-Haram, according to the Kingdom’s Ministry of Investment.

    This development covers up to 12 million square meters of total floor space, expected to reshape Makkah’s central district and set a global standard for contemporary urban planning.

    The project will improve access to the Grand Mosque, elevate service quality, and enhance the overall experience for pilgrims and visitors, aligning with the Pilgrim Experience Program under Saudi Vision 2030.

    Located adjacent to the Grand Mosque, King Salman Gate will include residential, hotel, commercial, and cultural facilities, supporting nearly 900,000 indoor and outdoor worshippers.

    Transportation connectivity will be seamless, ensuring easy access, while the design will honor Makkah’s cultural heritage through modern architectural styles. Additionally, about 19,000 square meters of historic sites will be restored and integrated into the development to safeguard the city’s rich history.

    By 2036, the project is projected to create over 300,000 jobs. It’s being built by RUA AlHaram AlMakki Company, a subsidiary under the Public Investment Fund (PIF), with a focus on sustainable urban growth around the Holy Mosque. The effort combines cutting-edge infrastructure with efforts to preserve Makkah’s spiritual and cultural significance.


  • Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia Dies

    Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia Dies

    The Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, has died, according to the Saudi News Agency on Tuesday. King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, along with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, extended their condolences to Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh’s family, the Saudi people, and the Muslim world.

    Saudi media reports indicate that the funeral prayer for Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh will take place after the Asr prayer at the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque in Riyadh. The Royal Court noted, “With the passing of Al-Sheikh, Saudi Arabia and the Islamic world have lost a distinguished scholar who made significant contributions to the service of Islam and Muslims.”

    Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh was appointed as Saudi’s Grand Mufti in 1999 by King Fahd, succeeding Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ibn Baz. He also served as the president of the Council of Senior Scholars and regularly delivered sermons during the Hajj pilgrimage.

    In response to his passing, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has ordered that funeral prayers in absentia be held at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, and across all mosques throughout the Kingdom.

  • Saudi Actor and Writer Hamad Al-Muzaini Dies at 80

    Saudi Actor and Writer Hamad Al-Muzaini Dies at 80

    Digital Phablet – The well-known Saudi actor and writer, Hamad Al-Muzaini, has passed away at the age of 80, according to local media reports on Sunday.

    The specific cause of Hamad Al-Muzaini’s death has not been disclosed. His sudden departure has prompted widespread speculation; however, his family has chosen to keep the details private, emphasizing that his significant artistic legacy is what matters most.

    His family and friends only shared the date of his funeral prayer and memorial service, encouraging people to pray for his soul.

    A tweet from Eyaaaad described the sad news: “The Saudi actor and writer Hamad Al-Muzaini has died at age 80 after battling illness. May God forgive him, have mercy on him, and grant patience to his family. We belong to God and to Him we shall return,” accompanied by a picture.

    The news has deeply saddened the Saudi and Arab arts communities, as Hamad Al-Muzaini was recognized as one of the leading pioneers in drama and theater within Saudi Arabia.

    Artist Fayez Al-Maliki shared the news on his X account, stating: “Our beloved artist Hamad Al-Muzaini has passed away. Funeral prayers will be held at Al-Rajhi Mosque following the afternoon prayer. I pray to God Almighty to grant him paradise. May He reward his family and loved ones abundantly. Praise be to God in all circumstances.”

  • Roblox Turns Off Chat Features in Saudi Arabia and UAE

    Roblox Turns Off Chat Features in Saudi Arabia and UAE

    Digital Phablet – In response to growing worldwide concerns about children’s safety online, the popular gaming platform Roblox has announced temporary suspension of its chat features, including voice and text communications, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, based on multiple reports.

    According to Gulf News, this immediate action follows consultations with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). The temporary restriction aims to create a safer environment for younger users of the platform.

    In a joint statement, TDRA stated, “The safety and protection of children online is a top priority for TDRA and Roblox. We are committed to ongoing collaboration to maintain a secure, trustworthy, and positive digital space for all users in the UAE, especially the youth.”

    Roblox halts chat functionalities in Saudi Arabia and UAE

    Furthermore, the statement mentioned that Roblox will introduce new, enhanced content and moderation tools in Arabic to improve existing parental controls and safety features.

    The platform recently faced global scrutiny over concerns about child safety, leading several countries including Qatar, Kuwait, Turkey, Oman, and others to ban access to the platform.

    The platform also drew criticism for banning "Schlep," a vigilante YouTuber known as a self-declared "predator hunter" aiming to protect children. He claimed to have assisted in the arrest of six predators before the platform banned him for allegedly breaching its policies.

  • Saudi Arabia Currents: From Raves to Homegrown Culture

    Saudi Arabia Currents: From Raves to Homegrown Culture

    Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to Western-style raves and music festivals, and now it’s shifting focus toward revitalizing its traditional culture to attract tourists and redefine its national identity.

    In the Riyadh stage production “Terhal,” a performer wearing a red-and-white headdress rides a white horse, showcasing the country’s heritage and its most popular tourist attractions. This shift toward family-friendly, culturally inspired entertainment follows earlier episodes marked by loud and unruly scenes at previous music festivals in the capital.

    The current Riyadh Season entertainment lineup, which still features the MDL Beast event, emphasizes Saudi and Gulf-region musicians, noted Turki Alalshikh, head of the General Entertainment Authority.

    Sebastian Sons from Germany’s CARPO think tank explains that Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative is characterized by testing boundaries, where progress often involves taking small steps forward and occasionally stepping back to refine the approach.

    “Terhal,” meaning “journey” in Arabic, combines traditional songs, chants, and national dress with innovative lighting and digital effects. It follows Saad, a young Saudi exploring his homeland, featuring a diverse cast of 55 Saudis out of 100 performers including acrobats, trapeze artists, and dancers.

    The kingdom is actively embracing its cultural roots to craft a more relaxed and accessible national image. Sons comments that this rebranding aligns modern artistic expression with Saudi’s traditional legacy, aiming to make its landscapes and customs appealing to broader audiences.

    Art director Filippo Ferraresi highlights that he undertook thorough research on Saudi culture, collaborating closely with local experts. He discovered regional dances, music styles, and traditions, integrating them into the show.

    Prior to 2018, public performances like concerts and dances were prohibited, and women were required to wear head coverings. Since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s reforms, the country has hosted high-profile events such as Formula One races, concerts featuring stars like Jennifer Lopez, and the lifting of the ban on women driving.

    The overarching goal is to boost tourism and international commerce, helping diversify the economy beyond oil reliance.

    Kristian Coates Ulrichsen from Rice University points out that entertainment sits at the intersection of social and economic reforms under Vision 2030. It is seen as an overlooked sector rich with potential for economic diversification and as a showcase of Saudi’s ongoing transformation.

    For 23-year-old Saudi dancer Talha Mas, performing in “Terhal” is a dream realized, symbolizing the newfound freedom of women to express themselves more openly. Audience member Asser Saleh, 37, expressed pride in witnessing such high-quality performances in Riyadh, noting that formerly, one had to travel abroad to see similar shows.

  • Saudi Student Mohammed Al Qassim Fatally Stabbed Near Cambridge, Suspect’s Photo

    Saudi Student Mohammed Al Qassim Fatally Stabbed Near Cambridge, Suspect’s Photo

    Digital Phablet – The tragic murder of Saudi student Mohammed Al Qassim continues to evoke worldwide outrage.

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    A Saudi student, Mohammed Al Qassim, was fatally stabbed Friday evening in a park south of Cambridge, UK, authorities have verified. The incident has sparked an active investigation, with two individuals detained so far, according to a report from Al Ekhbariya TV.

    Cambridge Crown Court in Britain addressed the case initially on Tuesday. Murder charges have been filed against the suspect. The suspect denied involvement in front of the judge, leading the court to postpone a verdict and request further investigation.

    Image from social media showing Mohammed Al Qassim and the accused

    Beyond being a scholarship recipient, the late Mohammed Al Qassim was celebrated for his strong moral values and his voluntary service welcoming guests to the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Thousands shared images of him in volunteer attire during the Hajj pilgrimage, expressing both pride and sorrow.

    “A noble young man from Saudi Arabia, celebrated for his devoutness to his parents and his dedicated volunteer service assisting the Guests of God at the Grand Mosque in Mecca,” stated Saudi Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah in a heartfelt message on X in honor of Mohammed Al Qassim. I extend my deepest condolences to his family. May Allah be merciful and forgive him. Mishary Rashid Alafasy further commented: “As a Muslim, a Quran memorizer, a servant of God’s guests, a seeker of knowledge, and a proud son of our nation, we owe Mohammed Al Qassim a debt. His life was tragically cut short.”

    Responses extended beyond officials. A personal letter penned by Mohammed Al Qassim to his sister before his passing was shared by her, evoking widespread grief. “My sister… you are a source of pride and support,” he wrote. “I swear to God I love you with an immense love, even though I feel a strange, indescribable emotion.” Mohammed’s innocence and kindness shine through in these heartfelt words, merging pride with sorrow. Many have remarked that Mohammed “departed in body but left a fragrant legacy behind.”

    In addition to grief, Fayez Al-Maliki shared a photo of Mohammed Al Qassim with this message: “May Allah comfort and strengthen his family’s hearts.” #Al-Qassim Muslim. We pray Allah grants him paradise. To honor Mohammed, friends and followers have turned his posts, memories, and even the photo of his prayer rug—left exactly as he left it—into poignant symbols. As investigations progress and justice remains awaited, audiences across Arab and Gulf nations are closely following every development, hoping for a fair resolution and closure of the accused’s trial.