Digital Phablet – Saudi TV presenter Saud Al-Otaibi, who works for the channel Al-Waqi’, tragically died in a severe car accident south of Riyadh, prompting mourning across media circles and among the public in the Gulf nation.
According to local media reports, the incident took place on Dirab Road south of Riyadh after Al-Otaibi finished his shift at the channel and was en route home. His vehicle was involved in a violent crash that resulted in his immediate death.
Al-Otaibi was a rising star in the media industry, gaining recognition during his tenure at Al-Waqi’ TV, where he hosted various programs and segments that attracted significant audience interest both inside and outside Saudi Arabia, thanks to his friendly demeanor and spontaneous delivery.
Following the news of his passing, social media streams were filled with tributes from journalists, celebrities, and citizens alike, expressing grief over his loss, reflecting on his media contributions and professionalism, and praying for divine mercy and forgiveness.
A tweet from a local news outlet shared:
“Media personality / Saud bin Turki Al-Qutbi Al-Otaibi, a member of Al-Waqi’ channel staff, passed away due to a traffic accident. A funeral prayer will be held this afternoon at Al-Rajhi Mosque in Riyadh, with burial at Nassem Cemetery. #دعوه_لسعود_العتيبي #سعود_العتيبي” — Mlehm Net (@mlhm_net), July 6, 2026.
Sarah Al-Wadaani recently went viral after making her first public appearance without a hijab, sparking widespread discussion and questions among her followers.
Sarah Al-Wadaani, a renowned Saudi beauty expert and content creator, ignited a heated debate on social media when she shared videos on her Snapchat and Instagram without wearing a hijab — her first such appearance since rising to fame.
This unexpected reveal quickly made her a trending topic, dividing opinions between supporters and critics. She subsequently posted new videos showing her head uncovered, which intensified the debate. Some viewers interpreted this as a sign she had altered her look, while others questioned her motives and the reasons behind her decision to go unveiled.
Despite all the attention, Sarah Al-Wadaani chose not to comment directly. She continued to upload regular daily content, offering no explanation or statement regarding her decision to remove her hijab.
Later on, she uploaded additional videos discussing skincare and haircare products, which received mixed reactions. Some believed her silence was a strategic move to rekindle public interest and engage her audience more deeply, while others thought she might be delaying addressing her reasons for unveiling.
Sarah Al-Wadaani remains one of the most prominent influencers in Saudi Arabia. She boasts a massive following and is a significant figure in digital marketing, known for her diverse content blending beauty and lifestyle insights. She also shares glimpses of her personal life, including her marriage to businessman Abdulwahab Al-Sayyaf, keeping her fans engaged with updates about her daily routines. Every appearance she makes tends to generate remarkable interest and discussion.
Forces of Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council arrive in a mountainous region for a military operation in Abyan, Yemen, December 15, 2025. — Reuters
Saudi-led coalition targets the southern Yemeni port of Mukalla.
UAE-supported STC accused of undermining the state: Yemen’s presidential council.
KSA calls on the UAE to comply with Yemen’s demand to withdraw.
On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia declared that its national security is a red line and demanded that UAE forces depart Yemen within 24 hours, shortly after conducting an airstrike on Mukalla port in southern Yemen.
The government articulated concerns over foreign military support provided to the UAE-backed southern separatists, with Yemen’s Saudi-supported presidential council issuing a deadline for Emirati forces to exit the country.
Yemen’s presidential council leader, Rashad al-Alimi, also canceled a defense agreement with the UAE, according to the official Yemeni news agency, citing frustration over UAE backing for the Southern Transitional Council (STC).
“It has been definitively confirmed that the UAE has pressured and instructed the STC to destabilize and rebel against the authority of the Yemeni government through military escalation,” Al-Alimi stated.
Saudi Arabia urged the UAE to follow the order. The UAE’s foreign ministry has not responded to requests for comment.
Yemen Conflict
The UAE has been part of the Saudi-led coalition combating the Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen since 2015. After beginning a partial withdrawal of troops in 2019, it continues to support the internationally recognized Yemeni government backed by Saudi Arabia.
The Southern Transitional Council (STC) has recently moved toward self-rule in the south, launching a rapid offensive this month against forces loyal to the Saudi-backed Yemeni government.
This move broke a long-standing deadlock, with the STC claiming control over much of the south. Saudi Arabia had warned the STC against military activities in the eastern province of Hadramout and called for the withdrawal of its forces, but the STC dismissed these warnings.
The recent airstrike was a response to the weekend arrival of two ships from the UAE port of Fujairah, which docked without official approval on Saturday and Sunday. The coalition states the ships unloaded large quantities of weapons and vehicles to support the STC, after disabling their tracking systems upon arrival in Mukalla.
No Casualties Reported
According to Saudi state media, the strike on Mukalla port caused no casualties or significant collateral damage.
Two sources told Reuters that the attack targeted the dock where the ships’ cargo was unloaded. Footage from Yemen’s state TV showed smoke rising from the port early in the morning after the strike, along with images of damaged vehicles.
Damaged military vehicles following an airstrike by the Saudi-led coalition at Mukalla port, Yemen, December 30, 2025. — AFP
UAE-supported factions control extensive areas in the south, including the strategically vital Hadramout province.
Al-Alimi has imposed a no-fly zone and a sea and land blockade on all ports and crossings for 72 hours, with some exceptions authorized by the coalition.
Hadramout shares borders with Saudi Arabia and has strong cultural and historical ties. Many Saudi nationals trace their roots to the region.
Since 2022, the STC has been part of an alliance managing southern territories outside Houthi control, under a Saudi-supported power-sharing plan.
The Houthis hold northern Yemen, including the capital, Sanaa.
“We will continue to prevent any military aid from foreign countries to Yemeni factions without coordination with the legitimate government,” the coalition added.
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.”
Digital Phablet – The tragic murder of Saudi student Mohammed Al Qassim continues to evoke worldwide outrage.
Also ReadEgyptian TikTok star Suzy El Ordoneya detained in significant money laundering and cybercrime investigation
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.
Muslim pilgrims at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, June 16, 2024. — Reuters
In preparation for welcoming over a million Hajj pilgrims despite the intense summer heat, Saudi authorities are implementing advanced artificial intelligence, additional shading, and misting systems.
Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Minister, Tawfiq al-Rabiah, informed AFP Thursday that addressing the extreme desert temperatures remains a primary concern for officials and organizers as the pilgrimage approaches.
“Year after year, we face the challenge of rising temperatures, and we prioritize this issue highly,” he stated in an exclusive interview in Riyadh.
This issue has gained urgency following last year’s Hajj, during which over 1,300 pilgrims tragically lost their lives as temperatures soared to 51.8 degrees Celsius (125.24 degrees Fahrenheit).
This year, Rabiah mentioned that more than 40 government agencies and 250,000 personnel are mobilized to enhance efforts aimed at reducing heat-related dangers.
Authorities have expanded shaded areas by 50,000 square meters (12 acres), increased the number of medical staff, and will deploy over 400 cooling units throughout the pilgrimage period, Rabiah added.
These initiatives build on improvements made in previous years, which involved renovating areas around the Grand Mosque and applying a special coating on asphalt surfaces to lower ground temperatures.
“These new efforts will significantly contribute to the safety and enhanced experience of pilgrims during Hajj,” Rabiah noted.
This week, he reported that over a million individuals from around the world have already made their way to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj, with more expected to arrive.
Last year, the pilgrimage saw 1.8 million pilgrims gather in Makkah.
Permit Enforcement
New AI technologies will assist in monitoring the vast amounts of data and videos, including footage from a newly added fleet of drones, across Makkah.
Past crowd management has proven dangerous, notably in 2015 when a stampede resulted in around 2,300 fatalities.
In addition to expanding infrastructure and increasing personnel, Saudi officials are rigorously enforcing entry rules to prevent unpermitted pilgrims from accessing Makkah.
Officials reported that more than 80% of last year’s Hajj-related deaths were among pilgrims without proper permits, which restricted their access to vital services, including air-conditioned tents.
Hajj permits are issued based on a quota system allocated to various countries and then distributed to individuals through a lottery process.
Even for those who secure permits, the high costs often compel many individuals to attempt the pilgrimage without proper documentation, risking arrest and deportation if discovered.
To manage the influx of unauthorized pilgrims entering Makkah, authorities have initiated raids, launched extensive media campaigns, and increased penalties for violations, including a potential ten-year ban from the kingdom.
The pilgrimage is set to commence on June 4 and will span at least four days, primarily taking place outdoors.
The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, mandatory for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime.
Saudi Arabia Reinforces Hajj Regulations for Pilgrims
As the annual Hajj pilgrimage approaches, Saudi Arabia has reiterated the necessity for strict compliance with its regulations, emphasizing the importance of having a valid permit to participate.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has made it clear that anyone caught performing Hajj without a proper permit will be immediately deported and banned from re-entering the country for ten years. According to reports from the Saudi Press Agency, holding a permit is mandatory for all pilgrims.
Officials urge all residents to adhere closely to Hajj rules and guidelines, stating that these measures are designed to ensure the safety and smooth experience of all participants during the pilgrimage.
Additionally, the authorities encourage locals to report any violations by calling 911 within Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or 999 in other areas of the kingdom.
On Tuesday, Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary reaffirmed the country’s commitment to serving pilgrims through a well-coordinated system that aligns with national leadership directives and the Vision 2030 initiative. He highlighted that the “No Hajj Without a Permit” campaign is vital for organizing the pilgrimage and enhancing awareness.
Al-Dossary also noted that over 1,070,000 pilgrims have already arrived from abroad, with 249,000 coming through the efficient Makkah Route Initiative. More than 25,000 mosques across Mecca, Medina, and other holy sites have been prepared, along with the distribution of millions of Qur’ans and digital ID cards.
On health-related matters, Minister of Health Fahad AlJalajel urged pilgrims to follow essential health guidelines and assured that the healthcare system is fully equipped to handle any emergencies during the Hajj season.
On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia announced the sighting of the Zil Hajj moon in Tamir, signaling the end of the Islamic month of Dhul Qadah.
Moon sighting committees reported the sighting of the crescent across various Arab nations and other regions, which is essential for setting the dates for Arafat and Eid ul Adha.
Similarly, Oman declared that May 28, 2025, will mark the start of the new month, with Eid ul Adha expected to be observed on June 6.
According to official confirmations regarding the moon sightings, Arafat Day will fall on June 5, followed by Eid ul Adha celebrations on June 6.
In contrast, moon sightings were not reported in Pakistan, Brunei, Malaysia, or Indonesia, leading to their decision that May 29 will be the first day of Zil Hajj.
This story is still developing and will be updated with additional details.
A Saudi official dismissed on Monday rumors circulating in the media about the kingdom considering lifting its 73-year-old alcohol ban, which is specifically enforced for Muslims.
The speculation gained traction after some international outlets picked it up following a mention in a wine blog last week. The claim suggested that Saudi authorities were looking to permit alcohol sales in tourist areas as the nation gears up for the 2034 soccer World Cup, but it did not cite any credible sources.
In an effort to attract tourists and international businesses, the kingdom has relaxed some regulations as part of a broader initiative to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil.
This discussion on alcohol laws ignited a lively online debate within the kingdom, given that the king also bears the title of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques—Islam’s most revered sites located in Mecca and Medina.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MBS, has championed numerous reforms. These reforms include allowing women to drive starting in 2017, loosening certain gender segregation rules in public spaces, and curbing the powers of the religious police.
Saudi Arabia and Kuwait stand as the only Gulf nations that maintain a ban on alcohol sales.
One minor step towards permitting alcoholic beverages in the kingdom was the opening of the first alcohol store in Riyadh last year, which was exclusively available to non-Muslim diplomats.
Before this, individuals could only obtain alcohol through diplomatic channels or on the black market.
Sure! Here’s a rewritten version of the content in American English:
—
A crescent moon accompanied by Venus shines through an oak tree in Ellaville, Georgia, USA, January 3, 2025. — Reuters
RIYADH: The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has called upon Muslims throughout the kingdom to observe the crescent moon on the evening of Tuesday, May 27, to mark the beginning of Zil Hajj 2025, the Islamic month dedicated to Eid ul Adha and the Hajj pilgrimage.
In a statement released on Sunday, the court urged anyone who can sight the crescent—whether with the naked eye or using binoculars—to report to the nearest court and document their observation.
The court also invited participation in the official moon-sighting committees established in various regions to support this important religious activity.
The Hajj pilgrimage is set to start on the 8th of Zil Hajj and continue until the 13th of the month. This year, Hajj is anticipated to occur between June 4 and June 9.
However, if the crescent moon is not seen on May 27, then Zil Qadah will complete its 30 days, and Zil Hajj will commence on Thursday, May 29.
As a result, Eid ul Adha would be celebrated on Saturday, June 7, adjusting the dates for both the Hajj pilgrimage and related festivities by one day across the kingdom.
The final confirmation of Eid ul Adha and Hajj dates will depend on the official moon-sighting announcement made as Zil Qadah comes to a close.
—
Feel free to ask for any modifications or further assistance!
A Saudi man checks flight schedules at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, May 16, 2021.
For the first time in ten years, a Saudi airline has initiated flights for Iranian Hajj pilgrims to the Kingdom, signaling a thaw in relations between the two nations.
“Flynas began Iranian flights for pilgrims from Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran on Saturday,” a representative from the Saudi civil aviation authority shared with AFP, preferring to remain anonymous.
Additional flights from Mashhad in Iran are also expected, enabling over 35,000 pilgrims to make the journey to Saudi Arabia.
The representative clarified that these flights are exclusively for the purpose of the Hajj pilgrimage and are not commercial services.
The Hajj is anticipated to commence during the first week of June, with pilgrims from around the world already arriving in Saudi Arabia.
After a surprise agreement brokered by China, Iran and Saudi Arabia restored diplomatic ties in March 2023, ending a seven-year rift.
Relations between the two countries deteriorated in 2016 when Saudi Arabia severed ties following attacks on its embassy in Tehran and its consulate in Mashhad during protests triggered by the execution of cleric Nimr al-Nimr.
In that same year, Iranian pilgrims were barred from entering Saudi Arabia due to the inability of both sides to establish a protocol for their participation in the pilgrimage.
Although Iranians were eventually allowed to partake in the Hajj, they were restricted to traveling on specially chartered flights from Iran. However, the recent reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia has led to increased interactions between the two regional powers.
Egyptian TikTok star Suzy El Ordoneya detained in significant money laundering and cybercrime investigation
