27 seconds ago

sa flag Saudi Arabia: 22,156 Residency, Labor, And Border Law Violators Arrested In One Week

The Saudi security authorities have arrested a total of 22,156 illegal residents during the last week. The arrests were made in the joint inspections, carried out by the security forces in collaboration with the relevant government agencies, during the period between November 6 and November 12, the Ministry of Interior announced on Saturday. Those who were arrested include 14,027 violators of the Residency Law, 4,781 violators of the Border Security Law, and 3,348 violators of the Labor Law. A total of 22,091 violators were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents while 4,784 violators were referred to complete their travel reservations and 14,916 violators were deported. The total number of people who were arrested while trying to cross the border into the Kingdom accounted for 1,924, of whom 37 percent were Yemeni nationals, 62 percent Ethiopian nationals, and one percent belonged to other nationalities. A total of 32people were arrested while attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally. Some 31 people involved in giving transportation, shelter, and employment for violators were also arrested. A total of 30,236 expatriates, including 28,407 men and 1,829 women, are currently undergoing procedures to enforce legal measures against them. The Ministry of Interior has […]

9 minutes ago

ir flag Iran’s Elite IRGC Seizes Tanker In Strait Of Hormuz

After a long period of relative quiet, the Strait of Hormuz is flaring up again as on Friday Iranian forces are reported to have seized a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker. This is a first in a long time, but the Iranians are saying it is a somewhat ‘routine’ instance of intercepting a ship for “smuggling fuel”, according to state IRNA. The Iranians are now claiming to be acting within the laws of the Islamic Republic. But it was clearly an international vessel, with a US official and a private maritime risk group saying it was forcibly diverted into Iranian territorial waters as it made its way through the narrow strait. International reports have identified the tanker as the Talara, en route from Ajman in the United Arab Emirates to Singapore when it was intercepted. Further, British maritime risk firm Vanguard has described that the vessel was seized by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) – which typically oversees such aggressive Iranian naval operations related to foreign vessels – and redirected toward Iranian waters. Reports further say that three boats were observed approaching the Talara. Further AP reports that “A U.S. Navy MQ-4C Triton drone had been circling above the area where the Talara was […]

30 minutes ago

ae flag UAE: Emirates Warns Of December Travel Surge: How To Navigate DXB Amid The Festive Rush

Emirates has issued a cautionary advisory for travelers this December, as Dubai International Airport (DXB) braces for one of its busiest months of the year. The airline expects more than 2.3 million departures and 2.5 million arrivals over the coming weekends, fueled by peak tourism, a packed local events calendar, and KHDA school closures keeping families on the move. To help passengers navigate the anticipated holiday rush, Emirates is rolling out a range of solutions, from early City Check-In and home luggage drop-off services to biometric processing, pre-order shopping, and streamlined airport transport options. The airline is urging travelers to plan ahead and take full advantage of these services to avoid delays, maximise comfort, and make the most of Dubai International’s world-class facilities. To reduce congestion and ensure a stress-free start to their journey, Emirates recommends that all travelers communicate timelines clearly with family and travel companions. According to Emirates’ media report: This approach not only allows passengers to avoid last-minute stress but also provides time to explore Dubai International’s airside attractions. From premium Emirates Lounges and international restaurants to world-class shopping outlets and dedicated relaxation zones, the airport offers a wide range of services to start a trip on […]

9 hours ago

ae flag Dubai Metro Blue Line: How These 14 Stations Will Make Travel Easy For Commuters

Dubai is taking a giant leap in urban mobility with the launch of the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a transformative mass transit corridor designed to connect key residential, commercial, and industrial hubs across the emirate. Stretching over 30 kilometres with 14 strategically located stations, the Blue Line promises to make travel faster, smoother, and more convenient for commuters, while supporting Dubai’s long-term economic and urban development plans. From Creek Station, which interchanges with the Green Line, to the iconic Emaar Properties Station at Dubai Creek Harbour, each station has been meticulously planned to provide seamless access to residential communities, business districts, academic zones, and technology hubs. By integrating with existing metro lines, feeder buses, and multimodal transport options, the Blue Line not only enhances daily commuting but also aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan and the city’s ambition to become a global smart city. The project also emphasizes sustainability, efficiency, and innovation. With 9 elevated and 5 underground stations, modern amenities, and environmentally conscious designs, the Blue Line sets new benchmarks for urban transit in the region. Commuters can expect reduced travel times, improved connectivity between key districts, and a direct link to Dubai International Airport, all while contributing […]

10 hours ago

sa flag Saudi Arabia To Issue Instant Tourist Visas Through New Visa-Card-Linked System

Saudi Arabia has unveiled a world-first digital travel system that will issue tourist visas in minutes for eligible Visa cardholders, marking one of the most significant shifts in global mobility and travel processing to date. Saudi Arabia announced the “Visa by Profile” initiative at the inaugural TOURISE conference to streamline international travel, remove friction for high-value visitors and accelerate visa decision-making through deep digital and regulatory integration. Developed by the Saudi Tourism Authority in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of Tourism the system allows qualified travellers to obtain an electronic tourist visa using only their passport details and Visa card information. Saudi Visa visa The platform uses travellers’ credit scores to verify financial solvency, addressing the requirements of destination countries while simplifying approvals for millions of potential visitors. Set to launch in 2026, with expansion as more banks and card issuers join, the Visa by Profile model fully automates visa issuance through coordinated connectivity between government entities, airports, credit bureaus and financial institutions. Minister of Tourism and TOURISE Summit chairman Ahmed Al-Khateeb said: “Visa by Profile is about access — access to opportunity, mobility, and connection. “By bringing together financial institutions […]

10 hours ago

it flag sa flag Saudi Arabia Launches First Direct Europe–Red Sea Flight

Saudi Arabia has marked a major milestone in its global tourism expansion with the arrival of the first direct European flight at Red Sea International Airport. The inaugural Milan–Red Sea service strengthens international connectivity, supports the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and unlocks new access to the Kingdom’s rapidly growing portfolio of luxury coastal destinations. The launch reflects Red Sea Global’s accelerating progress across its Red Sea and AMAALA developments. Direct European flight to Red Sea International Airport Red Sea Global announced the arrival of the first direct European flight to Red Sea International Airport, marking what it described as a strategic milestone in the development of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector and its global connectivity. According to the announcement, the inaugural flight departed from Milan, Italy, establishing the first direct air link between Europe and the Kingdom’s Red Sea coast. The new route enables European travellers to seamlessly access the Red Sea and AMAALA destinations and experience luxurious, nature-immersive stays. The route connects passengers to Beond’s premium aircraft services and to the world-class facilities at Red Sea International Airport, which were designed to reflect the surrounding environment. Route launched at Saudi summit Red Sea Global confirmed that the route was […]

10 hours ago

sa flag Saudi Arabia: AMAALA Set To Welcome Visitors By January 2026

Red Sea Global (RSG) announced the official opening of AMAALA Triple Bay during the 2025 TOURISE Summit in Riyadh, confirming that the destination will begin welcoming visitors by January 2026. RSG CEO John Pagano reaffirmed the announcement in a post on X on Nov. 11, saying: “In the months ahead, we’ll open the first six of 31 resorts, alongside the AMAALA Yacht Club and Corallium marine life institute.” AMAALA is expected to create up to 50,000 jobs and contribute SR11 billion ($3 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP upon completion. Among the first properties scheduled to open at Triple Bay are: • Equinox Resort and Residences, AMAALA: 128 rooms and suites, 21 branded residences, a subterranean spa grotto, hyperbaric chambers, IV therapies, an Equinox Fitness Club, and five dining venues.• Four Seasons Resort and Residences, AMAALA: 202 rooms, 25 residences, six dining outlets, a Kids For All Seasons program, and a Discovery Centre.• Nammos Resort and Residences, AMAALA: 110 rooms, 20 apartments, and exclusive dining options.• Rosewood Resort, AMAALA: 110 rooms, 26 residences, family and wellness-focused zones, and the Asaya Spa.• Six Senses, AMAALA: 100 pool suites and villas, 25 branded residences, and a 3,000 m² spa offering sleep, yoga, fitness, […]

11 hours ago

sa flag Rain-Seeking Prayers Performed Across Saudi Arabia

Rain-seeking prayers were performed in mosques all over the Kingdom on Thursday morning. This is in line with the directive of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in performing the prayer when rain is needed. The imams also delivered sermons on the occasion. Hundreds of thousands of the faithful, including Umrah pilgrims and visitors, attended the prayer held at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. At the Makkah Grand Mosque, the prayer was led by Imam and Khateeb Sheikh Yasser Al-Dosari. Those who performed the prayer included Deputy Emir of Makkah Prince Saud bin Mishaal, and Head of the Presidency for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais. In his sermon, Sheikh Yasser Al-Dosari emphasized that piety is the reason for the expansion of sustenance and lifespans, and for the opening of blessings from the heavens in the form of rain, and blessings from the earth in the form of plants and fruits. At the Prophet’s Mosque, Emir of Madinah Prince Salman bin Sultan was among those who attended the prayer, led by Imam and Khateeb Sheikh Ahmed bin Ali […]

11 hours ago

sa flag AlUqair Beach To Host 1st Saudi Family Beach Sports Festival On Nov. 25-29

AlUqair Beach is set to host Ramliyah, Saudi Arabia’s inaugural family-focused beach sports festival, from November 25 to 29. The five-day event will transform the historic coastal area into a vibrant hub of sport, wellness, and family entertainment, welcoming thousands of visitors to AlUqair in the Eastern Province. Ramliyah will be open from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily and admission is free with significant cash prizes of over SR200000 for tournament winners. Held under the patronage of Governor of Al-Ahsa Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr, Ramliyah is a landmark initiative for the Kingdom and aligned with Vision 2030’s goal of fostering a healthy and active society. The event will feature thrilling male and female beach tournaments in soccer, volleyball, and handball, organized by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), with local sports groups and teams competing for cash prizes and medals. Beyond the competitive sports, the expansive beach side festival grounds will include a large Fan Zone with interactive beach games, a Wellness Zone offering yoga and fitness classes, music, and a curated food and beverage area serving diverse cuisine. Visitors will have the opportunity to try out a variety of beach sports through taster sessions organized by […]

12 hours ago

sa flag CMA Orders SR90.8 Million Compensation For 668 Investors In Al-Mojil Class Action Case

The Capital Market Authority (CMA) announced that the Appeal Committee for Resolution of Securities Disputes (ACRSD) has issued a final ruling requiring three respondents in the Mohammad Al-Mojil Group Company case to jointly and individually pay SR90.8 million to 668 investors who joined the registered class action. The ruling follows the class action approved by the Committee for Resolution of Securities Disputes (CRSD) on January 11, 2024, which was filed by an investor seeking compensation for losses stemming from company announcements later proven to be incorrect. According to the ACRSD, the final decision came after the case was referred back to the CRSD to review a petition submitted by one of the respondents. The CRSD issued its decision on March 13, 2025, which became final on April 22, 2025. The ACRSD ruling obligates Adel bin Mohammad bin Hamad Almojil, Fahad bin Ali bin Saad Alraqttan, and Ibrahim Zadah to compensate affected investors, based on entitlements determined by the CRSD and upheld by the appeals committee. The case relates to misleading financial statements issued by Mohammad Al-Mojil Group on February 22 and April 21, 2012, covering the company’s 2011 annual results and Q1 2012 results. These were later proven incorrect following […]

13 hours ago

sa flag Beast Land Opens At Riyadh Season 2025 With First-Of-Its-Kind Global Experience

Beast Land opened Thursday as part of Riyadh Season 2025, featuring global content creator Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast) in a first-of-its-kind attraction inspired by his famed challenges, now brought to life as real-world adventures for visitors. The zone offers cash prizes exceeding SR2 million for winners of the Beast Arena challenges, which combine movement, skill, and adventure. A grand prize will be awarded at the end of the season to the participant with the highest total points. Beast Land features interactive experiences for all age groups, a dedicated children’s play area, and more than 20 food and beverage outlets, creating a fully integrated entertainment destination within Riyadh Season 2025, which continues to cement the capital’s position as a global hub for entertainment.

17 hours ago

sa flag ZATCA Foils Attempts To Smuggle 33,548 Captagon Pills And 21 Kg Of Meth At Border Crossings

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has foiled two attempts to smuggle 33,548 amphetamine (Captagon) pills and more than 21 kilograms of methamphetamine “shabu” at the Al-Durra and Empty Quarter border crossings. ZATCA said the contraband was found hidden in a vehicle and a truck that arrived in the Kingdom through the two ports. Spokesman Hamoud Al-Harbi said customs officers at Al-Durra thwarted the first attempt after discovering 33,548 Captagon pills concealed inside the vehicle’s fuel tank. In the second case, customs officers at the Empty Quarter crossing intercepted more than 21 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden in a truck entering the Kingdom. Al-Harbi stressed that ZATCA will continue to tighten customs control over imports and exports, and stands ready to confront smuggling attempts as part of its strategy to enhance security and protect society by limiting the entry of narcotics and other banned substances. He urged the public to help combat smuggling and protect both society and the national economy by reporting suspected violations through the security hotline (1910), via email, or by calling the international number (+9661910). Reports related to smuggling crimes and violations of the Unified Customs Law are handled confidentially, and financial rewards may be granted […]

17 hours ago

sa flag Saudi Arabia: Red Wave 8 Naval Drill Concludes In Jeddah With Red Sea States

The mixed naval exercise “Red Wave 8” concluded at King Faisal Naval Base in the Western Fleet, in the presence of Royal Saudi Naval Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Mohammed Al-Ghuraibi, Director General of the Border Guard Lt. Gen. Shaya Al-Wadaani, and senior commanders from participating countries. Hosted by the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, the drill included participation from the Kingdom’s land and air forces, units from the Ministry of Interior’s Border Guard, and naval forces from Red Sea littoral states including Jordan, Egypt, Djibouti, Sudan, and Yemen. Participating vessels carried out a series of advanced maritime maneuvers involving anti-submarine warfare, electronic warfare, surface and air defense operations, live-fire targeting of surface and aerial threats, maritime security missions, and counter-UAV boat operations, using modern defensive systems and naval craft. The exercise also included field scenarios such as amphibious landings, urban combat, coastal defense operations, reconnaissance, raids on coastal targets, counterterrorism drills, hostage rescue missions, mine clearance, and handling unexploded ordnance. Naval Aviation aircraft (MH60R) conducted live-fire operations against surface targets, alongside small- and medium-arms live-fire training. Exercise Director Rear Adm. Abdullah Al-Anzi said the drill achieved its objectives by enhancing the participating countries’ capabilities to deter shared regional threats, […]

18 hours ago

ae flag Abu Dhabi Motorcyclist Suffers Permanent Disabilities After Swerving To Avoid Jaywalker

A motorcyclist in Abu Dhabi has been left with life-altering injuries after swerving to avoid a woman who crossed the road from a non-designated area and failed to stop, leading him to lose control of his bike, 24.ae newsportal reported.  The crash resulted in severe and permanent disabilities: partial paralysis in his left leg, impaired vision and hearing, memory loss, partial seizures, repeated loss of consciousness, and long-term psychological trauma. His condition ultimately forced him into early retirement. According to case filings, the motorcyclist submitted a claim to the Insurance Dispute Settlement and Resolution Committee seeking Dh2.1 million in compensation from the insurance company and another party, along with Dh4,000 to cover forensic medical report costs.  He argued that the accident occurred while riding his insured motorcycle, and that the woman who caused the crash could not be identified afterward. The insurer sought to limit its liability to Dh200,000, the cap for bodily injury under its policy, and the committee dismissed the motorcyclist’s claim. He appealed the decision, but the Court of Appeal also rejected his case. He then filed a petition with the Abu Dhabi Court of Cassation, arguing that the previous courts had dismissed the case because he did not submit the […]

20 hours ago

sa flag Midad Real Estate, JCDC And Kerzner International Join Forces To Launch First Atlantis And One&Only Resorts In Saudi Arabia

Midad Real Estate Company has announced a major joint venture with Jeddah Central Development Company (JCDC), owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), and Kerzner International, the global hospitality group behind the renowned Atlantis and One&Only brands. The agreement, signed during the TOURISE Global Summit, was attended by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb, and Mohammad Al Shaibani, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Kerzner International. The partnership will bring the first-ever Atlantis and One&Only destinations to Saudi Arabia, both located within Jeddah Central — a transformative waterfront district on the Red Sea coast designed to become one of the Kingdom’s premier tourism and entertainment hubs. Transforming Jeddah’s waterfront Midad Real Estate will serve as the project’s developer, leading the creation of Atlantis Jeddah and One&Only Jeddah, two flagship destinations envisioned to elevate Jeddah Central as a world-class leisure and cultural landmark. Atlantis Jeddah will feature branded residences, the region’s first Aquaventure Waterpark, and the Lost Chambers Aquarium, alongside more than 20 dining venues, luxury retail outlets, and a waterfront entertainment pier. The One&Only Jeddah resort will offer rooms, suites, villas, and the brand’s first Private Homes community in Saudi Arabia. Guests can expect seven signature dining […]

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