Saudi Arabia News

1 year ago

Game On for $70M Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia

The second edition of the Esports World Cup is set to begin in Riyadh on Monday, July 7. The major event brings together more than 2,000 professional players representing 200 clubs from over 100 countries. Competitions will run until August 24, with players vying for a record prize pool exceeding $70m—the highest in esports history. Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia This year’s tournament will take place at Boulevard Riyadh City, spanning an area of more than 50,000sq m. It features 25 tournaments across 24 games, including: The Esports World Cup stands as the largest event in the history of the gaming and esports industry. It plays a key role in empowering players and clubs through the 2025 EWCF Club Partner Program, which aims to foster sustainable growth for participating teams, develop talent, and expand their global fan base. Also read: Sama Announces Launch of New E-commerce Payments Interface

1 year ago

New Portal for E-commerce Payments Launched in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) launched a new e-commerce payments interface, marking a major step in enhancing the Kingdom’s digital payment infrastructure. The initiative aims to streamline online payment processes by enabling e-commerce providers to integrate with both the national “mada” payment system and international payment networks. This will offer consumers a wider range of secure and seamless payment options, using unified technical standards. لتعزيز البنية التحتية وتوفير حلول آمنة وسلسة للقطاع..#البنك_المركزي_السعودي "ساما" يعلن إطلاق الواجهة الجديدة لمدفوعات التجارة الإلكترونية.https://t.co/PUGEZIrcHh pic.twitter.com/7MXYH967Ak — SAMA | البنك المركزي السعودي (@SAMA_GOV) July 7, 2025 Top features? A key feature of the interface is a centralized registration service, allowing banks and financial institutions to develop innovative financing solutions tailored to online businesses. Additionally, the system leverages advanced technologies such as payment card tokenization to bolster transaction security. This move supports SAMA’s broader strategy to develop the digital payment ecosystem, promote fintech growth, and solidify Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in the global payments industry. The interface is expected to benefit the rapidly growing number of online merchants, payment gateways, and service providers operating in the Kingdom. Also read: Sama Announces Launch of New E-commerce Payments Interface

1 year ago

Sama Announces Launch of New E-commerce Payments Interface

Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has announced the launch of a new e-commerce payments interface, which enables e-commerce service providers to rely on national infrastructure and integrate the mada payment system with global payment networks. This expands the range of payment options available to users through unified and simplified technical specifications. It also introduces a centralized registration service to enable banks and financial institutions to offer innovative financing solutions to e-commerce businesses. The new interface is a strategic move aimed at enhancing the efficiency of national payment infrastructure and keeping pace with the rapid growth of the e-commerce sector. The system leverages advanced technologies such as payment card tokenization, significantly enhancing the security of electronic payment transactions. This launch is part of SAMA’s strategy to strengthen the e-payment ecosystem, support the future development of e-commerce payments, and deliver smooth and secure payment solutions. It also supports the ongoing expansion of online businesses and the increasing number of online stores and service providers, including payment gateways and technical service providers. Additionally, the launch contributes to the growth of digital payment indicators and supports the objectives of the fintech strategy, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global leader in the payments industry. Also […]

1 year ago

Armenia Grants Visa-Free Entry To GCC Citizens And Residents Starting July 2025

As of July 1, 2025, Armenia has officially opened its borders to citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, granting visa-free access for short stays of up to 90 days. The visa exemption policy is designed to enhance Armenia’s appeal as an accessible and welcoming destination in the South Caucasus, particularly for travellers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. 90 days stay without visa Under the new rules, all passport holders from GCC countries may travel to Armenia for tourism, leisure, or business without the need for a visa, for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. In addition, the exemption extends to individuals holding valid residency permits issued by any of the GCC member states, provided their residence permits are valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Armenia. This provision broadens access to a large segment of expatriates living in the Gulf region. Growing interest among GCC nationals The timing of the decision coincides with a growing interest among GCC nationals and residents in exploring nearby destinations that offer authentic experiences, diverse cultures, and unique natural beauty. With its rich historical heritage, scenic landscapes, and […]

1 year ago

Saudi Arabia Sets New Rules For Food Trucks, Bans Operations After Midnight

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has introduced a set of sweeping regulations governing the operations of mobile vending carts and food trucks across the Kingdom, part of an effort to standardise the sector and bolster food safety standards. The new requirements, approved by Majed Al Hogail, Minster of Municipal Affairs and Housing, include mandatory installation of surveillance cameras inside all vending units, and a blanket prohibition on operations past midnight — unless vendors obtain a 24-hour activity permit. The updated rules also outline strict limits on where mobile vendors can operate and what activities are permissible within the carts. Food truck and mobile cart operators have been granted a 180-day grace period to comply with the new regulations. Under the new framework, vending is strictly prohibited near traffic lights, major road junctions, emergency exits, gas stations, and areas with high vehicle congestion. Vendors are also barred from operating near environmentally hazardous zones, such as waste dumps, sewage sites, or areas that emit gas and smoke. Locations allocated for emergency services or people with disabilities are off-limits as well. In a move aimed at maintaining public order and health standards, the regulations ban smoking, loudspeakers, and external audio […]

Saudi Fines Up to SR100K for Electricity Meter Tampering

1 year ago

Tampering With Electricity Meters In Saudi Arabia Can Now Cost Up To SR100,000

Saudi Arabia’s Electricity Regulatory Authority has introduced sweeping amendments to its enforcement regulations, significantly increasing penalties for violations under the Kingdom’s Electricity Law. The amendments, approved this week, include updated fine assessment mechanisms and stricter penalties based on the severity and circumstances of each infraction. Among the most notable amendments are steeper fines for tampering with electricity meters. Offenders now face penalties ranging from SR5,000 to SR100,000, depending on the breaker’s amperage capacity. For example, tampering with a meter connected to a 100-amp or smaller breaker carries a SR5,000 fine, while tampering with one over 400 amps could incur the maximum SR100,000 penalty. Violations involving individuals who do not own the meter account or are not actual beneficiaries will automatically incur a SR50,000 fine — subject to increase if the violation is deemed serious or has been repeated more than twice, as per the criteria set by a designated committee. 10 core violations The amendments define 10 core violations, including failure to comply with the authority’s directives in handling complaints (SR20,000) and failure by licensed entities to provide requested information (up to SR100,000). Other violations include SR2,000 fine for missing statutory deadlines related to electrical services, SR50,000 for non-compliance with performance standards, and SR3,000 […]

Riyadh Skywalk Sets Guinness Record at 15.46 KM

1 year ago

Riyadh Financial Hub Earns Guinness Record For 15.46 km Pedestrian Skyway

The King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh was awarded a Guinness World Record on Sunday for the world’s largest continuous pedestrian skyway network. The network spans 15.46 km, linking 95 buildings through 42 climate-controlled skywalks, allowing year-round pedestrian access. Elevated above ground and connected to Riyadh’s metro, the skywalks help workers, visitors, and residents move easily through the district while avoiding traffic and weather. Built with 30,000 sq. meters of glass and more than 3,000 tonnes of steel, the project required more than 5 million safe work hours from 1,200 personnel. The skywalks connect offices, homes, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it easier to walk between work, home, and leisure. “This recognition by Guinness World Records affirms KAFD as a platform for urban development,” said Faddy AlAql, chief asset delivery officer at KAFD Development and Management Co. “The skywalk network reflects a mobility strategy that connects assets, enhances walkability, and supports our goal of delivering a smart city experience.” Mbali Nkosi, official adjudicator for Guinness World Records, said: “First set in Minneapolis in 2016, this record has now been redefined by KAFD. In an era where sustainability drives innovation, KAFD’s skyway network sets a new benchmark for walkable urban […]

1 year ago

Saudi Arabia Deports 8,051 Illegal Residents In A Week

A total of 17,863 illegal residents were arrested during inspections across Saudi Arabia in a week.The inspections were carried out by the security forces in collaboration with the relevant government agencies, during the period between June 26 and July 2, the Ministry of Interior revealed on Saturday. Those who were arrested include 10,746 violators of the Residency Law, 4,362 violators of the Border Security Law, and 2,755 violators of the Labor Law. The ministry said that a total of 8051 illegal residents were deported while 6,839 violators were referred to their diplomatic missions to obtain travel documents and 2,392 violators were referred to complete their travel reservations. The total number of people who were arrested while trying to cross the border into the Kingdom accounted for 1,507, of whom 33 percent were Yemeni nationals, 65 percent Ethiopian nationals, and two percent belonged to other nationalities. Some 26 people, involved in giving transportation, shelter, and employment for violators, were also arrested. A total of 13,362 illegal residents, including 11,874 men and 1,488 women, are currently undergoing various phases of legal procedures as part of punitive measures against them. The Ministry of Interior has warned that any person, who facilitates the illegal […]

1 year ago

Saudi Arabia Unveils New Skill-Based System For Expatriate Work Permits

Saudi Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi has issued a decision classifying the work permits of expatriate workers into three main skill categories: high-skill, skilled, and basic. The classification of existing work permits and technical system upgrades began on June 18 for expatriates currently working in the Saudi labor market. The classification would take effect for incoming expatriate workers as of July 1. The ministry has issued a guidance manual outlining all the details of the decision, which is available on its official website. This decision is part of the ministry’s broader efforts to foster a more attractive and efficient labor market, develop human capital, and enhance the business environment, contributing to achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program. The measure aims to enhance worker performance, attract global talent to transfer expertise and experience to the Saudi labor market, improve operational efficiency, benefit from international experience, and build an environment that supports innovation and the development of business models. The decision will improve verification mechanisms and enable better management of the skill-level distribution of expatriate workers in the labor market by ensuring that workers possess the required skills and qualifications for their […]

1 year ago

Russia Considers Visa-Free Entry For Saudi Citizens Amid Deepening Ties With Riyadh

Russia signaled a potential step forward in easing travel restrictions for Saudi citizens, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirming that Moscow is working toward waiving visa requirements for nationals of the Kingdom. The announcement came during a joint press conference with Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, held in the Russian capital on Friday. Lavrov praised the strength of bilateral relations and expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s balanced stance on the war in Ukraine. “We appreciate the Kingdom’s responsible and principled approach to the Ukrainian crisis,” Lavrov said. He also commended Saudi Arabia’s role in supporting regional stability, particularly its contributions to peace efforts in Yemen. Focus on Gaza and diplomatic efforts The talks in Moscow come as part of Prince Faisal’s official visit to Russia. Top among the Saudi minister’s priorities was the situation in Gaza. “Our immediate focus must be a permanent ceasefire,” Prince Faisal said, reiterating Saudi Arabia’s call for sustained international pressure to end hostilities and prevent further humanitarian disaster. The foreign minister also emphasized the urgency of reviving diplomatic efforts over Iran’s nuclear program, calling on Tehran to fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Upcoming events strengthen bilateral ties Lavrov, […]

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Game On for $70M Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia

New Portal for E-commerce Payments Launched in Saudi Arabia

Sama Announces Launch of New E-commerce Payments Interface

Armenia Grants Visa-Free Entry To GCC Citizens And Residents Starting July 2025

Saudi Arabia Sets New Rules For Food Trucks, Bans Operations After Midnight

Tampering With Electricity Meters In Saudi Arabia Can Now Cost Up To SR100,000

Riyadh Financial Hub Earns Guinness Record For 15.46 km Pedestrian Skyway

Saudi Arabia Deports 8,051 Illegal Residents In A Week

Saudi Arabia Unveils New Skill-Based System For Expatriate Work Permits

Russia Considers Visa-Free Entry For Saudi Citizens Amid Deepening Ties With Riyadh

Recent Posts

Bahrain International Airshow’s Eighth Edition Rescheduled to November 2028

Qatar to digitise sweetened drink registration process from November 1

Saudi-led coalition in Yemen says 73 injured in Houthi attacks on the kingdom

One visa for 6 Gulf countries: GCC chief says scheme will launch ‘soon’

Popular Indian restaurant Chokhi Dhani Dubai to close permanently on September 15

New tourist, residential project along Arabian Gulf coast announced in Saudi Arabia

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