Saudi Arabia News

4 days ago

Hajj Ministry Approves 73 Companies Qualified To Provide Services For Domestic Pilgrims

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced on Tuesday the approval of 73 companies qualified to provide services for domestic pilgrims. The ministry explained that these companies were accredited after meeting all approved conditions and standards, encompassing both organizational and operational requirements, in addition to demonstrating readiness to deliver comprehensive services, including housing, transportation, catering, and support services. This, in turn, improves the efficiency of the Hajj system and elevates the level of services offered to pilgrims within the Kingdom. The approval has been accorded as part of an integrated operational framework designed to enhance service quality and strengthen contractual reliability. The ministry urged those intending to perform Hajj to examine the list of accredited companies and to contract exclusively through official channels, emphasizing that doing so ensures the protection of their rights and access to reliable services. It also cautioned against engaging with unlicensed entities due to the potential risks related to service quality and the possible loss of rights. The ministry further highlighted significant advancements in service delivery, particularly in the area of digital transformation. Dedicated electronic platforms for booking and contracting have been enhanced, enabling pilgrims to review available packages, compare options, and select the most […]

4 days ago

3 Arrested For Hajj Fraud In Buraidah

The Qassim region police arrested two Saudi citizens and a Syrian resident for committing fraud by posting fake and misleading advertisements on social media offering Hajj services. They were referred to the Public Prosecution after taking the legal procedures against them. Public Security urged Saudi citizens and residents to adhere to Hajj regulations and instructions and to report any violations by calling 911 in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 in the rest of the Kingdom. READ MORE: Saudi Arabia Sets 10-Day Vaccination Deadline For Hajj Pilgrims

4 days ago

Saudi Arabia Sets 10-Day Vaccination Deadline For Hajj Pilgrims

The Saudi Ministry of Health has set a deadline of no more than 10 days before the Hajj season for receiving vaccinations. The ministry emphasized that immunization is the first line of defense to ensure pilgrims perform rituals safely and in good health, achieve the necessary immune response, and reduce the risk of disease. The recommended vaccines include meningococcal (meningitis), COVID-19, and seasonal influenza, given their vital role in limiting the spread of infections during a season marked by high population density. Vaccinations can be obtained by booking appointments through the Sehhaty app, within adult immunization clinic services, helping streamline procedures and improve access. The ministry confirmed that vaccines can be taken together or separately based on specialist assessment, stressing their high safety levels, including for pregnant women, as all vaccines adhere to approved safety standards. These recommendations are part of the ministry’s efforts to strengthen preventive health measures, reduce health risks, and ensure a safe and healthy Hajj season for pilgrims. READ MORE: Saudi Arabia uncovers collusion in tenders, bids worth over SR509 million

5 days ago

Saudi Arabia uncovers collusion in tenders, bids worth over SR509 million

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Competition (GAC) has uncovered suspected collusion in tenders and bids valued at more than 509.67 million riyals highlighting the potential impact of such practices on public spending efficiency. The authority said it had carried out extensive investigations and evidence-gathering into alleged bid-rigging after initial indicators pointed to prohibited practices. It charged 16 firms with involvement in collusion violations, reaching financial settlement agreements with 13 of them after they applied under approved procedures, with total settlements amounting to 7.53 million riyals. Legal action has been initiated against three firms that failed to reach settlements, with cases still under review by the committee for adjudicating competition law violations. The authority said the telecommunications and information technology sector was the most affected, accounting for 46 per cent of cases, followed by the trade sector at 39 per cent and construction at 15 per cent. GAC added that tackling such practices helps strengthen fair competition, improve government spending efficiency and curb financial waste resulting from unlawful agreements, while supporting transparency and investor confidence in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic goals. Also Read : Kuwait Jails Soldier for Seven Years Over Fake Citizenship Case

5 days ago

Expat Arrested In Makkah For Harassing A Woman

Makkah police, in coordination with the General Directorate for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking, arrested a resident for sexually harassing a woman in the holy city. The suspect was referred to the Public Prosecution after taking the necessary legal measures. READ MORE: Saudi Arabia: 5 Arrested While Attempting To Enter Makkah On Foot Illegally

6 days ago

Saudi Arabia Forecasts Heavy Rainfall In May, Rising Temperatures Through Summer: NCM

Saudi Arabia is expected to see heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the south and Makkah region in May, alongside a broader rise in temperatures across most regions, according to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM). The seasonal outlook covering May, June, and July indicates above-average rainfall during the first two months before conditions stabilize in July. According to the NCM’s seasonal outlook, rainfall patterns will vary over the three-month period, with May and June expected to record above-average precipitation before conditions stabilize in July. Visual maps indicate that the highest rainfall anomalies will be concentrated in the southwestern regions during May and June, before conditions shift back toward normal patterns in July. In May, rainfall is forecast across parts of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah, with moderate to heavy intensity that could lead to flash flooding, with the impact expected to extend to parts of Madinah, Hail, Qassim, and the Northern Borders, where rainfall will range from moderate to heavy. In June, rainfall activity is expected to remain above average particularly over Jazan and Asir, extending into Al-Baha and the highlands of Makkah, including Taif. These areas are forecast to experience moderate to heavy rainfall. By July, […]

6 days ago

Saudi Arabia: 5 Arrested While Attempting To Enter Makkah On Foot Illegally

Hajj Security Forces arrested one Saudi citizen, and two Egyptians and Yemeni residents each for violating Hajj regulations. They were caught while attempting to enter Makkah on foot through a desert area without a Hajj permit. They were detained, and legal procedures were initiated against them. The Public Security urged all Saudi citizens and residents to adhere to Hajj regulations and instructions and to report any violations by calling 911 in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 in the rest of the regions of the Kingdom.

6 days ago

Saudi Arabia: Heritage Commission Slaps Fines On 11 Persons For Unlicensed Trade In Portable Antiquities

The Heritage Commission slapped financial fines on 11 violators for dealing in portable antiquities without obtaining the required regulatory licenses. The commission clarified that the violations involved displaying and selling antiquities on online platforms without registering or documenting them with the Heritage Commission or obtaining the necessary licenses, in explicit violation of the provisions of the Law of Antiquities, Museums and Urban Heritage. The fines varied according to the nature and circumstances of each violation, reaching up to SR15,000 in some cases. The move is part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to protect cultural heritage in the Kingdom and enhance compliance with regulations governing the sector. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring violations related to heritage sites and collections across the Kingdom and taking the necessary legal and regulatory actions against all those who have proven to have contravened the regulations. The Heritage Commission called on all citizens and residents to report any violations or non-compliant practices related to heritage sites or collections through its social media channels. This is through visiting the commission’s branches across the Kingdom or through the Archaeological Site Reporting platform or by contacting the unified security operations center at 911.

6 days ago

Thunderstorms, Strong Winds To Batter Saudi Arabia Through Friday

Saudi Arabia is expected to face continued thunderstorms, strong winds and unstable weather conditions across most regions until Friday, authorities said, urging residents to exercise caution. The General Directorate of Civil Defence urged the public to remain in safe locations, avoid flood-prone valleys and areas of water accumulation, and refrain from swimming, while adhering to official safety instructions issued via media and social media platforms. In Mecca region, moderate to heavy rainfall is forecast, which could trigger flash floods, hail and downbursts stirring dust and sand affecting areas including Turbah, Al Moya, Al Khurma, Ranyah, Taif, Maysan and Adham. The Riyadh region is also expected to see light to moderate rain, with risks of flooding, hail and dust-raising winds across Wadi Al Dawasir, Al Sulayyil, Al Aflaj, Afif, Al Dawadmi, Al Quwayiyah and surrounding areas. Elsewhere, regions including Asir, Jazan, Al Baha, Qassim, Hail, Medina, Tabuk, Al Jouf and the Northern Borders are forecast to experience moderate to heavy rain, while the Eastern Province will see lighter showers. The National Centre of Meteorology said the weather system would bring active downdraft winds reaching 60 km/h or more, reducing visibility and raising dust, alongside a chance of hail in scattered areas. […]

6 days ago

Global Report: Saudi Arabia At The Heart Of Robust Tourism And Travel Growth In Mideast During 2025

The Middle East experienced strong travel and tourism growth, with Saudi Arabia remaining at the heart of this growth, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Saudi Arabia, the largest travel and tourism economy in the region, accounted for $178 billion in GDP and 46 percent of the Middle East’s total travel and tourism economy during the year 2025, it was revealed in the WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Research (EIR). The EIR, a leading global study of travel and tourism performance, highlighted the region’s strong performance across key indicators, including international visitor spending, domestic travel, and business travel. The study revealed that the Middle East is experiencing strong travel and tourism growth, with the sector expanding by 5.3 percent in 2025, outpacing the global average of 4.1 percent and reinforcing the region’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic travel markets. Travel and tourism in the Middle East continues to outperform, with growth exceeding the global average and also surpassing the wider regional economy. International visitor spending rose 5.2 percent, compared to 3.2 percent globally, reflecting strong demand and increasing global connectivity. The region’s travel and tourism sector contributed $385.8 billion to GDP in 2025, supporting 7.1 […]

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Hajj Ministry Approves 73 Companies Qualified To Provide Services For Domestic Pilgrims

3 Arrested For Hajj Fraud In Buraidah

Saudi Arabia Sets 10-Day Vaccination Deadline For Hajj Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia uncovers collusion in tenders, bids worth over SR509 million

Expat Arrested In Makkah For Harassing A Woman

Saudi Arabia Forecasts Heavy Rainfall In May, Rising Temperatures Through Summer: NCM

Saudi Arabia: 5 Arrested While Attempting To Enter Makkah On Foot Illegally

Saudi Arabia: Heritage Commission Slaps Fines On 11 Persons For Unlicensed Trade In Portable Antiquities

Thunderstorms, Strong Winds To Batter Saudi Arabia Through Friday

Global Report: Saudi Arabia At The Heart Of Robust Tourism And Travel Growth In Mideast During 2025

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