The Real Estate General Authority will soon identify the areas eligible for foreign investment, expected to include high-demand locations such as Riyadh and Jeddah.

“Detailed executive regulations will be made public within six months via the ‘Istitlaa’ platform for public feedback,” said Naveen Sharma, Chairman of the Taxation Society.

Investment Hotspots and Demand

Recent off-plan launches in the Kingdom, including high-end developments like the Trump Tower in Jeddah, have attracted strong interest from domestic investors. Two additional Trump-branded projects, including one potentially in Riyadh, are expected to follow.

According to real estate experts, two main categories of foreign investors are likely to be drawn to Saudi Arabia’s market:

1. GCC-based business owners seeking a permanent base in the Kingdom.
2. Global investors seeking long-term returns from a growing real estate market expected to perform strongly over the next 5–10 years.

What Foreign Investors Must Know

• Residency Requirements: Previously, a valid residency permit (Iqama) was required for foreigners to buy residential property.
  But under the 2025 reforms, non-resident foreigners can now invest in major Vision 2030 projects such as NEOM and the Red Sea Project—provided they meet the minimum investment thresholds.
• Property Limits: Foreign individuals can own only one residential property at a time. They must sell the existing property before buying another.
• Land Restrictions: Foreigners are not permitted to buy undeveloped land for speculation. However, they can acquire land in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) like NEOM for large-scale development projects worth SAR 30 million or more.
• Development Timeframe: Large-scale foreign property projects must be developed within five years of purchase.
• No Residency Guarantee: Buying property does not grant residency rights. Foreigners seeking premium residency (Saudi Arabia’s version of a “green card”) must invest at least SAR 800,000 as a one-time fee or qualify through special status.

Tax and Fees Overview

• Real Estate Transaction Tax (RETT): 5%
• White Land Tax: 2.5%
• VAT on commercial leases: 15%

Property transfers must be officially registered with authorities — typically through the Notary Public or electronic title registry. Administrative fees are modest, with title deed registration often costing around 1% of the property’s value, usually paid by the buyer.

Special Economic Zones Offer Flexibility

“Saudi Arabia’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) offer a more flexible regulatory framework for international investors,” Sharma added. These zones are designed to facilitate foreign participation through streamlined processes, reduced red tape, and potentially more relaxed ownership conditions — all depending on project-specific policies.

With this legislative reform, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a major global investment destination in the real estate sector, aligning with its broader Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and international collaboration.

The post Dubai ∙ Saudi Arabia Opens Real Estate Market to Foreign Investors With New Regulations appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

With this launch, the number of LuLu-operated outlets in Saudi Arabia has reached 68, including stores in strategic locations such as Aramco and Neom. The company now employs over 12,000 staff across its Saudi operations. (LuLu’s largest hypermarket in the Kingdom is in Riyadh, covering an expansive 200,000 square feet.)

Saudi Arabia continues to be a key market for LuLu Group, now contributing 20% of the company’s overall revenue. Speaking on the occasion, Yusuffali M.A, Chairman of LuLu Group, said:

“We remain dedicated to being a catalyst in Saudi Arabia’s dynamic retail transformation.
This expansion reflects our commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by creating jobs, enhancing retail infrastructure, and delivering world-class shopping experiences to the community.”

With revenues from Saudi Arabia reaching SAR 5.5 billion, the Kingdom stands as LuLu’s second-largest market after the UAE, which contributes Dh10 billion, or 36%, to the group’s overall earnings.

On the financial front, LuLu’s share price on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) is currently at Dh1.27, marking a 1.6% gain over the past 30 days.

The post LuLu Opens New Hypermarket in Jeddah as Saudi Revenues Hit SAR 5.5 Billion appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

In a major preservation effort, the Ministry also announced the registration of over 25,000 architectural heritage sites across the country. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to document and safeguard Saudi Arabia’s tangible cultural assets.

The Heritage Commission, operating under the Ministry of Culture, continued its nationwide surveys and documentation campaigns throughout 2024. These efforts led to the addition of over 1,100 new sites to the National Register of Architectural Heritage, raising the total to 3,646.

Among the documented locations are significant heritage sites in Historic Jeddah, Najran, Asir, and Tabuk. Newly discovered heritage villages and cultural centers were surveyed using advanced technologies, including digital scanning and drone mapping.

Cultural destinations such as Diriyah, AlUla, and Historic Jeddah emerged as top tourist draws, fueled by a vibrant calendar of cultural festivals, exhibitions, and seasonal events.

The Ministry noted that the report signals a positive shift in public awareness and appreciation for national heritage. This transformation aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which identifies culture and heritage as central to sustainable development and key to positioning the Kingdom as a prominent player on the global cultural stage.

The post Saudi Arabia Sees Surge in Heritage Tourism with 6.5 Million Visitors in 2024 appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The firm has acquired a 30% equity stake in Shrimp Nation, a brand known for its casual, family-oriented dining experience and diverse seafood menu. The investment is expected to fuel the company’s continued expansion across the Middle East and potentially into international markets.

Founded in late 2018, Shrimp Nation has grown rapidly, operating 35 outlets by 2025 across Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, and Egypt. Its success is attributed to a customer-centric approach and a strong focus on delivering fresh, high-quality seafood in a welcoming environment.

Strategic Partnership for Purposeful Growth

Mohammed Abualizz, Founder and CEO of Shrimp Nation, described the deal as a “strategic alliance” that aligns with the company’s vision to scale responsibly and effectively. “Saudi Arabia represents one of the region’s most dynamic food and beverage markets. This partnership strengthens our ambition to become the leading seafood dining destination in the Middle East,” he said.

Muhannad Qubbaj, Founding Partner at Olive Rock Partners, praised Shrimp Nation’s deep cultural relevance and growth potential. “This is a business of real substance, deeply rooted in Saudi culinary traditions. We are committed to backing outstanding local entrepreneurs who are reshaping the Kingdom’s SME landscape under Vision 2030,” he stated.

Boosting Economic Diversification and Job Creation

Fellow Founding Partner Abdullah Shahin added that Shrimp Nation is “uniquely positioned” to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification goals by expanding its operations, creating employment opportunities, and developing local talent. He noted that the investment aligns with national efforts to empower private sector-led growth and innovation.

Olive Rock Partners is one of the GCC’s first independent private equity firms, focusing on growth-stage businesses led by high-potential entrepreneurs in key sectors such as food, healthcare, education, and technology.

The partnership with Shrimp Nation is expected to drive innovation in the food and beverage industry while reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a hub for entrepreneurial excellence.

The post Olive Rock Partners Acquires 30% Stake in Shrimp Nation to Support Regional Expansion appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

According to the latest report by Knight Frank, project awards across various sectors reached $148 billion, reflecting a 4.6% year-on-year increase. This upward momentum is expected to continue, with the sector projected to reach a total value of $191 billion by 2029.

The growth is largely fueled by the Saudi government’s ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to deliver:

• Over 1 million new homes
• More than 362,000 hotel keys
• Approximately 7.4 million square meters of retail space
• Over 7.7 million square meters of new office space by the end of the decade

Faisal Durrani, Partner and Head of Research (MENA) at Knight Frank, highlighted that from 2020 to 2025, construction contracts worth $215.4 billion have already been awarded across the Kingdom.

“In fact, an estimated $1.3 trillion is planned to be invested in real estate and infrastructure projects under Vision 2030, underscoring the scale and ambition of what is currently being delivered,” Durrani said.

Saudi Arabia’s sustained investment in real estate, infrastructure, and mega-projects positions it as one of the most active construction markets globally, as the Kingdom continues its transformation under Vision 2030.

The post Saudi Arabia’s Construction Sector Surges with $148 Billion in Project Awards in H1 2024 appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

This achievement comes as part of broader efforts to enhance employment opportunities for citizens under Vision 2030. The Human Resources Development Fund (HADAF) played a key role, helping 143,000 Saudis secure private-sector jobs in the first quarter of 2025 alone. During the same period, over SR1.83 billion was invested in training, empowerment programs, and job-readiness initiatives.

These developments have significantly improved employment metrics across the Kingdom. The national unemployment rate among Saudis fell to 6.3% in Q1 2025—its lowest level since official records began.

“This remarkable progress is a testament to the Kingdom’s development momentum and a key step toward realizing the goals of Vision 2030,” the ministry stated. “Surpassing the 7% unemployment target six years ahead of schedule underscores our commitment to sustainable labor reform. We now set our sights on reaching 5%.”

A standout area of growth has been female labor force participation. The unemployment rate among Saudi women declined to 10.5% in Q1 2025, down from 11.9% in the previous quarter and 14.2% in Q1 2024—a nearly 4-point year-on-year drop.

The ministry credited this positive trend to targeted initiatives supporting women’s economic empowerment, improved workplace safety standards, and increased opportunities for career advancement.

The post Saudi Private Sector Hits Record High with 2.48 Million Nationals Employed appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

Al-Khuraiji said Saudi Arabia aims to expand its diplomatic presence to over 40 embassies in African countries in the coming years. By 2030, the Kingdom plans to invest $25 billion, ensure $10 billion in trade commitments, and provide $5 billion in development aid to the African continent.

He emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing partnerships, cooperation, and integration with African nations, along with increasing dialogue and coordination with international organizations on matters of mutual interest. Saudi Arabia also reaffirmed that Africa holds a prominent place in its foreign policy strategy and diplomatic network.

To date, Saudi Arabia has provided over $45 billion to support development and humanitarian initiatives in 54 African countries. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center has contributed $450 million in aid across 46 African nations.

Al-Khuraiji noted that Africa is a land of opportunities, enriched with natural resources, a vibrant youth population, and reusable potential. Despite facing challenges like conflict and climate change, the people of Africa continue to strive powerfully for peace, justice, and development.

The post Saudi Arabia to Invest $25 Billion in Africa and Open 40 New Embassies appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The move comes in response to what officials have described as an unprecedented surge in Saudi tourists visiting Russia. The sharp uptick is largely attributed to Russia’s streamlined electronic visa system, introduced in August 2023, which enables Saudi citizens to apply for travel authorisation online.

According to Russian government statistics, 52,400 Saudi nationals visited Russia in 2024, a staggering 570% increase from just 9,300 the previous year. That momentum has shown no signs of slowing in 2025. In the first half of this year alone, more than 9,900 Saudis have already visited Moscow — a 50% year-on-year rise compared to the same period in 2024.

Russian authorities credit the surge to the e-visa programme, which significantly eased entry requirements for Saudi travellers. The introduction of direct flights by Saudia is expected to further strengthen this upward trend, enhancing cultural exchange and economic ties between the two countries.

The post Saudia to Launch Direct Riyadh–Moscow Flights from October Amid Surging Tourism Demand appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The Public Transport Authority announced the opening of Hassan bin Thabet Street Station on Thursday, marking another step forward in Riyadh’s efforts to modernize its mobility network and enhance citywide connectivity for residents and visitors alike.

The Orange Line — also known as Line 3 — stretches 41 kilometers, running from Jeddah Road in the west to the Second Eastern Ring Road near Khashm Al Aan in the east. Serving as a crucial east-west corridor, the line is one of six major lines that make up the Riyadh Metro system.

The new station is expected to improve accessibility in the surrounding areas and help reduce traffic congestion by encouraging greater use of public transit.

Part of a Larger Urban Vision

The Riyadh Metro, a key pillar of the capital’s urban transformation agenda, spans 176 kilometers and features 85 stations, including eight major transfer hubs that interconnect different metro lines. The network is designed to reduce travel time, ease road congestion, and provide a sustainable alternative to private vehicle use.

Thursday’s opening follows the April 2025 launch of two other Orange Line stations — Railway Station and Jarir District Station — by the Riyadh Public Transport Company. Officials report that these earlier additions have already helped smooth commuter flows in densely populated areas.

The continued expansion of the Riyadh Metro underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to building a modern, efficient, and environmentally conscious transportation system in line with Vision 2030.

The post Metro Expansion Continues: New Station Opens on Riyadh’s Orange Line appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The report also revealed that total domestic and inbound travel spending surged to SR284 billion, reflecting an 11% year-on-year growth—a clear indicator of the Kingdom’s growing status as a global travel destination.

One of the most notable achievements was the record-breaking 30 million international tourist arrivals, an 8% increase from the previous year—the highest inbound figure ever recorded in the country.

Spending by international tourists reached SR168.5 billion, marking a 19% increase over 2023. Meanwhile, domestic tourism also showed strong performance, with 86.2 million residents travelling within the Kingdom and spending SR115.3 billion, reflecting a 5% rise in both travel volume and expenditure.

Vision 2030: Tourism as a Key Economic Pillar

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb highlighted the strategic importance of these figures:

“Tourism is no longer a supporting sector; it is a key economic driver that enables Vision 2030. These figures reflect the commitment of our partners across the tourism ecosystem—from investors and entrepreneurs to cultural institutions and hospitality leaders.”

The Ministry underscored that the sector’s continued growth builds on the strong momentum from 2023, driven by major policy reforms, targeted marketing campaigns, and investment initiatives that have enhanced Saudi Arabia’s accessibility and appeal to global travelers.

The post Saudi Arabia Sees Record Tourism Boom with 116 Million Visitors, SR284 Billion in Spending in 2024 appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The directive applies to restaurants, cafes, and online delivery platforms, requiring them to include detailed ingredient information on both printed and digital menus. The aim is to empower consumers with clear and accurate food information, allowing them to make informed and healthier dietary choices.

In addition to listing ingredients, menus must also include the following:

• A salt shaker icon next to items high in sodium, warning customers about excessive salt content.
• The exact amount of caffeine present in beverages.
• The caloric value of each dish and an estimate of the average time needed to burn those calories through physical activity.

This initiative is designed to enhance consumer awareness, encourage healthier eating behaviors, and boost transparency and development in Saudi Arabia’s food sector.

The post Saudi Arabia to Enforce Mandatory Disclosure of Food Ingredients in All Eateries from July 2025 appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The ministry took firm action by halting the operations of the violating companies and initiating the liquidation of their bank guarantees. The funds will be used to arrange alternative transport services for the affected pilgrims.

The violations involved a failure to deliver transportation services as outlined in the companies’ approved service programs—constituting a breach of the contractual terms agreed upon with the ministry.

This enforcement move is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader initiative to enhance service quality for pilgrims and visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque. It aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to elevate the overall pilgrimage experience at every stage of the spiritual journey.

The ministry emphasized the importance of maintaining service standards and honoring contractual obligations. It reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights, comfort, and safety of pilgrims.

Additionally, the ministry reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards negligence or any violations of service obligations, urging all Umrah operators to adhere strictly to established regulations, maintain schedules, and deliver services with professionalism and care.

The post Saudi Arabia Suspends Seven Umrah Companies Over Transport Service Violations appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The directive was issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in coordination with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health. It specifically targets workers in the private sector who are engaged in jobs that expose them to extreme heat, such as construction and outdoor maintenance.

The ministry emphasized that employers must reorganize work schedules to comply with the midday break rule, ensuring that workers are not exposed to the dangers of heat stress and sunstroke. The new policy is part of broader efforts across the Gulf region, with several neighboring countries already enforcing similar summer work hour regulations.

A comprehensive guideline outlining the risks of heat exposure and steps to prevent sun-related illnesses has been published on the Ministry’s website. This includes detailed safety protocols for both employers and employees.

Violations of the midday break rule can be reported through the Ministry’s unified hotline (19911) or its official mobile app, allowing for swift action and enforcement.

This initiative reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to workplace safety, employee welfare, and compliance with international labor standards, particularly during the intense summer season.

The post Saudi Arabia Implements Midday Break Law to Protect Outdoor Workers During Summer appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

Headquartered in the UAE, RPM has deployed 18 fully equipped clinics across key Hajj sites, staffed by a team of over 350 medical professionals and supported by 125 modern ambulances. The operation is designed to handle emergencies with rapid response, ensuring the health and safety of pilgrims throughout the sacred journey.

“Extensive preparations were made over the past two weeks to ensure seamless medical support,” said Dr. Rohil Raghavan, CEO of RPM. “Our mission is to deliver timely emergency services to every pilgrim in need.”

Dr. Shamsheer himself visited the facilities ahead of the pilgrimage to review arrangements and ensure operational readiness.

RPM is recognized as one of the Middle East’s largest pre-hospital emergency service providers. Established in 2010, the company currently operates in over 65 countries, with 426 ambulances and extensive air medical evacuation experience, having completed more than 10,000 helicopter medical missions.

The company has previously provided healthcare services for major international events such as the Asia Cup 2022, Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, UAE Tour, Saudi Tour, IMMAF World Championship, and the UAM Muay Thai World Championship.

RPM was also actively involved in humanitarian missions, including delivering medical aid to children in Gaza.

Taking the lead in healthcare support for one of the world’s largest religious gatherings is a milestone achievement for RPM—and a moment of pride for the Indian and particularly the Malayali diaspora. The initiative reflects both operational excellence and a deep sense of global responsibility.

The post Kerala-Owned Company Provides Vital Medical Support for Hajj Pilgrims appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

Eid Al-Adha in Saudi Arabia isn’t just a holiday — it’s a celebration of family, culture, and vibrant experiences. Whether you’re soaking up the city energy, enjoying coastal charm, or escaping to the highlands, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your curated guide to confirmed events and top destinations in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Aseer, taken straight from the official summer calendar.

Riyadh: The Capital of Celebration

Angham Live in Concert – June 11

Get ready for an enchanting evening as Egyptian superstar Angham takes the stage at Mohammed Abdu Arena. A perfect way to spend Eid night under the stars with powerful vocals and emotion-filled music.
[Book now]

Boulevard City

Riyadh’s go-to destination for fun! Expect a mix of entertainment shows, immersive attractions, music, and family-friendly vibes every day of the Eid break.

Esports World Cup – Starting July 7

While it kicks off after Eid, it’s worth planning for. Riyadh will host the world’s largest gaming festival, featuring top global gamers and immersive esports experiences.
[Learn more]

Jeddah: Red Sea Vibes and Festivities

City Walk Jeddah

Enjoy global entertainment, diverse dining, and vibrant shopping — perfect for the whole family to explore together.
[Book here]

Balad Al-Fann – Until June 13

Immerse yourself in the old charm of Historic Jeddah. Balad Al-Fann brings together art, music, and the rich Hijazi culture in a heritage setting.
[Discover more]

Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina

Relax with world-class dining and stunning views of the Red Sea. It’s the ideal spot to unwind after Eid prayers or enjoy a serene evening.
[More info]

BattleKart Jeddah

Ready for some high-speed fun? This augmented reality go-karting experience blends gaming and racing, perfect for thrill-seeking families and teens.
[Book here]

Aseer: Cool Mountain Getaways

Al-Muftaha Village, Abha

Wander through streets of Asiri architecture, discover local crafts, and explore charming galleries in this cultural gem.
[More info]

Al Habala Park

Soar through the mountains on a cable car ride, enjoy scenic camping, and take part in family activities amid stunning nature.
[More info]

Rijal Almaa Heritage Village

This beautifully preserved stone village feels like a living museum, showcasing centuries-old culture nestled in the mountains.
[More info]

Liwan Farm

Perfect for younger visitors, this peaceful farm offers nature walks, heritage storytelling, and hands-on rural experiences.
[More info]

Whether you’re dancing to live music in Riyadh, strolling the historic streets of Jeddah, or enjoying the mountain air in Aseer, Eid Al-Adha in Saudi Arabia promises joy, discovery, and unforgettable memories.

#ColourYourSummer

To learn more and plan your Eid getaway, visit the official Visit Saudi website.

The post Unforgettable Things To Do This Eid Al-Adha in Saudi Arabia appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

Retail investors will receive a minimum allocation of 10 shares each, with the remainder distributed on a pro-rata basis, resulting in an average allocation factor of 12.3%.

The final offer price was set at SAR 80 per share, the upper end of the previously disclosed price range. This values flynas at approximately SAR 13.6 billion ($3.6 billion) upon listing.

“This exceptional level of demand is a testament to the confidence in our growth strategy and the strength of our position in the regional aviation market,” said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas.

A total of 10.25 million shares were allocated to retail investors, representing 20% of the IPO. Any excess subscription funds will be refunded by June 5, while the listing date on the Saudi Tadawul exchange will be announced soon.

Strategic Growth Path Ahead

flynas sees the IPO as a critical milestone in its long-term vision to scale operations and expand its route network.

“This IPO marks a strategic step forward in achieving our ambition to become the leading low-cost carrier for short- and medium-haul travel across the Middle East and North Africa by 2030,” said Almohanna.

As the only independent airline in Saudi Arabia, flynas is positioned to benefit significantly from the Kingdom’s ambitious aviation and tourism strategies. The airline also expects to leverage rising passenger traffic across the GCC and MENA regions, supported by increasing demand for cost-effective travel solutions.

Strong Momentum in GCC Capital Markets

The flynas IPO is one of the most closely watched listings in Saudi Arabia and the broader Gulf region this year. In the UAE, the recent listing of Dubai Residential REIT also drew significant investor attention, underscoring the growing appetite for public offerings in the region’s capital markets.

The post Saudi Budget Airline flynas IPO Sees Strong Retail Demand, 3.5x Oversubscribed appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The report highlights an 18-month high in overall business optimism, with increased investments, a sharp rise in new orders, and renewed expansion strategies fueling the hiring momentum.

“A marked rise in sales was accompanied by increasing business confidence about the coming 12 months,” the report noted, reflecting a surge in forward-looking sentiment across Saudi enterprises.

Construction Leads the Boom

Among the sectors, construction emerged as the top performer, benefiting from new project wins and sustained activity. Companies across industries are expanding their teams—particularly in operations and sales—to meet growing demand and support output growth.

“These indicators point to a non-oil sector that remains firmly in expansion territory—buoyed by resilient demand, growing confidence, and operational readiness for continued growth in the second half of the year,” said Naif Al-Ghaith, Chief Economist at Riyad Bank.

New Orders Rebound in May

May marked a strong recovery in new business activity, reversing the slowdown seen in April, which had hit an eight-month low. Surveyed businesses attributed the upturn in new orders to increased domestic demand, stronger sales performance, industrial development, and enhanced marketing initiatives.

While international demand grew at a more modest pace, new export orders still recorded an uptick, albeit the slowest in seven months.

PMI Remains Firmly in Growth Zone

The Saudi PMI rose slightly to 55.8 in May, up from 55.6 in April, indicating continued expansion. Though still below the recent high of 60.5 recorded earlier in the year, the score remains well above the neutral 50-mark, signaling growth.

“Firms reported improvements in demand, new project starts, and greater labour capacity as key drivers,” said Al-Ghaith. “The overall expansion, while slightly softer than peak levels, reflects solid operating conditions and sustained confidence in the private sector at the midpoint of 2025.”

Youth Optimism High

The buoyant job market is also boosting morale among younger professionals, with Gen Z workers in Saudi Arabia increasingly confident about their employment prospects. This sentiment reflects the broader optimism sweeping across the Kingdom’s evolving non-oil economy.

The post Saudi Arabia Sees Fastest Job Growth in Over a Decade Amid Business Optimism: Riyad Bank PMI appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The updated schedule will be in effect from June 5 to June 14 (corresponding to Dhul Hijjah 9 to 18), after which normal operations will resume.

All metro lines will uniformly end operations at midnight during this period, while start times will vary by line and date:

• Orange Line (Line 1): Operating daily from 10 a.m. to midnight during the holiday. Normal operations (starting at 6 a.m.) resume on June 15.
• Other Metro Lines:
  • June 5: Start at 8 a.m.
  • June 6–8: Start at 10 a.m.
  • June 9–11: Revert to 8 a.m.
  • June 12: Resume normal start time of 6 a.m.

Meanwhile, city bus services will maintain daily operations from 5 a.m. to midnight between June 5 and June 12, ensuring uninterrupted public mobility across Riyadh.

To meet increased holiday demand, especially around key gathering areas and commercial hubs, the authority also confirmed that on-demand bus services will be fully operational throughout the Eid period, offering greater flexibility and convenience for commuters.

These adjustments aim to support the city’s residents and visitors by ensuring efficient, reliable, and accessible transportation during the festive season.

The post Riyadh Adjusts Metro and Bus Schedules for Eid Al Adha Holiday appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The eight-member delegation, led by BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda, landed in Riyadh at around 8:30 PM for a two-day official visit. Other members of the delegation include BJP MPs Nishikant Dubey, Phangnon Konyak, and Rekha Sharma; AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi; MP Satnam Singh Sandhu; former Union Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad; and foreign affairs expert Harsh Vardhan Shringla.

Key Meetings with Saudi Leadership

During their visit on May 28 and 29, the delegation will hold high-level discussions with Saudi government officials. The focus will be on outlining India’s firm approach to terrorism, building consensus against global terrorism, and strengthening strategic cooperation with Saudi Arabia.

Broader Diplomatic Mission

The visit to Saudi Arabia follows stops in Bahrain and Kuwait, as part of a four-nation outreach that also includes Algeria. The delegation’s mission is to engage with key regional players on matters of security, counter-terrorism, and diplomatic cooperation, reinforcing India’s position as a responsible global actor in the fight against extremism.

The post Operation Sindoor: All-Party Indian Delegation Arrives in Saudi Arabia to Explain Anti-Terror Stance appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

Promotion Details

The limited-time offer is valid for bookings made between May 25 and May 28, 2025, with travel dates falling between July 1 and August 31, 2025.

Passengers can take advantage of the promotion by using the promo code: BUY1Get1 at the time of booking. The offer applies to round-trip flights departing from locations within Saudi Arabia and several key cities in the region, including:

• UAE: Dubai and Abu Dhabi
• Qatar: Doha
• Oman: Salalah
• Bahrain: Al Manama
• Kuwait: Kuwait City
• Jordan: Amman

Within Saudi Arabia, eligible destinations include Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, Al Baha, Taif, Al Ula, and Red Sea cities.

Terms and Conditions

To qualify for the offer:

• Bookings must be round-trip
• Minimum stay of three days is required
• Each passenger is entitled to one free checked-in bag

The promotion covers base fares only, meaning taxes and surcharges are not included. It is also subject to seat availability and cannot be combined with other offers unless otherwise stated.

Standard fare rules apply for modifications or cancellations, and additional terms and conditions may apply under Saudia’s travel policies.

This summer campaign highlights Saudia’s ongoing commitment to offering value-driven travel experiences and enhancing regional connectivity during the peak holiday season.

The post Saudia Launches ‘Buy One, Get One Free’ Summer Flight Offer Across the Region appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Al Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs and General Supervisor of the programme, highlighted that the initiative embodies Saudi Arabia’s dedication to promoting religious harmony, cultural exchange, and global Islamic unity.

An extensive operational plan has been activated by Saudi authorities to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience. Pilgrims will benefit from high-quality logistical, healthcare, and religious services. In addition to performing Hajj rituals, they will participate in a variety of spiritual, academic, and cultural activities, including visits to key Islamic landmarks in Mecca and Medina. Attendees will also engage in interactive sessions with prominent scholars and imams of the Two Holy Mosques.

Since its inception in 1417H (1996), the programme has welcomed nearly 65,000 pilgrims from 140 countries. It continues to play a vital role in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s ties with Islamic communities worldwide.

Dr. Al Sheikh noted that the initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, enhancing the Kingdom’s global standing while fostering unity and understanding among Muslims around the world.

The post Saudi Arabia to Host Over 1,300 Pilgrims from 100 Countries Under Royal Guest Programme appeared first on The Gulf Indians.