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.

Pioneering Digital Transformation

At the HBC International Awards, presented by the Harvard Business Council, Dubai Municipality claimed first place in two categories for its Robotic Process Automation (RPA) initiative. The project, which automates and streamlines procurement processes, plays a vital role in advancing Dubai’s smart city vision.

The RPA initiative also earned the Gold Award from the Noble Business Awards and received further accolades from the Globee Awards for Technology, underscoring its innovative impact on public sector digitalisation.

Excellence in Risk Management

In the domain of risk mitigation, the Municipality won top honours at the 2025 IIRSM Awards, with its Hair Dye Safety Assessment named Most Impactful Risk Research. The initiative reinforces Dubai Municipality’s commitment to product safety and public health protection.

Achievements in Construction Technology

Dubai Municipality also stood out at the Construction Technology Confex Awards, where it won:

• Best BIM Organisation of the Year for its work in Building Information Modelling (BIM)
• Sustainable Project of the Year for the innovative Waste-to-Energy Centre in Warsan, which reflects Dubai’s strong focus on sustainability and clean energy solutions

Recognised for Institutional Excellence

The Municipality’s organisational development efforts were recognised at the International Quality Awards, where it secured first place in the Best Quality Team category for its Integrated Management System (IMS). The IMS has significantly improved procedural efficiency and operational performance across the organisation.

Community Engagement and Volunteerism

As part of its dedication to civic engagement, Dubai Municipality was honoured at the 22nd Sharjah Volunteer Award in the Volunteer Opportunities Creation category. The award recognised the success of the long-running “An Hour with the Cleaning Engineer” initiative, which has attracted over 21,000 volunteers and 300+ participating entities since its launch in 2017.

Global Recognition for Health and Safety

International recognition was also earned in the field of health and safety. The US National Safety Council (NSC) awarded its Rising Star Award to Engineer Mohamed Aldhanhani for his contributions to global workplace safety. Engineer Sultan Aldahmani was similarly commended for his innovative efforts in occupational safety.

In addition, Dubai Municipality received the Silver Award from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and was commended for maintaining the highest safety standards on Dubai’s public beaches, ensuring safe and inclusive environments for all residents and visitors.

The post Dubai Municipality Wins 10 Global and Local Awards for Innovation, Sustainability, and Public Safety 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.

Lavrov praised the growing bilateral relations and expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s balanced and principled position on the Ukraine conflict. “We value the Kingdom’s responsible approach to the Ukrainian crisis,” Lavrov stated, while also acknowledging Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the region, especially in Yemen.

Focus on Gaza, Iran, and Regional Stability

The diplomatic talks were part of Prince Faisal’s official visit to Russia, where the situation in Gaza featured prominently. “Our immediate priority must be achieving a permanent ceasefire,” Prince Faisal emphasized, urging the international community to step up pressure to end hostilities and prevent further humanitarian catastrophe.

He also called for renewed engagement over Iran’s nuclear program, urging Tehran to cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to restore diplomatic momentum.

Key Events to Boost Russia-Saudi Ties

Looking ahead, Lavrov announced several key events aimed at bolstering Russia–Saudi relations:

• Saudi Arabia will participate as Guest of Honor at the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, a move Lavrov called symbolic as 2025 marks 100 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
• The first-ever Russian-Arab Summit is scheduled for October in Moscow.
• The 8th Russia–GCC Strategic Dialogue Ministerial Meeting will be held on September 11 in Sochi.

Lavrov described these events as “important milestones that underscore the strength of our enduring partnership and strategic alignment.”

The post Russia Moves Toward Visa-Free Entry for Saudis Amid Stronger Bilateral Ties 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.

Flight Schedule:

• From Kochi to Jeddah:
  • Saturdays and Mondays at 6:10 PM
• From Jeddah to Kochi:
  • Saturdays and Mondays at 6:45 AM
  • Sundays at 7:45 AM and 10:10 AM

Passengers are allowed 30 kg of check-in baggage and 7 kg of hand luggage per flight.

As part of its network expansion, Akasa Air has also announced plans to soon begin services to Riyadh and Kuwait.

The post Akasa Air Launches Kochi–Jeddah Direct Flights; Four Weekly Services appeared first on The Gulf Indians.

The projects include a medical complex and amusement park in Al Khobar, and an industrial and employment data center in Jubail. With a focus on tourism and entertainment, these initiatives aim to drive urban development in Dammam, Al Khobar, and Jubail, while also creating significant employment opportunities.

Key Projects:

Al Khobar:
A comprehensive medical complex and research center will be established. Additionally, a large-scale amusement park equipped with all modern facilities will be developed on 20 million square meters at Al Khobar’s Half Moon Beach. This is expected to significantly boost the local tourism sector.

Jubail:
In Jubail, an industrial hub, an integrated industrial employment data center is set to be developed under a signed agreement. This will provide strong support for the industrial sector.

The agreements were formalized in the presence of Eastern Province Governor Prince Saud bin Nayef, Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, and Eastern Province Mayor Engineer Fahad Al-Jubeir.

The post Major Development Projects Worth SAR 2 Billion Announced in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province 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.

In the message, the Sultan commended Saudi Arabia’s dedicated efforts in ensuring a safe, secure, and efficient Hajj season for pilgrims. He lauded the Kingdom’s commitment and the exceptional services provided to the guests of God.

The Sultan expressed appreciation for the remarkable organization and prayed for continued success in future Hajj seasons under Saudi leadership, along with divine blessings for their efforts.

The post Oman Sultan Congratulates Saudi King for Successful Hajj Organization 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.