Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki announced that the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen intercepted two drones. One drone fired by the Houthi militia was destroyed in the Riyadh region. Another drone was intercepted and destroyed in the Eastern Province.
The US-Saudi Business Council and the Federation of Saudi Chambers signed a memorandum of understanding in Washington, D.C. Charles Hallab and Sultan Al-Musallam signed the agreement to strengthen business ties. Majid Al-Mutairi and Tom Thraya also attended the ceremony. This agreement creates a framework to improve communication between companies in both nations.
Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman sent a cable of congratulations to the Prime Minister of Grenada. This message followed the re-election of Dickon Mitchel. The Crown Prince shared his sincere congratulations with Mitchel. He offered best wishes for the leader's success. The message also wished for more prosperity and progress for the people of Grenada.
RIYADH — The Ministry of Commerce has renewed its call for owners of Hyundai Elantra vehicles, manufactured between 2009 and 2011, to respond to recall campaigns over a defect in the driver's airbag inflator that could cause serious or fatal injuries.The ministry urged owners of the 44,305 affected vehicles remaining in Saudi Arabia to stop driving them immediately and contact authorized dealers to arrange free repairs to ensure their safety. The ministry explained that the previously announced recall covered 57,195 vehicles, of which approximately 12,890 have been repaired, representing 22 percent of the total. However, 44,305 vehicles remain unrepaired, underscoring the importance of promptly contacting authorized dealers across the Kingdom to address the defect.The ministry stressed the need for an immediate response to the recall. It urged owners to contact the authorized dealers: Wallan Company at 8001240401, Almajdouie Company at 8003040777, or Mohamed Yousuf Naghi & Brothers Group at 8001240191, to arrange the necessary repairs free of charge.
RIYADH — Deputy Minister of Human Resources and Social Development for Labor Abdullah Abuthnain received Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Alfred Nganga Mutua at the ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh on Thursday. Several senior Saudi ministry officials and the accompanying Kenyan delegation also attended the meeting. The meeting discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Kenya in areas of mutual interest in the labor sector, particularly by developing cooperation mechanisms for the recruitment of domestic workers, improving the effectiveness of pre-departure training and qualification programs, and raising awareness of contractual rights and obligations. These efforts aimed to enhance the readiness of domestic workers, improve the quality of recruitment services, promote stability in contractual relations, and protect the rights of all parties. The two sides also discussed mechanisms for strengthening technical coordination, exchanging expertise and best practices in training and qualification, and improving procedures related to the recruitment of domestic workers. These measures aimed to enhance the efficiency of recruitment processes, improve their outcomes, and serve the mutual interests of both countries. Following the meeting, Abdullah Abuthnain and Alfred Nganga Mutua signed a technical annex to the agreement on the recruitment of domestic workers between Saudi Arabia and Kenya, signed on July 5, 2026. The annex is part of efforts to strengthen cooperation and develop the technical and regulatory mechanisms governing the recruitment of domestic workers. The technical annex aims to streamline procedures and reduce the costs of recruiting domestic workers from Kenya to Saudi Arabia. It also seeks to improve the efficiency of recruitment mechanisms, ensure compliance with approved regulations, protect the rights of employers and domestic workers, and regulate the contractual relationship between the two parties. The signing of the annex builds on the longstanding relations and ongoing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Kenya, reflecting both sides’ commitment to developing their partnership in labor-related fields, improving the efficiency of the recruitment system, and promoting sustainable cooperation that serves the mutual interests of both countries.
DAMMAM — The Eastern Province police, in coordination with the General Directorate for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking, arrested six expatriate women on charges of prostitution. The operation comes as part of ongoing security efforts to monitor, detect, and apprehend violators and those involved in criminal activities. Public Security stated that the women were taken into custody and initial legal procedures were initiated against them, pending further legal action. The women were subsequently referred to the Public Prosecution to complete the necessary judicial procedures in accordance with applicable regulations. The arrests were part of the continuous security campaigns carried out by the relevant authorities to combat crimes against public morals and strengthen community security across the Kingdom.
RIYADH — Students in public schools across Saudi Arabia are eagerly anticipating an upcoming 10-day holiday in the 1448 AH academic calendar, comprising the autumn break and an additional one-day holiday. According to the academic calendar, the holiday will begin on Friday, November 20, 2026, and continue through Sunday, Nov. 29. The autumn break will run from Nov. 20 to 28, followed by an additional day off on Nov. 29. Students are scheduled to return to classrooms on Monday, Nov. 30, 2026, following the 10-day break, and resume their academic activities for the remainder of the semester.
RIYADH — Minister of Investment Fahad Al-Saif announced a 110 percent year-on-year increase in the number of licenses issued to foreign investors in the Kingdom. He also revealed that the number of regional headquarters established by global companies in Saudi Arabia has reached 780, underscoring the accelerating momentum in attracting international investments and further consolidating the Kingdom’s position as a premier destination for global companies and a regional business hub. He made the remarks while speaking via video conference at the BNP Paribas Global Markets Conference in London. The conference is a flagship annual event gathering hundreds of institutional investors, corporate executives, economists, and policymakers to discuss global markets, economics, geopolitics, and investment strategies. Al-Saif said foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into the Kingdom surged by 33 percent in 2025, driven by growing investor confidence in the Saudi economy and the continued implementation of economic and legislative reforms designed to enhance the competitiveness of the investment environment. The minister noted that the Kingdom’s GDP has doubled over the past decade, while the Saudi economy recorded growth of 5.2 percent in the first half of 2026. This performance coincides with continued progress in achieving economic diversification objectives, strengthening financial sustainability, and maintaining fiscal balance. Al-Saif said that the next phase of the National Investment Strategy will mark a qualitative shift in priorities, with greater emphasis on boosting productivity, enhancing investment quality, and developing integrated industrial clusters connected to global value chains and international supply networks. These efforts are aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of economic sectors and expanding their contribution to economic growth. The minister explained that the Kingdom is transitioning from a phase focused on promoting investment opportunities to a more advanced stage centered on attracting capital, ensuring its efficient deployment, and maximizing its economic and developmental returns. This transition will further advance Saudi Arabia’s ambition to establish itself as a global economic and capital hub. He further pointed out that sectors experiencing strong investment momentum will take center stage in the priorities of the coming phase, particularly manufacturing, mining, communications and information technology, transportation, and logistics. These priorities will be complemented by investments in infrastructure development, accelerated digital transformation, and expanded opportunities associated with energy transition pathways. Addressing the financial sector, Al-Saif revealed that the depth of the Kingdom’s financial markets has surpassed SR1.4 trillion. “The Ministry of Investment is working to strengthen and develop investment banking capabilities, helping facilitate the completion of deals, connect investors with decision-makers, and enhance liquidity in the financial markets,” he said. The minister stressed that Saudi Vision 2030 has marked a pivotal turning point in the trajectory of the national economy, significantly enhancing the Kingdom’s appeal to global investors. He reaffirmed the Kingdom’s continued commitment to its efforts to transform Saudi Arabia into a leading global investment hub.
JAZAN — Security patrols from the Security Regiments in Al-Aridah governorate in the southern Jazan region arrested a citizen for transporting five individuals who violated the Border Security Law in a vehicle he was driving. Legal procedures were initiated against all the arrested persons, with the violators referred to the competent authority and the transporter to the Public Prosecution. The Ministry of Interior's Agency for Security Regiments Affairs reiterated that facilitating the entry of border security violators into Saudi Arabia, transporting or sheltering them, or providing them with any form of assistance carries penalties of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million. Penalties also include confiscation of the vehicle used for transportation and public naming. The agency emphasized that the crime is considered as a major offense. It urged the public to report violations of residency, labor, and border security regulations by calling 911 in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern Province, or 999 and 996 in all other regions. All reports will be treated with strict confidentiality, and those who report violations will bear no liability, the agency added.
JEDDAH — The sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition concluded at Jeddah Superdome on Wednesday after four days of activities, bringing together more than 520 entities from the government, private, and nonprofit sectors, with participation from more than 150 countries. The event, held under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, was organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in cooperation with the Pilgrim Experience Program, one of the Saudi Vision 2030 programs at the Jeddah Superdome. The conference and exhibition, under the theme “From Makkah to the World,” attracted more than 200,000 visitors and saw the signing of 2,553 agreements. **media[2793647]** The conference marked a key milestone in early preparations for the 2027 Hajj season. It brought together Hajj affairs offices, service providers, government, private and nonprofit entities, decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to complete preparations and contracts, discuss operational and organizational needs, and present solutions and initiatives covering the various stages of the pilgrim journey. The conference’s scientific program featured 45 panel discussions with more than 460 speakers, alongside 71 specialized workshops attended by 3,500 trainees. The sessions and workshops covered three main areas: infrastructure and operational services; empowerment and synergy; and training and development. Related topics included transportation, logistics, accommodation, hospitality, catering, healthcare, media and communications, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, training, and ways to enrich the pilgrim experience. **media[2793646]** The Hajj Talk was one of the conference’s dialogue platforms, hosting 47 sessions on operational and development issues related to the Hajj services system. Discussions addressed the needs of service providers and Hajj affairs offices, as well as ways to develop services and improve the pilgrim experience. They also provided an opportunity to raise challenges and discuss solutions and proposals related to preparations for the next Hajj season. The conference also saw the finalization of agreements on Hajj arrangements for the 1448 AH season with Hajj affairs offices in 74 countries, building on the preliminary arrangements document. This step supports the early completion of contracts and operational and organizational requirements, along with agreements covering pilgrim dispatching, air transport arrangements, and other preparations for the season. As part of the awards program, Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Abdulfattah Mashat honored the winners of the awards presented at the conference. These included the Labbitom Award for Excellence in Serving Pilgrims, in the Hajj service providers category; the third edition of the Tawasul Award for media and awareness excellence in the domestic and international pilgrims category; and the Mobdeoon Award. The awards recognized distinguished and innovative entities, initiatives, products, and services that have helped improve the quality of services provided to pilgrims. For the first time, the sixth edition also featured the Awareness and Training Forum, which held 12 sessions and meetings. The event also launched the awareness readiness index initiative, the unified workers’ portal, and a program for members of Hajj affairs offices and group leaders. These initiatives are part of efforts to develop awareness activities and strengthen the readiness of those serving pilgrims. The forum’s activities included qualifying 658 trainees from 76 countries through a training-of-trainers program for members of Hajj affairs offices and group leaders. The program featured 11 training tracks delivered in four languages. The forum also witnessed the signing of three agreements and the organization of seven interactive activities and eight accompanying events. The accompanying exhibition covered more than 67,000 square meters. It brought together entities representing 19 service sectors within the Hajj ecosystem, including transportation, aviation, accommodation, catering, healthcare, technology, artificial intelligence, logistics, crowd management, education, training, and media. It provided Hajj affairs offices and service providers with an opportunity to explore solutions and products and to discuss requirements for the upcoming Hajj season. The sixth edition featured more than 15 main areas and programs, including the Hajj Conference, Hajj Talk, workshops, Innovation Zone, Business Center, Partners’ Platform, Expert Volunteer Forum, Awareness and Training Forum, Technology, Health, Media and Aviation Oases, "Conference Lens" studio, and "Made in Saudi Arabia" area, among others. As part of the innovation track, the innovation council hosted 15 startup companies over four days, alongside nine experts and specialists from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and four external experts. More than 35 representatives of companies providing services to pilgrims inside and outside the Kingdom also took part, bringing total participation to more than 80. The council held 14 hours of discussions on technical and operational solutions, as well as opportunities to harness innovation in developing the Hajj services ecosystem. The startup exhibition featured 10 companies, while the "Future of Hajj Innovations" camp brought together 20 teams working to develop solutions in smart operations and crowd management, sustainability and resource efficiency, pilgrim experience and services, awareness and training, and the pilgrim journey. The camp also provided mentorship, guidance, opportunities to develop solutions, financial support, and incubation. The Innovative Initiatives Zone showcased 12 government initiatives, while the "Innovation Store" featured 574 innovative products. The "Try Me" zone enabled visitors to test 13 innovative products. The exhibition also featured 10 umbrellas and three innovations from the "Think for the Two Holy Mosques" program, allowing visitors to explore practical examples of solutions and initiatives and assess their potential to improve services provided to pilgrims. The conclusion of the sixth edition reflects the continued care of the Kingdom’s leadership for pilgrims and embodies the objectives of the Pilgrim Experience Program and Saudi Vision 2030. These efforts focus on developing the service ecosystem, raising operational readiness, empowering the private and nonprofit sectors, and expanding the role of technology and innovation to improve the pilgrim journey at every stage.
RIYADH — The 10th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII10) has been rescheduled to October 25–28, 2027, in Riyadh, from its original dates of October 26–29, 2026, the FII Institute announced on Thursday. Held under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the event will take place under the theme “The Power of Legacy,” marking a decade of global investment dialogue, partnerships and impact while looking ahead to the next decade. **media[2793600]** FII Institute CEO Princess Dr. Maha bint Mishari described the 10th edition as a milestone of global significance, marking a decade of bringing together world leaders, investors and decision-makers. She said the decision to postpone the event until October 2027 reflects the institute’s commitment to ensuring the highest levels of international participation, attendance and impact. The institute will continue its global engagement ahead of FII10 through the FII PRIORITY Summit in Miami, scheduled for March 31–April 2, 2027, and the FII PRIORITY Asia 2027 Summit, whose date and location will be announced later.
RIYADH — The second edition of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Competition for Memorization of the Holy Qur’an and the Prophet’s Sunnah for West African Countries will take place in Nouakchott, Mauritania, from November 15 to 19, 2026, bringing together 160 contestants from 16 countries. Held with the approval of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, the competition is organized by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in cooperation with Mauritania’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Original Education. Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Al-Sheikh emphasized that serving the Qur’an and Sunnah has been a priority of Saudi Arabia’s Islamic mission since its founding. He noted that the Kingdom continues to support Qur’anic competitions, educational programs and Islamic outreach initiatives both domestically and internationally, strengthening Muslims’ connection to the Qur’an and Sunnah while promoting moderation and balance. The minister stressed that these initiatives extend beyond memorization, aiming to strengthen religious awareness, nurture Muslims on sound scholarly foundations and correct religious beliefs, and encourage younger generations to embrace and apply the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah. Al Al-Sheikh expressed his gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continued support of initiatives dedicated to preserving, teaching and spreading the Qur’an and Sunnah worldwide. He also thanked Mauritania’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Original Education for its cooperation and efforts that contributed to the success of the competition’s first edition, as well as its continued coordination in hosting the second. The minister praised the longstanding ties between Saudi Arabia and Mauritania and their continued cooperation in Islamic education and religious outreach, highlighting their shared commitment to preserving and promoting the Qur’an and Sunnah among younger generations.
JEDDAH — Asir records highest rainfall at 48 mm as the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) reports precipitation across four Saudi regions over 24 hours. The NCM measured rainfall across the Kingdom from 9 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11, to 9 a.m. on Thursday, November 12, with the highest accumulation recorded in Khamis Mushait’s Wadi Bin Hashbal in the Asir Region at 48 mm. In Asir, Rijal Almaa recorded the second-highest rainfall at 33.8 mm, followed by Abha–Al Sha'af at 19.6 mm, Tanomah at 18.4 mm, Al Namas at 12.8 mm, and Al Madha–Tareeb at 12.2 mm. In the Riyadh Region, Al Thumamah Airport recorded 25 mm, followed by the Saudi Aviation Academy at 14.8 mm, King Abdulaziz Reserve–Mulham at 13 mm, King Khalid Reserve at 11.8 mm, and Imam Abdulaziz Reserve at 10.4 mm. In the Al-Baha Region, Al-Baha–Al Baher recorded 17.6 mm, followed by Al Makhwah at 15.6 mm and Baljurashi at 11 mm. In the Eastern Province, Al Khair village, Al Dughayr, recorded 8.8 mm, followed by King Fahd International Airport at 8.5 mm, Al Ahsa Airport at 6.6 mm, and both Buqayq and Al Ahsa–Al Uqair at 5.8 mm.
JEDDAH — Moderate to heavy thunderstorms capable of causing flash floods are forecast across parts of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha and Makkah on Thursday, according to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM). The rainfall is expected to be accompanied by hail, active winds and blowing dust. In its daily weather forecast, the NCM said light to moderate rainfall is also expected across parts of Madinah, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh and the Eastern Province. Fog formation is also possible across parts of these regions, as well as Tabuk, Al-Jouf and the Northern Borders Region. In Makkah, moderate to heavy thunderstorms are forecast, accompanied by active winds, hail and blowing dust. The city is expected to record a high of 31°C and a low of 22°C, with relative humidity reaching 85 percent. Jazan is also expected to experience moderate to heavy thunderstorms, accompanied by active winds, hail and blowing dust, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 31°C and humidity reaching 90 percent. Al-Baha is forecast to experience moderate to heavy thunderstorms, accompanied by active winds and blowing dust, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 18°C and humidity reaching 95 percent. In Ibha, moderate to heavy thunderstorms and active winds are expected, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C and humidity reaching 95 percent. Madinah is expected to experience fog, rain-bearing thunderclouds and active winds, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C and humidity reaching 90 percent. Meanwhile, Riyadh and Dammam are forecast to experience fog and light rainfall, with active winds also expected in Dammam. Jeddah is expected to experience partly cloudy to cloudy conditions, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C and relative humidity reaching 85 percent.
RIYADH — Saudi air defenses intercepted and destroyed nine missiles and drones launched by the terrorist Houthi militia toward several regions of the Kingdom between Wednesday and Thursday, with debris from two ballistic missiles falling on a village in the Makkah Region. According to statements issued by Major General Turki Al-Malki, spokesperson for the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen, the intercepted threats included two ballistic missiles, three cruise missiles and four drones targeting the Riyadh, Makkah, southern and eastern regions of Saudi Arabia. The coalition first announced the interception and destruction of three cruise missiles launched by the Houthi militia toward the Riyadh Region on Wednesday evening. Later that evening, the coalition announced that air defenses intercepted and destroyed two drones launched toward the Makkah and southern regions. The coalition subsequently announced the interception and destruction of two ballistic missiles launched toward the western region late Wednesday night. In the early hours of Thursday, the coalition confirmed that debris from two intercepted and destroyed ballistic missiles had fallen on the village of Sabuhah in the Makkah Region. Around the same period, air defenses intercepted and destroyed another drone in the Eastern Province. The latest announcement came Thursday morning, when the coalition confirmed the interception and destruction of a drone in the Riyadh Region.
Saudi Arabia achieved high global rankings in the IMD World Digital and AI Ranking 2026. The study assessed 70 countries. Saudi Arabia ranked second globally for company awareness of AI cybersecurity risks and data protection. It placed fourth for the implementation of its national AI strategy, corporate AI adoption, and public access to AI technologies. The country also ranked fifth for overall AI adoption and public trust in AI.
Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah reported a fivefold increase in participation at the sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition. Participating entities grew from 84 in 2022 to about 520 in the current edition. Total attendance is expected to surpass 200,000 visitors. Participants include ministers, muftis, and leaders from over 150 countries. The event has resulted in new contracts and partnerships to improve the pilgrimage experience.
Interior ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council held their 43rd meeting in Manama, Bahrain. The session was led by Gen. Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa. Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif stated that security for GCC states is indivisible. He argued that threats against one member affect the entire security system. The minister accused the Houthi militia of terrorist acts against civilians and economic infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. He also mentioned attacks on the Two Holy Mosques.
King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent condolences to the President of Niger, Gen. Abdourahamane Tiani. The messages followed the death of the president's father, Elhadj Tiani Hassane. Both leaders expressed sympathy to the president and the family of the deceased. They offered prayers for mercy and forgiveness for the man who passed away.
King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent congratulations to Pedro Alliana after he took the oath as president of Paraguay. They expressed wishes for his success and for the prosperity of the Paraguayan people. Alliana became the 53rd president of the country. He assumed the role after a banking scandal led to the impeachment of Santiago Pena.
King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain met with the interior ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council at Al-Sakhir Palace. The meeting included Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif. Prince Abdulaziz delivered greetings from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The group discussed the progress of joint security cooperation in the Gulf. They also reviewed efforts to improve coordination among the member states.
Saudi air defenses intercepted and destroyed three cruise missiles. The missiles were launched by the Houthi militia toward the Riyadh region. This information was provided by Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki, who serves as the spokesperson for the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen.
King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent condolences to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The messages followed a deadly explosion at a steel plant in Izmir Province. At least 18 people died and 12 others were injured in the blast. The Saudi leaders expressed sympathy to the president and the families of the victims. They offered prayers for the deceased and a quick recovery for the injured.
The Saudi Data and AI Authority released a study on the state of artificial intelligence in the Kingdom. The report reviewed progress across seven main pillars and 15 sub-pillars. This included areas like regulatory frameworks, investments, and human capital. Saudi Arabia ranks third globally in AI talent growth rate under the 2026 Stanford HAI Index. It also ranks third globally and first regionally in developing leading AI models under the 2025 index. Additionally, the country ranks fifth globally in AI sector growth.
The Deputy Emir of Makkah met with the Minister of Hajj and Umrah in Jeddah. The minister provided updates on efforts for the current Umrah season. Discussions included a digital service ecosystem for visits to the Grand Mosque. They reviewed infrastructure and logistical initiatives to improve services for pilgrims. The meeting also covered the sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition.
The Council of Ministers in Saudi Arabia approved a new Consumer Protection Law. Minister of Commerce Majid Al-Qasabi described this as a major legislative step for the country. The law aims to strengthen consumer rights by creating clear legal safeguards. It regulates the relationship between commercial establishments and consumers to promote fair business practices. This is the first comprehensive legislation of its kind in the Kingdom.
The Ministry of Health stated that sick leave is granted only after a medical assessment of a patient's condition. Leave is not provided based on a patient's request or preference. A physician determines the need for leave based on how the condition affects the person's ability to work or perform daily activities. The length of the leave must match the actual health status and diagnosis. Requests that exceed the authority of the attending physician require approval from other doctors or specialized medical committees. The ministry warned there is zero tolerance for the misuse of sick leave.
The Ministry of Commerce in Riyadh announced a new Consumer Protection Law approved by the Council of Ministers. This legislation creates a unified legal framework for consumer rights regarding products and services. It will replace the Commercial Data Law, the E-Commerce Law, and the Anti-Commercial Fraud Law 180 days after its official publication. Violators face penalties including fines up to SR8 million and up to two years in prison. Other sanctions include the confiscation of products, business suspensions, and public warnings.
JEDDAH — The Riyadh region recorded the highest rainfall at 73.4 millimeters as the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) measured precipitation across six Saudi regions over a 24-hour period. The NCM measured rainfall between 9 a.m. on Tuesday, November 10, and 9 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, with Al-Majma'ah in Riyadh region registering the highest measurement. In the same region, Al-Dawadmi Airport recorded 69.6 mm, followed by the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve at Umm Al-Jurum with 60.2 mm and Umm Radhmah with 49.4 mm. Other measurements included Shaqra at 33.8 mm, Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve at 14.2 mm, Halban in Al-Quway'iyah at 13.2 mm and Al-Thumamah Airport at 11.4 mm. In Qassim, Al-Sahiyah in Qibah recorded 33.2 mm, followed by Dakhnah in Al-Rass at 28.4 mm, Buraydah at 25.6 mm, Unaizah at 22.6 mm and Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz Airport at 14.4 mm. The Eastern Province recorded 24 mm at the air base in Hafar Al-Batin, 17.4 mm in Umm Al-Shiflah in Qaryat Al-Ulya, 17.3 mm at Al-Qaisumah Airport, 15.6 mm at another monitoring station in Hafar Al-Batin and 12 mm at the air base airport in Jubail. In Makkah region, Al-Nouriyah recorded 28.8 mm, followed by Al-Umrah at 7.6 mm and Al-Rusayfah at 7.3 mm, the lowest measurement listed in the report. Meanwhile, Al-Hisu in Al-Hanakiyah recorded 28.6 mm in Madinah region, while Al-Madain neighborhood in Hail registered 8.1 mm.
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia and Tajikistan signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Wednesday to strengthen cooperation in preventing and combating corruption. The MoU was signed by Mazen bin Ibrahim Al-Kahmous, President of the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha), and Sulaymon Said Sultonzoda, Director of Tajikistan’s State Agency for Financial Control and Combating Corruption, in the presence of Saudi Ambassador to Tajikistan Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Shamrani. **media[2793052]** The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in combating transnational corruption, exchanging information on corruption-related offenses and strengthening the institutional capacities of both sides. During the meeting, the officials also reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways to advance cooperation in promoting integrity and combating corruption. They further discussed Nazaha’s efforts to safeguard integrity, promote transparency and combat corruption, alongside Tajikistan’s experience in the same field.
RIYADH — Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into Saudi Arabia grew 33.5 percent year-on-year to SR159.1 billion in 2025, according to the Federation of Saudi Chambers’ “Voice of Business” report. The report also highlighted that the Kingdom’s total FDI stock reached SR1.06 trillion. Meanwhile, the number of licenses for US investors reached approximately 530 by October 2026, compared with 371 in 2025. American direct investments in Saudi Arabia totaled SR55.6 billion between 2016 and 2024. The report also showed that inward FDI flows reached SR22.3 billion in the second quarter of 2026, with net FDI flows totaling SR19.1 billion. Despite the annual growth recorded in 2025, inward FDI flows declined by 16.9 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026. **media[2793034]**
RIYADH — The Federation of Saudi Chambers has highlighted major shifts in the Kingdom’s economy and investment landscape, with private-sector bank credit reaching SR3.324 trillion in September 2026, up 6 percent year-on-year, and 9,018 new investment registrations recorded in Q2 2026, compared with 2,561 in the same period of 2025. The federation’s “Voice of Business” report highlighted several key economic indicators, including women’s ownership of 48 percent of active business registrations and an increase in the number of Saudi women employed in the private sector to 1.13 million. Saudi women’s labor force participation also reached 33.7 percent, compared with 18 percent in 2017. **media[2793026]** The report revealed that 9,018 new investment registrations were recorded in the second quarter of 2026, compared with 2,561 during the same period in 2025, noting a change in registration methodology. Meanwhile, bank credit extended to the private sector increased by 6 percent year-on-year to SR3.324 trillion in September 2026, marking a rise of SR27.8 billion from the previous month. Financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) also increased by 16.5 percent year-on-year to SR490.8 billion in the second quarter of 2026, accounting for 11.7 percent of total credit facilities. The report also highlighted regional employment growth, with six regions outside Riyadh, Makkah and the Eastern Province exceeding the national private-sector employment growth rate of 7 percent in the second quarter of 2026. Najran recorded the highest growth at 45.7 percent, followed by Hail at 13.7 percent, Qassim at 11.5 percent, the Northern Borders at 10.5 percent, Asir at 9 percent and Jazan at 7.9 percent. **media[2793027]** On the regulatory front, the federation outlined the provisions of the new Commercial Transactions Law, comprising 271 articles and replacing three existing laws: the Commercial Law, the Commercial Papers Law and the Commercial Books Law. The legislation consolidates regulations governing commercial sales, supply, brokerage and agency activities. The law will take effect 180 days after its publication, allowing businesses time to review their contracts and procedures ahead of implementation.
The Saudi Council of Ministers demanded an immediate end to threats against maritime navigation. The cabinet focused on the security of the Red Sea, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Bab Al-Mandab Strait. This position was reiterated during a session in Riyadh chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Kingdom expressed commitment to regional and global stability. They also emphasized the need to confront terrorism and dismantle criminal militias.
Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman met with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain in Riyadh on Tuesday. The two leaders discussed the historical relations and bilateral cooperation between their countries. They reviewed recent regional developments to improve security and stability. King Hamad praised the efforts of King Salman and the Crown Prince in strengthening these ties. He also thanked the Kingdom for its historic support of Bahrain and its people.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman in Antalya on Tuesday. The Saudi official serves as the Minister of Energy and Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources. He traveled to Turkiye for the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This event started on Monday and ends on Nov. 20. During the visit, the Turkish energy minister announced a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Arabia. The agreement focuses on electricity sector projects and general energy cooperation between the two nations.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met in Paris on Tuesday. The meeting took place during the Group of Seven ministerial gathering. The two officials discussed bilateral relations and ways to improve them. They talked about joint efforts to achieve peace and shared views on international issues. The ministers also signed a memorandum of understanding. This agreement provides mutual exemption from short-stay visa requirements between Saudi Arabia and Ukraine.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with representatives from Qatar and the E4 countries in Paris. The group included France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom. They discussed Houthi militia attacks on civilians and objects in Yemen and Saudi Arabia. The meeting also covered diplomatic efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran to lower regional tensions.
GCC defense ministers approved the opening of an Advanced Command for the Unified Military Command in Kuwait. This decision includes the allotment of appropriate forces to the command. The decision was made during the 23rd session of the GCC Joint Defense Council in Manama. The meeting was chaired by Bahraini Minister of Defense Affairs Lt. Gen. Abdullah Al Nuaimi. Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman and other GCC defense ministers attended. Secretary General Jasem Albudaiwi announced the result of the meeting.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis by phone on Tuesday. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations. They reviewed the current state of ties between Saudi Arabia and Greece. The conversation focused on ways to strengthen and develop joint cooperation across several fields.
The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing in Riyadh prohibited the sale of tobacco to individuals under 18. Violators may face a fine of up to SR5,000 and the mandatory closure of their business. Penalties double for repeat offenders. Establishments are also banned from letting minors enter specialized tobacco shops or service areas. Sellers are permitted to request proof of age from buyers.
MANAMA — Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman led the Kingdom’s delegation at the 23rd session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Joint Defense Council, where participants discussed strengthening joint Gulf defense cooperation to enhance security and stability across GCC member states and the wider region. Held Tuesday in Bahrain, the meeting was attended by defense ministers from GCC member states and GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi. During the meeting, the participants reviewed several matters of mutual interest and approved a number of decisions and recommendations included on the meeting’s agenda. **media[2792517]** In his address, Prince Khalid praised the meeting’s constructive outcomes and decisions, emphasizing their role in advancing Gulf defense integration and strengthening coordination and readiness to confront various risks and challenges, ensuring the security and stability of GCC member states. Concluding his remarks, Prince Khalid welcomed GCC defense ministers to Saudi Arabia, which will host the next round of joint Gulf military cooperation meetings at all levels. The Saudi delegation also included Chief of the General Staff General Fayyadh bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili and Advisor to the Minister of Defense for Intelligence Affairs Hisham bin Abdulaziz bin Saif. **media[2792519]**
RIYADH — Saudi Energy (SE) reported an 11.5 percent year-on-year increase in revenue to SR87.2 billion during the first nine months of 2026, while net profit rose 4.3 percent to SR12.1 billion, according to the company's latest financial results. The company announced that earnings before depreciation, amortization, interest, zakat and taxes (EBITDA) increased by 6.6 percent to SR34.7 billion, supported by strategic investments, an expanding regulated asset base and growing electricity demand. In the third quarter alone, revenue climbed 12.9 percent to SR35 billion, while net profit increased 0.4 percent to SR5.4 billion. SE Chief Executive Officer Khalid Al-Ghamdi said the company continued to meet rising electricity demand while improving power plant availability, grid reliability and operational efficiency. He highlighted that operational battery energy storage capacity reached 22 gigawatt-hours, achieving the company's 2026 target and strengthening the electricity grid's ability to integrate renewable energy sources. The company's regulated asset base expanded by 16.6 percent year-on-year to SR278.8 billion as of September 30, 2026, supported by continued investments in transmission and distribution infrastructure. Adjusted capital expenditure stood at SR59.6 billion during the first nine months of the year, while SE signed financing agreements worth approximately SR64.4 billion through sukuk and various credit facilities. Operationally, peak electricity demand in the Kingdom rose 2.5 percent to 79,045 megawatts, while total generation capacity reached 56.8 gigawatts. Renewable energy capacity connected to the national grid reached approximately 19.3 gigawatts, while SE's transmission network expanded by 6 percent to 110,950 circuit kilometers. The company's customer base reached approximately 11.7 million, with 237,762 new customers connected during the first nine months of 2026, representing a 30 percent year-on-year increase. SE also reported a 16 percent improvement in its System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI), which fell to 37.17 minutes per customer. In a subsequent development, the company announced an adjustment to electricity service tariffs effective January 1, 2027, stating that the change is not expected to have a material financial impact on its results under the existing regulatory framework.
RIYADH — Active commercial registrations in Saudi Arabia’s manufacturing sector grew by 18 percent, while mining and quarrying registrations increased by 13 percent by the end of the third quarter of 2026, according to the Ministry of Commerce. The ministry reported that active commercial registrations in manufacturing reached 255,188, compared with 215,697 during the same period in 2025. Meanwhile, the mining and quarrying sector recorded 12,831 active commercial registrations, up from 11,263 during the corresponding period last year. Commercial registrations for the manufacture of solar panels and their components rose by 33 percent, reaching 1,700 by the end of the third quarter of 2026, compared with 1,270 during the same period in 2025. Registrations for the manufacture and assembly of automobile engines and their components increased by 45 percent, reaching 1,207, compared with 832 during the corresponding period last year. The ministry said the growth was driven by efforts to strengthen the industrial sector and optimize the use of natural resources, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives. It added that the increase reflects expanding business and investment opportunities, economic diversification, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and the private sector’s growing role in developing national industries, contributing to economic competitiveness and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Saudi Civil Defense issued red alerts for heavy rain in seven regions of the Kingdom. The affected areas include Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, Asir, Jazan, Hail, and Qassim. These warnings follow alerts from the National Center for Meteorology. Authorities told residents to follow official instructions and avoid flood channels and valleys. The National Center for Meteorology forecast moderate to heavy thunderstorms on Tuesday, November 10. These storms may cause flash floods in parts of the East.
Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman traveled to Bahrain on Tuesday. He is leading the delegation from the Kingdom for the 23rd session of the Gulf Cooperation Council Joint Defense Council. Lieutenant General Abdullah bin Hassan Al Nuaimi, Bahrain’s Minister of Defense Affairs, met the Prince upon his arrival at Bahrain International Airport.
RIYADH — Air defenses intercepted and destroyed a cruise missile launched by the Houthi militia toward Riyadh, the Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen announced Tuesday.The coalition also reported that Saudi air defenses had intercepted a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis toward the capital.Saudi Civil Defense activated an early warning alert in Riyadh, warning residents of a potential threat and urging them to follow official safety instructions.In a separate incident, Saudi air defenses thwarted another ballistic missile launched by the Houthi militia toward the Kingdom's southern region, according to the coalition.The interceptions came shortly after the coalition announced the destruction of a Houthi facility used to assemble and produce ballistic missile components.
Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman, the Deputy Emir of Riyadh Region, visited a Saudi Aramco administrative building on Monday. He went to assess damage caused by a Houthi attack on civilian facilities. A drone attack on Sunday morning caused debris to fall onto the site. The Saudi Ministry of Energy reported that the damage was limited. No injuries or fatalities occurred during the incident. Relevant authorities responded immediately to take necessary measures.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman via telephone. During the call, Carney condemned attacks on Saudi Arabia by the Houthi militia. He affirmed Canada's solidarity regarding the security of Saudi citizens and residents. The two leaders also discussed bilateral relations and ways to increase cooperation in various fields.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with foreign ministers from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Korea in Paris. These talks happened on the sidelines of the Group of Seven Foreign Ministers' Meeting. Prince Faisal and UK Secretary of State Ed Miliband reviewed bilateral relations. They discussed regional issues and current developments. The two officials also focused on joint efforts to protect shipping routes, ensure maritime security, and restore stability to the region.
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan attended an expanded G7 session in Paris on Monday. The meeting focused on how rapid advances in artificial intelligence affect international security and the global strategic environment. Participants discussed methods to improve international coordination when managing risks tied to these technologies. The session also aimed to promote innovation. The goal is to ensure the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence to maintain global stability.
