Tourists can find ZATCA-approved VAT refund stores by spotting “Tax Free” signs or using the Global Blue store locator tool, which also helps locate refund counters at departure points/ Image: X Tourists in Saudi Arabia can get a full refund on the 15% VAT for eligible purchases over SAR 500 (~USD 133). Refunds apply only […]
The forum will bring together experts from multiple disciplines to examine Hajj history and the Two Holy Mosques through research and technology/ Image: X In November 2025, a major academic forum focused on the history, culture, and architecture of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques will take place in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the Kingdom’s commitment […]
The official branding includes a detailed guide with approved colors, fonts, slogans, patterns, and templates to ensure consistent use/ Image: GEA Saudi Arabia TL;DR Saudi Arabia’s 95th National Day will be celebrated on September 23, 2025. The theme is “Our Pride is in Our Nature”, highlighting national values. A new visual identity includes six cultural […]
Saudi Arabia authorities executed two people on Monday for “terrorist crimes,” bringing the total number of executions to 17 over three days. The latest deaths follow the execution of 15 other individuals- mostly foreign nationals- on Saturday and Sunday for drug offenses, according to the state-run Saudi Press Agency, cited by CBS News.Thirteen of those […]
Between 24–30 July 2025, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior detained 22,147 individuals/Representative Image TL;DR: Between July 24–30, 2025, authorities detained 22,147 violators in a nationwide sweep. Arrests included illegal residents, border crossers, and labour law violators, with 11,000 already deported. The government warned of severe penalties including prison, fines, and asset seizure for anyone aiding […]
Private firms with five-plus employees in pharmacy and engineering roles, and three in dentistry, must meet new Saudization rates/Representative Image TL;DR: From July 27, 2025, Saudization rates rise across pharmacy (35–65%), dentistry (starts at 45%), and technical engineering (30%) sectors in Saudi Arabia. Updated quotas apply to private-sector establishments with specified company sizes and minimum […]
The 1.2 million pilgrims that have arrived since June represent a 30% increase in Umrah arrivals compared to the same period last year/ Image: Hajj&UmrahPlanner.com Since the start of the 2025 Umrah season on June 11, Saudi Arabia has welcomed more than 1.2 million pilgrims from 109 countries, marking a significant surge compared to last […]
The central pole of the 360-Degree ride suddenly snapped mid-air, causing the gondola to crash violently into the ground/ Image: X A mechanical failure at a popular amusement park in Saudi Arabia’s mountain city of Taif led to a horrifying accident that injured 23 people, including several critically. The incident unfolded on Wednesday evening at […]
The new all-female sea ranger corps will patrol the Reserve’s 170-kilometer Red Sea coastline, safeguarding marine and terrestrial ecosystems/ Image: Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve Just ahead of World Ranger Day on July 31, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve announced a historic development—the establishment of the Middle East’s first all-female sea ranger […]
Saudi Arabia and UAE climb global AI charts with strong talent growth/ Representative Image TL;DR The UAE and Saudi Arabia now rank in the top 20 countries for AI talent, ahead of Italy and Russia. Saudi Arabia is offering world-leading AI salaries, long-term research incentives, and building AI cities. The UAE is focusing on fintech, […]
