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  • Saudi Arabia: A Journey of Transformation and Stability in the Heart of the Middle East

    ByRiyadh 24

    Saudi Arabia, the largest nation in the Arabian Peninsula, is undergoing a historic phase of comprehensive modernization and development, driven by an ambitious vision aimed at diversifying its economy and enhancing its regional and global standing. This transformation is led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, while preserving its religious and national foundations. To reduce reliance on crude oil, Saudi Arabia is accelerating the development of non-oil economic sectors like tourism, entertainment, technology, manufacturing, and logistics, with the non-oil sector growing by 5.8% in Q1 2024, surpassing oil sector growth. Giga-projects such as NEOM, The

  • Founding Day: Roots of History Yield Contemporary Renaissance in Salman’s Era

    ByRiyadh 24

    Riyadh – February 22, 2024
    Saudi Arabia celebrates Founding Day today, commemorating the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1727 by Imam Mohammed bin Saud. This day honors not only the past but affirms that the thriving present under Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz is a natural extension of over three centuries of continuous nation-building, where deep-rooted identity converges with ambitious modernization. Founding Day traces back to 1727 when Imam Mohammed bin Saud laid the cornerstone in Diriyah. Since its inception, the state established principles of sound governance, security, and societal service—principles sustained through three Saudi states until King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud unified the Kingdom. This unification formed the bedrock of the modern state, creating a unified national entity built on unity, stability, and clear identity, paving the

  • Guest of Economy Program Hosts Leila Benali to Discuss Morocco’s Energy Transition Progress

    ByRiyadh 24

    The “Guest of the Economy” program hosted Leila Benali, Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, to discuss the progress of the national energy transition path. The dialogue addressed key topics including an evaluation of the “Green Morocco Plan” and the gas pipeline project, alongside measures to alleviate electricity burdens on citizens and the environmental impacts of tourism.

  • Saudi Founding Day: Embodying Three Centuries of Determination and Building

    ByRiyadh 24

    The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia designates Founding Day as a fundamental national occasion, embodying the historical beginning of the First Saudi State over three centuries ago. This commemoration transcends mere political significance, becoming a cultural and civilizational legacy reflecting the depth of Saudi history and the authenticity of its roots, affirming the strength of a steadfast national identity. The First Saudi State was founded in 1727 when Imam Mohammed bin Saud assumed rule in Diriyah, marking a new era on the Arabian Peninsula. This foundation rested on a historic alliance between Imam Mohammed bin Saud’s wise leadership and the religious

  • Iraqi Government Sparks Diplomatic Controversy After Depositing Documents with UN Including Disputed Maritime Areas with Kuwait

    ByRiyadh 24

    The Iraqi government has sparked a diplomatic controversy by submitting documents to the United Nations concerning disputed maritime areas with Kuwait. This move comes amid escalating tensions between the neighboring countries over sovereignty in the Gulf waters, representing a continuation of historical border conflicts.

  • Kick-off of the Tenth Postponed Round of the Saudi Roshn League

    ByRiyadh 24

    Decisive Football Competitions
    Al-Ahli vs. Damak Clash in Abha
    Al-Ahli faces a decisive match against Damak tonight in the postponed tenth round of the Saudi Roshan Professional League. The game takes place at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz City Stadium in Abha amid a fierce battle for the league lead as the season enters critical stages, marking a highly sensitive moment in the current football season.
    Unified Schedule for Ramadan Atmosphere
    The Saudi Professional League adopted a unified 10 PM kickoff for all matches this round to align with Ramadan. Matches are spread over three days (Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday), with Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam hosting Al-Ettifaq vs. Al-Qadsiah.
    Live Coverage via Al Jazeera Net
    Saudi football fans can follow the Al-Ahli vs. Damak match and all postponed round fixtures through live coverage provided by Al Jaze

  • Prince Mohammed bin Salman Discusses Developments in the Middle East with President Sisi

    ByRiyadh 24

    Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi met on Monday evening for an Iftar dinner at the Peace Palace in Jeddah. The meeting discussed developments in the Middle East and efforts to address them, particularly issues related to regional security and stability. The two sides reviewed the close and historic bilateral relations between the two countries and ways to develop them in various fields. Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the centrality of the established relations between the Kingdom and Egypt, expressing his desire to continue strengthening and elevating them to broader horizons that serve the interests of the two brotherly peoples. The two sides agreed to continue and enhance political consultation and coordination to maintain regional stability. They also discussed a number of regional and international files of common interest, stressing the importance of avoiding escalation and tension in the region, supporting peaceful solutions to crises through dialogue, and enhancing Arab solidarity to face challenges, with an emphasis on respecting the sovereignty of states, the unity and integrity of their territories, and non-interference in their internal affairs. The meeting also addressed developments in the situation in Gaza, where the necessity of all parties adhering to the ceasefire agreement and implementing US President Donald Trump’s peace plan was emphasized. The two sides also stressed increasing the flow of humanitarian aid to the sector without obstacles, and the need to quickly begin the process of early recovery and reconstruction in the sector. Officials indicated Saudi-Egyptian agreement to end the war in Sudan, as the two countries are working to reach a ceasefire and call for political solutions in which all forces participate. The meeting was attended by Saudi officials including Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Musaed Al-Aiban, Minister of State, Member of the Cabinet, National Security Advisor, Dr. Essam bin Said, Minister of State, Member of the Cabinet for Shura Council Affairs, and Khalid Al-Humaidan, Head of the General Intelligence Presidency. On the Egyptian side, the meeting was attended by Major General Ahmed Ali, Chief of the Presidential Diwan, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptians Abroad, Major General Hassan Rashad, Head of the General Intelligence Service, and Counselor Omar Marwan, Director of the President’s Office. Egyptian President el-Sisi departed Jeddah on Monday evening, and was bid farewell at King Abdulaziz International Airport by Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This high-level meeting reflects the depth of the strategic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

  • Saudi Founding Day: Embodiment of Three Centuries of Building and Unity

    ByRiyadh 24

    February 22nd of each year marks the anniversary of Saudi Founding Day, a deeply rooted national occasion that embodies the historical beginning of the establishment of the first Saudi state more than 290 years ago. This day brings to mind a journey of struggle and construction that has extended across three centuries, deeply rooted in the Saudi people’s conscience as a symbol of the authenticity of history, the strength of national identity, and the consolidation of values of unity, security, and stability. The historical origins of the establishment of the first Saudi state date back to the year 1727 AD, which witnessed a pivotal turning point in the history of the Arabian Peninsula, when Imam Muhammad bin Saud assumed rule of Diriyah. This event was not merely a change in local leadership, but the birth of a nascent state based on solid foundations. Imam Muhammad bin Saud formed a historic alliance with the reformer Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab, combining political wisdom and religious reform, which historical sources described as a unique alliance that brought together “political leadership and religious reform.” This alliance laid the foundation for a state that laid the first building blocks of political unity in an area suffering from dispersion and division. As a result of this alliance, an organized administrative system was established, security was spread in wide areas, and the principles of Islamic law were applied, paving the way for a new phase of stability after long periods of division and instability. The connotations of Founding Day are not limited to the political and historical aspect only, but extend to become a cultural and civilizational occasion par excellence. It reflects the depth of the historical roots of the Saudi state and consolidates pride in the rich civilizational heritage. The cultural and heritage events of the day highlight the authenticity of the Saudi heritage and its living continuity across generations, confirming that “the vision of the future is based on solid roots and a clear identity.” The occasion witnesses a series of diverse events in various regions of the Kingdom, including history exhibitions that recount the stages of the founding of the Saudi state, heritage art shows that embody the life of the ancestors, and cultural seminars in which historians and academics discuss the lessons learned from that founding stage. Educational activities are also held targeting youth and young people to enhance their connection to their country’s history and highlight “the sacrifices made by the ancestors in order to build a strong and stable state.” Founding Day represents a confirmation of the continuation of the values and principles on which the first Saudi state was founded, as the Kingdom is proceeding today on the same approach drawn by

  • Saudi Founding Day: Celebrating Roots and Renewing the Covenant in the Bride of the Red Sea

    ByRiyadh 24

    Jeddah prepares to celebrate Saudi Founding Day on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, blending historical depth with modern splendor to commemorate the 1727 establishment of the first Saudi state. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Historic Jeddah (“Al-Balad”) with its ancient markets and wooden lattice houses, experience Arabian history at Al-Tayibat Museum’s interactive exhibits, and enjoy traditional performances at Bait Zreb Cafe. Modern celebrations feature the record-breaking Jeddah Super Dome—hosting cultural events under its geodesic roof—and the King Fahd Fountain’s 300-meter water-and-light shows synchronized with fireworks. This national holiday embodies Saudi Arabia’s journey from its roots to future ambitions through heritage sites, arts, and architectural marvels under the slogan “Founding Day.”

  • German Business Confidence Rises More Than Expected in February

    ByRiyadh 24

    The latest Ifo Institute survey, released Monday, revealed a significant improvement in German business confidence during February, far exceeding economists’ expectations. The main business climate index rose sharply to 91.1 points, driven by better assessments of current conditions and more positive future outlooks. This outperformed analyst forecasts (88 points), suggesting stronger-than-anticipated momentum and early signs of recovery for Europe’s largest economy amid easing inflation concerns, stabilized supply chains, and adjusted monetary policy expectations, though external risks remain.

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