Saudi Arabia is experiencing widespread storms and heavy rainfall across most regions, prompting warnings of potential flash floods if weather conditions do not improve soon. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) reported that strong winds and rain have hit Makkah, Madinah, Qassim, Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and the Northern Border Region. Moderate rainfall and fog have also been observed in Hail, Tabuk, Al Jouf, and the southwestern areas.

According to the NCM, the current weather pattern is driven by a deep low-pressure system over the Red Sea, causing winds between 18 and 40 kilometers per hour, with gusts possibly reaching 50 kilometers per hour. The stormy conditions have also extended to the Persian Gulf, where winds are sweeping toward Saudi Arabia’s southern regions.

Such intense weather events are relatively rare in the desert climate of Saudi Arabia, though similar storms have occurred several times in recent years. Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious and avoid flood-prone areas as the situation develops.

The fifth edition of the Red Sea International Film Festival is set to begin on December 4 in Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district, Saudi Arabia. The festival will open with Rowan Athale’s film 'Giant', inspired by the life of British-Yemeni boxer Prince Naseem Hamed, starring Amir El-Masry and Pierce Brosnan. This year’s event features 111 films, including 16 in the main competition—half from the Middle East and half international. Oscar-winning director Sean Baker will chair the jury. The lineup includes Saudi Arabia’s Oscar entry 'Hijra', Cherien Dabis’s 'All That’s Left of You', and other acclaimed titles from Tunisia, Spain, and Switzerland. Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai is among the confirmed celebrity attendees. The Red Sea Film Foundation, now led by CEO Faisal Baltyuor, aims to attract 40,000 visitors this year, up from 30,000 in 2024. The festival will also feature outdoor screenings, family programs, and a youth filmmaking initiative called 'Voices of Tomorrow'.

Saudi Arabia is set to launch its first professional women’s cricket tournament, the Women’s World T20 Challenge, starting in 2026. Organized jointly by FairBreak and Saudi Cricket, the event will feature players from over 35 countries, marking a major step in the kingdom’s growing investment in global sports. The inaugural edition is expected to take place in September or October and will run for two weeks. Six teams, each comprising 15 players, will compete in 19 matches, including a round-robin stage, two semifinals, and a final. Player selection will follow FairBreak’s principles through a selection panel rather than an auction. Although the salary structure is yet to be finalized, top players are expected to earn amounts comparable to those in The Hundred or the Women’s Big Bash League. The initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambition to diversify its sports portfolio and strengthen its presence in international cricket.

Saudi Arabia has opened its first-ever bar, named 'A-12', in the capital Riyadh, marking a symbolic step in the kingdom’s ongoing social reforms. The establishment serves non-alcoholic versions of beer and other beverages, replicating the ambience of bars found abroad but without alcohol, which remains strictly prohibited in the country since 1952. The move reflects Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s broader efforts to modernize Saudi society under Vision 2030 while maintaining adherence to Islamic law. The initiative follows earlier decisions allowing limited alcohol sales to non-Muslim diplomats, and plans are underway to open two controlled liquor stores for foreign workers and diplomats by 2026. These developments indicate a gradual but cautious shift toward a more open social environment, balancing modernization with traditional restrictions.

Cristiano Ronaldo, at the age of 40, delivered a spectacular bicycle kick goal during Al Nassr’s 4-1 victory over Al Khaleej in the Saudi Pro League. The goal came in the sixth minute of added time when Nawaaf sent a precise cross into the box, and Ronaldo executed a flawless acrobatic finish that left the goalkeeper helpless. The strike evoked memories of his famous overhead goal for Juventus seven years ago. Earlier in the match, João Félix, Wesley Ribeiro, and Sadio Mané each scored for Al Nassr. With this goal, Ronaldo’s career tally has reached 954, bringing him closer to the 1,000-goal milestone. He has now scored 10 goals in nine league matches this season, ranking second in the top scorer list, just one goal behind teammate Félix. Al Nassr remain unbeaten after nine matches, leading the league table with 27 points, followed by Al Hilal with 23 points.

Hanan Elatr, the widow of slain journalist Jamal Khashoggi, has publicly demanded compensation and an apology from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, while urging former U.S. President Donald Trump to seek justice for her husband’s murder. In an interview with CNN, Elatr said the crown prince should personally apologize and take responsibility for the loss she suffered. She expressed deep pain at seeing Trump warmly welcome the Saudi leader during his recent Washington visit, calling it distressing and disappointing. Khashoggi, a U.S. resident and Washington Post columnist critical of the Saudi government, was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018. U.S. intelligence reports released under President Joe Biden concluded that the crown prince approved the operation, though Trump previously denied his involvement. Elatr emphasized that compensation would represent accountability and closure from the Saudi government for the killing carried out by its officials.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has stated that Riyadh is open to normalizing relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords, but only if a clear plan for establishing a Palestinian state is in place. Speaking during a meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump at the Oval Office, the Crown Prince emphasized the need for a two-state solution roadmap before Saudi Arabia can join the accords. He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s longstanding position that peace in the region requires recognition of Palestinian statehood. The Crown Prince added that Riyadh seeks peace for both Israelis and Palestinians and aims to create conditions for their peaceful coexistence. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to oppose the two-state solution and leads a coalition that favors annexing parts of the occupied West Bank. The Saudi stance underscores the kingdom’s insistence on linking normalization with progress toward Palestinian sovereignty.

An increasing number of U.S. citizens are viewing Saudi Arabia as their ‘second home,’ drawn by the kingdom’s expanding job market, modern infrastructure, and welcoming culture. As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s economy is diversifying into technology, health, construction, education, and tourism, creating high-paying opportunities that attract American professionals. Many Americans living in Riyadh and Jeddah say the local hospitality and cultural inclusiveness help them integrate quickly. The recent granting of Saudi citizenship to Red Sea Global CEO John Pagano symbolizes this growing bond. Analysts note that deepening U.S.-Saudi cooperation in energy, security, and trade has strengthened people-to-people connections, with more Americans choosing to live and work in the kingdom. The country’s social reforms, including greater openness and women’s participation, have further enhanced its appeal among expatriates.

The United States and Saudi Arabia are preparing to sign a long-term civil nuclear cooperation agreement aimed at supporting Riyadh’s Vision 2030 energy diversification goals. According to Reuters, the deal could be signed at the White House as early as Tuesday, with full details expected later this year. The agreement, known as a '123 Agreement' under US law, would allow the export of nuclear materials and technology for peaceful purposes, provided strict non-proliferation safeguards are met. While Saudi Arabia has not yet accepted all conditions, Washington may impose restrictions on uranium enrichment and prohibit any military use of nuclear technology. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed that the deal will proceed, while Saudi officials expressed readiness to comply with international nuclear standards. The cooperation reflects both nations’ strategic and economic interests, as the kingdom seeks to reduce carbon emissions and secure sustainable energy sources.

Saudi Arabia has assured the Palestinian Authority that it will not normalize relations with Israel until conditions for establishing an independent Palestinian state are met. A senior Palestinian official told the Times of Israel that Riyadh reaffirmed its commitment to the Palestinian cause during internal meetings, emphasizing that normalization can only proceed based on the 1967 borders. The assurance comes ahead of a meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and U.S. President Donald Trump, where Washington is expected to press Riyadh to advance ties with Israel. Palestinian officials expressed confidence that Saudi Arabia will not shift its stance abruptly. The statement contrasts with the 2020 Abraham Accords, under which four Arab nations normalized relations with Israel. Meanwhile, discussions continue regarding Hamas’s control of Gaza, as both the Palestinian Authority and the Arab League have urged Hamas to disarm, a demand the group has rejected.

A tragic road accident near Medina, Saudi Arabia, claimed the lives of 42 Umrah pilgrims when a passenger bus collided with a diesel tanker early Monday morning. According to local media reports cited by NDTV, most of the victims were Indian nationals, primarily from Hyderabad in Telangana. The bus was traveling from Mecca to Medina when the collision occurred near the Mufrihat area around 2 a.m. Bangladesh time. The impact caused the bus to catch fire, trapping many passengers who were asleep at the time. Among the deceased were at least 11 women and 10 children, though authorities are still verifying the exact numbers. Rescue teams reported that the bus was completely burned, making identification of victims extremely difficult. One survivor, identified as Mohammad Abdul Shuaib, has been hospitalized. The Telangana government is coordinating with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh to assist with the aftermath and repatriation efforts.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Washington marks a critical juncture in the U.S.-Saudi relationship, as both nations seek to recalibrate their roles in a changing world. The meeting with former President Donald Trump is expected to yield progress on a formal defense cooperation agreement, as well as new initiatives in artificial intelligence, mining, rare earths, and civilian nuclear energy. Saudi Arabia’s rapid modernization under MBS, including social reforms and economic diversification, has transformed the kingdom into a more assertive middle power. While human rights concerns persist, Riyadh’s codification of legal reforms signals gradual progress. The U.S. views a stable, reforming Saudi Arabia as a key partner for regional stability and countering extremism. However, friction remains over oil prices, arms sales, and the pace of normalization with Israel. MBS insists that any deal with Israel must include tangible steps toward a Palestinian state. The visit underscores a shift from the traditional oil-for-security pact to a broader partnership based on mutual strategic and economic interests.

As Saudi Arabia undergoes rapid transformation under Vision 2030, many Americans living in the kingdom are beginning to see it not just as a workplace but as a 'second home'. American expatriates interviewed by Arab News praised Saudi Arabia’s hospitality, safety, economic opportunities, and quality of life. John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, who recently received Saudi citizenship, described it as both a personal honor and a milestone in the nation’s transformative journey. Maria Cometti, co-founder of DQ Living magazine and a Riyadh resident, highlighted the positive atmosphere and family-friendly environment under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership. Saudi Arabia is also expanding its global connectivity, with Delta Air Lines announcing a new direct Atlanta–Riyadh route. The kingdom aims to attract 150 million visitors by 2030, surpassing its initial tourism goals. The combination of security, hospitality, and opportunity has made Saudi Arabia feel like a true home for many Americans.

Saudi authorities have arrested 22,156 foreigners within a week for violating residency, labor, and border security laws, according to the Saudi Press Agency. Of these, 14,027 were detained for residency violations, 4,781 for attempting to cross borders illegally, and 3,348 for labor-related offenses. Among 1,924 individuals caught trying to enter the country illegally, 62% were Ethiopian, 37% Yemeni, and 1% from other nationalities. Additionally, 32 people were detained while attempting to leave Saudi Arabia illegally, and 31 others were arrested for allegedly transporting or sheltering violators. The Saudi Ministry of Interior warned that anyone found aiding illegal entry could face up to 15 years in prison, fines up to 1 million riyals, and confiscation of vehicles and property. The arrests are part of ongoing nationwide efforts to enforce immigration and labor regulations.

Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology has issued warnings for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, flash floods, and hail expected to hit several regions over the weekend. The most intense weather is forecast for Jazan, while Asir, Al Baha, and Mecca will experience moderate to heavy thunderstorms. Lighter rain is expected in Najran, Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and Medina. Strong surface winds and dust storms may reduce visibility, and fog could develop overnight in southwestern and eastern areas. Maritime conditions are also set to worsen, with waves reaching up to 2.5 meters in the southern Red Sea and 1.5 meters in the Arabian Gulf. Authorities have urged residents to stay alert, avoid flood-prone zones, and follow official weather updates as unstable seasonal patterns persist.