AGP Executive Report

YouTube Kids in Saudi: YouTube rolled out supervised kid accounts across MENA, including Saudi Arabia, with age-based content settings (Explore, Explore More, Most of YouTube), stronger privacy, and parental controls like daily Shorts timers and bedtime reminders. Kaaba cover craft: Makkah’s King Abdulaziz Complex is producing the new Kaaba cover through a meticulous process of dyeing, weaving, embroidery, and inspection—over 300 working hours—blending traditional artisanship with modern tools. Jazan tourism lift: Saudi’s Jazan region logged over 4 million overnight visitors in 2025, up 47%, with spending topping SAR 3 billion as infrastructure and cultural attractions expand under Vision 2030. Red Sea maps exhibit: A Red Sea Museum exhibition showcases historic maritime maps tracing the corridor’s role in trade, pilgrimage, and cultural exchange across centuries. MENA tech at airports: The region is pushing biometrics for faster, smoother travel, with UAE airports highlighting AI-enabled processing to cut queues. Sports ties: Saudi and Pakistan signed an agreement to build a cricket stadium in Jeddah, aiming to grow local cricket and strengthen cultural links. Culture & lifestyle picks: A July guide highlights family-friendly events like “Minions & Monsters” in cinemas and “Tomodachi” anime programming in Jeddah.

WTA & Saudi Sports: The WTA Finals are leaving Riyadh a year early, with the 2026 season finale relocating to Indian Wells, California (Nov 8–15) after the Saudi Tennis Federation agreed to the WTA’s request. Saudi Football Leadership: Michael Emenalo has stepped down as chief football executive of the Saudi Pro League after a three-year contract, with the league thanking him for helping drive its transformation and recruitment push. Culture & Diplomacy: Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan visited Beijing’s Imperial Palace Museum during his China trip, part of a cultural program aimed at deepening ties. UN & Humanitarian Focus: Saudi Arabia reaffirmed unwavering support for UNRWA, calling it an irreplaceable lifeline for Palestinian refugees and urging urgent action to close its funding gap. Saudi Economy & Investment: Saudi private markets drew SR20 billion in foreign investment inflows in 2025, about 60% of total private investment, as reforms and clearer entry pathways boost investor confidence. Pilgrimage & Rights: Amnesty and Alqst report that people visiting Saudi Arabia for Hajj and tourism have been detained and jailed over social media posts, with cases spanning 2022 to late last year. Arabic Language Research: Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre announced winners of its Arabic Research Grants Programme, selecting 7 projects from 623 applications across 34 countries. Travel & Lifestyle: flynas launched a new Budapest–Riyadh route (three times weekly in summer through Sept 30), adding a direct gateway for Saudi culture and onward connections.

Sudan Crisis: Amnesty reports RSF crimes against humanity in El Fasher, including killings, torture, rape and forced displacement, urging a nationwide ceasefire and international protection for civilians. Saudi Fintech & Lifestyle Finance: Riyadh-based Tabby wins Saudi Central Bank consumer and SME finance licences, enabling Shariah-compliant Murabaha financing for higher-value purchases and working capital via major merchants. Saudi Hospitality Growth: Ascott Villas Riyadh opens in Q4 2026 with 86 villas in Hittin, targeting families and long-stay guests with hotel-grade services. Qiddiya Digital Build-Out: 3S secures the core ICT contractor package for Qiddiya’s resort infrastructure, aiming to power the destination’s digital backbone. Islamic Finance Expansion: BlueFive Capital and Al Murjan complete a deal to create BlueFiveSidra, building a global Shariah-compliant asset platform headquartered in Singapore. AI for Arabic Culture: Magna AI partners with Arabic.AI to accelerate Arabic-native AI capabilities across Saudi Arabia, including assistants, translation and speech. Global AI Governance: UN and ITU launch the “AI for Good” commission, with Saudi Arabia among policymakers shaping new AI rules. Saudi Tourism Pull: Report highlights Saudi Arabia’s rise as a top destination for Chinese travellers, citing “China-ready” upgrades and growing air links. Healthcare Tech: King Fahd Hospital in Jeddah launches “Care Link,” a digital platform to streamline patient journeys and coordinate care teams. Culture & Animation: Manga Productions (Misk) debuts animated short “Henna” at Annecy, co-produced with Bilibili and centered on a deaf girl finding her voice.

Kaaba Washing, Saudi Craft Focus: Saudi Arabia showcased the annual Holy Kaaba washing with Prince Saud bin Mishaal leading the ceremony, using Zamzam water blended with rose water and oud, in three meticulous stages of preparation, washing, then perfuming and incense burning. The General Authority also unveiled specialized ceremonial tools developed with the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, highlighting Saudi craftsmanship and Islamic-inspired designs. Healthcare & Education Expansion: Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Privatization & PPP launched a tender for a 391-bed hospital at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah, delivered as a 30-year PPP under a design-build-finance-operate-maintain model to boost specialized and secondary care plus medical education and research. Regional Diplomacy & Security: Saudi Arabia’s Cabinet condemned Iran’s continued attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain and threats to maritime security and navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, reaffirming solidarity and support for measures to protect sovereignty. Global Media Watch: The UK signaled it may intervene in Paramount Skydance’s $110B takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery over media plurality and on-demand access concerns, with responses due by July 6. Culture & Film Support: Doha Film Institute backed 48 projects from 39 countries in its 2026 spring grants cycle, including Saudi Arabia among participating origins. Rights Debate: Rights groups in Geneva warned Saudi Arabia’s death penalty is used as a political tool amid alleged fair-trial violations and Specialized Criminal Court concerns.

Kaaba Care & Tradition: Saudi authorities held the annual ceremonial washing of the Kaaba at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, using Zamzam water mixed with rose water, with a three-stage process overseen by the Grand Mosque’s care authority and attended by senior officials and diplomats. Live Media in Riyadh: Cenomi Centers and MBC Group launched a new live media experience at Westfield Riyadh, building integrated TV and radio studios inside the retail-and-lifestyle destination. Urdu Beyond Poetry: Dr. Abid Moiz argues Urdu should expand into science and modern knowledge, highlighting his new books that push for scientific terminology and broader scholarship. Film Funding Across Cultures: Doha Film Institute announced Spring 2026 grants supporting 48 film projects from 39 countries, including Saudi Arabia, with a focus on independent voices. Luxury Design Deal: Roberto Cavalli signed an exclusive licensing agreement with RAK Ceramics to produce branded ceramic tiles, sanitaryware and faucets across Saudi and the region. Fintech for Bigger Dreams: Tabby gained SAMA approval for consumer and SME lending, enabling longer payment plans for purchases above SAR 2,000 and working capital for retailers. World Bank Climate Shift: The World Bank said it will retire its 45% climate co-benefits lending goal while extending its climate action plan, citing pressure and a move toward “smart development.” Active Fun in Riyadh: BOUNCE opened its biggest Saudi venue at Solitaire Mall, launching a new campaign aimed at teens and families.

Kaaba Ceremony: Saudi Arabia will hold the annual washing of the Holy Kaaba on June 30 (15 Muharram), using Zamzam water mixed with rosewater and perfumed with incense and oils—an old ritual of care for Islam’s holiest site. Tourism & Skills: Red Sea Global (RSG) graduated 386 trainees from its Red Sea Vocational Training Programme, training Saudi talent for tourism and hospitality roles across the Kingdom. Hospitality Expansion: IHG says it will bring all six Luxury & Lifestyle brands to Saudi Arabia by 2028, building on its growing portfolio as the Kingdom targets 150 million visitors. New Openings: Minor Hotels signed NH Riyadh Prime Square Hotel for a 2030 opening in Riyadh’s King Fahad District, adding another lifestyle stay option to the capital. Lifestyle Media in Riyadh: MBC Group and Cenomi Centers are launching a live media experience at Westfield Riyadh, with integrated TV and radio studios inside the retail destination. Safety Spotlight: Saudi Arabia ranked safest among G20 countries in 2025, with 97.7% of residents saying they feel safe walking alone at night. Culture & Identity: Bedouine’s “Neon Summer Skin” turns personal memories—including a 2019 visit to Saudi Arabia—into music that celebrates everyday joy and style beyond conflict. Tech & Daily Life: A report finds more Saudis are using AI for everyday tasks like branding and learning, changing how people seek “expert” help.

Cultural Tourism in AlUla: AlUla is rolling out immersive “living heritage” experiences, from dressing in traditional outfits in Old Town to artisan workshops, guided heritage drives, and nature tours around UNESCO-listed Hegra. Saudi Cultural Participation: GASTAT reports 75.3% of Saudis visited venues hosting cultural events in 2025, tracking progress under the “Raqam Saudi” statistics initiative. Jeddah Waterfront Plans: Jeddah Central’s 5.6m sq m Red Sea development is set to blend beach, marina, boardwalk, museums, an opera house, and a stadium—aimed at making the city a full-day lifestyle destination. Hospitality Leadership Shift: Atheel KAFD Hotel in Riyadh plans to open with a majority-Saudi leadership team, highlighting how Vision 2030 growth is reshaping who runs luxury hotels. Beauty & K-beauty Link: Korea’s SMEs and Startups ministry is launching a program to help independent cosmetics brands enter Saudi retail, easing regulatory and distribution hurdles. Gaming for Saudi Audiences: Mondia and Ubisoft+ are partnering, with Ubisoft+ launching first in Saudi Arabia via stc-supported platforms. Sports Business Angle: KPMG says Saudi’s upcoming major events will hinge on building world-class fan experiences across the full journey.

Saudi Culture & Heritage: Historic Jeddah marks its 12th anniversary on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, spotlighting its Red Sea trade and pilgrimage legacy. Food Heritage: The Culinary Arts Commission registered 180 Saudi products across 13 regions in the Ark of Taste, documenting threatened culinary traditions. Traditional Fashion: Makkah’s “coin burqa” is being preserved and celebrated as a living symbol of women’s heritage, wealth, and craftsmanship. Museums & Craft: Rafha’s Majnad (traditional leather hunting belt) collection keeps old hunting tools and leatherwork traditions in public memory. Youth & Education: British International School Jeddah (BISJ) launches a six-week Summer Camp (ages 6–13) blending sport, STEAM, and creative learning with expert-led activities. STEM Spotlight: Saudi Arabia’s AI team wins six awards at the Asia-Pacific AI Olympiad, including a gold medal. Tourism & Lifestyle: Najran’s artificial waterfalls are drawing summer crowds for family outings and photos. Culture on Screen: The 12th Saudi Film Festival opens at Ithra (June 26–July 2) with 314 submissions and Golden Palm competitions. Jobs & Mobility (Saudi-linked): Pakistan targets deploying one million workers to Saudi Arabia by 2030 under a workforce plan tied to Vision 2030. Regional Context: Kuwait says it intercepted Iranian missiles and condemned renewed attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain.

Tourism & Culture Diplomacy: Germany’s GNTB held its 5th Incoming and Brand Summit in Frankfurt, spotlighting “Innovative. Authentic. Liveable.” and pushing deeper ties with Middle Eastern markets through cultural city tours. Saudi Tourism Startup Boost: Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund (TDF) marked the end of its Grow Tourism Incubator’s first edition, backing 30 startups with mentorship, workshops, training and grants. Regional Unity & Stability: Bahrain’s parliamentary leadership reiterated Arab unity as the base for regional security, calling for de-escalation and respect for sovereignty. GCC Travel Ease: The UAE expanded visa-free access, letting citizens of around 70 countries enter without pre-arranging visas, with additional visa-on-arrival options for others. Saudi Lifestyle Tech Deals: BenQ launched exclusive Amazon Prime Day offers in Saudi Arabia (June 24–30), targeting creators, gamers and Mac users with new display lineups. Healthcare Finance: Burjeel Holdings priced its first MENA healthcare sukuk since 2018, drawing strong demand and signaling investor appetite for GCC health assets. Saudi Astronomy Tourism: AlUla unveiled “AlUla Manara,” a new astronomy and astrotourism destination designed for Dark Sky Park experiences. World Cup Culture & Identity: FIFA allowed pride flags for Egypt vs Iran in Seattle, sparking debate over symbolic inclusion versus real change; meanwhile Cape Verde’s historic World Cup run continues to captivate fans worldwide. Saudi-Linked Pilgrimage News: Nigeria’s Kebbi Hajj delegation reported zero deaths among 4,256 pilgrims returning safely from 2026 Hajj. Saudi Property for Foreigners: Saudi approved regulations and a portal for foreign real estate ownership applications, aligning with Vision 2030 investment goals.

Hajj 2027 Planning Shock: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says preparations are now tightly compressed, with a short registration period for pilgrims—forcing countries like Nigeria to rethink how they mobilize and fund Hajj logistics. Security & Identity Tech: Nigeria reports seven suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP commanders were arrested at Katsina airport on return from Hajj in Saudi Arabia, with authorities crediting integrated identity links between NIMC, immigration systems, and Interpol. Saudi Women in Business: A new look at Saudi Arabia’s female economic revolution highlights rising women’s labor participation and growing SME ownership, tied to Vision 2030 reforms and private-sector momentum. Foreign Real Estate for Non-Saudis: Saudi Arabia approved executive regulations and launched a portal for foreigners to apply to own property, positioning the move as an investment-and-capability boost under Vision 2030. Culture & Craft: A major exhibition spotlights embroidered traditions across SWANA—from Morocco to Afghanistan—showing how textiles carry identity, belief, and centuries of exchange. Digital Life & Kids’ Health: Kuwait specialists warn excessive screen time is linked to vision strain, sleep disruption, and behavioral issues, urging parents to set limits and build outdoor habits. World Cup, Saudi Connections: Cape Verde’s historic knockout qualification after a draw with Saudi Arabia is fueling fan gatherings across the region, including Saudi-linked match memories and cultural celebrations.

Saudi Media Watch: Saudi broadcasters Al Arabiya and Al Hadath allege north Cyprus was used by Muslim Brotherhood-linked networks as a transit and operational hub, including claims of fake university enrolments, forged documents, and movement of Islamist fugitives. Security & Identity: Nigeria says seven suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP commanders were arrested at Katsina Airport on return from Hajj in Saudi Arabia, enabled by linking the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database with immigration and Interpol systems. Regional Diplomacy: A US-mediated framework in Washington outlines a phased path for an eventual Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon tied to Hezbollah disarmament, with Hezbollah rejecting the talks. Culture & Heritage: Oaxaca de Juárez communities and UNESCO are building the first intangible cultural heritage inventory to plug living traditions into urban planning and sustainable tourism. Saudi Lifestyle/Tech: Saudi Arabia shifts from AI investment to real-world implementation, focusing on scaling pilots into everyday workflows. World Cup Culture: Cape Verde—population ~530,000—reach the Round of 32 for the first time after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia, setting up a clash with Argentina.

Ashura & Muharram Remembrance: Ashura (10 Muharram) is marked from sundown June 25 to sundown June 26, recalling the tragedy of Karbala for Shia Muslims and the Reed Sea story for Sunni Muslims, with fasting and reflection across the days of Muharram. World Cup Culture & Identity: Cape Verde’s World Cup run is being celebrated as a story of courage and unity, with fans rallying behind players like goalkeeper Vozinha as the island nation pushes toward the knockout stage. Saudi in Global Headlines (Crime): A German court sentenced Saudi psychiatrist Taleb al-Abdulmohsen to life in prison for the 2024 Magdeburg Christmas market car attack that killed six and injured hundreds, reigniting debate over immigration and security. Saudi-Linked Faith & Travel: Saudi King Salman will sponsor 1,000 Umrah pilgrims worldwide, highlighting ongoing cultural and religious travel support. Tech for Lifestyle: Emirates NBD in the UAE launched FIFA World Cup 2026-themed Visa card art customization in its ENBD X app, turning payments into personal expression. Halal Tourism Push: Indonesia is expanding halal product availability across tourist destinations to boost Muslim-friendly travel experiences. Comms Industry: RAIYN unveiled as a trust-led communications network uniting four MENA agencies under one accountable structure.

Foreign Property Access: Saudi Arabia’s Real Estate General Authority opened a new online portal for eligible foreigners to apply for property ownership, with eligibility checks and application tracking via “Saudi Properties,” while noting restrictions in Makkah and Madinah. Education & Lifestyle: 21K School launched admissions for its Global North Cohort (Cambridge pathway) for GCC-based Indian and South Asian families, aiming to reduce schooling disruption across relocations. Culture & Community: In Sana’a, women’s events and stand-in vigils marked Ashura anniversary, framing Imam Hussein’s message as dignity and resistance, alongside calls to end the blockade. Justice & Safety: A German court sentenced Saudi doctor Taleb al-Abdulmohsen to life for the 2024 Magdeburg Christmas market car attack that killed six and injured hundreds. Creative Industry: Cannes Lions 2026 highlighted MENA agency wins, with FP7 McCANN MENAT named MENA Network of the Year. Sports (Saudi spotlight): World Cup coverage puts Saudi Arabia in a must-win match vs Cape Verde, with knockout hopes tied to results elsewhere.

Muharram in Saudi: Shia devotees held Muharram mourning nights at Abdulrahim Husseiniya on Tarout Island in Qatif, with sermons and Ashura narratives drawing large crowds. Pilgrimage logistics: Saudi Arabia set new Hateem (Hijr Ismail) voluntary-prayer entry timings in Makkah to regulate crowd flow, and also approved hosting 1,000 Umrah pilgrims under the Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques programme. Saudi culture & business via IP: Experts say Saudi’s push into new industries could benefit from Japanese anime, manga and gaming IP, with local projects like Manga Productions highlighted. Food heritage data: SFDA published the ‘Saudi Food Composition Tables’ to standardize nutrition data for traditional dishes and support evidence-based policy. Hospitality inclusion: Mövenpick Anwar Al Madinah Hotel earned the Certified Autism Center designation, training staff for sensory-friendly guest experiences. World Cup culture: FIFA’s Man of the Match trophies reportedly get alcohol branding removed for Muslim players, while Arab artists (like Nora Fatehi and Elyanna) featured in World Cup opening celebrations in Toronto. Travel & lifestyle: Akasa Air announced daily flights to Udaipur from Mumbai and Bengaluru starting Oct 15, expanding domestic connectivity.

Saudi Culture on the Move: The Culinary Arts Commission wrapped up its “Taste of Saudi Culture” pavilion at Taste of London 2026, sharing dishes like haneeth, balila and mutabbaq to spotlight Saudi hospitality and culinary heritage. GCC Travel Pulse: Dragonpass data shows GCC travel activity jumped 66.2% in May vs April, with UAE and Qatar leading the rebound and Saudi continuing to grow—good news for regional lifestyle and tourism plans. Tech for Work, Not Just Play: HONOR launched its Magic V6 in Riyadh and pushed a B2B push under its Alpha Plan, stressing enterprise security and credentials as it tries to win over Saudi businesses. Legal AI in the Region: LexisNexis expands in the GCC with localized legal AI, aiming to help lawyers navigate fast-changing rules with region-specific content. Culture Meets Innovation: WeRide GENESIS won major AI awards for simulation and generative AI, signaling how advanced tech is shaping future mobility. Travel Access Story: India’s Air India launched “Easy Connect” from Varanasi, linking smaller-city travelers to international routes via Delhi—highlighting a growing culture of easier cross-border travel. Saudi Pilgrimage Update: An Umrah pilgrim was arrested after being denied boarding on a Saudi-bound flight, sparking questions about document checks and passenger rights.

Saudi Culture & Food Diplomacy: The Culinary Arts Commission wrapped up its “Taste of Saudi Culture” pavilion at Taste of London 2026, bringing Saudi dishes like haneeth, balila and mutabbaq to international visitors at Regent’s Park. Sports & Youth Leadership: Nadheera bint Ahmed Al Harthi was elected to the Asian School Sports Federation board for 2026–2030, with Saudi representative Saleh Al Oraifi also named to the new board lineup. Hospitality Spotlight: Saudia won the 2026 APEX Best Cabin Service Award for the Middle East, while Amsa Hospitality CEO Muin Serhan took a 2026 Leadership Award at the Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia. Tourism & Summer Plans: Aseer is pushing a summer lineup of 100+ bookable experiences, from heritage districts like Al Muftaha to mountain walks above the clouds in Al Habala. Global Culture Moment: Snapchat research says Saudi and UAE football fans are turning matches into shared, chat-driven social experiences, not just TV viewing. Travel & Access: Saudi Arabia opened an official portal for foreign property ownership applications, with cabinet approval for executive regulation tied to non-Saudis. Workforce & Skills: iMile and the Saudi Logistics Academy graduated a new cohort of young logistics professionals, bridging classroom training into real jobs.