gulfindependentnews

  Al-Hilal FC has announced that all of its games from now on will be played at the new 'Boulevard Hall', renamed "Kingdom Arena," " A huge SAR 40 million annual collaboration was made for this. Turki Al-Sheikh, the head of the General Entertainment Authority, and Fahad Bin Nafel, the head of the Al-Hilal Club Company, described the agreement as an important one for the sports industry. The under-construction Kingdom Arena in Riyadh will have a capacity of 26,000 viewers and a customized room that can fit in 350 people. It is made according to the strict guidelines put forward by the Saudi Pro League, FIFA, and AFC. In January 2024, on the occasion of the Riyadh Season Cup, the stadium was decided to be handed over to Al-Hilal Club. In addition to hosting sporting events, Kingdom Arena will also host a variety of entertainment activities. Read More: Boulevard Hall is Now 'Kingdom Arena', Official Stadium for Al-Hilal There will be special packages for for...

  Each living thing ages at a different rate and is tightly linked to biological clocks, making aging an essential mystery of existence that affects all living things. The 'Hevolution Foundation', with Saudi Arabia is set to investigate and invest in ground-breaking methods intended to slow down aging and provide people more years of good health. Saudi Princess Dr. Haya Bint Khaled bin Bandar al-Saud, Vice President of Organizational Strategy & Development, aims to produce noticeable results in a short period of time. Hevolution Foundation, a leading non-profit devoted to improving age-related treatment advances, aims to spur development in the area and close crucial funding shortages. According to Dr. al-Saud, therapies that increase healthy people's lifespans will revolutionize modern medicine. Hevolution Foundation CEO Dr. Mehmood Khan highlights that the institute's origins are in reducing aging, a worldwide health issue that affects everyone. The burden of age-...

  A new visa concept is slowly emerging in the GCC's secretive diplomatic circles, set to reveal the region's best-kept secret: a cross-border travel revolution. This project, wrapped in a mystery, has the ability to launch a new era of GCC tourism by engaging locals and visitors alike. Abdulla bin Touq, the UAE's Minister of Economy, stepped from the shadows to hint at this covert plan, much like a modern-day alchemist would reveal a scheme that could transform travel throughout the GCC. Although it is still in its early stages, the plan has the potential to completely change how people experience the mysterious landscapes and cultures of the region. This effort incorporates itself within a radical reform of the UAE's visa policy. At the end of 2022, the UAE Entry and Residence Scheme was unveiled, opening up a range of novel opportunities for both citizens and visitors. The five-year green residence visa, a sought-after key for knowledgeable experts, business owners, ...

  An innovative development in Soudah, a mountainous region in Saudi Arabia, into a luxury mountain tourism destination has been presented by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. By 2033, the "Soudah Peaks" project, which offers top-notch hotel services with spectacular natural beauty, hopes to host over two million people every year. Soudah Peaks, situated at a height of 3,015 meters above sea level on Saudi Arabia's highest peak, plays a crucial role in the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) plan to diversify the economy by building up its presence in the travel, leisure, and hospitality sectors. Six separate zones, including Tahlal, Jareen, Sahab, Rijal, Sabrah, and Red Rock, will be included in the development. Each will offer a wide range of luxury amenities, including hotels, opulent mountain resorts, villas, prime mansion sites, and cultural and adventure attractions. Soudah Development plans to complete 1,336 housing units, 2,700 hotel rooms, and 80,000 square meters...

  Max Verstappen is competing for his third Formula 1 world championship at the Qatar Grand Prix 2023 in the middle of the desert. The Dutch wonder is on the way to greatness with 400 points under his belt, and Red Bull Racing is already leading the constructors' championship. Sergio Perez, his closest challenger, is still a tough opponent as they prepare for the important match in Qatar. With a fast competition, that awards points on Saturday, the Qatar Grand Prix adds a unique twist and an curious component to the championship campaign. Depending on Perez's performance, Verstappen has a number of options for securing the championship on Saturday with a 177-point advantage. However, Perez still has a chance to prevent Verstappen from becoming champion since he may perform on Sunday if the outcome of the race is still in doubt. If Perez can accumulate enough points on Saturday, the title race might continue into the United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), wh...

The renowned footballer Cristiano Ronaldo surprised his fans when he celebrated the Saudi National Day celebrations in style. The Al Nassr attacker was seen with his teammates in a viral video sporting a traditional Saudi thobe and Bisht with a sword. With his position as the kingdom's ambassador and his backing for Saudi Arabia's ambition to host the FIFA World Cup in 2030, Ronaldo has enthusiastically accepted Saudi culture. Beyond just symbolism, Ronaldo's link to Saudi Arabia is important. He also has the duty of promoting Saudi Arabian tourism abroad after signing a hefty three-year contract with Al Nassr in December 2022, worth $212.2 million per season. Ronaldo's primary emphasis is on the club and winning championships with his teammates, but it's important to note that Al Nassr FC made it clear that his ambassadorial job does not involve duties related to any World Cup bid. Ronaldo recently discussed his happiness at Al Nassr in an interview, highlighting t...

  On the occasion of "Saudi National Day," Saudi Arabia is beginning a wonderful celebration honoring more than 90 years of its existence with a number of activities and events taking place all around the country. This historic event honors both the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the unification of the Hejaz and Najd. With roots in the time of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him), his migration from Makkah to Madinah, and the spread of Islam throughout the world, Saudi National Day is comparable to the country's Independence Day. But this travel was anything but easy, filled with difficulties and many conflicts. Mohammad bin Abdul Wahab, a scholar of Islam, called for a return to the original tenets of Islam in the 1700s. Together with Mohammad bin Saud, they founded the first Saudi Arabian state, known at the time as Al Najd, which included Madinah and Makkah. Riyadh became the capital city as a result of the Al Sauds' ability to retake lost territor...

  The West Asian sambusak, a savory pastry with a distinctive golden-brown looks is the South Asian samosa's international twin in the field of food pleasures. A memorial to their shared, global cultural heritage is found behind their crisp exteriors, where there is an explosion of flavors. This link between the samosa and the sambusak is just a small part of the rich tapestry that connects South Asian and West Asian cultures; this heritage is anchored not only in the food but also in the stories, music, and history that unite them. "Sovereigns of the Sea: Omani Ambition in the Age of Empire," written by Seema Alavi, reveals the connections between South Asia, West Asia, and East Africa by engaging readers in the lives of five Omani sultans. Alavi reveals the complex ties between communities that have shaped these areas over many years, going beyond politics, economics, and colonialism. This story encourages us to think critically about the traditional idea of nation-stat...

The MBC Group, a Saudi-based production company, is getting ready to distribute "Sukkar", the first Arab musical movie across the MENA region. This charming story, written by Kuwaiti author Heba Mishari Hamada, is about a group of orphans, including the title character 'Sukkar', who face difficulties in life together. Sukkar is an important narrative that uses the song to depict the journey of these kids as they cling to their ambitions in the face of adversity. It is inspired by Jean Webster's novel "Daddy Longs Legs". Hala Al Turk, who shot to prominence on "Arabs Got Talent" in 2011, starred in the Tamer Mahdy-directed movie. Sukkar is fundamentally a heartwarming tale of a young child's journey that shows Sukkar and her companions' courage in the face of challenges and still hope for a better future. Ratiba, the orphanage's administrator and the villain of the story complicates the plot as the kids work to improve their lives, h...

  The biggest sporting event of the year, the Saudi Games, which will begin on November 26 and run through December 10, is being prepared for in Saudi Arabia. In a wide range of 53 sports, including specific divisions for Paralympic sports and junior events, almost 6,000 committed athletes—both male and female—are seriously training. The incredible prize amount for this round, which totals more than 200 million riyals, is what makes it stand out. Silver and bronze medal winners will receive 300,000 and 100,000 riyals, respectively, while gold medal winners will receive one million riyals. With prizes of 100,000 riyals for gold, 50,000 riyals for silver, and 25,000 riyals for bronze, the junior champions are not left out either. The Saudi Games' organizers are going above and beyond to make this year's competition even more remarkable than the last. The prior success of the event has only strengthened their resolve to produce an outstanding event. The event's importance in d...

  As president of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, Dennis Francis has taken on an important role at a time when the global community is facing important challenges. It has been a pillar of international stability for many years. However, there is growing worry that given the unstable state of the globe, which is marked by conflicts, climate change, poverty, hunger, inequality, mistrust, and division, its applicability may be decreasing. Francis vowed to rally the UN's top policy-making body to "deliver for people and for the planet" as he took his responsibilities and the symbolic gavel. Recent power struggles and political-economic tensions have raised questions about the sustainability of the multilateral approach. Dennis Francis provided a balanced viewpoint in an interview with Arab News, building on his vast experience working with multilateral organizations. The ability of the international structure to produce concrete results can be seen by instances o...

  The 3rd Abu Dhabi Brain Conference (ADBC2023) is going on in Abu Dhabi on September 15–17, 2023. The interesting field of neurology, which explores the intricate workings of the neurological system and associated medical problems, is the focus of this conference. As it brings together a wide range of specialists and researchers from all over the world, including well-known neurologists from the local, regional, and worldwide levels, ADBC2023 is very significant. These esteemed people will get together to discuss the most recent developments and research findings in this field. Imagine it as a large conference where these innovators will present their innovative work, which will include significant diagnostic approaches, cutting-edge treatment methods, and approaches to deal with a variety of neurological disorders affecting the brain and nervous system. ADBC2023 will feature general sessions packed with presentations, lectures, and debates on a variety of neurology-related topics...

  Oman has always been renowned for its attention to environmental preservation, but it is currently making significant progress in its commitment to innovation and renewable energy. 'Sultan Haitham City,' an important development located close to Muscat's capital - this innovative concept, created by the famous American architectural firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM), who also created Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa, aims for new sustainable life in cities. 100,000 people are expected to live in Sultan Haitham City, which will have 19 colorful communities and 20,000 eco-friendly homes across 14.8 square kilometers. According to SOM's master plan, the environment of the city will feature facilities to convert waste to energy, electric car facilities, solar power plants, and water recycling. It's an example of sustainability and an environmental way of living, and it might be finished in 2045 after the first phase of work extends through the end of this decade...

One constant focus dominates Qatar's priority among the many areas calling for attention: education. Whatever the difficulties that may occur, Qatar has reaffirmed its commitment to bring education to the top. This dedication endures even during the most difficult times of war when protecting educational institutions like schools and colleges becomes vital. This unwavering dedication was highlighted in an emotional address given by HE Lolwah bint Rashid AlKhater, Minister of State for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during an online celebration of the fourth International Day to Protect Education from Attack in Geneva. As HE AlKhater stressed the necessity of protecting educational establishments from assaults, Qatar's commitment was clear. She acknowledged and applauded the arduous efforts of people and organizations who seek to offer educational opportunities, particularly for kids who are caught in the middle of battles or situations. The questi...

Governmental communication is more than just a routine operational activity; it serves as the foundation for a country's identity and helps it create its path to progress. It is the key factor affecting public confidence, distribution of resources, and efforts to address pressing global issues like global warming, food safety, and innovation. Effective government communication has a ripple effect across cultures, influencing views, influencing rules, and eventually deciding the success of a nation. The theme "Today's Resources, Tomorrow's Wealth" is the focal point of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) 2023. The decisions that we choose today about the management of resources will have an effect on the wealth and wellness of our country's future. Making wise choices now will clear the way for a bright future for all. The IGCF 2023 is a thriving platform where ground-breaking ideas grow, collaborations are formed, and solutions are develope...

  This past week, members of the American media were given access to a confidential report by the International Atomic Energy Association (IAEA), which revealed Iran's expanding stock of uranium that has been dangerously close to weapons-grade levels—enriched to nearly 60% purity. Tensions in the area are rising as a result of pressing issues like unexplained uranium traces at secret sites and the reinstatement of surveillance cameras. The erratic nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington are also anticipated to come to a head next month. The next phase of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), dubbed Transition Day and scheduled for October 18, 2023 - eight years after adoption of the agreement in 2015 - will usher in the removal of remaining nuclear-related sanctions, ballistic missile restrictions, and associated designations. Despite both parties deviating from the 2015 nuclear accord, certain provisions, including the impending expiration of specific measures, persi...

  The United States, Saudi Arabia, India, and other governments have been in discussions about a potential revolutionary infrastructure project in an effort to change the dynamics of trade between the Gulf region and South Asia. With the ultimate objective of incorporating India into this network, this ambitious plan seeks to develop crucial ports and connect Middle Eastern countries via railways. Numerous parties involved, particularly the United Arab Emirates and European nations, have shown a great deal of interest in and attention to the talks. These talks have the potential to change regional diplomatic ties and commerce lines, even though the conclusion is still uncertain. The negotiations for this ground-breaking infrastructure project have been going on for a while, but they are still in a fluid state, which shows how difficult they are. These negotiations take place at the same time as US Vice President Joe Biden's trip to the G20 summit in New Delhi, India. President Bide...

Over the past half-century, the economies of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states have undergone a remarkable transformation, challenging their traditional status as 'rentier' states heavily reliant on oil revenues. In the 1970s, oil accounted for more than 90% of the GCC's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but by the early 1980s, a significant shift toward economic diversification had begun. This transition was marked by notable changes in various sectors. The GCC region emerged as a global hub for the production of aluminum, petrochemicals, and fertilizers, and shifted from being an importer of food products and building materials to becoming an exporter. Furthermore, capitalizing on their strategic geographic location, GCC countries now own and operate major airlines, fostering significant growth in trade, particularly in re-exports. Consequently, the composition of the GDP underwent a substantial revision, with non-oil sectors now contributing 60-70% of the GDP, compar...

In a recent development, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke over the phone, reiterating their commitment to voluntary oil production cutbacks through the end of the year. These supply reductions, which are intended to stabilize the global energy market, come as the oil market is on the upswing and there are widespread worries about a shortage in the fourth quarter. We will examine the ramifications and importance of this choice made by two of the world's main oil-producing nations in this analytical blog post. The Extension of Voluntary Oil Supply Cuts Saudi Arabia will maintain its voluntary cut of 1 million barrels per day while Russia has agreed to maintain its decrease of 300,000 barrels per day. These restrictions are a continuation of the OPEC+ group's continuous attempts to control world oil production and maintain oil prices, which also involve Saudi Arabia and Russia. The reasons behind this choice and its prospective impa...

Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a prominent member of Abu Dhabi's ruling family, has emerged as a leading global dealmaker. His influence extends to the largest sovereign wealth fund in the United Arab Emirates, expanding his assets oversight to an impressive $1.5 trillion. Sheikh Tahnoon has played a pivotal role in numerous high-value deals across various sectors, including technology and finance. His impressive portfolio includes heading two wealth funds, the region's premier private investment firm, the country's largest lender, and its largest publicly listed corporation. This makes him the de facto business leader of the affluent Al Nahyan family, with access to substantial reserves in the oil-rich Persian Gulf. While Sheikh Tahnoon's entities have faced complexities when engaging in cross-border deals due to intricate M&A regulations abroad, they have shown a distinct interest in emerging markets. His tech fund is actively establishing teams in Asian citi...

  In the quest to transition away from fossil fuels, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are forging partnerships between the public and private sectors. At the forefront of this transformation, Efficio, a global leader in In-Country Value (ICV), procurement, and supply chain management, emphasizes the importance of focusing on ICV programs to foster economic and human capital development in a post-oil era. Efficio has dedicated over a decade to establishing comprehensive ICV development initiatives in the region, and the GCC now stands at a pivotal juncture in advancing these programs over the next 12 months. Initially designed to enhance workforce nationalization, ICV programs have evolved into holistic strategies that encompass multiple facets of development. These programs aim not only to improve diversity and efficiency but also to drive significant social progress. Present-day ICV initiatives encompass a wide range of strategic activities, including attracting local ...

Sultan Al Neyadi's remarkable six-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) has marked a pivotal chapter in the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) growing presence in space exploration. Born and raised in the UAE, Al Neyadi's journey to becoming an astronaut reflects the nation's commitment to nurturing its cadre of astronauts and contributing to the global space community. During his mission, he conducted over 200 experiments, including a historic spacewalk, showcasing both his skills and the UAE's dedication to space science. The impact of Al Neyadi's mission extends beyond space; it inspires a new generation of astronauts in the UAE and the region. The UAE's impressive achievements in Martian exploration, including the successful launch of the Hope spacecraft to Mars, have garnered global recognition and inspired nations worldwide to embark on their space exploration journeys. With plans to launch missions to the asteroid belt and a comprehensiv...

  The experts from the United Nations have slammed the hijab law of the Islamic Republic of Iran. UN experts have said that the hijab law in Iran could amount to “gender apartheid.” Recently, Iranian authorities announced a new draft law, which highlights harsh punishments for women and girls who fail to wear a hijab. The draft is under review by the Iranian parliament. The 70-article draft law proposes harsh penalties for girls and women who refuse to wear the hijab in the Islamic Republic of Iran. UN experts said in a statement on Friday, “The draft law could be described as a form of gender apartheid, as authorities appear to be governing through systemic discrimination with the intention of suppressing women into total submission.” According to the proposed draft law, the Iranian authorities can use artificial intelligence to identify women who violate the rules and dress code. The UN called the move against women “inherently discriminatory.”  The United Nations panel of e...

Diverse Collective with Economic Disparities: The BRICS group, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has extended invitations to six additional countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Argentina. If accepted, this expansion could see Middle Eastern and North African nations joining BRICS as early as January. While BRICS represents a significant portion of the global population and GDP, its members have diverse economies, which has sometimes hindered unified action.  BRICS has long sought to reduce the dominance of the U.S. dollar in international transactions, but efforts to establish a common BRICS currency have not succeeded. The inclusion of major energy producers like Saudi Arabia and the UAE could strengthen BRICS' ability to promote alternative currencies. However, it's worth noting that some experts believe the economic benefits from China for countries like Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE may not significantly...

In a momentous journey, Jasem Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), broke an eight-year hiatus as the first GCC leader to visit Yemen's interim capital, Aden. This historic visit was driven by the unwavering goal of bolstering the strategic partnership between the GCC and Yemen. During his stay, Albudaiwi engaged in crucial discussions with Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi, head of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council, at the Presidential Palace in Aden. The meeting centered on strengthening the alliance between the GCC and Yemen, with Dr. Al-Alimi providing updates on Yemen's recent developments and efforts, led by Saudi Arabia, to renew a ceasefire and initiate a comprehensive political process. The meeting underscored the necessity of regional and international pressure to alleviate Yemen's prolonged humanitarian crisis. Dr. Al-Alimi expressed gratitude for the GCC's steadfast support in confronting challenges to Yemen's identity and natio...

  A delegation of top New Zealand trade officials recently visited the UAE, where discussions centered on strengthening economic ties between the two nations and exploring the possibility of entering into a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). During the visit, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, welcomed New Zealand's Minister of Trade and Export Growth, Damien O'Connor, reaffirming their shared vision to enhance collaboration in critical sectors like healthcare and agriculture. The UAE, accounting for 2.5% of New Zealand's foreign trade as of 2022, already enjoys strong trade relations with New Zealand, with non-oil trade reaching $805 million in the previous year, reflecting a 7% growth compared to 2021 and a 23% increase over the previous year. These discussions are expected to further boost this prosperous trade relationship. Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized that a UAE-New Zealand CEPA would significantly enhance their ...

  During the recent Next World Forum in Riyadh, a landmark moment unfolded with the launch of the Gulf Federation for Electronic Sports. This new federation has a mission to provide robust support for budding talents in the gaming world and foster their growth through a series of annual tournaments held across Gulf countries. It featured participation from notable figures like Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan and representatives from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. The forum also witnessed the signing of 14 significant memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and agreements, underlining the commitment to elevate the e-sports sector. These agreements covered various aspects, including collaborations between federations, sponsorships, shared values, and educational initiatives. Notable MoUs were signed between the Saudi E-Sports Federation and counterparts in Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE, aiming to promote educational curricula and tournament organization. READ MORE:...