Tue, 21-Oct-2025

Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to Palestinian rights at Arab League Summit

Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to Palestinian rights at Arab League Summit

Saudi Arabia has reiterated its strong opposition to violations of Palestinian rights, with Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan reaffirming the Kingdom’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause during the Arab League Summit in Cairo. At the extraordinary summit held on Tuesday to counter US President Donald Trump’s controversial Gaza reconstruction proposal, Prince Faisal condemned … Read more

Saudi Arabia to open Itikaf registration for two holy mosques on March 5

Saudi Arabia to open Itikaf registration for two holy mosques on March 5

The General Authority for Care of the Two Holy Mosques in Saudi Arabia has announced that registration for Itikaf at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah will open on March 5. Starting Wednesday, Saudi authorities will begin the registration process, which will remain open until all available slots for the … Read more

Saudi Arabia reaffirms $500 million commitment to polio eradication efforts

Raises concern over rising polio cases in Sindh

Saudi Arabia has reiterated its pledge of $500 million to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) to help eliminate wild polio and control vaccine-derived polio outbreaks in Pakistan and Afghanistan, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Monday. Originally pledged in April 2024, these funds will be directed toward efforts to eradicate the wild strain … Read more

Saudi Arabia introduces new visa policy for Pakistan

Saudi Arabia introduces new visa policy for Pakistan

Saudi Arabia has implemented a revised visit visa policy for 14 countries, including Pakistan. Under the new regulations, authorities have discontinued the one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits. Visitors from these countries are now only eligible for single-entry visas. The affected nations include Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, … Read more

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia sign $1.2 billion oil import financing deal

Saudi Arabia introduces new visa policy for Pakistan

In a significant development, a delegation from the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), led by CEO Sultan bin Abdul Rahman Al-Marshad, met with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif today to witness the signing of an Oil Import Financing Facility worth $1.2 billion. The Prime Minister warmly welcomed the SFD delegation and expressed appreciation for the strong … Read more

WhatsApp voice and video calls reportedly working in Saudi Arabia

Google Messages

RIYADH: Several residents in Saudi Arabia have reported that they are now able to use WhatsApp’s voice and video calling features, which have been restricted in the Kingdom for years. However, it remains unclear whether this activation is part of a temporary test run or a permanent policy change. Neither the Saudi government nor WhatsApp … Read more

Saudi Arabia launches winter relief project, reaffirms strong support for Pakistan

Saudi Arabia

ISLAMABAD: Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki on Thursday inaugurated the Shelter and Winter Kits Project 2025, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s steadfast support for Pakistan. Speaking at the launch ceremony, Ambassador Al-Malki announced that the Kingdom, through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), has donated 84,500 shelter and winter kits. These aid packages … Read more

Saudi Arabia to invest $600 billion in US over four years

Saudi Arabia to invest $600 billion in US over four years

During a phone call, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pledged to invest $600 billion in the United States over the next four years. He expressed confidence that the Trump administration’s policies would foster significant economic growth. The report said Saudi Arabia wants its investments to capitalize on these conditions. It did not detail the … Read more

FIA arrests passenger for using fake travel documents

FIA

LAHORE: Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Immigration team arrested a air passenger arriving from abroad on charges of using fraudulent documents here at Lahore Airport.

According to FIA spokesperson the arrested individual, identified as Muhammad Abdullah, arrived on Flight QR 620 from Saudi Arabia.

During immigration clearance, he was found to be suspicious, prompting further investigation, it was revealed that the passenger’s passport contained fake entry and exit stamps from both Pakistan and Poland.

The suspect’s travel record was not found in the Immigration and Border Management System (IBMS), spokesperson added.

The accused has been transferred to the Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Lahore for further interrogation, said spokesperson.

On the other hand, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Composite Circle Abbottabad arrested Nazir Awan, a key suspect involved in human trafficking, from Abbottabad.

The arrest was made on the directives of DG FIA Ahmed Ishaq Jahangir as part of an ongoing crackdown against individuals engaged in illegal human smuggling.

Nazir Awan was on the wanted list for human trafficking and was apprehended following a confidential tip-off. Investigations revealed that the suspect had been deceiving innocent citizens and facilitating their illegal travel abroad. Despite multiple attempts to capture him, the operation culminated successfully with his arrest.

During the raid, FIA team recovered substantial evidences, including travel documents, employment contracts, passports, and visa copies, from the suspect’s possession. The FIA has initiated an investigation into the matter and is conducting further raids to apprehend other individuals involved in the network.

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258 Pakistanis deported from different countries in last 24 hours

258

KARACHI: At least 258 Pakistanis were deported from seven countries including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and China in last 24 hours.

According to immigration sources, 232 people including seven beggars were deported from Saudi Arabia, 21 Pakistanis from UAE.

The Pakistanis were also deported from China, Qatar, Indonesia, Cyprus and Nigeria.The citizenship of one of the deportees is doubtful, while 16 passengers have also been arrested on arrival in Karachi.

Immigration sources said that 2 people who were caught on Hajj without a permit were sent back to their homeland on completion of their sentence, while 4 Pakistanis who went on Umrah were punished for overstaying.

27 Pakistanis were caught working without sponsors. 16 people were staying in Saudi Arabia after their visas expired. 112 Pakistanis were arrested and sent to Pakistan on the complaint of sponsors.

Out of 21 Pakistanis deported from UAE, 4 were involved in drug trafficking. One each Pakistani was also deported from China, Qatar, Indonesia, Cyprus and Nigeria.

The names of 16 deportees from UAE and Nigeria are included in the stop list.

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Saudi Arabia on high alert as heavy rains and floods strike hit kingdom

Saudi Arabia on high alert as heavy rains and floods strike hit kingdom

Saudi Arabia is experiencing unprecedented torrential rains and severe flooding, affecting streets and neighborhoods across several cities, with the extreme weather conditions expected to persist for days. The National Centre for Meteorology issued a range of weather alerts on Tuesday, including a high red alert for the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah in the … Read more

Saudi Arabia updates visa fees for 2025

Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior, through its Absher Business platform, has introduced updated fees for various services aimed at establishments. These changes are particularly relevant for foreign workers, including Pakistanis, who are advised to ensure the timely renewal of their residency permits (Iqamas) to avoid complications. Under the new fee structure, the cost of … Read more

Saudi Arabia Gifts 100 Tons of Dates to Pakistan as a Symbol of Solidarity

Saudi Arabia

On Thursday, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia presented 100 tons of dates to Pakistan, reflecting the goodwill and enduring bond between the two nations. The consignment was officially handed over during a ceremony at the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Islamabad. Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki and Abdullah Al-Baqami, Director of the King … Read more

Saudi Arabia to celebrate “Year of Handicrafts” in 2025

Saudi Arabia to celebrate “Year of Handicrafts” in 2025

Saudi Arabia has declared 2025 as the “Year of Handicrafts” to showcase its rich cultural heritage. Throughout the year, the Saudi Ministry of Culture will organize various events, exhibitions, workshops, and competitions to highlight the importance of traditional crafts. The aim of these activities is to celebrate the role of handicrafts in Saudi Arabia culture … Read more

Pakistan-Saudi Arabia vow to strengthen security cooperation

Pakistan

ISLAMABAD:Federal Minister for interior Mohsin Naqvi and Saudi Arabia’s Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif held a high-level meeting at the Ministry of Interior’s headquarters in Riyadh to discuss mutual security interests and cooperation.

During the meeting, both leaders emphasized strengthening bilateral collaboration, particularly in combating drug smuggling and addressing other shared security concerns.

Prince Abdulaziz warmly welcomed Mohsin Naqvi and his delegation, expressing Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to supporting Pakistan. Mohsin Naqvi, in return, highlighted the deep religious and fraternal ties between the two nations, stating, “Saudi Arabia has always stood by Pakistan during challenging times, and we deeply value this enduring partnership.”

The Pakistani delegation included Ambassador Ahmed Farooq, Director General of Passports and Immigration Mustafa Jamal Qazi, and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Interior Riffat Mukhtar Raja. Senior Saudi officials, including Deputy Interior Minister Nasser Al-Dawood and Director of Public Security Lieutenant General Mohammed Al-Bassami, were also present.

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FIFA Set to Confirm Saudi Arabia as Hosts for 2034 World Cup

FIFA

FIFA is set to officially announce on Wednesday that Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup, while a joint bid from Morocco, Spain, and Portugal—featuring matches in South America—will secure the 2030 tournament. The FIFA Congress, which will be held virtually, will vote on the hosting rights for both tournaments. However, both bids are … Read more

Business Traveler U.S. Awards 2024: Saudia Wins ‘Best Airline Cabin Crew’

Business Traveler U.S. Awards 2024

Saudia Wins ‘Best Airline Cabin Crew’ at Business Traveler U.S. Awards 2024. The award recognizes Saudia’s exceptional cabin crew for their exceptional hospitality and world-class service. Chief Guest Experience Officer, Rohen Dimitrov, praised the crew’s dedication and professionalism. Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has proudly announced receiving the inaugural Editorial Award for … Read more

Pakistan, KSA agree for qualitative change in bilateral trade  

Pakistan

RIYADH: Pakistan and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia agreed that it was now necessary for the two countries to bring about a qualitative change in their economic, trade and investment relationship.

The bilateral relationship was discussed as Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif had a “warm and cordial” meeting with Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud on the sidelines of the One Water Summit held here.

The Crown Prince spoke of his great pleasure at meeting the Prime Minister Shehbaz for the fifth time over past six months.

He said that this was the evidence of the genuine love and affection that connect the peoples of the two countries.

The Crown Prince stressed that it was important to ensure that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enhance meaningful cooperation that will bring about economic growth and prosperity in Pakistan.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the pace of progress of the implementation of the MOUs and agreements signed between the two countries regarding investment in Pakistan.

The Prime Minister thanked the Crown Prince for his most genuine affection for the people of Pakistan.

He reiterated his invitation to the Crown Prince to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience. The Crown Prince responded that he was looking forward to his visit to Pakistan.

Later in a post on his X time-line, the prime minister referring to his meeting with the Crown Prince, thanked him for his personal interest and support in building closer Saudi Arabia-Pakistan ties for the benefit of the two nations.

“Had the pleasure and honor of meeting my brother HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the One Water Summit in Riyadh.

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PM to travel to Saudi Arabia for two days visit tomorrow

PM to travel to Saudi Arabia for two days visit tomorrow

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to visit Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 3-4, 2024, to participate in the “One Water Summit.” The event, organized jointly by Saudi Arabia, France, Kazakhstan, and the World Bank, aims to foster global cooperation and develop a unified approach to water resource management through high-level political commitments, as stated … Read more

Saudi Arabia to Introduce VAT Refunds for Tourists Starting in 2025

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia plans to launch a VAT refund system for tourists in 2025 to boost the tourism sector. The system will be managed by the Saudi Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority. The system will allow international tourists to claim back VAT paid on eligible purchases. Saudi Arabia is set to launch a value-added tax (VAT) … Read more

Gilani departs for five-day visit to Saudi Arabia

Gilani

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, along with a delegation, departed for a five-day official visit to Saudi Arabia via Saudi Airlines.

The visit is being undertaken at the invitation of the Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council.

The primary objective of the visit is to enhance bilateral relations and institutional cooperation between the two nations said a news release.

During the visit, the delegation, led by the Chairman of the Senate, is scheduled to hold high-level meetings with the Chairman of the Saudi Shura Council, the

Governor of Medina, the Governor of Riyadh, and other senior officials. The delegation will also perform Umrah during their stay.

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Saudi Arabia to Announce First Phase of Riyadh Metro

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is set to announce the first phase of the Riyadh Metro, the world’s longest driverless metro system. The project, approved in 2012, faced delays due to logistical challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities will announce ticket prices and special discount packages soon. Saudi Arabia is gearing up to unveil the first phase of … Read more

Saudi Arabia arrests 16,696 illegals in one week

Saudi Arabia arrests 16,696 illegals in one week

Saudi Arabia’s authorities have arrested 19,696 persons residing or trying to enter the Kingdom illegally in different inspection raids in all regions of the country during the last week. Saudi Ministry of Interior announced that the security forces in collaboration with the concerned government agencies carried out joint field security campaigns between November 14 and … Read more

PM expresses satisfaction over implementation on $2.8b Saudi investment

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasizing the significance of cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in different sectors, expressed satisfaction over the implementation of recently signed bilateral MoUs for Saudi investment worth $2.8 billion in Pakistan.

The bilateral ties were discussed as Deputy Interior Minister of Saudi Arabia, who is on an official visit to Pakistan, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif here.

Recalling the historic and fraternal relations between the two countries, the prime minister thanked the Saudi leadership and government for always supporting Pakistan and said both sides were working together to further strengthen Pakistan-Saudi Arabia ties into mutually beneficial economic and investment cooperation.

The prime minister welcomed the Saudi Deputy Interior Minister to Pakistan and wished him a successful visit.

He also conveyed his greetings and best wishes to The Custodian of Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

Discussing the situation in Gaza and the broader Middle East, the prime minister recalled the recent Arab-Islamic Summit held in Riyadh, and appreciated the leadership of Saudi Arabia for holding the event and also the stance of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over the issue of Palestine.

Prime Minister Shehbaz applauded the leadership role of Saudi Arabia and the efforts of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in unifying the Ummah to collectively seek an end to violence in Gaza due to Israel’s genocidal actions.

Emphasizing the significance of bilateral cooperation in defence and security sectors, he said that the visit of the Saudi deputy interior minister and his delegation would help bring both sides closer in terms of cooperation in the said sensitive areas.

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Rare snowfall: Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf region witnessed snowfall for the first time

Rare snowfall: Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf region witnessed snowfall for the first time

Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf region witnessed snowfall for the first time in recorded history. The snowfall has captivated locals and the world. The event has sparked a global conversation about climate change’s impact on the region. In an extraordinary twist brought on by climate change, Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf region witnessed snowfall for the first time in … Read more

KSA investment in Pakistan to reach $2.8b as more MoU singed  

KSA

RIYADH: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced to add another $600 million to its recently announced $2.2 billion investment in Pakistan what the Saudi Investment Minister called “only the beginning of something very special.”

The announcement was made in a joint press stakeout by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Falih following their “very productive” meeting encompassing the bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors including trade, finance, agriculture, technology and skilled manpower.

At the invitation of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the prime minister is currently on a two-day official visit to Saudi Arabia where he addressed the 8th edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) on ‘Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow.’ held in Riyadh and joined the global leaders to discuss how investment could serve as a catalyst for a prosperous and sustainable future.

Accompanied by Advisor at the Royal Court Mohammad Maziad Al-Tuwaijri, Saudi Minister Al Falih told the media that during his recent visit to Pakistan, both sides had signed 27 MoUs for investment worth $2.2 in Pakistan.

He announced that following Prime Minister Sehbaz’s meeting with Crown Prince and their discussion, the number of MoUs has been increased from 27 to 34 to add $600 million in investment taking the investment volume to $2.8 billion.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said the meetings with the Crown Prince and Al Falih were reassuring and told the media that some of the projects agreed upon during the recent Saudi delegation’s visit were under implementation.

He said both sides would work on the timelines of the project and expressed the hope that under the leadership of Saudi crown prince, both sides would strengthen bilateral relations not only for the benefit of the people of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia but the entire Muslim Ummah.

Minister Al-Falih said that as a follow-up of their Pakistan visit, both sides had “extensive” working-level meeting to elevate the bilateral relations to yet higher horizons in the fields of economy, finance, trade and people-to-people contacts.

 

He said that some of the MoUs had resulted in exports from Pakistan in agriculture and other fields. He also expressed the Saudi government’s willingness to import Pakistan’s skilled workforce as he said the world was looking towards Saudi Arabia becoming a key driver in digital technology and artificial intelligence.

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PM to visit Saudi Arabia on Oct 29-30 ato attend FII moot

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to undertake an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to attend the 8th Edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) being held in Riyadh from October 29 to 30, 2024.

The prime minister will be accompanied by key cabinet ministers, according to a curtain raiser issued by the Foreign Office.

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) serves as an important platform for countries to showcase their economic strength, draw foreign investments, and engage in dialogue to shape a sustainable future.

This year’s FII is themed “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow” and will focus on global investments aimed at addressing major issues such as artificial intelligence, robotics, education, energy, space, finance, healthcare, and sustainability.

Prime Minister Shehbaz is expected to hold important bilateral talks with the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials.

The two sides will discuss economic and strategic partnership between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and explore bilateral cooperation in the economic, energy, and defence domains.

The prime minister is also expected to engage with participating leaders and entrepreneurs at the conference.

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Today’s Gold Rate in Saudi Arabia – October 16, 2024

Gold Rate in Pakistan Today – 30 May, 2025

Gold Prices in Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. 24-karat gold in Saudi Arabia: 3,718 Saudi Riyals per tola. In Pakistan, gold prices have risen to Rs277,200 per tola, an increase of Rs2,200. On October 16, 2024, the price of 24-karat gold in Saudi Arabia is reported at 3,718 Saudi Riyals (SAR) per tola, according to forex.pk. … Read more