US approves nearly $2 billion in weapons sales to Saudi Arabia
- 16-Jul-2026
WASHINGTON: The US State Department said Wednesday it has approved the sale of an estimated $1.96 billion in weapons to bolster Saudi Arabia’s air defenses, as the war ramps up in the Middle East. “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of […]
Saudi Arabia warns of SR50,000 fine, jail for overstaying entry visas
- 14-Jul-2026
RIYADH: The Interior Ministry of Saudi Arabia has warned that expatriates who fail to leave the Kingdom after their entry visas expire will face penalties of up to SR50,000, imprisonment for up to six months and deportation. The ministry urged the public to report violations of residency, labor and border security regulations by calling 911 […]
Saudi Arabia launches new visa requirement: Who is eligible, how much it costs?
- 12-Jul-2026
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Tourism has recently started its initial phase of the widely-anticipated Package Visa as part of their broader efforts to promote tourism under Vision 2030. The innovative digital travel solution, aimed at streamlining travel procedures, permits international tourists to book their tickets, accommodations, essential health insurance, and e-tourist visa at the […]
Saudi Arabia approves unified national visa platform
- 08-Jul-2026
JEDDAH: The Saudi Arabia Cabinet approved the establishment of a unified national visa platform at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, making it the Kingdom’s official national platform for visa services. The Cabinet also approved agreements between Saudi Arabia and the governments of Hungary, Kazakhstan and Poland on mutual exemption from visa requirements for holders of […]
Saudi Arabia introduces new regulations for business operations
- 07-Jul-2026
Saudi Arabia has approved a new regulatory framework governing businesses that wish to operate around the clock, introducing a licensing system that allows eligible commercial establishments to remain open 24 hours a day upon payment of an annual permit fee. Issued by the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing following a Cabinet decision, the regulations establish […]
Saudi Arabia unveils Package Visa pilot
- 07-Jul-2026
Saudi Arabia has introduced a new Package Visa pilot programme, allowing eligible international visitors to obtain a tourist visa as part of a complete travel package. The initiative is being rolled out through approved travel and tourism service providers in selected pilot markets, making the travel process more convenient for visitors. The programme has been […]
Saudi Arabia exempts select businesses from 24-hour operating fee
- 05-Jul-2026
RIYADH: The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing of Saudi Arabia has exempted several business activities from paying the fee required to obtain a 24-hour operating permit. The exemptions include fuel stations — specifically fuel dispensing services — and service centers located outside urban areas, as well as hotels, hotel apartments, resorts and similar accommodation facilities. […]
Saudi Arabia unveils rules for foreign property ownership
- 04-Jul-2026
Saudi Arabia has introduced a new regulatory framework governing property ownership by non-Saudis, requiring foreign individuals, companies, and non-profit entities, while creating a unified digital platform for all ownership transactions. The executive regulations for the Foreign Ownership of Real Estate Law establish standardized procedures for all property transactions involving foreign owners, while introducing fines of […]
Saudi Arabia extends tax fine waiver program
- 30-Jun-2026
The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) Saudi Arabia has confirmed that the Ministry of Finance has approved a six-month extension of the tax fine waiver initiative. The renewed program will take effect on July 1, 2026, and remain valid until December 31, 2026. The move is to provide eligible taxpayers with additional time to […]
Saudi Crackdown: 15-year Jail, SR1M fine for violator aides
- 29-Jun-2026
The Saudi Ministry of Interior on Sunday reiterated stringent penalties against any persons found assisting residency, labour or border security violators. Penalties include up to 15 years in prison and fines up to SR1,000,000. Prison and financial fines are not the only punishments The Ministry confirmed anyone involved in illegal entry, transportation, providing accommodation or […]