Saudi Arabia’s life expectancy rises to nearly 80 years, up from 74 in 2016/Image: Getty Images Saudi Arabia’s life expectancy has increased significantly over the past decade, reaching 79.9 years by the end of 2025, up from 74 years in 2016, bringing the country close to its Vision 2030 target of 80 years.The update was…
Saudi Arabia mandates 100% Saudization of 69 additional jobs in private sector. Saudi Arabia has announced an expansion of its Saudization policy, bringing dozens of additional private sector roles under full localisation from April 5, 2026. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) announced that the updated decision will cover 69 more professions,…
As many expatriate families in the UAE grapple with reduced wages and unpaid leave following recent geopolitical tensions, one business owner has stepped in with a personal initiative aimed at offering immediate relief.Maria Paz Banaag-Marquez, 59, who runs a well-established pastry chain across the UAE, has announced the distribution of free grocery packets to support…
Saudi Arabia arrested 14,242 illegal residents in week-long crackdown, enforcing residency, labour and border laws/Image: Getty Images Saudi Arabia’s security forces have detained thousands of illegal residents in a nationwide crackdown, as authorities step up enforcement of residency, labour, and border regulations while warning of severe penalties for anyone offering assistance to violators. The Ministry…
Saudi Arabia has stepped onto the global space stage with a landmark mission that places it at the heart of NASA’s Artemis programme. The successful launch and early communication with its “Shams” satellite signals both scientific ambition and growing technological capability, with implications that extend far beyond orbit. A historic first in the Artemis programme…
Hajj 2026 preparations intensify with early visas, strict deadlines and Nusuk bookings as registrations cross 1.2 million globally / Image: file Saudi Arabia has accelerated preparations for Hajj 2026 (1447 AH), introducing earlier visa processing, stricter timelines and a fully digital system to manage millions of pilgrims.According to official timelines, Hajj is expected to take…
Visit restricted countries? Saudi warns of SR30,000 fine, 2-year ban / Image: file Saudi Arabia introduced new travel regulations for its citizens, imposing financial penalties and travel bans on those who visit restricted countries without official approval. The updated rules fall under the Kingdom’s Travel Documents Law, which was implemented through executive regulations approved by…
Abu Dhabi draw turns Indian expat millionaire with Dh20 million Big Ticket jackpot / Image: file An Indian expatriate based in Oman won the Dh20 million grand prize in the latest Big Ticket draw held in Abu Dhabi, marking one of the month’s biggest wins.Shanthanu Shettigar, a Karnataka native working in the retail sector in…
No church masses until further notice in Dubai amid security concerns during holy week / Image: file Dubai’s Catholic churches suspended all masses and parish activities effective Friday, April 3, 2026, following official safety directives issued amid heightened regional tensions. The decision, confirmed by multiple parishes, comes during Holy Week, the most significant period in…
MoHRE warned unlicensed domestic worker recruitment agencies face shutdowns, heavy fines and legal action/Representative Image A firm warning has been issued in the UAE over the illegal recruitment of domestic workers, with authorities making it clear that unlicensed activity will face immediate and serious consequences. The move is aimed at tightening oversight in the labour…