Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia Extends Alcohol Access to High-Earning Non-Muslim Residents as Part of Economic Transformation
Dec 09, 2025 10:27 am CST
Saudi Arabia has expanded alcohol purchase privileges to non-Muslim expatriates earning at least 50,000 riyals monthly, representing another step in the kingdom's gradual social liberalization aimed at attracting foreign talent and investment. This carefully managed modernization balances economic transformation goals with Saudi Arabia's position as Islam's birthplace and guardian of its holiest sites.
Saudi Arabia Quietly Eases Alcohol Access for Premium Visa Holders and Diplomats
Nov 25, 2025 02:06 am CST
Saudi Arabia has reportedly relaxed its strict alcohol restrictions, allowing premium visa holders and diplomats to purchase alcohol from the kingdom's only liquor store in Riyadh. This quiet policy shift represents another step in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ongoing modernization efforts, though the kingdom has made no official announcement about the change. Premium residency status, available for a one-time payment of 800,000 riyals ($213,000), now includes this previously restricted privilege.
Understanding Trump's F-35 Deal with Saudi Arabia: Process, Challenges, and Regional Implications
Nov 20, 2025 04:19 pm CST
President Trump has approved the sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia as part of a potential $142 billion military equipment package, but the actual delivery faces a complex approval process, congressional scrutiny, and regional security considerations including Israel's military advantage. Despite Trump's suggestion of a 24-hour approval timeline, the comprehensive foreign military sales procedure typically takes years to complete, involving multiple government entities and careful diplomatic balancing.
Saudi Arabia Lifts Travel Ban on US Citizen Detained Over Critical Social Media Posts
Nov 20, 2025 08:08 am CST
Saudi Arabia has lifted a travel ban on Saad Ibrahim Almadi, a US citizen who was previously imprisoned for critical tweets about the kingdom. Almadi, detained in 2021 for posts mentioning corruption and Jamal Khashoggi's murder, was initially sentenced to 16 years but released last year while remaining under travel restrictions. His freedom comes as President Trump welcomes Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the United States.
Trump's Defense Deal with Saudi Arabia: F-35 Jets Promised as Crown Prince Gets Warm Washington Welcome
Nov 19, 2025 03:14 pm CST
President Trump welcomed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman with elaborate ceremonies in Washington, offering a defense agreement including F-35 fighter jets and dismissing allegations about the Khashoggi murder. In exchange, Saudi Arabia pledged potential investments of $1 trillion in the U.S. and military purchases worth $142 billion, though experts question the lopsided nature of these arrangements and the timeline for implementation of key agreements.
Trump Welcomes Saudi Crown Prince: Major Defense Deals and $1 Trillion Investment Commitment Announced
Nov 19, 2025 11:54 am CST
President Trump hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman at the White House, announcing significant defense agreements including F-35 fighter jet sales and a $1 trillion Saudi investment commitment to the US. The warm meeting, featuring military honors and attended by tech executives, addressed regional security concerns and Saudi Arabia's potential inclusion in the Abraham Accords, while sidestepping human rights questions about the 2018 Khashoggi killing.
Saudi Crown Prince Defends Kingdom Over 9/11 Attacks During Controversial US Visit
Nov 19, 2025 11:47 am CST
During his White House visit, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman claimed Osama bin Laden strategically used Saudi nationals in the 9/11 attacks to damage US-Saudi relations. While facing pressure over both 9/11 and the Khashoggi murder, the Crown Prince emphasized Saudi Arabia's preventative measures against terrorism and the importance of maintaining strong bilateral ties with the United States.
Madina Bus Tragedy: Indian High-Level Delegation Led by Andhra Governor to Coordinate Relief Efforts in Saudi Arabia
Nov 19, 2025 06:45 am CST
Following the tragic bus accident near Madina that claimed 45 Indian pilgrims' lives, a high-level delegation led by Andhra Pradesh Governor S Abdul Nazeer will visit Saudi Arabia to coordinate relief efforts with local authorities. The Ministry of External Affairs is facilitating identification of remains and supporting families of the deceased after the devastating collision between a pilgrim bus and an oil tanker.
Trump Threatens to Revoke ABC News License Following Questions About Epstein and Saudi Business Dealings
Nov 19, 2025 05:25 am CST
During a high-profile White House meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Donald Trump threatened ABC News' broadcasting license after reporter Mary Bruce asked questions about the Trump Organization's Middle East business dealings and Jeffrey Epstein connections. Trump vehemently denied any association with Epstein, calling the scandal a "hoax" and labeled ABC as "fake news," urging the US broadcast regulator to take action against the network.
Trump Approves F-35 Fighter Jet Sale to Saudi Arabia Despite Technical and Diplomatic Challenges
Nov 18, 2025 02:33 pm CST
President Trump has announced plans to sell advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia ahead of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's White House visit. The deal faces significant hurdles including Israel's regional military edge concerns, Pentagon worries about China accessing the technology, and a complex approval process that could take years. The proposed sale mirrors a similar agreement with the UAE that remains unfulfilled after five years.