Saudi Arabia's ambitions of turning its capital Riyadh into a global aviation hub got a significant push with a multi-billion dollar deal between Riyadh Air and US firm Boeing which included 39 confirmed 787-9 Dreamliners and options for further 33 additional airplanes.&nbsp;

The new world-class airline Riyadh Air was launched by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia, earlier this week.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-raise-retirement-age-to-tackle-ageing-population-571960">China to raise retirement age to tackle ageing population</a>

The agreement will be part of fifth largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history, as per a press release by the American multinational corporation.&nbsp;This fleet deal will generate support in US in the form of 100,000 direct and indirect jobs. Additionally, it will also benefit over 300 suppliers from across 38 states, including 145 US small businesses.&nbsp;

As per the press release by Boeing, Riyadh Air is expected to add USD 20 billion to non-oil GDP growth and create over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

It is a good news for Saudi Arabia, which is seeking ways to move away from its heavy reliance on oil and trying to diversify its economy. The deal, which also underlines the importance of Riyadh Air’s environmental goals, will support Saudi Arabia's goal of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 100 million visits by 2030.&nbsp;

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Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who is the PIF Governor and Riyadh Air Chairman welcomed the fleet order and called it a "momentous day."&nbsp;He said, "The agreement highlights our determination to significantly extend Saudi Arabia’s connectivity with the world."&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"We look forward to fostering strong strategic relationships within the wider aviation ecosystem as we continue to shape the new airline to become one of the leading carriers around the world," he added.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesias-new-capital-at-the-cost-of-environment-571886">Indonesia's new capital at the cost of environment?</a>

Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas said that the first deliveries of the widebody aircraft are scheduled for early 2025.&nbsp;“The new airline reflects the ambitious vision of Saudi Arabia to be at the core of shaping the future of global air travel and be a true disrupter in terms of guest experience," Douglas said adding, "Riyadh Air’s commitment to its guests will see the integration of digital innovation and authentic Saudi hospitality to deliver a seamless travel experience." 
&nbsp;

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Saudi Arabia's ambitions of turning its capital Riyadh into a global aviation hub got a significant push with a multi-billion dollar deal between Riyadh Air and US firm Boeing which included 39 confirmed 787-9 Dreamliners and options for further 33 additional airplanes.

Saudi Arabia's ambitions of turning its capital Riyadh into a global aviation hub got a significant push with a multi-billion dollar deal between Riyadh Air and US firm Boeing which included 39 confirmed 787-9 Dreamliners and options for further 33 additional airplanes. The new world-class airline Riyadh Air was launched by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia, earlier this week. Also Read | China to raise retirement age to tackle ageing population The agreement will be part of fifth largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history, as per a press release by the American multinational corporation. This fleet deal will generate support in US in the form of 100,000 direct and indirect jobs. Additionally, it will also benefit over 300 suppliers from across 38 states, including 145 US small businesses. As per the press release by Boeing, Riyadh Air is expected to add USD 20 billion to non-oil GDP growth and create over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs in Saudi Arabia. It is a good news for Saudi Arabia, which is seeking ways to move away from its heavy reliance on oil and trying to diversify its economy. The deal, which also underlines the importance of Riyadh Air’s environmental goals, will support Saudi Arabia's goal of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 100 million visits by 2030. Also Read | India reports third death from H3N2 in Indian state of Gujarat Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who is the PIF Governor and Riyadh Air Chairman welcomed the fleet order and called it a "momentous day." He said, "The agreement highlights our determination to significantly extend Saudi Arabia’s connectivity with the world." "We look forward to fostering strong strategic relationships within the wider aviation ecosystem as we continue to shape the new airline to become one of the leading carriers around the world," he added. Watch | Indonesia's new capital at the cost of environment? Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas said that the first deliveries of the widebody aircraft are scheduled for early 2025. “The new airline reflects the ambitious vision of Saudi Arabia to be at the core of shaping the future of global air travel and be a true disrupter in terms of guest experience," Douglas said adding, "Riyadh Air’s commitment to its guests will see the integration of digital innovation and authentic Saudi hospitality to deliver a seamless travel experience." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Riyadh Air to get 72 Boeing Dreamliner airplanes in multi-billion dollar deal

A new national airline will be launched in Saudi Arabia&nbsp;as part of a strategy to develop Riyadh into a worldwide aviation hub that can compete with regional aviation giants such as Dubai and Doha, as reported by AFP.

By 2030, Riyadh Air "aims to launch&nbsp;flights to more than 100 destinations around&nbsp;the world," according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the country's official news agency.

SPA announced the appointment of Tony Douglas, a former CEO of Etihad Airlines, located in Abu Dhabi, to run the airline.

As part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's comprehensive "Vision 2030" reform agenda, the Saudi government is pursuing lofty aviation targets, including more than doubling annual traffic to 330 million passengers by the end of the decade. Up to five million tonnes of freight each year are also among its goals.

The new airline is the latest in "a huge package of projects" that will "consolidate our country's position as an international hub for aviation and a global logistics centre", Saudi transport minister Saleh Al-Jasser said on Twitter.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Neighbours react to Iran-Saudi reconciliation; new deal to end violence in Yemen

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Officials unveiled plans for a new airport in the Saudi capital of Riyadh in November 2022. The airport will be 57 square kilometres (22 square miles) in size and have enough for 120 million passengers by 2030 and 185 million passengers by 2050.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-oil-giant-aramco-reports-record-profit-of-1611-billion-in-2022-571141">Saudi oil giant Aramco's annual profit soars to record high in 2022</a>

The Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund that will run the airline, was "close to a deal" with Boeing for an aircraft purchase "valued at $35 billion," according to the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

Sunday's announcement said Riyadh Air would operate a "fleet of advanced aircraft", but did not specify how big the fleet would be or from where it would be sourced.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new national airline will be launched in Saudi Arabia as part of a strategy to develop Riyadh into a worldwide aviation hub that can compete with regional aviation giants such as Dubai and Doha, as reported by AFP.

A new national airline will be launched in Saudi Arabia as part of a strategy to develop Riyadh into a worldwide aviation hub that can compete with regional aviation giants such as Dubai and Doha, as reported by AFP. By 2030, Riyadh Air "aims to launch flights to more than 100 destinations around the world," according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the country's official news agency. SPA announced the appointment of Tony Douglas, a former CEO of Etihad Airlines, located in Abu Dhabi, to run the airline. As part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's comprehensive "Vision 2030" reform agenda, the Saudi government is pursuing lofty aviation targets, including more than doubling annual traffic to 330 million passengers by the end of the decade. Up to five million tonnes of freight each year are also among its goals. The new airline is the latest in "a huge package of projects" that will "consolidate our country's position as an international hub for aviation and a global logistics centre", Saudi transport minister Saleh Al-Jasser said on Twitter. ALSO WATCH | Neighbours react to Iran-Saudi reconciliation; new deal to end violence in Yemen Officials unveiled plans for a new airport in the Saudi capital of Riyadh in November 2022. The airport will be 57 square kilometres (22 square miles) in size and have enough for 120 million passengers by 2030 and 185 million passengers by 2050. ALSO READ | Saudi oil giant Aramco's annual profit soars to record high in 2022 The Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund that will run the airline, was "close to a deal" with Boeing for an aircraft purchase "valued at $35 billion," according to the Wall Street Journal. Sunday's announcement said Riyadh Air would operate a "fleet of advanced aircraft", but did not specify how big the fleet would be or from where it would be sourced. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Saudi Arabia launches new airline, plans to turn Riyadh into aviation hub

Portugal Captain Cristiano Ronaldo visits Riyadh to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr. @ghadifrancis brings you all the details on this week's #TheWestAsiaPost

The West Asia Post: Al-Nassr's new hero Ronaldo in Riyadh

Portuguese superstar Cristiano&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;faces a wait to make his Al Nassr debut because the Saudi club have exceeded their quota for foreign players, club sources told AFP on Thursday. When he was unveiled with great fanfare on Tuesday, the 37-year-old said he was keen to play as soon as possible, starting with Thursday's home game against Al Ta'ee.&nbsp;But&nbsp;Ronaldo, whose deal is worth an estimated 200 million euros to June 2025, is Al Nassr's ninth foreign player -- one more than the eight allowed by Saudi football authorities.

"Al Nassr has not registered him yet because there is no vacancy for a foreign player," one club official, who did not want to be named because he was not authorised to speak to media, told AFP. "A foreign player must leave to register&nbsp;Ronaldo, either by selling or by terminating the contract by mutual consent." Al Nassr's foreign contingent includes Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina, Brazilian midfielder Luiz Gustavo and forwards Anderson Talisca of Brazil and Vincent Aboubakar of Cameroon. Saudi reports said Uzbek midfielder Jaloliddin Masharipov was most likely to make way for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner and Champions League record scorer.

A second club source confirmed that&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;was not registered as of Thursday afternoon local time. "There are ongoing negotiations to sell one of the players, but they have not reached their final stages yet," he said.&nbsp; Both officials refused to confirm whether&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;still needed to serve a two-match English Football Association ban from November for hitting a mobile phone out of a teenage fan's hand after Manchester United, his club at the time, lost to Everton.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-defender-samuel-umtiti-walks-away-in-tears-following-racist-remarks-from-lazio-fans-fifa-takes-stand-549645">Serie A: Defender Samuel Umtiti walks away in tears following racist remarks from Lazio fans, FIFA takes stand</a>

The Saudi Football Association referred questions about the match ban to Al Nassr. Al Nassr's 25,000-capacity stadium, Mrsool Park, is sold out for Thursday's game, as it was on Tuesday when&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;was welcomed with fireworks and deafening cheers. The Portuguese forward said then that he was looking for a new challenge by coming to Saudi Arabia, adding that he had received offers from around the world.

"I'm a unique player. It's good to come here, I broke all the records there (in Europe) and I want to break a few records here,"&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;said. Amnesty International urged him to speak out about human rights issues in the deeply conservative monarchy, calling his move part of a "wider pattern of sportswashing", or using sport to deflect criticism.

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo faces a wait to make his Al Nassr debut because the Saudi club have exceeded their quota for foreign players, club sources told AFP on Thursday.

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo faces a wait to make his Al Nassr debut because the Saudi club have exceeded their quota for foreign players, club sources told AFP on Thursday. When he was unveiled with great fanfare on Tuesday, the 37-year-old said he was keen to play as soon as possible, starting with Thursday's home game against Al Ta'ee. But Ronaldo, whose deal is worth an estimated 200 million euros to June 2025, is Al Nassr's ninth foreign player -- one more than the eight allowed by Saudi football authorities. "Al Nassr has not registered him yet because there is no vacancy for a foreign player," one club official, who did not want to be named because he was not authorised to speak to media, told AFP. "A foreign player must leave to register Ronaldo, either by selling or by terminating the contract by mutual consent." Al Nassr's foreign contingent includes Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina, Brazilian midfielder Luiz Gustavo and forwards Anderson Talisca of Brazil and Vincent Aboubakar of Cameroon. Saudi reports said Uzbek midfielder Jaloliddin Masharipov was most likely to make way for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner and Champions League record scorer. A second club source confirmed that Ronaldo was not registered as of Thursday afternoon local time. "There are ongoing negotiations to sell one of the players, but they have not reached their final stages yet," he said. Both officials refused to confirm whether Ronaldo still needed to serve a two-match English Football Association ban from November for hitting a mobile phone out of a teenage fan's hand after Manchester United, his club at the time, lost to Everton. Also read: Serie A: Defender Samuel Umtiti walks away in tears following racist remarks from Lazio fans, FIFA takes stand The Saudi Football Association referred questions about the match ban to Al Nassr. Al Nassr's 25,000-capacity stadium, Mrsool Park, is sold out for Thursday's game, as it was on Tuesday when Ronaldo was welcomed with fireworks and deafening cheers. The Portuguese forward said then that he was looking for a new challenge by coming to Saudi Arabia, adding that he had received offers from around the world. "I'm a unique player. It's good to come here, I broke all the records there (in Europe) and I want to break a few records here," Ronaldo said. Amnesty International urged him to speak out about human rights issues in the deeply conservative monarchy, calling his move part of a "wider pattern of sportswashing", or using sport to deflect criticism.

Cristiano Ronaldo's much-awaited Al Nassr debut on hold over player quota: Sources

Cristiano Ronaldo has been officially unveiled as an Al Nassr player. The five-time world player of the year claims that his work in Europe is done and insisted that this is not the end of his career as a top-level footballer. He joined the club on a two and a half year deal.

Cristiano Ronaldo unveiled as Al Nassr player in Saudi Arabia's Riyadh

Video footage released by Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr showed Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo arriving in Riyadh and greeting fans late Monday (January 2) after joining the club on a two-and-a-half-year contract. The 37-year-old Ronaldo is expected to be formally introduced by his new club at a news conference scheduled for Tuesday (January 3) after a medical exam. Ronaldo departed Old Trafford last month following an explosive television interview in which the forward said he felt betrayed by the club and did not respect their Dutch manager Erik ten Hag.

Al Nassr issued a statement saying the five-time Ballon D’or winner will join on a deal until 2025 but did not disclose any financial details. Ronaldo's contract has been estimated by media to be worth more than 200 million euros ($214.04 million). Ronaldo said Qatar would probably be his last World Cup as he plans to retire at 40, with a move to Saudi Arabia likely to mark the swansong in the career of one of the game's greatest current players alongside Lionel Messi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-cristiano-ronaldo-joined-the-riyadh-based-club-al-nassr-everything-you-need-to-know-549104">Explained: Why Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Riyadh-based club Al Nassr? Everything you need to know</a>

The Saudi Arabian club, who have won nine Saudi Pro Premier League titles, are hoping Ronaldo can help them win another domestic league title and their first AFC Asian Champions League. However, the Portuguese forward will miss his first two domestic games after being banned for knocking a phone out of a fan's hand after United's defeat at Everton in April.

Video footage released by Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr showed Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo arriving in Riyadh and greeting fans late Monday (January 2) after joining the club on a two-and-a-half-year contract.

Video footage released by Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr showed Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo arriving in Riyadh and greeting fans late Monday (January 2) after joining the club on a two-and-a-half-year contract. The 37-year-old Ronaldo is expected to be formally introduced by his new club at a news conference scheduled for Tuesday (January 3) after a medical exam. Ronaldo departed Old Trafford last month following an explosive television interview in which the forward said he felt betrayed by the club and did not respect their Dutch manager Erik ten Hag. Al Nassr issued a statement saying the five-time Ballon D’or winner will join on a deal until 2025 but did not disclose any financial details. Ronaldo's contract has been estimated by media to be worth more than 200 million euros ($214.04 million). Ronaldo said Qatar would probably be his last World Cup as he plans to retire at 40, with a move to Saudi Arabia likely to mark the swansong in the career of one of the game's greatest current players alongside Lionel Messi. Also read: Explained: Why Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Riyadh-based club Al Nassr? Everything you need to know The Saudi Arabian club, who have won nine Saudi Pro Premier League titles, are hoping Ronaldo can help them win another domestic league title and their first AFC Asian Champions League. However, the Portuguese forward will miss his first two domestic games after being banned for knocking a phone out of a fan's hand after United's defeat at Everton in April.

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo arrives in Riyadh after joining Al Nassr

Ties between China and West Asian nations continue to grow stronger as Arab leaders express their support for China and call for greater cooperation with the world's second largest economy. During the Arab-China summit in Riyadh, from oil market to climate change, China and the Arab nations signed several memorandums.

China-Arab ties hit new milestone; Saudi hosts China-Arab leaders' meet

The Chinese President Xi Jinping is in Saudi Arabia where the Chinese Premier met with the Gulf leaders in Riyadh. In the first of the two milestone Arab summits that are showcasing Saudi Arabia's crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as a sparring leader in the Middle East and also a key partner for the global powers.

Saudi Arabia leans closer to China; China-GCC summit kicks off in Riyadh

A new axis is in the making between China, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Riyadh, Beijing have signed 34 agreements. Has India become collateral damage? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: A new axis between China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan

When Saudi scaled down oil production recently in the OPEC+, U.S. went all guns-blazing in its response saying there will be ‘consequences’ which basically hinted at halting security assistance for the kingdom. But few days later, the Saudi kingdom reached out to the U.S. claiming Iran might attack the Arab Kingdom, and U.S vowed to respond for Saudi Arabia, the same country that it threatened for cutting down oil production. What is going on between U.S. and Saudi Arabia? Are they friends or foes? Does U.S. have the fortitude to halt arms sales to Saudi Arabia, the biggest importer of U.S. arms? Here’s a report by Shivan Chanana

US - Saudi Ties: Can't live with, Can't live without

Riyadh recently hosted an international fashion show. It featured bold and modern cuts from local designers. Outfits that were once considered forbidden in the kingdom were on display. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Fashion show in Riyadh features bold and modern cuts

In West Asia, new alliances are being built. Saudi Arabia and Israel are taking steps towards normalization that would have been unimaginable a few years ago. The first steps were seen during Biden's west Asia trip when Riyadh opened its airspace to all Israeli carriers.

Riyadh opens up airspace to all airlines: Saudi-Israel normalisation on cards?

US President Joe Biden is expected to meet Saudi Arabia's Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. Will there be a thaw in US-Saudi relations?

Thaw in US-Saudi relations: Biden, MBS to meet for the first time

US has praised the role played by Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in extending a ceasefire in Yemen ahead of an expected trip to Riyadh by President Joe Biden.

US-Saudi Arabia looks to rebuild ties: Reports say US President Biden expected to visit Riyadh

Riyadh has been hit by a second sandstorm in less than a week. In neighboring Iraq people are still reporting respiratory issues

Riyadh hit by second sandstorm in a week

Joe Biden is reportedly planning a Saudi Arabia trip to push Riyadh into producing more oil. He also dispatched officials to repair America's frayed ties with Venezuela. Will Biden's mission to tame oil prices succeed? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Joe Biden's mission to tame oil prices

Saudi Arabia is doing the unthinkable. After hosting a film festival, Riyadh threw a 'rave party' where men and women danced together. Is the kingdom truly transforming or is this all a facade? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia does the unthinkable, throws a 'rave party' in Riyadh

Are Saudi Arabia & Israel going to formalise ties? On Monday, a flight from Riyadh landed in Tel Aviv. On Tuesday, an Israeli jet landed in Riyadh. What are the two countries up to? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: First Israeli flight lands in Riyadh

Iraq and Saudi Arabia signed five agreements during a visit by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi to Riyadh and discovered the financial, commercial, economic culture and media fields.

Saudi Arabia and Iraq sign  agreements during Kadhimi's visit to Riyadh

An air attack on an oil refinery in the Saudi capital Riyadh on Friday caused a fire that was brought under control, the energy ministry said, after Yemen's Houthi group said it targeted the site with six drones.

Drone strike on Riyadh oil refinery claimed by Houthis causes fire

The Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for the missile attack which Saudi Arabia led military collision has claimed it had thwarted on Saturday and threatened more attacks.

Houthi rebels claim Saudi Arabia missile attack, warn of more

Saudi Arabia-led military coalition said that it thwarted a missile attack launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Loud explosions shook Riyadh on Saturday. Houthi rebels have intensified their efforts top capture Marib. The last stronghold held by the Saudi-backed Yemeni government. Houthi rebels have Iran's backing. Yemen's some of the most richest oil fields are located in Marib.

Saudi-led coalition says it thwarted Houthi missile attack on Riyadh

Saudi Arabia intercepted a "hostile target" over Riyadh on Saturday, said state media in the kingdom which has come under repeated attack from Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels since 2015.

An explosion was heard in the Saudi capital at around 11:00 am (0800 GMT), AFP correspondents reported.

"I heard a loud sound and thought that something had fallen from the sky," said one resident, who lives in the Al-Sulaimaniyah district of Riyadh. "The whole house was shaking."

The Saudi-led coalition, which backs Yemen's internationally recognised government against the Huthis, said it had "intercepted and destroyed a hostile air target going towards Riyadh", without elaborating, according to&nbsp;state-run Al Ekhbariya television station.

Riyadh's King Khaled International Airport said there were a number of flight delays, but it was not immediately clear if they were linked to Saturday's incident.

Saudi Arabia has been repeatedly targeted by the Huthis since its intervention in the Yemen war in 2015.

It is rare, however, for drones and missiles launched by the Huthis to reach the kingdom's capital -- about 700 kilometres (435 miles) from the Yemeni border.

The Shiite rebels have&nbsp;yet to comment on the incident, which comes only days after Joe Biden was sworn-in as US president, replacing Donald Trump.

According to the new US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, the Biden administration will quickly revisit the designation of Yemen's Huthi rebels as terrorists.

At his confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Blinken said he would "immediately" review the Trump administration's labelling of the insurgents, fearing the move was worsening a humanitarian crisis.

Saudi Arabia intercepted a "hostile target" over Riyadh on Saturday, said state media in the kingdom which has come under repeated attack from Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels since 2015.

Saudi Arabia intercepted a "hostile target" over Riyadh on Saturday, said state media in the kingdom which has come under repeated attack from Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels since 2015. An explosion was heard in the Saudi capital at around 11:00 am (0800 GMT), AFP correspondents reported. "I heard a loud sound and thought that something had fallen from the sky," said one resident, who lives in the Al-Sulaimaniyah district of Riyadh. "The whole house was shaking." The Saudi-led coalition, which backs Yemen's internationally recognised government against the Huthis, said it had "intercepted and destroyed a hostile air target going towards Riyadh", without elaborating, according to state-run Al Ekhbariya television station. Riyadh's King Khaled International Airport said there were a number of flight delays, but it was not immediately clear if they were linked to Saturday's incident. Saudi Arabia has been repeatedly targeted by the Huthis since its intervention in the Yemen war in 2015. It is rare, however, for drones and missiles launched by the Huthis to reach the kingdom's capital -- about 700 kilometres (435 miles) from the Yemeni border. The Shiite rebels have yet to comment on the incident, which comes only days after Joe Biden was sworn-in as US president, replacing Donald Trump. According to the new US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, the Biden administration will quickly revisit the designation of Yemen's Huthi rebels as terrorists. At his confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Blinken said he would "immediately" review the Trump administration's labelling of the insurgents, fearing the move was worsening a humanitarian crisis.

Saudi intercepts 'hostile target' over capital

US weapons manufacturer Raytheon Technologies Corp will be able to sell the weapons directly to the Saudis when it receives the licence

Trump administration pushing $498m arms sale to Saudi Arabia: Reports

Bangladesh is under renewed pressure from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to issue Bangladeshi passports to 54,000 Rohingyas living in that country for decades.

Rohingya in Saudi fear deportation: Dhaka and Riyadh in dispute over Rohingya

Thousands of Bangladeshi migrant workers are protesting in country's capital because they want to return to Saudi Arabia. However, visas and work permits of many workers have expired and there are no flights or flight tickets available.

Bangladeshi migrant workers want to return to Riyadh

A donation of $100 million does not&nbsp;sounds&nbsp;like a big amount for Saudi Arabia. Afterall, the kingdom has been linked to the 9/11 attacks and members of the royal family were being blamed.

So 100 million dollars is Saudi Arabia's PR and marketing budget, or as we can say, a small price to fix its image.

This is just one instance. The Saudis have mastered chequebook diplomacy into a fine art by buying heft with petrodollars.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-mohammad-bin-salmans-favourite-weapon-corruption-charges-324573">Also read:&nbsp;Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman's favourite weapon - corruption charges!</a>

In march last year, Saudi Arabia gave $334 million in assistance to Jordan after giving more than three billion dollars in 2018.&nbsp;In Egypt, Saudi Arabia agreed to provide a financial aid package worth $22 billion dollars in 2016.&nbsp;From the year 2000 to 2018,&nbsp;Ssaudi arabia gave Palestine six billion dollars in financial support.

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There are more of such examples.

Saudi Arabia has used money to whitewash its crimes and exert influence the world over. Riyadh spends extensively on lobbying efforts in the United States.

In 2018, Saudi Arabia allegedly paid a little more than $18 million to an American lobbying firm. This was after the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. As a result, despite all the outrage and a clear link to the royal palace in Riyadh, the death of Khashoggi did not hurt the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-king-sacks-two-royals-under-defence-corruption-probe-324420">Also read:&nbsp;Saudi king sacks two royals under defence corruption probe</a>

The US President Donald Trump defied the US congress by swiping&nbsp;aside objections from lawmaker and allowing&nbsp;a sale of weapons worth eight billion dollars to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia also won a seat at the United Nations Human Rights Council in 2019, despite its pathetic human rights record.

Oil trump human rights

However, now the oil revenue is drying up and the influence may soon begin to wane.

In July,&nbsp;Saudi Arabia posted a budget deficit of close to $30 billion. Now, oil revenues have dropped by 45 per cent and the&nbsp;kingdom has a deficit of nine billion dollars.

As a result, Riyadh has imposed unprecedented austerity measures. The value added tax in Saudi Arabia had to be tripled from 5 per cent to 15 per cent. This is reflecting in Saudi Arabia's dealings with the world.

Paksitan is the first to feel the heat, though the reasons for hauling Pakistan over the coals are not just economic. Saudi Arabia is asking Pakistan to repay billion-dollar loans, and turning off the oil tap — an oil credit facility that has not been renewed.

A donation of $100 million does not sounds like a big amount for Saudi Arabia. Afterall, the kingdom has been linked to the 9/11 attacks and members of the royal family were being blamed.

A donation of $100 million does not sounds like a big amount for Saudi Arabia. Afterall, the kingdom has been linked to the 9/11 attacks and members of the royal family were being blamed. So 100 million dollars is Saudi Arabia's PR and marketing budget, or as we can say, a small price to fix its image. This is just one instance. The Saudis have mastered chequebook diplomacy into a fine art by buying heft with petrodollars. Also read: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman's favourite weapon - corruption charges! In march last year, Saudi Arabia gave $334 million in assistance to Jordan after giving more than three billion dollars in 2018. In Egypt, Saudi Arabia agreed to provide a financial aid package worth $22 billion dollars in 2016. From the year 2000 to 2018, Ssaudi arabia gave Palestine six billion dollars in financial support. There are more of such examples. Saudi Arabia has used money to whitewash its crimes and exert influence the world over. Riyadh spends extensively on lobbying efforts in the United States. In 2018, Saudi Arabia allegedly paid a little more than $18 million to an American lobbying firm. This was after the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. As a result, despite all the outrage and a clear link to the royal palace in Riyadh, the death of Khashoggi did not hurt the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States. Also read: Saudi king sacks two royals under defence corruption probe The US President Donald Trump defied the US congress by swiping aside objections from lawmaker and allowing a sale of weapons worth eight billion dollars to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia also won a seat at the United Nations Human Rights Council in 2019, despite its pathetic human rights record. Oil trump human rights However, now the oil revenue is drying up and the influence may soon begin to wane. In July, Saudi Arabia posted a budget deficit of close to $30 billion. Now, oil revenues have dropped by 45 per cent and the kingdom has a deficit of nine billion dollars. As a result, Riyadh has imposed unprecedented austerity measures. The value added tax in Saudi Arabia had to be tripled from 5 per cent to 15 per cent. This is reflecting in Saudi Arabia's dealings with the world. Paksitan is the first to feel the heat, though the reasons for hauling Pakistan over the coals are not just economic. Saudi Arabia is asking Pakistan to repay billion-dollar loans, and turning off the oil tap — an oil credit facility that has not been renewed.

Saudi Arabia's petrodollar diplomacy: Pakistan asked to return billion dollar loans

The Pakistani Army on Thursday rejected any rift with Saudi Arabia and said the upcoming visit of Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to the kingdom was pre-planned.

Army spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar addressed the media in Rawalpindi where he was asked about a media report that General Bajwa was going to Riyadh to fix some irritants in bilateral ties.

"The hearts of the Pakistani people beat with the Saudi people, so there is no need to raise questions on the relations," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-shah-mehmood-qureshi-postpones-press-briefing-after-remarks-on-saudi-arabia-319955">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi postpones press briefing after remarks on Saudi Arabia</a>

He said the upcoming visit of General Bajwa to Saudi Arabia was pre-planned and it was about military-to-military relations.

"There is no need to read too much into it. Everything is fine," he said.

Official sources said that Bajwa was expected to travel to the kingdom on Sunday.

Earlier, it was reported that historic ties between the two nations were under stress as Saudis were reluctant to call a meeting of the foreign ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss the Kashmir issue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-chief-general-qamar-javed-bajwa-to-visit-saudi-arabia-in-quest-to-smooth-ties-320171">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to visit Saudi Arabia in quest to smooth ties</a>

Last week, foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed his frustration in a TV interview when he warned that Pakistan would be forced to call a special meeting of the OIC.

The OIC is dominated by the Arab block led by Riyadh and due to increasing warmth in ties with India, Saudi and the UAE rulers are apparently not willing to oblige Pakistan.

In 2018, Saudi Arabia gave Pakistan a USD 3 billion loan and USD 3.2 billion oil credit facility to help its balance of payments crisis.

Pakistan has already paid back USD 1 billion two weeks ago to Saudi Arabia which has not so far obliged a request to extend the oil facility on deferred payments.

Reportedly, Riyadh was demanding payment of another USD 1 billion.

The Pakistani Army on Thursday rejected any rift with Saudi Arabia and said the upcoming visit of Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to the kingdom was pre-planned.

The Pakistani Army on Thursday rejected any rift with Saudi Arabia and said the upcoming visit of Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to the kingdom was pre-planned. Army spokesman Major General Babar Iftikhar addressed the media in Rawalpindi where he was asked about a media report that General Bajwa was going to Riyadh to fix some irritants in bilateral ties. "The hearts of the Pakistani people beat with the Saudi people, so there is no need to raise questions on the relations," he said. Also read: Pakistan's Shah Mehmood Qureshi postpones press briefing after remarks on Saudi Arabia He said the upcoming visit of General Bajwa to Saudi Arabia was pre-planned and it was about military-to-military relations. "There is no need to read too much into it. Everything is fine," he said. Official sources said that Bajwa was expected to travel to the kingdom on Sunday. Earlier, it was reported that historic ties between the two nations were under stress as Saudis were reluctant to call a meeting of the foreign ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss the Kashmir issue. Also read: Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to visit Saudi Arabia in quest to smooth ties Last week, foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed his frustration in a TV interview when he warned that Pakistan would be forced to call a special meeting of the OIC. The OIC is dominated by the Arab block led by Riyadh and due to increasing warmth in ties with India, Saudi and the UAE rulers are apparently not willing to oblige Pakistan. In 2018, Saudi Arabia gave Pakistan a USD 3 billion loan and USD 3.2 billion oil credit facility to help its balance of payments crisis. Pakistan has already paid back USD 1 billion two weeks ago to Saudi Arabia which has not so far obliged a request to extend the oil facility on deferred payments. Reportedly, Riyadh was demanding payment of another USD 1 billion.

Pakistan denies rift with Saudi Arabia

An investigator for the U.N. Human Rights Council urged member states on Thursday (July 9) to pressure Saudi Arabia to free women activists before a G20 nations summit which Riyadh will be hosting in November.

UN rights investigator calls on S. Arabia to free women activists

Last week, three senior Saudi royals were arrested amid rumours of an alleged coup plot in Riyadh. Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz, brother of King Salman, former Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, and his younger brother, Prince Nawaf bin Nayef were detained

Are Saudi Royals facing treason charges?

Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the world's richest horse race on Saturday (February 29) with a purse of $20 million. The event, which takes place at the King Abdulaziz Racetrack in Riyadh is expected to attract up to 10,000 spectators, with the main race run over 1,800m on a dirt track with a maximum field of 14. The winners prize will be $10 million.

Riyadh gears up for world's richest horse race

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