Saudi Arabia’s air defences intercepted and shot down two drones over the kingdom’s Eastern Region, authorities said. The drones were detected entering Saudi airspace before being successfully neutralised by defence systems. Officials are investigating the origin and purpose of the drones as regional tensions remain high amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.


Saudi Arabia Intercepts & Downs 2 Drones | Drones Shot Down in Eastern Region 

Shares of Saudi Aramco surged after global oil benchmark Brent Crude climbed above $90 per barrel, driven by rising geopolitical tensions and fears of supply disruptions. The rally in oil prices boosted energy stocks across global markets, with investors closely watching developments in the Middle East and their potential impact on crude supply and shipping routes.


Saudi Aramco Shares Jump After Brent's Surge Beyond $90/ Barrel

An Indian national was among two people killed after a military projectile struck a residential compound in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Kharj city on Sunday, according to Saudi authorities. The incident also left 12 people injured and caused material damage to the residential facility. In a statement shared on social media, the Saudi Civil Defence confirmed that emergency teams responded after the projectile fell on a residential location belonging to a maintenance and cleaning company in the Al-Kharj Governorate.&nbsp;“The official spokesperson for Civil Defense stated that Civil Defense responded to the fall of a military projectile on a residential location belonging to a maintenance and cleaning company in Al-Kharj Governorate,” the statement said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Important Advisory dated 08 March 2026 <a href="https://t.co/1GP9oUmJVY">pic.twitter.com/1GP9oUmJVY</a>&mdash; India in Saudi Arabia (@IndianEmbRiyadh) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbRiyadh/status/2030653399000125796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Authorities confirmed that two people - an Indian and a Bangladeshi national - were killed in the strike. Twelve others, all Bangladeshi residents of the compound, sustained injuries and were provided medical assistance. The projectile impact also caused damage to buildings and surrounding infrastructure in the area.&nbsp;Officials have not yet released the identities of the victims, and investigations into the incident are ongoing. Saudi authorities condemned the attack, stating that targeting civilian facilities constitutes a serious breach of international humanitarian law.&nbsp;“The spokesperson stressed that attempts to target civilian facilities constitute a blatant violation of international humanitarian law, adding that the approved procedures in such cases have been implemented,” the statement added. The incident comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia following recent joint US-Israel strikes on Iran and the broader escalation of military exchanges in the region.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, held a virtual interaction with representatives of the Indian community in the Kingdom to address safety concerns. During the meeting, the ambassador reassured Indian nationals that the embassy remains prepared to provide all necessary assistance if required. The Indian mission in Saudi Arabia also issued an advisory for its citizens to continue to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines and follow advisories issued by local authorities diligently.&nbsp;“In view of the prevailing situation in the region and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, all Indian Nationals currently in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are advised to continue to remain vigilant, strictly adhere to the safety guidelines prevalent in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and follow advisories issued by the local authorities and the Embassy,” the embassy said in a post on X.

A military projectile struck a residential compound in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, killing an Indian and a Bangladeshi national and injuring 12 others. Authorities condemned the attack and launched an investigation.

An Indian national was among two people killed after a military projectile struck a residential compound in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Kharj city on Sunday, according to Saudi authorities. The incident also left 12 people injured and caused material damage to the residential facility. In a statement shared on social media, the Saudi Civil Defence confirmed that emergency teams responded after the projectile fell on a residential location belonging to a maintenance and cleaning company in the Al-Kharj Governorate. “The official spokesperson for Civil Defense stated that Civil Defense responded to the fall of a military projectile on a residential location belonging to a maintenance and cleaning company in Al-Kharj Governorate,” the statement said.

A military projectile struck a residential compound in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, killing an Indian and a Bangladeshi national and injuring 12 others. Authorities condemned the attack and launched an investigation.

Indian among two killed after projectile hits residential area in Saudi Arabia

Iran’s strikes across the Gulf have brought renewed attention to the defence relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The long-standing security partnership between the two countries includes military cooperation, training and strategic coordination, which analysts say could become more relevant as regional tensions escalate.

The spotlight on the Saudi-Pakistan defence pact comes as Iran targets locations across the Gulf during the widening confrontation in the Middle East. The developments have raised questions about how regional alliances may respond if the conflict expands further.

Observers say the evolving situation could test existing defence partnerships across the Gulf and South Asia as countries monitor the impact of the escalating crisis.


US-Iran War: Saudi Defence Minister Meets Pak's Asim Munir as Iran Attacks Saudi

A ballistic missile has reportedly landed near a military air base in Saudi Arabia, falling in an uninhabited area and causing no casualties. Authorities say the missile impact occurred close to the base perimeter but did not damage key infrastructure.

The incident comes amid rising tensions across West Asia as the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States continues to escalate. Regional security analysts warn that stray or misdirected missiles could further widen the conflict and pull additional countries into the crisis.


Missile Lands Near Saudi Air Base: Ballistic Missile Fell In Uninhabited Area

Amid the intensifying US‑Israel war with Iran and a wave of regional retaliation, Saudi Arabia’s air defence forces have intercepted and destroyed multiple drones and aerial threats before they could reach Riyadh and surrounding regions.


US-Israel War with Iran | Saudi Arabia: Drones Downed Before Reaching Riyadh

Saudi Arabia says it intercepted three missiles that were launched toward one of its military air bases. Authorities said air defence systems successfully destroyed the incoming projectiles before they could reach the target.


US-Iran War: Saudi Arabia Says Missile Launches Towards its Air Base

#Gravitas According to a report by the Washington Post, US President Donald Trump ordered a strike on Iran, after weeks of sustained pressure from two powerful regional allies, Israel and Saudi Arabia. 


Israel-Iran War: Saudi Crown Prince ‘Secretly Lobbied Trump to Attack Iran’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to the King of Bahrain, Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed Bin Salman, and condemned the attacks on both countries during the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Prime Minister Modi also discussed with them the well-being of the Indian community living in both countries.


Israel-Iran Conflict: PM Modi Speaks To Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain King

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute to Saudi Arabia’s Founding Day by wearing a traditional bisht. The gesture was widely shared on social media, highlighting Ronaldo’s respect for Saudi culture and his engagement with local traditions during his time in the Saudi Pro League. Fans and media praised the moment as a unique blend of sports, culture, and diplomacy.


Cristiano Ronaldo Wears a Saudi Bisht in Founding Day Tribute

Saudi Arabia has reportedly drawn firm red lines over the United Arab Emirates’ actions in Yemen and Sudan, signalling growing strategic tensions between the regional allies. The development underscores shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East and Africa, as both nations recalibrate their military, diplomatic, and security priorities amid ongoing conflicts and regional power competition.

Yemen, Sudan Spark Rift Between UAE & Saudi: MBS Puts Abu Dabhi On Notice

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has sent a detailed letter accusing the United Arab Emirates of actions undermining Saudi Arabia’s security. The letter highlights rising tensions between the Gulf allies amid regional disputes, including concerns over military coordination, intelligence sharing, and geopolitical influence. Analysts say the move reflects deepening mistrust and could impact diplomatic and security cooperation in the Gulf.


MBS Sends Detailed Letter Accusing UAE of Undermining Saudi Security

Britain's Prince William criss-crossed the Saudi capital Riyadh on Tuesday, meeting footballers, playing video games and chatting with customers at a cafe, even as scandal over his disgraced uncle Andrew's links to Jeffrey Epstein made headlines back home.


Prince Williams on Three-Day Saudi Tour; Meets Footballers, Gamers

Saudi Arabia is a land of diversity - spanning from skyscrapers in Riyadh and Jeddah to ancient rocks and petroglyphs in Al Ula. Saudi Arabia takes you by surprise. There are multiple flights from Mumbai that can take you to Riyadh directly. I chose an Akasa Air flight, which flew me directly to Riyadh.<h2>What to see in Riyadh?</h2>Riyadh has a lot to see - the Kingdom Sky bridge at the 99th floor is a must-visit to see far spanning views across the city. Boulevard World is a great place to see in the evenings. It is designed with themed countries across the world and has rides, global cuisines and shopping options. Al Masmak Palace houses ancient culture and artefacts. Diriyah showcases how people lived around a century ago. In Riyadh, I also experienced a mystery room called The Box Experience, designed like a heist room in a museum. Though I wasn’t able to crack it entirely, it was a lot of fun and I highly recommend it.&nbsp;&nbsp;While in Riyadh, I stayed at Riyadh Al Anoud. Almost all leading hospitality chains are present in Saudi Arabia; however, during my stay in Riyadh, I chose the Novotel Riyadh Al Anoud.&nbsp;&nbsp;The hotel houses a restaurant, La Croisette and a Cafe Lounge located at the lobby which serves matcha and snacks. The hotel is located at a stone’s throw from Kingdom Towers. While in Riyadh, you can also explore Edge Of The World but it’s a day trip and requires a 4 X 4 vehicle. While in Riyadh, you can also explore the National Museum which houses interesting artefacts. For Riyadh, you can plan 2 full days.&nbsp;<h2>Places to explore in AlUla</h2>&nbsp;AlUla is around an 11-hour drive from Riyadh. However, it’s also well connected by plane from both Riyadh and Jeddah. We chose to self-drive so we could have a car with us and take stops on the way. We also wanted to enjoy the desert scenery. While in AlUla, we stayed at Shaden Resort which is located amidst ancient rock structures. As soon as we got close to AlUla, the ancient rock structures greeted us. While 2 days are enough to explore AlUla, you can also keep aside one day for relaxing at the property.&nbsp;&nbsp;In AlUla, you can explore Elephant Rock, an elephant-shaped structure not too far from the property. You can also explore Harrat viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the rock structures, palm trees and the city. There are ancient sites, including Dadan, Hegr,a and Jabal Ikmah, which require tickets and are a must visit. Old Town in AlUla is great to walk around in the evenings. One of my top experiences in AlUla was dining at Tama at Our Habitas AlUla. The vibe was fantastic and the views were stunning. The food was great too, they also had an in-house DJ who played music we could dance to.&nbsp;&nbsp;After a busy day exploring AlUla, I relaxed at the hotel’s spa, where I used their jacuzzi and sauna. AlUla feels like another land itself. There’s so much to see there, and yet it feels like a tiny world in itself. Shaden Resort also planned high tea in the evening and held a special gathering in their outdoor area - Majlis Al Shajara. In the evenings, the Rock Cafe came alive with sports screenings and fun activities. La Palma Terrace, the all-day dining, offered exquisite vegetarian meals. After exploring AlUla, I drove to Jeddah - a 7-hour drive.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>The souks of Jeddah</h2>&nbsp;In Jeddah, I stayed at the Swissotel Living and explored the city. While Riyadh feels like a bustling metropolitan, Jeddah feels like a calmer, freer and more laid-back version of the country.&nbsp;In Jeddah, I spent time at the rooftop cafe at the hotel and saw expansive views of the city. I explored the souks, the Al Balad region as well as the floating mosque. The corniche was beautiful to walk around in the evening and there was a lot to explore. Jeddah also has various malls and is a great city to walk around. You can spend around two days in Jeddah. If you are a scuba diving enthusiast, you can try that in Jeddah or even take a snorkelling tour. You can spot many unique marine animals like dugongs, sharks and nudibranch.&nbsp;For the return to India, Akasa Air flies direct from Jeddah to Mumbai so you can fly back the same route. Or you can reverse the trip and fly into Jeddah first if that works better for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;Overall, Saudi Arabia awed me as a destination and I am incredibly happy I chose to visit the country during winters. I hope to be back soon for a dose of culture, art and history.&nbsp;

A quick guide on where to stay, what to do and which places to visit when one is visiting Saudi Arabia. The country merges tradition and modenity in the most beautiful way possible. 

Saudi Arabia is a land of diversity - spanning from skyscrapers in Riyadh and Jeddah to ancient rocks and petroglyphs in Al Ula. Saudi Arabia takes you by surprise. There are multiple flights from Mumbai that can take you to Riyadh directly. I chose an Akasa Air flight, which flew me directly to Riyadh. What to see in Riyadh? Riyadh has a lot to see - the Kingdom Sky bridge at the 99th floor is a must-visit to see far spanning views across the city. Boulevard World is a great place to see in the evenings. It is designed with themed countries across the world and has rides, global cuisines and shopping options. Al Masmak Palace houses ancient culture and artefacts. Diriyah showcases how people lived around a century ago. In Riyadh, I also experienced a mystery room called The Box Experience, designed like a heist room in a museum. Though I wasn’t able to crack it entirely, it was a lot of fun and I highly recommend it. While in Riyadh, I stayed at Riyadh Al Anoud. Almost all leading hospitality chains are present in Saudi Arabia; however, during my stay in Riyadh, I chose the Novotel Riyadh Al Anoud. The hotel houses a restaurant, La Croisette and a Cafe Lounge located at the lobby which serves matcha and snacks. The hotel is located at a stone’s throw from Kingdom Towers. While in Riyadh, you can also explore Edge Of The World but it’s a day trip and requires a 4 X 4 vehicle. While in Riyadh, you can also explore the National Museum which houses interesting artefacts. For Riyadh, you can plan 2 full days. Places to explore in AlUla AlUla is around an 11-hour drive from Riyadh. However, it’s also well connected by plane from both Riyadh and Jeddah. We chose to self-drive so we could have a car with us and take stops on the way. We also wanted to enjoy the desert scenery. While in AlUla, we stayed at Shaden Resort which is located amidst ancient rock structures. As soon as we got close to AlUla, the ancient rock structures greeted us. While 2 days are enough to explore AlUla, you can also keep aside one day for relaxing at the property. In AlUla, you can explore Elephant Rock, an elephant-shaped structure not too far from the property. You can also explore Harrat viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the rock structures, palm trees and the city. There are ancient sites, including Dadan, Hegr,a and Jabal Ikmah, which require tickets and are a must visit. Old Town in AlUla is great to walk around in the evenings. One of my top experiences in AlUla was dining at Tama at Our Habitas AlUla. The vibe was fantastic and the views were stunning. The food was great too, they also had an in-house DJ who played music we could dance to. After a busy day exploring AlUla, I relaxed at the hotel’s spa, where I used their jacuzzi and sauna. AlUla feels like another land itself. There’s so much to see there, and yet it feels like a tiny world in itself. Shaden Resort also planned high tea in the evening and held a special gathering in their outdoor area - Majlis Al Shajara. In the evenings, the Rock Cafe came alive with sports screenings and fun activities. La Palma Terrace, the all-day dining, offered exquisite vegetarian meals. After exploring AlUla, I drove to Jeddah - a 7-hour drive. The souks of Jeddah In Jeddah, I stayed at the Swissotel Living and explored the city. While Riyadh feels like a bustling metropolitan, Jeddah feels like a calmer, freer and more laid-back version of the country. In Jeddah, I spent time at the rooftop cafe at the hotel and saw expansive views of the city. I explored the souks, the Al Balad region as well as the floating mosque. The corniche was beautiful to walk around in the evening and there was a lot to explore. Jeddah also has various malls and is a great city to walk around. You can spend around two days in Jeddah. If you are a scuba diving enthusiast, you can try that in Jeddah or even take a snorkelling tour. You can spot many unique marine animals like dugongs, sharks and nudibranch. For the return to India, Akasa Air flies direct from Jeddah to Mumbai so you can fly back the same route. Or you can reverse the trip and fly into Jeddah first if that works better for you. Overall, Saudi Arabia awed me as a destination and I am incredibly happy I chose to visit the country during winters. I hope to be back soon for a dose of culture, art and history.

A quick guide on where to stay, what to do and which places to visit when one is visiting Saudi Arabia. The country merges tradition and modenity in the most beautiful way possible.&nbsp;

Souks, Snorkeling, and Secret Museums: A quick guide to uncovering the wonders of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has rolled out official passports for camels, recording details such as breed, ownership, and identity. The move aims to modernise livestock management and build a nationwide camel database across the kingdom.


Saudi Arabia Launches Passports for Millions of Camels: Explained |

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has emerged as a major engine of employment, generating over one million jobs across hospitality, travel, food and beverage, transport, and related services. Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah gate company, spoke to WION at the sidelines of the Davos summit. He discussed how the idea of tourism took center stage during the initial planning of vision 2030.


Jerry Inzerillo Hails Saudi’s Tourism Progress at Davos

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are deepening their strategic and economic partnership. But what exactly is Pakistan offering to Riyadh, and what is Saudi Arabia gaining in return?

Khwaja Asif Hints At Expanding Defence Pact With Saudi Arabia

Turkiye is reportedly seeking entry into a mutual defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, potentially paving the way for a new security alignment that could shift the balance of power in the Middle East and beyond.


Report: Turkey Seeks To Join Saudi-Pak Defence Pact

The Saudi Arabia-led coalition in Yemen has announced that the leader of the secessionist Southern Transitional Council (STC) has fled to the United Arab Emirates via Somaliland after skipping planned peace talks in Riyadh, accusing the UAE of smuggling him out of the country.


Yemen crisis: Saudi-led coalition says STC’s Alzubidi fled to UAE

Saudi Arabia plans to open its financial markets to all foreign investors from February 1, the Gulf country's market regulator said on Tuesday, as it eases rules to attract more money from abroad.


Saudi Arabia: New foreign property rules, move to attract global capital

Saudi Arabia will open its financial markets to all foreign investors starting February 1st, marking a major shift in investment rules. The capital markets authority has eliminated the ‘qualified foreign investor’ framework, which previously limited access to select institutions. Under the new system, investors from around the world can directly invest in Saudi capital markets, a move designed to boost inflows and improve liquidity.


Saudi Arabia Deepens Investment Reforms Beyond Oil Economy

Saudi-led coalition fighter jets struck forces loyal to Yemen’s UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) in the Hadhramaut province on Friday after they allegedly set up ambushes targeting Yemeni government troops during the handover of military positions, said Yemen’s Information Ministry undersecretary.

Yemen Crisis: Saudi-Led Coalition Strikes Kill UAE-Backed Fighters in Yemen

Saudi-led coalition fighter jets struck forces loyal to Yemen’s UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) in the Hadhramaut province on Friday after they allegedly set up ambushes targeting Yemeni government troops during the handover of military positions, said Yemen’s Information Ministry undersecretary.


Breaking | STC: Saudi Arabia struck military camp in Hadhramaut, multiple casualties caused

Saudi Arabia struck Yemen’s Mukalla port, targeting what it said was a UAE-linked weapons shipment. The strike escalated tensions, prompting the UAE to announce the withdrawal of its remaining forces. Yemen’s Presidential Council ordered Abu Dhabi to pull out within 24 hours, while the Southern Transitional Council remained defiant. Saudi Arabia backed the move, citing national security, and regional actors, including Qatar, welcomed statements emphasizing Gulf unity.


Saudi Arabia's strike against UAE-backed militia sparks fresh tensions

The Saudi-led coalition has struck a port in Yemen, targeting arms shipments reportedly from the UAE. State media confirmed the operation as part of ongoing military efforts in the region. This strike highlights escalating tensions and ongoing conflict dynamics in Yemen. 


Saudi-led coalition strikes port in Yemen, UAE denies Saudi accusation of fuelling Yemen conflict

Saudi Arabia says national security a red line as UAE forces told to leave Yemen

Saudi vs UAE over Yemen: Saudi Arabia sets 24-hour deadline for UAE to withdraw forces

Saudi Arabia has openly criticised the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over its military actions in Yemen, calling them a serious threat to its national security. This accusation follows a series of limited airstrikes conducted by the UAE on Yemen’s Mukalla port, a move the UAE says was a misinterpretation of its intentions. The UAE explained that the strikes targeted supplies meant for Emirati forces, not separatists, as some reports suggested.&nbsp;The Saudi Foreign Ministry labeled the UAE's actions as a "dangerous escalation" and stressed that any threat to Saudi security would be met with swift retaliation. The statement followed remarks from Rashad Al Olimi, head of Yemen's Presidential Council, which is supported by Saudi Arabia. Al Olimi accused the UAE of orchestrating military operations that challenge Yemen's central government and exacerbate existing tensions in the region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-births-fell-lowest-on-record-in-2025-won-t-it-have-enough-people-to-run-its-future-economy-1767093532021">Japan births fell lowest on record in 2025: Won't it have enough people to run its future economy?</a>&nbsp;The Saudi government specifically condemned the UAE's alleged influence over the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist military group backed by the UAE. Saudi officials claim that the UAE is pushing the STC to carry out military operations near the Saudi border, a notion the UAE categorically denied, calling it an "unfounded" accusation.Tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia have been escalating in Yemen for months. Recently, the UAE-backed STC captured several key regions, including the oil-rich Hadramout province, prompting concerns from Saudi-backed factions about the destabilising effects on their shared fight against Houthi rebels. This has led to calls for the UAE’s withdrawal from Yemen and a formal termination of defense pacts between the two Gulf countries.<h2>US expresses concern over escalating violence</h2>The rift between the two Gulf powers is further complicated by their differing approaches to Yemen’s future. While Saudi Arabia continues to back Yemen's internationally recognised government, the UAE’s support for the STC raises doubts about its long-term intentions, especially as the STC pushes for the secession of southern Yemen. The United States has expressed concern over the escalating violence and urged both sides to engage in dialogue. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis and avoid further destabilisation in the region.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia and the UAE, once close partners in the Yemen conflict, are now facing one of the most significant challenges to their alliance in recent years. Their shared history of military cooperation, including the 2017 blockade of Qatar, now appears strained as they navigate conflicting interests in Yemen. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has led to one of the world’s most devastating humanitarian crises, with millions suffering from the effects of prolonged warfare. As the tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE intensify, the future of Yemen remains uncertain, and the risk of further conflict looms large.

Saudi Arabia has accused the UAE of escalating tensions in Yemen by supporting separatists and carrying out ‘dangerous’ airstrikes, deepening a rift between allies

Saudi Arabia has openly criticised the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over its military actions in Yemen, calling them a serious threat to its national security. This accusation follows a series of limited airstrikes conducted by the UAE on Yemen’s Mukalla port, a move the UAE says was a misinterpretation of its intentions. The UAE explained that the strikes targeted supplies meant for Emirati forces, not separatists, as some reports suggested. The Saudi Foreign Ministry labeled the UAE's actions as a "dangerous escalation" and stressed that any threat to Saudi security would be met with swift retaliation. The statement followed remarks from Rashad Al Olimi, head of Yemen's Presidential Council, which is supported by Saudi Arabia. Al Olimi accused the UAE of orchestrating military operations that challenge Yemen's central government and exacerbate existing tensions in the region. Also Read: Japan births fell lowest on record in 2025: Won't it have enough people to run its future economy? The Saudi government specifically condemned the UAE's alleged influence over the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist military group backed by the UAE. Saudi officials claim that the UAE is pushing the STC to carry out military operations near the Saudi border, a notion the UAE categorically denied, calling it an "unfounded" accusation. Tensions between the UAE and Saudi Arabia have been escalating in Yemen for months. Recently, the UAE-backed STC captured several key regions, including the oil-rich Hadramout province, prompting concerns from Saudi-backed factions about the destabilising effects on their shared fight against Houthi rebels. This has led to calls for the UAE’s withdrawal from Yemen and a formal termination of defense pacts between the two Gulf countries. US expresses concern over escalating violence The rift between the two Gulf powers is further complicated by their differing approaches to Yemen’s future. While Saudi Arabia continues to back Yemen's internationally recognised government, the UAE’s support for the STC raises doubts about its long-term intentions, especially as the STC pushes for the secession of southern Yemen. The United States has expressed concern over the escalating violence and urged both sides to engage in dialogue. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis and avoid further destabilisation in the region. Saudi Arabia and the UAE, once close partners in the Yemen conflict, are now facing one of the most significant challenges to their alliance in recent years. Their shared history of military cooperation, including the 2017 blockade of Qatar, now appears strained as they navigate conflicting interests in Yemen. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has led to one of the world’s most devastating humanitarian crises, with millions suffering from the effects of prolonged warfare. As the tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE intensify, the future of Yemen remains uncertain, and the risk of further conflict looms large.

Saudi Arabia has accused the UAE of escalating tensions in Yemen by supporting separatists and carrying out ‘dangerous’ airstrikes, deepening a rift between allies

Saudi Arabia accuses UAE of escalating tensions in Yemen with 'highly dangerous' military actions

Snowfall in Saudi Arabia is almost unheard of. Yet this winter, parts of the country’s northern belt witnessed scenes more common to Europe than the Arabian desert. Temperatures dropped sharply in regions like Tabuk, and nearby highlands were blanketed in snow, and weather authorities were forced to issue cold-wave alerts. Videos of white-capped dunes and frozen landscapes spread rapidly online. While many marvelled at the spectacle, the images carried a deeper and more troubling message.&nbsp;&nbsp;Snowfall in one of the world’s hottest regions is not just unusual, it is symptomatic of a planet whose climate balance is rapidly unravelling. The episode underlined a reality scientists have warned about for years: climate change is no longer theoretical. Its effects are unfolding now, often in forms that challenge historical records and regional expectations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/merry-christmas-2025-50-wishes-messages-quotes-images-and-whatsapp-status-to-share-with-your-loved-ones-on-25th-december-1766563365202">Merry Christmas 2025: 50+ wishes, messages, quotes, images, and WhatsApp status to share with your loved ones on 25th December</a><h2>A world of weather extremes&nbsp;</h2>A common misunderstanding is that global warming simply results in rising temperatures everywhere. Climate experts argue otherwise. A warmer planet traps more heat and moisture in the atmosphere, increasing instability and fuelling extreme and unpredictable weather events. This explains why heatwaves, intense rainfall, flash floods, and sudden cold spells are appearing simultaneously across different parts of the world, including regions where such phenomena were once rare.&nbsp;India experienced this volatility first-hand over the past year. Large swathes of northern and central India endured prolonged and record-breaking heatwaves. Shortly after, cloudbursts and extreme rainfall triggered landslides and floods in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. In several areas, the monsoon arrived late and erratically, while elsewhere it turned destructive. These contrasting events are not isolated accidents. Together, they point to a climate system under mounting pressure.<h2>Why India cannot ignore this warning</h2>For India, the lesson is not about unexpected snow in distant deserts but about growing vulnerability at home. Agriculture, water resources, cities, and power systems are all built around predictable seasonal cycles. When those cycles collapse, the consequences ripple across the economy and society. Crop losses, urban flooding, water shortages, and heat-related illnesses are already becoming more frequent. This makes climate adaptation no longer optional. India must accelerate efforts in heat-resistant city design, flood-resilient infrastructure, a robust early-warning system, and climate-smart farming practices.&nbsp;While cutting emissions remains crucial, adapting to a changing climate is now unavoidable. Saudi Arabia’s snowfall should not be brushed aside as an internet oddity. It is another warning sign of a world where weather patterns are growing increasingly erratic and unforgiving. As global temperatures continue to rise, such anomalies are likely to become more common, not less.<h2>A global south crisis&nbsp;</h2>What happened in Saudi Arabia reflects a broader trend across the Global South. Southeast Asia has been battered by persistent floods that have displaced millions. African nations are swinging between prolonged droughts and sudden deluges, devastating agriculture. In South America, abnormal temperature spikes have disrupted ecosystems and strained power grids.&nbsp;Developing countries are bearing the brunt of this upheaval. High population density, fragile infrastructure, and heavy reliance on climate-sensitive livelihoods mean even short-lived weather shocks can escalate into humanitarian and economic emergencies. These concerns dominated discussions at this year’s COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, where leaders acknowledged that climate impacts are accelerating faster than many nations can adapt. The message, for India and the world, is unmistakable. The climate crisis is no longer approaching. It has already arrived, and it is reshaping life in real time.

Snowfall in Saudi Arabia this winter was rare, highlighting the growing climate instability. This shift mirrors global extremes, affecting developing countries, including India

Snowfall in Saudi Arabia is almost unheard of. Yet this winter, parts of the country’s northern belt witnessed scenes more common to Europe than the Arabian desert. Temperatures dropped sharply in regions like Tabuk, and nearby highlands were blanketed in snow, and weather authorities were forced to issue cold-wave alerts. Videos of white-capped dunes and frozen landscapes spread rapidly online. While many marvelled at the spectacle, the images carried a deeper and more troubling message. Snowfall in one of the world’s hottest regions is not just unusual, it is symptomatic of a planet whose climate balance is rapidly unravelling. The episode underlined a reality scientists have warned about for years: climate change is no longer theoretical. Its effects are unfolding now, often in forms that challenge historical records and regional expectations. Also Read: Merry Christmas 2025: 50+ wishes, messages, quotes, images, and WhatsApp status to share with your loved ones on 25th December A world of weather extremes A common misunderstanding is that global warming simply results in rising temperatures everywhere. Climate experts argue otherwise. A warmer planet traps more heat and moisture in the atmosphere, increasing instability and fuelling extreme and unpredictable weather events. This explains why heatwaves, intense rainfall, flash floods, and sudden cold spells are appearing simultaneously across different parts of the world, including regions where such phenomena were once rare. India experienced this volatility first-hand over the past year. Large swathes of northern and central India endured prolonged and record-breaking heatwaves. Shortly after, cloudbursts and extreme rainfall triggered landslides and floods in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. In several areas, the monsoon arrived late and erratically, while elsewhere it turned destructive. These contrasting events are not isolated accidents. Together, they point to a climate system under mounting pressure. Why India cannot ignore this warning For India, the lesson is not about unexpected snow in distant deserts but about growing vulnerability at home. Agriculture, water resources, cities, and power systems are all built around predictable seasonal cycles. When those cycles collapse, the consequences ripple across the economy and society. Crop losses, urban flooding, water shortages, and heat-related illnesses are already becoming more frequent. This makes climate adaptation no longer optional. India must accelerate efforts in heat-resistant city design, flood-resilient infrastructure, a robust early-warning system, and climate-smart farming practices. While cutting emissions remains crucial, adapting to a changing climate is now unavoidable. Saudi Arabia’s snowfall should not be brushed aside as an internet oddity. It is another warning sign of a world where weather patterns are growing increasingly erratic and unforgiving. As global temperatures continue to rise, such anomalies are likely to become more common, not less. A global south crisis What happened in Saudi Arabia reflects a broader trend across the Global South. Southeast Asia has been battered by persistent floods that have displaced millions. African nations are swinging between prolonged droughts and sudden deluges, devastating agriculture. In South America, abnormal temperature spikes have disrupted ecosystems and strained power grids. Developing countries are bearing the brunt of this upheaval. High population density, fragile infrastructure, and heavy reliance on climate-sensitive livelihoods mean even short-lived weather shocks can escalate into humanitarian and economic emergencies. These concerns dominated discussions at this year’s COP30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, where leaders acknowledged that climate impacts are accelerating faster than many nations can adapt. The message, for India and the world, is unmistakable. The climate crisis is no longer approaching. It has already arrived, and it is reshaping life in real time.

Snowfall in Saudi Arabia this winter was rare, highlighting the growing climate instability. This shift mirrors global extremes, affecting developing countries, including India

When deserts turn white: Saudi Arabia’s snowfall is a climate red flag and a warning that India can't ignore

Saudi Arabia, typically known for its scorching heat and expansive deserts, recently witnessed an unexpected winter event as heavy snowfall, rain, and a sharp drop in temperatures swept through much of the country. This rare weather phenomenon both thrilled and concerned locals. The event was another stark reminder of how climate change is contributing to increasingly unpredictable weather in regions unprepared for such extremes.&nbsp;Northern Saudi Arabia saw snowfall that dramatically transformed the landscape of the Tabuk Province mountains. Trojena, a high-altitude area on Jebel Al-Lawz, located at 2,600 meters above sea level, was blanketed in snow, while light rain also fell in the region. Snow was also recorded in parts of the Hail Region, including around Hail city, which is an extraordinary occurrence for the usually arid Middle East. During the early morning hours, temperatures dipped below freezing in certain areas, creating ideal conditions for snow to accumulate in the higher altitudes.&nbsp;In addition to the snow, rain was widespread, affecting several regions. Bir Bin Hermas, Al-Ayinah, Ammar, AlUla Governorate, Shaqra, and its neighboring areas experienced light to moderate rainfall. Riyadh, Qassim, and the Eastern Region saw more intense rain, with some areas reporting heavy downpours. The National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) confirmed that snowfall was also recorded in Al-Majmaah and Al-Ghat, located north of Riyadh, where snow accumulated on open fields and elevated terrains.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mom-rams-her-car-into-criminals-vehicle-suspecting-robbery-some-netizens-want-her-arrested-1766396100901">Mom rams her car into 'criminals' vehicle' suspecting robbery. Some netizens want her arrested</a>&nbsp;Hussein Al-Qahtani, spokesperson for the NCM, explained that the cold front, combined with rain-bearing clouds, brought this extreme weather to the central and northern parts of the country. He warned that temperatures would remain low, particularly in northern and central areas, and urged residents to exercise caution while driving and avoid flood-prone valleys. The sight of snow-covered mountains, widely shared across social media, attracted crowds to Al-Majmaah and Al-Ghat. Due to the severe weather, schools in Riyadh were moved to remote learning for safety.&nbsp;Meteorologists say that while specific atmospheric conditions triggered this event, the frequency of such unusual weather patterns is growing, raising concerns about the broader impacts of climate change. The rare snowfall in Saudi Arabia adds to the list of global weather anomalies, such as unexpected rainfall in the UAE, intense heatwaves in South Asia, flash floods in typically dry Middle Eastern regions, and unusual snow in parts of Europe and North Africa, highlighting how climate change is altering the weather around the world.

When the desert turned white: Saudi Arabia sees snowfall for first time in decades as rare cold wave sweeps the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia, typically known for its scorching heat and expansive deserts, recently witnessed an unexpected winter event as heavy snowfall, rain, and a sharp drop in temperatures swept through much of the country. This rare weather phenomenon both thrilled and concerned locals. The event was another stark reminder of how climate change is contributing to increasingly unpredictable weather in regions unprepared for such extremes. Northern Saudi Arabia saw snowfall that dramatically transformed the landscape of the Tabuk Province mountains. Trojena, a high-altitude area on Jebel Al-Lawz, located at 2,600 meters above sea level, was blanketed in snow, while light rain also fell in the region. Snow was also recorded in parts of the Hail Region, including around Hail city, which is an extraordinary occurrence for the usually arid Middle East. During the early morning hours, temperatures dipped below freezing in certain areas, creating ideal conditions for snow to accumulate in the higher altitudes. In addition to the snow, rain was widespread, affecting several regions. Bir Bin Hermas, Al-Ayinah, Ammar, AlUla Governorate, Shaqra, and its neighboring areas experienced light to moderate rainfall. Riyadh, Qassim, and the Eastern Region saw more intense rain, with some areas reporting heavy downpours. The National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) confirmed that snowfall was also recorded in Al-Majmaah and Al-Ghat, located north of Riyadh, where snow accumulated on open fields and elevated terrains. Also Read: Mom rams her car into 'criminals' vehicle' suspecting robbery. Some netizens want her arrested Hussein Al-Qahtani, spokesperson for the NCM, explained that the cold front, combined with rain-bearing clouds, brought this extreme weather to the central and northern parts of the country. He warned that temperatures would remain low, particularly in northern and central areas, and urged residents to exercise caution while driving and avoid flood-prone valleys. The sight of snow-covered mountains, widely shared across social media, attracted crowds to Al-Majmaah and Al-Ghat. Due to the severe weather, schools in Riyadh were moved to remote learning for safety. Meteorologists say that while specific atmospheric conditions triggered this event, the frequency of such unusual weather patterns is growing, raising concerns about the broader impacts of climate change. The rare snowfall in Saudi Arabia adds to the list of global weather anomalies, such as unexpected rainfall in the UAE, intense heatwaves in South Asia, flash floods in typically dry Middle Eastern regions, and unusual snow in parts of Europe and North Africa, highlighting how climate change is altering the weather around the world.

Saudi Arabia experiences rare snowfall and cold temperatures across its northern regions, highlighting the growing unpredictability of weather due to climate change

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