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News for pilgrims

Visa rules, Nusuk and Rawdah changes, transport and season dates — short, with what it means for your trip.

  • 71 Forests of Jazan: The Natural Wealth of Saudi Arabia

    71 Forests of Jazan: The Natural Wealth of Saudi Arabia

    JAZAN — Stretching across the Red Sea coastline, mountain ranges, and fertile valleys, Jazan’s 71 forests reflect the region’s rich environmental diversity and reinforce its status as one of Saudi Arabia’s greatest natural treasures. Covering a total area of 62,747.35 hectares, the forests’ natural landscapes support ecotourism and environmental sustainability. Mountain forests account for the largest share of this diversity, with 30 forests spread across Jazan’s highlands. Known for their unique vegetation and breathtaking scenery, they provide green spac

  • Saudi Arabia extends the deadline for labor migrants until the end of 2026

    Saudi Arabia extends the deadline for labor migrants until the end of 2026

    RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has extended until the end of 2026 the grace period for employers to rectify the status of expatriate workers whose work permits have been expired for more than 12 months. The new grace period is also applicable to workers, who have not been issued work permits within six months of joining an establishment. The ministry said the extension is part of its efforts to strengthen compliance with labor regulations, protect the rights of employers and employees, and provide establishments and workers with additional time to co

  • Jazan Terraces: Ancient Agriculture in Modern Saudi Arabia

    Jazan Terraces: Ancient Agriculture in Modern Saudi Arabia

    JAZAN — Spread across Jazan’s mountainous terrain, the region's agricultural terraces stand as one of Saudi Arabia's prominent examples of sustainable farming. **media[2731938,2731934]** Built by generations of local farmers, these stone terraces transformed rugged mountainsides into fertile farmland while preserving the natural environment. The terraces have long supported agriculture across Jazan's mountainous governorates as they were engineered to conserve mountain soil, reduce erosion, and capture rainwater. **media[2731936,2731939]** Their fertility provides ideal conditions for cultivat

  • Saudi Arabia Allows 24-Hour Operation of Shops and Restaurants

    Saudi Arabia Allows 24-Hour Operation of Shops and Restaurants

    RIYADH — Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has approved new regulations governing commercial activities operating around the clock, implementing a Cabinet decision that allows businesses to operate 24 hours a day in exchange for an annual fee of up to SR100,000.Under the regulations, the minister of municipalities and housing is authorized to determine the applicable fee and identify activities exempt from payment based on the public interest and the nature of the business.Businesses seeking to operate around the clock must obtain approval from the relevant municipality as