SAUDI ARABIA
In 2020, researchers tested a self-moistening hydrogel mat under solar panels; it cooled them by at least 10°C and boosted output by up to 19%
New research introduces a cooling gel for solar panels. This gel absorbs moisture at night and releases it as vapor during the day. The cooling effect significantly boosts electricity output and panel longevity. This innovation promises to reduce solar electricity production costs. The technology offers a low-maintenance solution for hotter climates.
Saudi Arabia launches Riyadh Digital District to attract global tech firms, skilled talent
Saudi Arabia has launched its Riyadh Digital Innovation District initiative. This project aims to attract global technology firms and skilled professionals. The district will focus on emerging technologies and innovation activities. It supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification goals. This move strengthens Riyadh's position as a digital innovation hub.
Pipelines and ports: Iran war spurs Gulf infrastructure investment
Gulf nations are investing billions in infrastructure to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. Ports, pipelines, and railways are top priorities as trade routes face disruption. This strategic shift aims to future-proof economies against ongoing geopolitical challenges. New projects are emerging across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. These efforts seek to create permanent, integrated solutions for energy exports.
Canada seeks skilled workers in healthcare, STEM, trades via Express Entry
Canada seeks skilled professionals through its Express Entry immigration system. The nation aims to boost its economy and address labor shortages. Key sectors include healthcare, trades, education, STEM, and transport occupations. Professionals with Canadian work experience and French proficiency are particularly sought. This initiative targets experienced individuals for permanent residency programs.
Vietnam to fine employers for foreign worker reporting violations from September 10
Vietnam will implement new fines for employers regarding labour violations starting September 10, 2026. These penalties will cover mandatory work notifications and reporting requirements for foreign workers. Individuals face fines of one to three million Dong for reporting infractions. Organisations will incur penalties ranging from two to six million Dong. Authorities are increasing focus on compliance after work permits are approved.
India drawn with Malaysia, Palestine, Singapore, Guam in AFC U17 Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers
India will compete in Group E of the AFC U-17 men's Asian Cup Qualifiers. The team faces Malaysia, Palestine, Singapore, and Guam in the upcoming tournament. These qualifiers are scheduled to take place in Malaysia during November. India aims for a second consecutive appearance in the AFC U-17 Asian Cup. The group winners will advance to the 2027 tournament in Uzbekistan.
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Saudi Arabia revises work visa quotas for new businesses
Saudi Arabia has updated work visa quotas for new businesses. Businesses operating less than two years can now secure five visas. Firms active for over two years may receive up to fifty visas. New companies in the Establishing Programme start with two visas. Visa allocations increase as businesses advance within the Nitaqat program.
Engineering exports record 18% growth in July; US remains top market
India witnessed a robust eighteen percent increase in engineering exports in July 2026, totaling over twelve billion dollars. This growth outshone the broader merchandise exports, demonstrating notable strength in vital markets.
Six months into Iran war, almost half of global oil flows from war zones
As of 2026, nearly half the world's oil originates from conflict-affected nations. Current oil disruptions have surpassed previous energy crises significantly. Attacks on Iran and the Russia-Ukraine war have severely impacted production.
US starts returning staff to Middle East missions after Iran war evacuations: Sources
United States personnel are returning to some Middle East diplomatic missions after tensions eased. Staff will go back to posts in Lebanon, Israel, and Saudi Arabia. Family members can also return to the U.S. post in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This move suggests a lower risk of conflict escalation with Iran currently. Embassies will initially operate below full authorized personnel levels.
Trump sends Saudi nuclear deal to US Congress with Israel condition
US President Trump sent Congress a nuclear energy agreement with Saudi Arabia. This pact will only become effective if Saudi Arabia normalizes relations with Israel. The deal allows U.S. companies to export civilian nuclear technology to the kingdom. Congress has ninety session days to consider the proposed agreement. This move opens possibilities for the deal to proceed without certain stipulations.
US prepares to send diplomats back to Middle East embassies after Iran war evacuations: Report
Embassies slated to restore higher staffing levels include those in Israel, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Oman, Iraq and Kuwait, according to the report. The State Department is continuously reviewing the security posture of its diplomatic missions worldwide and is adjusting staffing levels at certain posts in the Middle East following its latest assessment, a spokesperson told Reuters in an emailed statement.
Turkish military transport flights to Pakistan raise eyebrows in India
In a 60-hour operation, Turkish military transport aircraft, including C-130 Hercules and A400M models, delivered cargo to Pakistan’s military bases. There is speculation that these flights transported Turkish military gear and drones. This event highlights the strengthening defense relationship between Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, reigniting discussions about Ankara’s military backing for Islamabad.
UKMTO says tanker struck by unknown projectile off Saudi Arabia's Yanbu
A tanker sustained damage from an unknown projectile near Saudi Arabia's Yanbu port. The vessel experienced a fire on its main deck, but all crew members are safe. Yanbu serves as Saudi Arabia's primary Red Sea oil export hub. This incident follows recent disruptions and threats from Yemen's Houthi rebels. Saudi authorities have not yet provided any official comment on the event.
Pakistan's Munir spoke to Trump ahead of Tehran visit, sources say
Pakistan's army chief spoke with Donald Trump last week before visiting Tehran. This call occurred as the United States threatened major economic sanctions against Iran. The Pakistani military confirmed the visit was for promoting regional peace and stability. Discussions also focused on Houthi attacks and a new defense agreement. Munir aimed to mitigate the existing trust deficit between the US and Iran.
India, Gulf bloc discuss next steps on free trade agreement
India and the Gulf Cooperation Council reviewed free trade agreement negotiations in Riyadh. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and regional developments. Both sides affirmed the importance of continued coordination for stability. The GCC is India's largest trading partner bloc by far. Bilateral trade reached USD 178.56 billion in 2024-25.
Bangladesh signals openness to joining Saudi-Pakistan-Turkiye defence alliance
Bangladesh expresses openness to joining a new defense alliance. This decision will prioritize the nation's own interests and evolving global dynamics. The government is pursuing a "Bangladesh First" policy for its foreign engagements. Bilateral ties with Pakistan will also be strengthened through normal diplomatic channels. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to visit Riyadh soon.
Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir heads to Tehran as US plans ‘toughest’ Iran sanctions
Pakistan's army chief Asim Munir will visit Tehran on Monday. He leads a delegation to strengthen bilateral cooperation and regional peace. Islamabad seeks to mediate a resolution to the Middle East war. Pakistan previously brokered a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States. This visit occurs as peace negotiations currently appear stalled.
Urban Company sues Kent RO over ‘unsafe’, ‘risky’ water purifier ads; company to pull down 'offending' content
Urban Company has sued Kent RO Systems in the Delhi High Court, alleging that its advertisements and social media posts made false and misleading claims about Urban Company’s Native water purifiers. The dispute centres on Native’s two-year filter and service life features, which Kent RO allegedly called a “marketing gimmick” and described the purifiers as “unsafe” and “risky”.
India-Bangladesh Ganges talks continuing at technical level: MEA
India confirmed ongoing technical discussions with Bangladesh on river issues. The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, signed in 1996, is set to expire this December. Discussions under the Joint Rivers Commission address all river-related matters between the two nations. Bangladesh is reportedly open to joining a new Mecca defense pact. India is closely monitoring these regional developments and its implications.
Give Dhaka more room to manoeuvre: India’s next Bangladesh gambit
Bangladesh seeks a favorable environment for PM Tarique Rahman's upcoming visit to New Delhi. India's high commissioner emphasizes engagement and shared interests between the two nations. Rahman's 'Bangladesh First' approach aligns with assurances of a memorable visit from Narendra Modi. However, Dhaka appears hesitant, considering regional defense agreements and other foreign trips. India must adopt a long-term vision to strengthen bilateral ties and address key issues.
Urban Company, Unicommerce expand partnership to Saudi Arabia, UAE
Urban Company's Middle East division has partnered with Unicommerce to streamline its e-commerce operations in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The online platform will leverage Unicommerce's Uniware technology to manage inventory and fulfillment for its at-home services, ensuring real-time visibility and efficient order routing for service professionals.
Why Pakistan is boosting defence ties with a nation known for its pirates
Pakistan is expanding its defense engagement through a new security pact with Somalia. This agreement covers counter-terrorism, military training, and capacity building efforts. Days later, Pakistan joined Saudi Arabia and Turkey in a Mecca Joint Defence Agreement. This pact commits members to mutual defense and military coordination. These developments highlight Pakistan's use of military cooperation for regional diplomacy.
Saudi Arabia clarifies rules for one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa
Saudi Arabia’s one-year multiple-entry Umrah visa allows several visits with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days. However, pilgrims need a new approved service package and Umrah permit for each trip, and the visa cannot be used during Hajj 2027.
Is America behind Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey Mecca defence pact? Here’s what US President Donald Trump said on 'Islamic NATO'
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey Defence Pact: US President Donald Trump has welcomed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan, calling it an important step towards stronger regional security. Describing the agreement as a "BIG, BOLD, IMPORTANT FIRST STEP", he said he was "very happy" that Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Pakistan "recently, and finally" signed the agreement. Here’s what the pact means and what Trump said about the emerging defence alliance.
Donald Trump welcomes Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan defence agreement, terms it as 'big, bold' step
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan have signed a joint defense agreement. US President Donald Trump called this pact a significant first step. The agreement was signed by leaders of the three nations on August 7. India is now assessing the implications of this new regional pact. New Delhi will take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests.
Five Arab nations condemn Israel's rejection of US peace plan for Gaza
Five Arab nations, along with Turkey, Pakistan and Indonesia, on Sunday criticised Israel for rejecting a US proposal for Gaza. In a joint statement, Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE said Israel’s rejection could undermine US President Donald Trump’s renewed efforts to bring the war in Gaza to an end.
ETMarkets Management Talk| MAN Industries eyes bigger Saudi footprint; region could contribute 35–40% of revenue in 3 years: Nikhil Mansukhani
MAN Industries expects Saudi Arabia to become a major growth driver, contributing 35–40% of revenue within three years. The company is targeting FY27 revenue of ₹5,000 crore, backed by Saudi expansion, Dammam facility and Jammu’s seamless pipe plant.
Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan's Mecca Pact: What it means for India
A new 'Mecca Pact' between Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan is forming. This alliance could redefine the Indo-Pacific region's security landscape. India must carefully monitor this development and its implications. New Delhi needs to adjust its strategic calculus in the western Indian Ocean. The nation should also enhance its global engagement through multilateral partnerships.
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