JEDDAH: One day after the royal visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House on Tuesday, the State Department approved three arms sales worth more than $1 billion to Saudi Arabia.
The sales include 6,000 Raytheon TOW-2 anti-tank missiles worth $670 million, $106 million in helicopter support and $300 million worth of vehicle parts. “The proposed sale of TOW 2B missiles and technical support will advance Saudi Arabia’s efforts to develop an integrated ground-defense capability,” the State Department said.
However, the sales are not yet finalized, as all foreign military sales have to be approved by Congress. Prices may change before they are finalized.
Analysts have seen great significance in this deal, since it indicates strong political, economic, and defense ties between the two countries.
Oubai Shahabandar, a fellow in the Washington, DC-based New America International security program, said: “Ensuring interoperability and integration of weapon systems between long-standing strategic partners has long been a mainstay of US foreign policy in the Arabian Gulf. It’s a win-win for all sides involved in these foreign military sales deals.”
He added: “It means more American jobs and ultimately it will help Saudi Arabia to develop a sustainable indigenous military production capacity. No other country comes close to the sheer size and breadth of the foreign military sales cases that the US has with the Kingdom.
“In the long term, Riyadh’s acquisition of new military hardware from the US defense industry must also be met with a joint commitment between the US and the entire Gulf Cooperation Council to enhance the integration of their military readiness against common regional threats.”
Sigurd Neubauer, a Middle East analyst and columnist based in Washington, sees Saudi Arabia as a major ally for the US in the region. He said: “Saudi Arabia has arguably surpassed Israel as Washington’s premier regional ally.
“But because Trump is strengthening his relationship with Riyadh, balancing relations with Ankara and Tel Aviv also becomes paramount as Washington wants to align all of its regional allies against Tehran and its malign activity. Part of that strategy also centers on GCC unity, even if that issue was not discussed during the public part of the MBS-Trump meeting.”
Both Saudi Arabia and the US have common interests and goals, the main one being the containment and countering of Iran’s threats in the region.
“What is significant with the massive arms package, which was initially agreed during the Riyadh summit in May of last year, is Trump’s unwavering support for the Kingdom and its position vis-a-vis Iran,” Neubauer said.
Dr. Hamdan Al-Shehri, a researcher and expert in international relations, said: “This deal confirms the United States’ keenness on the security and stability of the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia plays a major role in fighting international terrorism. The Kingdom is a member of the UN and participates in international peace and security. It always calls for alliances to face any global threat, including terrorism.
“US national security is based on fighting terrorism and confronting Iran. US military supply to Saudi Arabia is an action to make a balance of power in the region. It maintains the power of the Kingdom and helps the US to face the threat of Iran.”
Arms deals between the two countries do not only indicate the two allies' concerns about threats to stability and peace in the region, but also the goals for economic growth, Dr. Al-Shehri said.
“Without cleaning the region of dangers, economic growth cannot happen. This is one of the main concerns of the United States, to keep its investments in the region and especially in Saudi Arabia safe from any potential threat in the future.
“To maintain the security of the region, it is necessary to confront the Iranian militias and their ambitions in the region.”
US-Saudi military deals make KSA top ally in the region, says analyst
US-Saudi military deals make KSA top ally in the region, says analyst
Kuwait’s crown prince meets foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations
- Meeting takes place on sidelines of 46th extraordinary meeting of GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers discuss developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza
RIYADH: The crown prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, met the Saudi minister of foreign affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and the foreign ministers of other Gulf Cooperation Council member states at Bayan Palace in Kuwait City on Thursday
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 46th extraordinary meeting of the GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers and other officials discussed the latest developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza.
They stressed the need to uphold Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the aftermath of the fall of President Bashar Assad’s regime this month, and condemned Israeli authorities for their attacks against Syria and Lebanon.
They also affirmed the GCC’s support for the Palestinian people and called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faith
- Hira Cultural District has books, gifts and special cuisine
- ‘Revelation Exhibition’ focuses on messages to prophets
MAKKAH: As winter arrives, the Hira Cultural District in Makkah, a landmark destination combining history, knowledge and services for tourists, has emerged as a hub for residents and visitors seeking cultural and recreational experiences.
At the heart of the district lies the “Revelation Exhibition,” which vividly narrates the story of divine messages to the prophets. It features a section focused on the life of Prophet Muhammad and the significance of Hira Mountain.
Using cutting-edge audiovisual technology, the exhibition is an immersive and enriching journey through Islamic history, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The district’s cultural library offers a treasure trove of information on the history of Makkah and Madinah, the life of the prophet, and the legacy of Hira Mountain and its surrounding areas.
This knowledge can be explored through books, scientific references, and interactive displays.
Beyond its historical and educational appeal, the cultural district constitutes a vibrant destination for leisure and commerce.
Restaurants and cafes serve a mix of local dishes inspired by Makkah’s heritage alongside international cuisine, while shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs reflecting the district's identity.
The Saudi Coffee Museum adds a distinctive flavor to the experience. Here guests can savor traditional Saudi coffee while learning about its regional variations and preparation methods.
For those seeking adventure, the district provides access to the Cave of Hira via a specially paved pathway, allowing visitors to connect with the site’s spiritual and historical significance.
A visitors’ center provides comprehensive information on the district’s features, services and cultural offerings.
Saudi attorney general holds talks with Turkish counterpart in Makkah
MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s attorney general, Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib, praised the strong relationship between the Kingdom and Turkiye as he welcomed a delegation led by his Turkish counterpart, Muhsin Senturk, to Makkah on Thursday.
The officials discussed legal collaborations between their nations and affirmed their desire to enhance judicial cooperation to serve common interests, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Indulge in the magical wizarding World of Harry Potter at Riyadh Season
- The pop-up experience offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles
RIYADH: Harry Potter: A Riyadh Season Adventure is one of the many enthralling and enchanting experiences on offer at Riyadh Season this year.
The pop-up experience, brought to life by Warner Bros., offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles.
Set in the vibrant Boulevard City, the area is designed to showcase some of the most iconic locations from the beloved film series, such as Hogwarts and others.
Interactive technology plays a significant role in the experience. Guests can take part in a Great Hall Sorting Experience, where they find out which Hogwarts house they belong to, and engage in Quidditch activities, as well as practice their Quaffle skills on the pitch.
There is also a zone where visitors can try wands and cast magical words they learned from the film series, like “Expecto Patronum.”
For those looking to take a piece of the magic home, the Wizarding World Shops offer exclusive merchandise, ranging from wands to house scarves, and the Three Broomsticks Food Hall offers refreshing drinks, cupcakes and other desserts.
Costumes are a big part of the fun experience, and there is a dedicated area for shopping, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect outfit to enhance their visit.
Maram Al-Ruwaili, a passionate fan dressed as a Slytherin, shared her excitement: “I’ve been a Potterhead since 2003. Now at 31, I still consider myself a big fan. I’ve tried one Harry Potter experience before, but not in Saudi Arabia.
“This time, sitting in the Great Hall, surrounded by sound effects from the films, made it feel like we were true Hogwarts students. The atmosphere, especially with the Dementors and Christmas sounds, was magical.”
The event has attracted a diverse crowd, including international visitors.
Nanditha Krishnakumar, an enthusiastic attendee from India, expressed her love for the experience: “I’ve adored Harry Potter since childhood, and this is truly amazing. It feels so lifelike and brings my dreams to life. I love Slytherin; it might seem like an evil house, but it’s one of my favorites. I can’t wait to see what else is in store.”
Aisleen de Asis, a nurse who has lived in Saudi Arabia for almost a decade, shared her perspective: “Harry Potter is a significant part of my childhood. I heard about this experience from friends and colleagues who enjoyed it, and I had to check it out myself. Being here brings back so many nostalgic memories.”
The Harry Potter experience at Riyadh Season also celebrates community and shared passion.
Fans from various backgrounds are coming together to relive the magic of their childhood, creating connections through their love for the series.
The excitement is palpable, as visitors share their stories, dress up as their favorite characters, and take part in the interactive activities that bring the magic of the books and films to life.
Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the series, the magical experience is not to be missed.
Misk Foundation celebrates NGO graduates
RIYADH: The Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, also known as Misk, celebrated the graduation of the fourth cohort of the Misk Initiatives Incubator and Impact Accelerator programs at a ceremony held recently at Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City in Riyadh.
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Al-Swaha and Misk Foundation CEO Badr Al-Badr, along with representatives of government agencies, NGOs and donors, attended the ceremony.
During the event, 11 youth initiatives were transformed into nonprofit organizations with the support of the Misk Initiatives Incubator program. Four NGOs were empowered through the Impact Accelerator program, contributing to achieving the objectives of the nonprofit sector and enhancing the role of young people in development.
Fifteen NGOs took part in the two programs, benefiting 177 people. They were provided with more than 2,000 hours of mentorship and financial grants exceeding SR7 million ($1.86 million) to support the implementation of projects serving young people. The ceremony also featured inspiring success stories, highlighting future projects aimed at amplifying social impact.
