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Tag: Saudi

  • Nigeria-Saudi trade volume hits $600m

    Nigeria-Saudi trade volume hits $600m

    The trade volume between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia has exceeded $600 million.

    Saudi Arabia’s Charge d’Affaires, Mr. Saad Fahad Almarri, yesterday said that Saudi Arabia and Nigeria were strengthening partnerships in trade as shown by the rising bilateral trades between the countries, which currently stand above $600 million.

    He said the countries were also working together to combat drug trafficking while hundreds of Nigerian students have benefited from scholarships offered by Saudi institutions.

    Almarri spoke during the Kingdom’s 95th National Day, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria.

    According to him, the commemoration not only marked nearly a century since King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud unified the Kingdom but also reflected on the nation’s steady journey of growth and development.

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    Almarri highlighted Saudi Arabia’s pursuit of its Vision 2030 agenda, which aims to build a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and a dynamic nation.

    He noted that ties between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria continue to expand across several sectors, including trade, education, and joint efforts in tackling drug trafficking.

    The envoy also conveyed the Kingdom’s gratitude to Nigeria’s government and people for their longstanding partnership, stressing both nations’ shared determination to broaden cooperation and integration.

    Almarri further pointed to Riyadh’s successful bid to host Expo 2030 under the theme “Foresight for Tomorrow,” describing it as evidence of Saudi Arabia’s growing international influence and capacity to stage major global events.

    The celebration drew senior government officials, heads of diplomatic missions, representatives of international organizations, and business leaders.

    Nsibidi Institute’s inaugural festival begins (brief, at bottom)

    Nsibidi Institute, a Lagos-based research and cultural organisation, is hosting a three-day festival of symposium, exhibition and film screening to showcase the dynamic trends of the Nigerian creative industry.

    The 2025 inaugural festival on Nigerian popular culture, with the theme: “The Past in the Present Around us, a retrospective celebration of Nigerian Popular Culture,” begins today and will end on in September 28, 2025. The fair is taking place at Quintessence, 285, Akin Olugbade Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, starting from noon.

    Director, Nsibidi Institute, Mr. Ed Keazor said participants would partake in a symposium, exhibition, film screening and photo exhibition among others.

    He said: “The festival looks to explore the strong affinities between Nigerian contemporary and historical popular cultures, the objective is to demonstrate the vibrant continuity of our social history. We shall explore this through film, photo and art exhibitions, performance and interactive conversations”.

    He added that the opening day keynote address titled, “Heritage and Future in the Past” would be delivered by Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture,  Ojinnaka Obi Asika.

    According to him, a symposium titled, “ The Nigerian popular press: A driver of Heritage and social culture” would be moderated by Aduke Gomez with panelists that include  Jahman Anikulapo, Don Adinuba, Freda Olatunbosun and Micheal Effiong James.

    Part of the exhibition for the opening day is on the first century newspaper advertising (1863-1963)  and film screening based on Lagos: the birth of a city style (1861-1967) by Muni and Ed Keazor.

     “Hubris: A Brief Political History of the Nigerian Army,” with the theme, “Military Rule and Social Impact” will be the center of book discussion. The author of the book, Major-General Tunde Akinkunmi (RtD), will be in conversation with Mr. Yemi Candide-Johnson SAN.’

    In the evening of the opening day, there will be a celebration of Don Barber, “A life Behind the Lens”.  Don Berber will lead the conversation and will be moderated by Dayo Adedayo.

    According to the programme, the second day of the event will be taking place at Didi Museum, 175  Akin Adeshola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    On the closing day, there will be awards and recognitions among other activities highlighted to mark the 2025 festival by  Nsibidi Institute a success. The closing day ceremony will also take place at Quintessence, 285, Akin Olugbade Street, Victoria Island, Lagos by 12 noon.

    The Nsibidi Institute is an independent research and cultural organisation based in Lagos, Nigeria. Its work centers on preserving, exploring, and reimagining indigenous knowledge systems, particularly those rooted in Nigerian history, language, and identity.

  • Saudi aid agency treats 218,000 eye patients in Nigeria

    Saudi aid agency treats 218,000 eye patients in Nigeria

    The Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) said it has conducted eye examination for 218,000 patients in Nigeria.

    The agency made this known during the launch of Saudi Noor’ Ophthalmic Volunteer Programme at Gbagada General Hospital in Lagos.

    The week-long initiative, which began yesterday and runs until May 27, is set to provide vital free eye care services to thousands of Lagosians.

    This ambitious outreach is a directive from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

    It solidifies Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to preventive eye care across Nigeria.

    The Saudi Press Attaché in Nigeria,

    Mohammed Alsahabi, said the agency has facilitated more than 21,000 surgical interventions, restoring sight and hope to countless individuals in states like Yobe, Kano, and Bauchi.

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    According to him, the latest endeavour in Lagos marks a significant expansion of the impactful efforts, bringing crucial services to Nigeria’s most populous city.

    He said: “The decision to bring the Saudi Noor program to Lagos acknowledges the critical need for specialized eye care even within bustling city centers. This reinforces our relationship with Nigeria and our shared goal of eradicating preventable blindness.”

    He added that the patients will receive comprehensive care, including diagnostic screenings, sight-restoring cataract surgeries with advanced intraocular lens implants and the provision of prescription eyeglasses.

    “This initiative is a core component of KSrelief’s global mandate to assist communities facing systemic healthcare challenges.

    “KSrelief’s blindness prevention campaign in Nigeria has a proven track record of success. Since 2019, the programme has conducted over 218,000 eye examinations and facilitated more than 21,000 surgical interventions, restoring sight and hope to countless individuals in states like Yobe, Kano, and Bauchi.”

    Alsahabi said globally, KSrelief has executed over 3,100 relief projects in more than 107 countries, demonstrating a consistent commitment to humanitarian excellence.

    “The Saudi Noor programme at Gbagada General Hospital is poised to be a beacon of hope for Lagos, further strengthening the bond between the two nations and contributing significantly to public health in Nigeria,” he added.

    A cataract surgery beneficiary, Mrs. Patience Olaniyan, said her vision had been deteriorating gradually.

    “When the embassy’s programme came to Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) I seized the opportunity for an eye test, where I was told that I needed a surgery. The cataract operation was seamless, thank you Saudi Embassy.I was thinking of how to get the money to go and do the operation in a hospital.”

    A retiree, Alhaji Isa Imam, lamented on how many elderly Lagosians could not afford the high cost of eye surgery and has long been a significant barrier to restoring their sight.

    He expressed immense gratitude for the free surgery, noting that the eye problem began gradually.

    Imam recounted. “Sometimes I wouldn’t see properly, and after a while, my sight worsened. Despite numerous hospital visits, a permanent solution remained out of reach due to the N250,000 cost quoted at Ikeja General Hospital. I was financially constrained,” he explained.

    Now, with his sight restored, he offered heartfelt prayers for the Saudi Embassy.

  • Teen sensation Gemade lights Saudi youth football by Storm

    Teen sensation Gemade lights Saudi youth football by Storm

    A new football sensation is emerging from Nigeria, capturing attention far beyond the continent. At just 16 years old, Shater Gemade, born in Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State, is quickly establishing himself as a standout performer in the Saudi Youth Premier League.

    Gemade, who is of Nigerian-American descent, is the grandson of renowned Nigerian statesman Barnabas I. Gemade. While his grandfather made his mark in the political sphere, young Shater is charting his own path in sports—specifically football—where he is already showing signs of greatness.

    A versatile attacker, Shater is known for his ability to play across the front line—as a winger, attacking midfielder, and forward. His agility, technical skill, and football intelligence make him a constant threat on the pitch and a player to watch in every match.

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    Raised in a cross-continental household, Gemade began his football journey at just four years old, participating in grassroots leagues across the United States. His exceptional talent soon led him to top-tier football academies in Atlanta, Georgia, and later, the MLS NEXT—North America’s elite youth development league.

    In 2024, Gemade’s journey took a significant leap forward. After a brief training stint with a historic London club, he signed with Al Shabab FC, one of Saudi Arabia’s premier football academies. His impact was immediate—scoring goals, creating assists, and drawing attention from football pundits across Saudi Arabia and Nigeria.

    His performances have earned him regular features in sports media in both countries, with commentators praising his flair, tactical awareness, and hunger for success.

    What distinguishes  Gemade is not only his athletic ability or dual nationality but his deep commitment to excellence, humility, and work ethic.

  • Nigeria, Saudi in talks to boost investment, deepen economic ties

    Nigeria, Saudi in talks to boost investment, deepen economic ties

    To attract high-level investments into critical sectors, talks have opened in Saudi Arabia between a Nigerian delegation and Saudi Government.

     Ahead of the main meeting, the Federal Government economic team lead by Finance Minister Wale Edun met with top Saudi firms on investment exploratory discussions.

    Finance Ministry made the ongoing parley known yesterday on its X handle.

    In discussions with the Saudi Export-Import Bank (Saudi EXIM Bank), the Nigerian delegation explored frameworks for export credit and insurance aimed at enhancing trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.

    The Saudi EXIM Bank it was revealed has expressed its commitment to deepening relationships with Nigerian financial institutions and has also indicated interest in participating in future transactions involving Saudi government entities.

    These discussions are expected to facilitate expanded market access and support trade diversification efforts.

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    The delegation also held crucial talks with the Saudi Development Fund, a major financing institution known for supporting infrastructure and economic development initiatives globally. Both parties explored potential areas of collaboration, with a focus on projects that could boost Nigeria’s economic growth and accelerate infrastructure development.

    Further advancing Nigeria’s agricultural agenda, the delegation met with the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC). Discussions centered on SALIC’s ongoing investments in Nigeria and its plans for further expansion.

    The company insisted on its commitment to responsible investment practices that prioritize food security, agricultural output growth, and job creation in Nigeria. This collaboration aligns with Nigeria’s drive to enhance its agribusiness sector and ensure sustainable food production.

    The delegation also engaged in a series of high-level meetings with Saudi ministers responsible for Finance, Energy, Economy and Planning. These discussions is targeted at  bilateral cooperation across vital sectors, with a view to leveraging Saudi Arabia’s expertise and resources in energy development, economic planning, and financial management.

    On the delegation are: Minister of Budget and National Planning Senator Atiku Bagudu;, member of the Presidential Economic Coordination Council Mr. Wale Tinubu; Special Adviser to the President on Finance and the Economy Ms. Sanyade Okoli and, Deputy Governor (Economic Policy) Central Bank of Nigeria Muhammad Sani Abdullahi.

  • Nigeria, Saudi target deals in energy, agric sectors

    Nigeria, Saudi target deals in energy, agric sectors

    • President back in Abuja

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have agreed to explore ways to bolster Nigeria’s economy through energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.                       

    They also considered establishing a Nigeria-Saudi Business Council to drive bilateral ties between the two oil-producing nations.

    The two leaders resolved on these at the sidelines of the Joint Arab-Islamic Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Monday.

    Tinubu arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at about 8 pm yesterday.

    He was received by senior members of his administration, including his  Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy;  Wale Edun and  Federal Capital Territory Minister  Nyesom Wike.

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    Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said in a statement yesterday that  Crown Prince Mohammed pledged his support for Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms.

    According to Onanuga, the Prince likened the reforms to his efforts to stabilise and strengthen Saudi Arabia since becoming Prime Minister. 

    He assured Tinubu of his support and promised to drive his team towards realising joint goals in the discussed sectors.

    One focus of the talks was the Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC), which acquired a 35.43 percent stake in Nigeria’s agricultural giant, Olam by investing $1.24 billion in 2022.

    Further investments from SALIC are under consideration to make Olam one of the world’s largest agro-allied enterprises.

    In attendance were high-ranking Saudi officials, including Minister of National Guard Prince Abdullah bin Bandar and Minister of Defence Prince Khalid bin Salman.

    Onanuga said in the statement that the Joint Arab-Islamic Summit renewed the mandate of Nigeria and other member states on the ministerial committee assigned to engage with global leaders in seeking an end to the ongoing war in Gaza and Lebanon.

    This decision was part of the resolution issued after the summit, in Riyadh.

    President Tinubu and other leaders from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the League of Arab States were in attendance.

    The Joint Arab-Islamic Ministerial Committee led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was formed by a resolution at the First Joint Arab-Islamic Summit.  

    The group includes the foreign ministers of Nigeria, Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, Indonesia, Palestine, and Jordan.

    In its final resolution, the summit urged the ministerial committee to “intensify its efforts and expand them to include working on ending the aggression on Lebanon.” 

    The committee will submit periodic reports, which the secretariats of the OIC and the League of Arab States will circulate to member states.

    The committee has also been tasked with further engaging actors across the Global South in the efforts to strengthen international support towards ending the war and Israeli occupation.

    The resolution stressed the importance of protecting sea lanes by rules of international law and welcomed the signing of the tripartite mechanism by the League of Arab States, OIC, and the African Union to support the Palestinian cause.

    The summit praised  African Union’s steadfast support for Palestine. 

    The leaders condemned recent Israeli military actions in northern Gaza, describing them as “crimes of genocide.”

    It also criticised ‘’torture, executions, disappearances, and “ethnic cleansing ” in the troubled Gaza.

    Besides, they flayed ongoing efforts to solidify Israel’s presence in the occupied East Jerusalem which they reaffirmed as the “eternal capital” of Palestine.

    The leaders called for the unification of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem under a sovereign Palestinian state.

    The resolution reiterated “the full sovereignty of the State of Palestine over occupied East [Jerusalem], the eternal capital of Palestine”.

     It rejected any Israeli actions aimed at altering the city’s identity or consolidating its occupation.

    The summit also expressed unwavering support for Lebanon’s security, stability, sovereignty, and the safety of its citizens.  

  • Extreme heat: Saudi stops pilgrims from ritual of throwing stones for 5hrs

    Extreme heat: Saudi stops pilgrims from ritual of throwing stones for 5hrs

    The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has stopped pilgrims from proceeding to the Jamarat Bridge for the ritual of throwing stones from 11a.m. to 4p.m. due to extreme heat

    The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman, issue the directive in a statement on Monday in Mina, Makkah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    He said that measure became necessary I’m order to ensure the well-being of pilgrims amidst high temperatures and to prevent heat stress.

    ” Accordingly, the following measures have been implemented: Pilgrims are prohibited from proceeding to the Jamarat Bridge for the ritual of throwing stones from11.a.m to 4.pm.”

    He said that security personnel would be stationed at camps to enforce the restriction and prevent any pilgrim from departing before 4p.m.

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    He urged the Office of Hajj Affairs and service providers to ensure compliance, adding that they they would be held responsible for any violations thereof.

    ”We pray for Allah’s protection over the pilgrims and the acceptance of their Hajj.”

    Meanwhile, the official of the Nigeria’s Hajj Commission has intercepted two illegal migrants of Nigerian decent ( Muhammed Umar and Nazifi Tasi’u GARBA), over infiltration of pilgrims tents amidst concerns regarding overstretched accommodation and petty theft.

    Consequently, the suspects were handed over to the Saudi Police, where their biometrics were obtained and a fine of 10,000 Saudi Riyals was imposed on them to be paid whenever they are leaving the country.

    NAN reports that the Jamarat are three pillars located in Mecca and are an important part of the Hajj pilgrimage for Muslims.

    As part of their pilgrimage to Mecca, pilgrims throw pebbles at the pillars to symbolically “stone the devil.”

    The Stoning of the Devil—or rajm al-jamarat, translated as throwing pebbles—is a way for Muslims to reject temptation, affirm their faith in Allah, and honor the Prophet Ibrahim.

    NAN reports that according  to the Saudi Gazette, more than 1.83 million pilgrims performed this year’s hajj.

    A total of 1,833,164 pilgrims came from within the Kingdom and abroad to perform the annual pilgrimage and they included 1,611,310 foreign pilgrims and 221,854 domestic pilgrims, both citizens and expatriates.

    (NAN)

  • Hajj: Saudi arrests over 300,000 violators amid enhanced procedures

    Hajj: Saudi arrests over 300,000 violators amid enhanced procedures

    Authorities in Saudi Arabia have apprehended over 300,000 violators of Hajj regulations, including 153,998 foreigners who arrived on tourist visas without the necessary permits.

    In light of these violations, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has underscored the importance of the Nusuk card.

    “This card is the only official proof for conforming pilgrims within the Holy Sites, facilitating their access to services as an identification document,” the ministry reiterated.

    This Friday, on the eighth of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims will initiate their Hajj rituals by heading to Mina for the Day of Tarwiyah, preparing for their ascension to Arafat on the ninth day, in line with the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad.

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    This year’s Hajj is characterised by stringent procedures and extensive services deployed by Saudi authorities, spanning across security, health, service, and logistics sectors.

    In a concerted effort to ensure a smooth and secure pilgrimage, Saudi authorities have intensified measures to permit only those with valid Hajj permits and the Nusuk card access to the Holy Sites.

    The Nusuk card, an essential identification document, facilitates the pilgrims’ stay in Mecca and movement within the Holy Sites throughout the Hajj season.

    “Hajj security forces, along with auxiliary agencies, have established extensive security perimeters to safeguard pilgrims and facilitate their movement within the Holy Sites according to designated times,” stated an official.

    “We have also worked to arrest violators of Hajj regulations and apply penalties.”

    The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reiterated the necessity for every pilgrim to carry their Nusuk card throughout their pilgrimage.

    This card is the only official proof for conforming pilgrims within the Holy Sites, facilitating their access to services as an identification document.

    Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, emphasized the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to serving the guests of God.

    “Saudi Arabia, since its founding, has been dedicated to easing the arrival of pilgrims to the Two Holy Mosques and Holy Sites, ensuring they can perform their rituals with ease and reassurance while receiving the highest levels of care and attention,” Al-Rabiah said.

  • Ndidi considering Saudi millions after contract expiration

    Ndidi considering Saudi millions after contract expiration

    Score Nigeria can report that Wilfred Ndidi has been bombarded by several offers from Saudi Arabia and it is now left for him to decide whether or not to give himself the biggest pay of his career.

    The Super Eagles midfielder is now a free agent and so will walk out on Leicester City without attracting a transfer fee when his contract runs out next month.

    He has been linked with some of Europe’s top clubs, from Bayern Munich to PSG, as he helped ‘The Foxes’ return to the Premier League as champions of the English Championship.

    Last month, one of his representatives told only SCORENigeria that if the player must remain in England, he has to be playing for one of the Top-6 Premier League clubs.

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    The 27-year-old star, who also now carries a British passport, has an interest in Italy, it was further gathered.

    Despite battling injuries, Ndidi has shone in a more attacking midfield role this season to post his most prolific campaign ever.

    In the Championship, he scored four goals and provided five assists.

    He also netted twice in the cup competitions.

  • Saudi’s new policies on hajj to sanitise industry

    Saudi’s new policies on hajj to sanitise industry

    Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited (HMVL), Alhaji Abdul Solate, has said  the new Saudi Arabian policy on Hajj 2024 will sanitise the industry and reduce fraud  perpetrated by unregistered private operators.

    Solate called on intending pilgrims to patronise qualified licensed private operators or those in collaboration with them.

    Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had approved 40 private tour operators from Nigeria.

    National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), in its assessment, rated HMVL as leading private tour operator.

    Solate said the policy would reduce proliferation of unregistered hajj operators.

    He said: “Some two or three years ago, around this time, you would have seen different commercials on air, with different companies telling you to come and perform hajj with them, irrespective of their registered status or not. Due to the new policy, however, the trend is coming down.

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    “This is because the information (about the 40 qualified registered companies) is out there. And, I don’t think any media will be ready to run such a commercial knowing the company isn’t registered for    Hajj 2024. This is showing that the industry is getting sanitised. So, my advice for intending pilgrims is to open their eyes, look at what is there and choose from the list of registered companies.”

    Solate also cautioned intending pilgrims to be wary of fraudsters and encouraged them to patronise only tour operators approved by NAHCON.

    He said: “Pilgrims do not have excuse to fall into wrong hands because the commission has approved 40 companies  and our company, Hajj Mabrur, is firs.

    “Pilgrims should work with that list… “If pilgrims follow these guidelines, they will be in safe hands.”

    Solate appealed to the commission to begin arrangements for 2024 Hajj early for effective planning and coordination.

  • Saudi announces 300 per cent increase ininstalled renewables

    Saudi announces 300 per cent increase ininstalled renewables

    Saudi Arabia has announced 300 percent increase in installed renewables and 43.9 million trees planted since launch of Saudi Green Initiative (SGI).

    The third edition of the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI) Forum took place yesterday in conjunction with the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), providing a multi-stakeholder platform for dialogue to advance climate action.

    The Saudi Green Initiative was launched by His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Higher Committee for the Saudi Green Initiative in 2021.

    It is a whole-of-society initiative to oversee and unite the Kingdom’s efforts to combat climate change, drive sustainable innovation and accelerate the green transition.

    At the SGI Forum, Saudi officials focused on the steadfast progress towards the Kingdom’s aim to reach net zero by 2060, highlighting the nation’s contribution to global climate goals through the implementation of over 80 public and private sector initiatives representing an investment of over US$ 188 billion (SAR 705 billion), for a greener future for all.

    Saudi Arabia is on track to achieve its goal to reduce carbon emissions by 278 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) by 2030.

    The Kingdom aims to achieve an optimal energy mix for electricity production by having gas and renewable energy at approximately 50% each by 2030.

    When achieved, this will displace approximately one million barrels of liquid fuel currently used.

    Since 2022, an additional 2,100 MW of renewable energy has been connected to the grid, bringing the total capacity of installed renewable energy to 2,800 MW (2.8 GW), generating energy equivalent to powering over 520,000 homes.

    This marks a 300 per cent increase in installed capacity, demonstrating the pace at which Saudi Arabia is accelerating its energy transition.

    By the end of 2023, the production capacity of renewable energy projects under construction in Saudi Arabia will exceed 8 GW, with an additional 13 GW of renewable energy capacity in various stages of development across multiple projects.

    Saudi Arabia’s efforts to transform its domestic power mix also involve several projects to reduce reliance on liquid fuel and replace it with gas to produce energy.

    As of December 2023, four high-efficiency gas-fired power plants with a total capacity of approximately 5,600 MW started operation.

    The Kingdom is also building highly efficient plants equipped with carbon capture and storage technologies, with a total capacity of approximately 8.4 GW.

    As part of its ongoing investment into future-proof fuels, Saudi Arabia is progressing development on the US$ 8.4 billion green hydrogen plant in NEOM, which is set to be the world’s largest.

    Several bilateral agreements have been signed with international counterparts throughout 2023, with the aim of producing and exporting clean and green hydrogen.

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    Since the launch of SGI, 43.9 million trees and shrubs have been planted and 94,000 hectares of degraded land—equivalent to over 146,000 football fields—have been rehabilitated across the Kingdom, contributing to the target to grow 10 billion trees in Saudi Arabia over the coming decades.

    Over 40 initiatives are already underway, directly supporting progress towards the interim target of planting 600+ million trees and rehabilitating 8 million hectares of land by 2030.

    In October 2023, the two-year feasibility study for how to achieve maximal vegetation cover in Saudi Arabia was presented, following 1,150+ field surveys in collaboration with over 50 renowned experts.

    Strategic afforestation and land rehabilitation efforts will now be implemented across multiple sites, ranging from mangroves to inland marshes, mountain forests, rangelands, national parks, and valleys.

    The roadmap to 10 billion trees will be implemented in two phases. The first phase (2024-2030), will focus on the environmental domain, taking a nature-based approach.

    From 2030 onwards, phase two will scale up efforts to a fully comprehensive approach with the greatest level of human intervention and implementation of learnings from phase one.

    Saudi Arabia’s efforts to restore natural environments across the Kingdom will help create jobs in numerous sectors, while helping combat desertification and sand encroachment, reducing the impact of dust storms and improving quality of life for residents.

    City centers across the country are also set to benefit from reduced temperatures and improved air quality resulting from increased tree canopy cover.