After a 35-year cinema ban, Saudi Arabia's film industry is rapidly evolving, marked by the success of the Red Sea International Film Festival. This transformation was celebrated when Roula Dakheelallah, star of *My Driver and I,* received the Chopard Emerging Saudi Talent award on Thursday.  “My heart is attached to cinema and art; I have always dreamed of a moment like this,” said Dakheelallah, reflecting on her journey from volunteering in small productions to her first major film role.  Saudi Arabia's cultural shift began in 2018 with the reopening of cinemas, ending a ban imposed under ultraconservative religious influence. The kingdom has since invested heavily in its film sector, building cinemas and launching programs to support local talent. The Red Sea International Film Festival, launched in 2019, showcases Saudi films and international productions, attracting stars like Viola Davis and Priyanka Chopra Jonas.  These developments align with Vision 2030, a reform initiative aimed at reducing the kingdom's reliance on oil. As part of the plan, Saudi Arabia aims to construct 350 cinemas with over 2,500 screens. By April 2024, 66 cinemas were already operating in 22 cities.  Allu Arjun arrested over woman’s death at 'Pushpa 2' Screening The industry’s growth includes the opening of Al Hisn Studios near Riyadh, a production hub with film studios and workshops for carpentry, blacksmithing, and fashion. “These facilities will stimulate filmmakers,” said actor Mohammed Elshehri, emphasizing that creators now have the resources to bring their visions to life.  Media company Telfaz11, a key player in this transformation, has partnered with Netflix to produce original Saudi content. Films like Mandoob (Night Courier) and Naga explore sensitive social issues, marking a shift in Saudi storytelling. “When you tell your story naturally, it will resonate globally,” said Elshehri.  Some films like “The Goat Life” remain unavailable domestically. Even “My Driver and I, a story about a Sudanese driver caring for a girl, initially faced resistance due to its sensitive themes.  Filmmaker Ahd Kamel and Dakheelallah represent a growing number of women shaping Saudi cinema. “I see the change in Saudi cinema, a very beautiful change,” Dakheelallah remarked. “We need to guide the truth of this artistic movement at a steady pace.”   

Experts warn that Saudi Arabia's plans to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup could significantly harm the environment due to large-scale construction and emissions. The Gulf nation, recently confirmed as the host, aims to build or renovate 15 stadiums, develop a futuristic city, and expand airports to accommodate millions of visitors.  These developments will generate substantial greenhouse gas emissions from producing and transporting materials like concrete and steel, as well as from operating heavy machinery and cooling new facilities. Such emissions are a major contributor to climate change. Andrew Zimbalist, an economics professor at Smith College, criticized the plan as “environmentally wasteful in the extreme.” He argued that the World Cup should be hosted in nations with an established soccer infrastructure to avoid unnecessary construction.  Seth Warren Rose, founding director of the Eneref Institute, emphasized the urgency of climate action. “By 2034, we’ll be living in a different climate and that’s not a metaphor,” he said, urging organizers to either take meaningful steps to cut emissions or abandon the event.  Saudi Arabia's plans rely heavily on concrete, responsible for 8% of global emissions and steel, which adds another 7%. The construction of eight new stadiums and the expansion of three currently underway for the tournament’s first-ever 48-team format raise concerns about the potential for “white elephant” venues—facilities left unused after the event.  FIFA names Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup host The Saudi bid includes sustainability measures, such as powering stadiums with clean energy, adopting natural ventilation, and enforcing green building standards. However, Karim Elgendy, a fellow at Chatham House, warned that the vast scale of the project and the distances between host cities could make it the most carbon-intensive World Cup to date. Without robust mitigation, he said, the event's emissions could nearly double the record set during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.  In comparison, this year’s Paris Olympics achieved a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by using renewable energy, recycled materials, plant-based food options, and energy-efficient infrastructure.  Critics question FIFA’s decision to fast-track Saudi Arabia’s unopposed bid, suggesting more suitable hosts like the UK, which already has numerous stadiums. However, Walker Ross, a sport sustainability researcher at the University of Edinburgh, argued that global inclusivity should remain central to hosting decisions. “If this sport is truly for the world, then we have to be open to everyone hosting,” he said.  Previous events have also faced scrutiny. Qatar’s 2022 World Cup, which cost $200 billion and included seven new stadiums and extensive infrastructure, reportedly emitted 3.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. Claims of a “carbon neutral” tournament were met with skepticism.  Saudi Arabia’s growing emissions—533 metric tons of carbon dioxide in 2022—are compounded by its heavy reliance on fossil fuels. While the country aims to source 50% of its energy from renewables by 2030, renewable energy adoption remains minimal.  Khaled Diab of Carbon Market Watch criticized FIFA for seemingly ignoring lessons from Qatar. “It appears FIFA has learnt very little from the debacle with the World Cup in Qatar,” he said.  Source: With inputs from wires

FIFA has officially named Saudi Arabia as the host for the 2034 World Cup, marking a significant milestone for the Gulf nation as it continues its ambitious investment in global sports under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.  Saudi Arabia's bid was unopposed, with the decision confirmed during an online FIFA meeting led by President Gianni Infantino. The move received unanimous support, with over 200 member federations applauding virtually.  “The vote of the congress is loud and clear,” said Infantino, adding that he trusts Saudi Arabia to deliver a tournament that meets global expectations and serves as a “catalyst for positive social change and unity.”  The announcement also finalized plans for the 2030 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay hosting three matches to celebrate the tournament’s centenary.  Saudi Arabia’s hosting plan involves a major overhaul of infrastructure, including the construction and renovation of 15 stadiums, transportation networks, and accommodations, all part of the Vision 2030 modernization strategy. One proposed stadium in the futuristic city of Neom will be elevated 350 meters above ground, while another near Riyadh will be perched on a 200-meter cliff.  UN human rights chief pledges to advise FIFA and Saudi Arabia on 2034 World Cup concerns. Crown Prince Mohammed expressed his ambition to host an “exceptional and unprecedented” tournament, highlighting the country's capabilities to unite global football fans. However, the decision has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, with Amnesty International calling it a “moment of great danger” for workers, many of whom are migrants from South Asia.  “FIFA’s reckless decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia without ensuring adequate human rights protections will put countless lives at risk,” said Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International’s Head of Labor Rights and Sport.  Critics also argue that FIFA has not adequately addressed concerns stemming from Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, which faced scrutiny at the United Nations earlier this year. Many fear the kingdom’s vast spending on sports is an attempt to divert attention from such issues, a strategy often referred to as “sportswashing.”  Saudi Arabia’s deepening influence in global football includes sponsorships, investments in European clubs, and lucrative player contracts. This includes deals with FIFA, such as the state oil giant Aramco’s sponsorship and backing for the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States.    Source: With inputs from agencies

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has said they want to streamline the recruitment process with "fairness and transparency" as the Kingdom is committed to ensuring that Bangladeshi workers continue to be "valued and integral members" of Saudi Arabia’s labour market. "Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to strengthening this vital cooperation. As part of this commitment, we aim to streamline the recruitment process, ensuring fairness and transparency for both workers and employers," a spokesperson for the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources & Social Development told UNB. He said Bangladeshi expatriates have been an integral part of Saudi Arabia's workforce for decades, bringing their skills and dedication to a range of sectors in the Saudi labor market. Their contributions complement the local workforce, fuelling the Kingdom’s development and enriching their social fabric, said the spokesperson. Today, he mentioned, Saudi Arabia is home to over two million Bangladeshi expatriate workers and they deeply value the contributions they bring to their society. Looking forward to next year with hopes for a better Bangladesh: Foreign Secretary "We are fully committed to protecting their welfare, upholding their rights, and offering them wide-ranging opportunities to develop and grow their careers," said the spokesperson. The Labor Reform Initiative (LRI) of 2021 marked a significant milestone in this commitment, aimed at creating a more transparent, fair, and equitable labor market, said the Saudi government. By promoting job mobility and enhancing contractual relationships, the KSA said, the LRI has empowered expatriate workers across the Kingdom, setting new standards in the labor sector. The Wage Protection System (WPS) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the financial rights of workers by electronically tracking and ensuring the timely payment of wages in line with agreed contracts. The system applies strict penalties to employers who fail to comply," said the Spokesperson. ‘Fighting my own shadow,’ says energy adviser about bureaucratic challenges The WPS is now fully operational across all establishments, covering even those with as few as one employee, providing a comprehensive layer of protection for both Bangladeshi workers and the broader expatriate workforce. Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Bangladesh Essa Youssef Essa Al Duhailan, during his recent meeting with Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin in Dhaka recalled the invaluable contributions of Bangladeshi expatriate workers to the Saudi economy and society, praising them as diligent and hardworking. The Saudi Embassy in Dhaka is issuing a good number of visas every day, which is adding up to the workforces employed in Saudi Arabia. Workshop on financial inclusion, rural transformation towards achieving SDGs begins The Ambassador expressed eagerness to recruit more workers, especially skilled and trained workforce to support its ambitious initiatives like ‘Green Saudi Initiative’ and mega projects under the Kingdom Vision 2030. Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia underscored the necessity of maintaining continuous engagement between the two governments, including political consultations and the high-level Joint Economic Commission (JEC) as well as the Joint Technical Committee (JTC) on Manpower between the two countries.

The "Bangladesh Culture" segment of the prestigious "Riyadh Season" is set to kick off on Wednesday afternoon (4pm KSA time), showcasing the rich and diverse cultural heritage and lifestyle of Bangladesh.  This high-profile event will highlight various aspects of expatriates' lives in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, offering a vibrant glimpse into the traditions, art, and customs of Bangladesh. A diverse lineup of artistes, celebrities, and influencers from Bangladesh will showcase the country’s rich culture and heritage during a four-day celebration at Al-Suwaidi Park.  The event, filled with vibrant performances, traditional music, dance, and delicious Bangladeshi cuisine, promises to be a spectacular display of Bangladesh's traditions.

Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Essa Youssef Essa Al Duhailan on Sunday expressed eagerness to recruit more workers, especially skilled and trained workforce, to support its ambitious initiatives like ‘Green Saudi Initiative’ and mega projects under the Kingdom Vision 2030. The Ambassador recalled the invaluable contributions of Bangladeshi expatriate workers to the Saudi economy and society, praising them as diligent and hardworking. During a meeting with Foreign Secretary Md Jashim at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Saudi envoy said the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka is issuing a good number of visas every day, which is adding up to the already 3 million workforces employed in Saudi Arabia. Both the Foreign Secretary and the Ambassador underscored the necessity of maintaining continuous engagement between their governments, including political consultations and the high-level Joint Economic Commission (JEC) as well as the Joint Technical Committee (JTC) on Manpower between the two countries. During the meeting, the Ambassador briefed the Foreign Secretary on some pending Saudi initiatives, including establishment of Iconic Mosques and an Arabic Language Institute in Dhaka and sought his cooperation in expediting them. The Saudi envoy also apprised him on the current Saudi investment initiatives in the port logistics and renewable and power sectors, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign Secretary Jashim assured the Ambassador of his commitment to addressing any outstanding issues and encouraged him to explore further potential for increasing investment from KSA. He pledged full support to facilitate the removal of any obstacles hindering such investments. The Foreign Secretary appreciated Saudi Arabia’s role in deescalating regional tensions and fostering stability. Commending its leadership role to the Islamic Ummah, he reaffirmed Bangladesh's unwavering support to Saudi Arabia in achieving regional stability. Jashim also expressed Bangladesh’s solidarity with the Palestinian cause and called for urgent action for the realization of a Two-State solution. The Ambassador congratulated the Foreign Secretary on his assumption of responsibilities of the Ministry. The Foreign Secretary thanked him and shared some recent developments taking place in the country in addition to the initiatives and reforms agenda taken up by the Interim Government. The Ambassador recalled Bangladesh's steadfast support for Saudi Arabia in various international fora, including the upcoming 2034 Football World Cup and IORA, and expressed gratitude for the enduring fraternity between the two nations.

Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia will hold the second political consultations in Riyadh on July 1 which is likely to highlight issues related to trade, investment, Bangladeshi migrants, Rohingya crisis and other issues of mutual interests, officials said on Sunday (June 30, 2024). Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud will lead the Bangladesh and Saudi delegations respectively at the high-level meeting that will be held at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Issues related to education, health, environment and climate change, ICT and tourism are also likely to be discussed in the meeting. FM Hasan is scheduled to reach Riyadh early Monday on a two-day official visit, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told UNB. The foreign minister is scheduled to return home on July 3. Private Industry and Investment Adviser to the Prime Minister Sheikh Salman F Rahman will be part of the delegation as investment issues may come up in a big way. Additional Foreign Secretary (bilateral East and West)  Md Nazrul Islam, Bangladesh Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Mohammad Javed Patwary, Director General of West Asia Wing Shafiqur Rahman and Director Nafisa Monsur will accompany the foreign minister as part of Bangladesh delegation members. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, who is also the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is likely to pay an official visit to Bangladesh later this year. This would be a landmark event in the history of bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia leading to the consolidation of ties, especially in trade and commerce, investment and economic cooperation, according to official on both sides. The Saudi crown prince has accepted the invitation extended by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to visit the country this year, and both sides may discuss the issue further for finalization of details, a Bangladesh official told UNB speaking on condition of anonymity. PM’s upcoming China visit a reflection of maintaining balanced diplomacy: Foreign Minister It would be the first ever visit of any Saudi crown prince to Bangladesh after 1985 when the then Saudi Crown Prince Abdullah bin Abdulaziz visited Dhaka. A good number of bilateral instruments -- MoUs and agreements – are likely to be signed during the visit of the Saudi leader, which would strengthen the bilateral ties between the two countries significantly, both sides hope. The first ever political consultations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia were held on March 16, 2022 in Dhaka. At the meeting, both the leaders reaffirmed the bond of enduring ties and friendship existing between the two brotherly countries and expressed satisfaction over the state of bilateral cooperation. They noted the understanding and goodwill existing at the political level between the two countries and emphasised the need for devising means and ways to translate this into concrete outcomes. Both sides further stressed the need to coordinate and work together at functional levels to carry forward the policy decision for mutual benefit of the peoples of the two countries.  Several Saudi companies have already invested in some sectors in Bangladesh and some other companies are considering greater engagement in various areas. Bangladeshi immigration emerges as UK election issue after Labour leader’s comments spark outrage The envoy said about 2.8 million Bangladeshis working in Saudi Arabia are also making significant contributions to Saudi and Bangladesh economies. In May this year, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) wanted to know the progress of efforts in renewing the passports of the Rohingyas who went to the KSA back in 1973-74 with Bangladeshi passports. Saudi Deputy Interior Minister Dr Nasser bin Abdulaziz Al-Daoud discussed the issue with Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan during a bilateral meeting at that time. Read more: Saudi Crown Prince exchanges greetings with Hasan Mahmud

As the deadline to apply for Hajj visas concluded last night, uncertainty looms for over 11,000 pilgrims from Bangladesh who have yet to secure their visas. This situation makes their participation uncertain in this year’s Hajj, scheduled for June 16, contingent on moon sighting. As of today, the latest figures revealed that 72,138 individuals had successfully obtained their Saudi visas, with an additional 259 currently in the visa printing process. However, this leaves precisely 11,167 applicants in limbo, with their chances of attending the Hajj in jeopardy unless the Saudi government grants another extension. In response to the crisis, Faridul Haq Khan, Minister of Religious Affairs, has formally requested a third extension from the Saudi authorities to accommodate the backlog. Echoing this sentiment, Md A Hamid Zamadder, Secretary to the ministry, expressed optimism last night, telling UNB, “We remain in constant communication with our counterparts in the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. We are hopeful for an extension in the visa application period.” Explore why boys lag behind girls in exams: PM Hasina says on SSC results Zamadder also noted that other countries, including India and Indonesia, are facing similar issues, which might influence Saudi Arabia to extend the visa deadline. Despite the government’s efforts, issues with local Hajj agencies have compounded the problem. These agencies have reportedly failed to secure accommodations in Saudi Arabia, a prerequisite for visa approval, leading to last-minute scrambles and heightened uncertainty. The agencies are now racing against time, trying to secure housing at lower rates, which has delayed visa processing. As of now, 11,017 Bangladeshi pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia, with a total of 85,257 expected to perform Hajj under both government and private management. Visitors on Hajj visa prohibited from traveling outside Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca: Saudi Ministry The first batch of pilgrims departed on May 9, with flights scheduled to continue until June 10. Upon completion of Hajj, return flights are slated from June 20 through July 22. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the remaining applicants can fulfill their spiritual journey, as the ministry awaits a definitive response on the visa extension issue, expected by Monday.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines commenced its dedicated Hajj flights this morning, marking the beginning of its annual service to transport pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia for the holy Hajj. The inaugural flight, BG3301, departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at 7 am, carrying 415 pilgrims directly to Jeddah. The event began with a ceremony at 5:30 am, attended by key figures including Md Faridul Haque Khan, Minister of Religious Affairs; Sajjadul Hassan, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Civil Aviation and Tourism; Air Vice Marshal Md Mafidur Rahman, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB); Shafiul Azim, Managing Director and CEO of Biman Bangladesh Airlines; and Md Shahadat Hossain Taslim, President of the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB). PM inaugurates Hajj programme-2024 This year, a record number of 85,257 Bangladeshi pilgrims will journey to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj, with Biman Bangladesh Airlines handling approximately 50% of these travelers, totaling 42,629 pilgrims. To accommodate this massive undertaking, Biman has scheduled 116 pre-Hajj flights and 125 post-Hajj flights. Furthermore, the airline has expanded its service to include flights from Sylhet and Chattogram, enhancing access and convenience for pilgrims across Bangladesh. Biman Bangladesh Airlines continues to operate these flights exclusively with its own fleet, underscoring its capability and readiness to manage the logistical demands of Hajj travel. Read more: Visitors on Hajj visa prohibited from traveling outside Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca: Saudi Ministry

Saudi Arabia has clarified its new policy, introducing travel restrictions for Hajj pilgrims — confining their movements exclusively to Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that individuals visiting Saudi Arabia on a Hajj visa are prohibited from traveling outside these three cities. The visa is designed solely for pilgrimage purposes and does not permit holders to engage in work, seek residency, or travel beyond Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca. Hajj packages for 2024 to be cheaper Violations of these restrictions could result in severe penalties, including deportation and a potential ban on future Hajj participation, according to a Gulf News report. Furthermore, the Ministry clarified that all international visitors, except those from GCC countries who do not require a Hajj permit, must secure a Hajj visa through the official channels. To streamline the application process, the Ministry's website now facilitates electronic registration for the Hajj visa via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' visa platform. Applicants are required to log in, select the required service, and follow detailed instructions for document submission. Bangladeshis can perform Umrah with transit visa: Saudi Hajj Minister The deadline for Hajj visa applications is set for the 7th of Dhu Al Hijjah, or until the designated quota of pilgrims is met. Processing typically takes up to three working days, and applicants are urged to apply early to adhere to all regulatory requirements.