Saudi Arabia has established a national Medical Referral Centre to streamline patient transfers and treatment coordination, both domestically and internationally. Overseen by the Health Minister, the center aims to optimize resource use, reduce wait times, and ensure equitable access to high-quality medical services. This initiative aligns with Vision 2030's goals for healthcare transformation and digital advancement.
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Tourists visiting Saudi Arabia can now reclaim the 15% VAT on eligible retail purchases made from ZATCA-approved stores. To qualify, purchases must exceed SAR 500 (approx.$133), be for personal use, and be exported within 90 days. Refunds are processed at airport counters/kiosks with proper documentation. Use Global Blue tools to locate participating retailers and ensure compliance
Senator Lindsey Graham lauded President Trump's 50% tariff on India for purchasing Russian oil, deeming it a gamechanger. He warned European nations against procuring Russian oil via India, emphasizing the need to cease this practice. Graham asserted that buying cheap Russian oil would become difficult, praising Trump's decisive action to penalize countries supporting Putin's war efforts in Ukraine.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement has eliminated its age limit for deportation agent applicants, aiming to significantly expand its workforce. Fueled by congressional funding, ICE seeks to hire 10,000 agents, offering substantial bonuses and benefits. This recruitment drive, intended to bolster deportation efforts, raises concerns among local law enforcement agencies about potential staffing impacts.
Saudi Arabia has welcomed over 1.2 million Umrah pilgrims from 109 countries since June 11, 2025, marking a 30% rise from last year. Backed by 89 new initiatives, stricter accommodation rules via Nusuk Masar, and advanced digital platforms, the Kingdom is delivering a safer, smarter, and more spiritually enriching Umrah experience for pilgrims in the 2025–2026 season.
Martha Stewart has launched her first retail store in the MENA region, located in Dubai's City Centre Mirdif, offering an immersive experience of her iconic lifestyle brand. Apparel Group holds the GCC retail license. Following the Mirdif debut, two more stores have opened: At Dubai Hills Mall At Mall of the Emirates.
A Russian media outlet's search for a Chinese man photographed with President Putin 25 years ago captivated Chinese social media. Peng Pai, now an engineer, recalls Putin's affectionate gesture in a Beijing park sparking his interest in Russia. He studied in Moscow on a scholarship and now leads an engineering department in China.
Reports suggest Steve Bannon is considering a 2028 presidential bid, a claim he denies, stating "Trump 2028." This follows Trump's endorsement of JD Vance as a potential successor, possibly with Marco Rubio. Bannon has reportedly questioned Vance's resilience. Despite past denials of presidential ambitions, Bannon has explored ways to bypass term limits, and "TRUMP 2028" merchandise is already available.
Oman's electricity generation surged by 12.6% to 18,948.9 GWh by the end of May 2025, driven by rising national energy demand and infrastructure development. While most regions experienced growth, Dhofar and Al Wusta saw declines. Water production decreased slightly, highlighting the need for efficient resource management alongside electricity sector expansion.
Following Nikhil Ravishankar's appointment as Air New Zealand's CEO, media outlets in New Zealand disabled social media comments due to a surge of racist remarks targeting his Indian ethnicity. News organizations like New Zealand Herald, Radio New Zealand, and 1News cited their inability to moderate the hateful content as the reason for shutting down comments.