News for 'Saudi Arabia'

Gulf tensions drive NRI luxury home investments back to India

Gulf tensions drive NRI luxury home investments back to India

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Non-resident Indians are increasingly investing in luxury homes in India, driven by geopolitical uncertainties, particularly the Iran war. This trend is observed across major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and the National Capital Region, with developers noting a significant rise in NRI pre-sales. While some see it as a temporary shift, others believe India is becoming a stable, long-term investment destination for NRIs, especially those from West Asia.

Puligilla And Sherif Eye Another Podium Finish In Rwanda Rally

Puligilla And Sherif Eye Another Podium Finish In Rwanda Rally

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Indian rally driver Naveen Puligilla and co-driver Musa Sherif are set to compete in the Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally, the third round of the FIA African Rally Championship. The duo, known for their previous podium finishes in WRC3 and ARC3 categories, will drive a Ford Fiesta and aim for another strong performance on the demanding mountain stages.

Over 1,000 Indians stranded in Doha evacuated in 3 days

Over 1,000 Indians stranded in Doha evacuated in 3 days

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Qatar Airways operated a Doha-New Delhi flight on Monday on which more than 300 Indian passengers stranded in Doha travelled to India, the Embassy of India in Doha, Qatar, said on its X handle.

Saudi minister on surprise India visit to play peacemaker

Saudi minister on surprise India visit to play peacemaker

Rediff.com8 May 2025

Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Aljubeir visited India on Thursday and held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, focusing on de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The visit comes as ties between India and Pakistan have further deteriorated following Indian military strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also arrived in New Delhi on a scheduled visit amidst the escalating tensions.

Pakistan Attempts to Broker Peace in West Asia with High-Level Summit

Pakistan Attempts to Broker Peace in West Asia with High-Level Summit

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Foreign Ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye convene in Pakistan for a summit aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict in West Asia, with Pakistan actively seeking to broker peace through dialogue and diplomacy.

Pakistan Hosts Key Summit to Address West Asia Tensions

Pakistan Hosts Key Summit to Address West Asia Tensions

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Pakistan is hosting a quadrilateral summit of foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye to discuss the conflict in West Asia and explore avenues for peace. The summit includes discussions on regional developments and meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

AFC Shifts Postponed Knockout Games to Neutral Venue in Jeddah

AFC Shifts Postponed Knockout Games to Neutral Venue in Jeddah

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

AFC relocates four postponed Asian Champions League Elite last-16 ties to Jeddah as single-leg matches amid Middle East tensions.

Trump signals winding down Iran ops as US sends more troops

Trump signals winding down Iran ops as US sends more troops

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

In a post on Truth Social, Trump outlined key goals of the campaign, including degrading Iran's missile capabilities, dismantling its defence industrial base, eliminating naval and air power, preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear capability, and protecting United States allies such as Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Xi by his side, Modi warns against 'weaponisation of tech'

Xi by his side, Modi warns against 'weaponisation of tech'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned against the 'weaponisation' of technology and critical minerals at the BRICS summit, advocating for cooperation to foster shared prosperity. Concurrently, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced plans for an open-source AI ecosystem for BRICS nations, positioning Beijing as a key technology partner amid global AI competition.

Indian Firms Announce Global Partnerships, New Fund, And Social Impact

Indian Firms Announce Global Partnerships, New Fund, And Social Impact

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Indian companies LTM and Mastek announced new international partnerships for cloud, AI, and digital transformation. Jio BlackRock AMC launched a new hybrid fund. NMIMS partnered with Coursera for AI-enabled learning, and MakeMyTrip Foundation rebuilt a flood-damaged school in Manali.

New evaluation policy formed for CBSE students in Gulf, Centre tells SC

New evaluation policy formed for CBSE students in Gulf, Centre tells SC

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The Centre on Monday informed the Supreme Court that the Central Board of Secondary Examination has come up with a new policy for the evaluation of private students, who were affected by the cancellation of Class XII board examination in Gulf countries due to the recent Iran-US war.

'This War Is Only About Iran's Fight For Survival'

'This War Is Only About Iran's Fight For Survival'

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

'Strikes into the Gulf countries are proof that the security guarantees offered by the US are ineffective and that the Gulf countries cannot rely on American security assurances for their safety.'

FIFA World Cup 2026: Kounde answers Yamal as favourite debate fuels war of words

FIFA World Cup 2026: Kounde answers Yamal as favourite debate fuels war of words

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

France defender Jules Kounde has brushed aside Spain star Lamine Yamal's comments that Les Bleus are not favourites ahead of La Roja at the FIFA World Cup 2026, saying the remarks do not bother him.

Puligilla And Sherif Shine In Rwanda Rally Victory

Puligilla And Sherif Shine In Rwanda Rally Victory

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Indian rally duo Naveen Puligilla and Musa Sherif secured a comfortable victory in the ARC3 class and an impressive fourth overall finish at the 2026 Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally, moving up to second in the ARC3 championship standings.

Asim Munir Is Making Pakistan A Global Influencer

Asim Munir Is Making Pakistan A Global Influencer

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

'In a volatile global market, India is pursuing a low-risk, low-return policy, akin to a SIP -- slow, steady investment.' 'Pakistan is following a high-risk, high-return policy.'

Iran unveils vast underground missile base, counters US claim

Iran unveils vast underground missile base, counters US claim

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

In a clear message to international observers, the strategic site was pointedly "described as "the tip of the iceberg" regarding the nation's hidden arsenal.

Hormuz Closure Puts Gulf Refining At Risk

Hormuz Closure Puts Gulf Refining At Risk

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

'Refiners may soon be forced to adjust operations, curtailing runs as product exports stall and directing output solely to domestic markets.'

India draw UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iran in AFC U-16 Championships

India draw UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iran in AFC U-16 Championships

Rediff.com26 May 2016

India will be up against UAE, Saudi Arabia and Iran in the group stages of AFC U-16 Championship as the draw for the event, which will act as a dress rehearsal for next year's FIFA U-17 World Cup, was held amid much fanfare in Panaji, Goa on Thursday. The tournament begins on September 15 and matches will be held at Fatorda and Bambolim Stadium in Goa. The final is slated to be played on October 2. The top two teams from each groups will qualify for the quarter-finals. In case India, who are in Group A, advance to the semi-finals, the winner of play-off 3 will also qualify for FIFA U-17 World Cup. Conducted by Shin Mangil, Director of Competitions, Asian Football Confederation, the ceremony was attended by Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar, Secretary of All India Football Federation Kushal Das and U-17 World Cup Tournament Director Javier Ceppi among others. The 16 participating teams were divided into four groups.

India's exports to US decline 22% to $6.6 bn in Jan

India's exports to US decline 22% to $6.6 bn in Jan

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

India's merchandise exports to the US contracted 21.77 per cent to $6.6 billion in January due to high tariffs imposed by America, according to the Commerce Ministry data. Exports contracted in September, October and December last year also. However, it rose 22.61 per cent in November.

India's Final AFC Asian Cup Qualifier Against Hong Kong to be Held in Kochi

India's Final AFC Asian Cup Qualifier Against Hong Kong to be Held in Kochi

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

India's final match of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers against Hong Kong will be held in Kochi on March 31. Although India is out of contention for the AFC Asian Cup 2027, the match is still important for FIFA ranking points.

Russian crude oil imports soar to 9-month high in March

Russian crude oil imports soar to 9-month high in March

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Indian companies, however, are now paying a premium of $6-$7 a barrel for Russian oil, compared with discounts of $8-$10 a barrel before the start of the conflict.

BRICS 2026: India's Chance To Make Diplomatic Gains

BRICS 2026: India's Chance To Make Diplomatic Gains

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

For India, the goal is not simply to host another grand diplomatic gathering. It is to prove that a diverse coalition of emerging powers can still deliver.

Will Trump Attend Islamabad Peace Talks?

Will Trump Attend Islamabad Peace Talks?

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

The intriguing bit is that Trump is likely to attend the talks in Islamabad this weekend -- if he does, it will be the clearest signal yet that the US is ready to exit the war with some sort of win to show, since he cannot afford to go for the talks and return empty-handed, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War

Over 20 Indian workers died abroad daily, most in Gulf: Govt

Over 20 Indian workers died abroad daily, most in Gulf: Govt

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Data reveals a disturbing trend of Indian worker deaths abroad, particularly in Gulf nations, alongside numerous complaints of exploitation and labour rights violations.

45 Indian pilgrims perish in deadly bus accident in Saudi

45 Indian pilgrims perish in deadly bus accident in Saudi

Rediff.com17 Nov 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was "deeply saddened" by the bus accident in Saudi Arabia's Medinah, in which several Indian Umrah pilgrims are feared dead.

'We are better': Yamal sparks fire ahead of France clash

'We are better': Yamal sparks fire ahead of France clash

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Spain's young star Lamine Yamal has confidently stated that France holds no advantage in the FIFA World Cup 2026, dismissing them as favourites. Yamal expressed strong belief in Spain's ability to win the tournament, highlighting that knockout rounds are a different challenge from the group stage.

Asian Tour, DP World Tour, PGA TOUR Forge Landmark Partnership Until 2029

Asian Tour, DP World Tour, PGA TOUR Forge Landmark Partnership Until 2029

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Asian Tour, DP World Tour, and PGA TOUR have announced a significant partnership extending until at least 2029. This alliance aims to enhance commercial and playing opportunities, establish pathways for Asian Tour members, and will see the DP World Tour co-sanctioning events with the Asian Tour again, marking a new era for professional golf globally and a potential setback for LIV Golf.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif signs US-Iran peace deal

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif signs US-Iran peace deal

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday signed the historic peace deal between the United States and Iran as a guarantor; the agreement will see the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US naval blockade.

America set to catch 'Lamine Fever' as Spain chase another WC title

America set to catch 'Lamine Fever' as Spain chase another WC title

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Lamine Yamal exploded into view at 16 and became an integral part of Spain's record fourth European Championship triumph in 2024.

Saudi open to LGBTQ fans but no booze a 2034 WC

Saudi open to LGBTQ fans but no booze a 2034 WC

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

Last year, Saudi announced the opening of an alcohol shop in the Diplomatic Quarter of Riyadh to combat the black market and illegal imports. The store is only for non-Muslim diplomats, who must present diplomatic identification before they buy.

Goa Welcomes Asia-Oceania's Top Bridge Players For 5th Asia Cup

Goa Welcomes Asia-Oceania's Top Bridge Players For 5th Asia Cup

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Goa is set to host the 5th Asia Cup Bridge Championship from June 21 to 27, attracting 350 players from 16 Asia-Oceania countries. India, having previously hosted in 2018, will field strong 'A' and 'B' teams across various categories, including Asian Games medallists, aiming to add to its 20 previous medals.

MEA reveals how India is responding to West Asia crisis

MEA reveals how India is responding to West Asia crisis

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar are actively engaged with world leaders to promote dialogue and diplomacy for peace in West Asia, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the region.

CBSE Postpones Exams in Middle East Amid Conflict

CBSE Postpones Exams in Middle East Amid Conflict

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has postponed the class 10 and 12 board exams scheduled for March 5 in the Middle East region due to the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict.

How Many Indians Live In The Middle East?

How Many Indians Live In The Middle East?

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Based on figures currently listed on the ministry of external affairs web site, a large number of Indians reside across West Asia.

India U17 Team Gears Up for AFC U17 Asian Cup with International Friendlies

India U17 Team Gears Up for AFC U17 Asian Cup with International Friendlies

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

The Indian U17 men's football team is set to play friendly matches against Thailand, Indonesia, and Korea Republic in Thailand as part of their preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026.

China surpasses US as India's largest trading partner, trade deficit widens

China surpasses US as India's largest trading partner, trade deficit widens

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

China has emerged as India's largest trading partner in 2025-26, with bilateral trade reaching USD 151.1 billion, while India's trade deficit with Beijing widened to an all-time high of USD 112.6 billion.

FIFA World Cup: Messi's Last Dance? Argentina Boss Breaks Silence

FIFA World Cup: Messi's Last Dance? Argentina Boss Breaks Silence

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Defending champions Argentina are motivated by their passionate fans to win the World Cup again, with manager Lionel Scaloni and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez highlighting the emotional connection with supporters as a key driver ahead of their final clash with Spain.

F1: Max Verstappen on pole in Saudi Arabia

F1: Max Verstappen on pole in Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com9 Mar 2024

Verstappen took pole position for the Saudi Arabian Formula One Grand Prix on Friday with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc qualifying alongside on the front row.

Pak pushes for talks even as Iran, Israel reject peace moves

Pak pushes for talks even as Iran, Israel reject peace moves

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in West Asia, offering to host talks between the US and Iran and engaging with regional leaders to promote peace and stability.

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Skoda Auto is strategically navigating the competitive Indian automotive market by prioritising profitable growth, exploring new powertrain options like CNG and a limited diesel return, and gearing up for a locally produced electric SUV, all while expanding its retail footprint.