Saudi Arabia

Industry News

Temasek to Open First Middle East Offices in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh

Singapore state investor Temasek Holdings announced plans to establish its first Middle East offices in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh in the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals. The strategic hubs are designed to deepen regional partnerships and accommodate co-located portfolio companies targeting the Gulf, Central Asia, and Africa. As of March 31, 2026, Temasek managed a net portfolio valued at S$518 billion ($405.5 billion).

Middle East Travel Alerts

EASA Advises Airlines to Avoid Parts of Saudi Airspace Through November 16

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior confirmed that Flydubai flight FZ1073 diverted to Tabuk on September 30 due to a cockpit altercation. All 174 passengers received care and departed for Tel Aviv on a replacement aircraft. The injured pilots were treated locally before transfer to Abu Dhabi on October 1.

Industry News

Oil Prices Gain 2 Percent as China Halts Refined Fuel Exports

Global crude oil prices rose around 2 percent on October 1, 2026, after China suspended refined fuel exports outside Hong Kong and Macau. Brent crude moved above $100 per barrel as domestic refiners prioritized national stockpiles. Concurrently, Saudi Arabia resumed tanker loadings from Yanbu, with Gulf exports recovering to 23.3 million barrels per day.

Middle East Travel Alerts

Flydubai Dispatches Replacement Aircraft to Tabuk Following In-Flight Emergency Diversion

On September 30, 2026, Flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an emergency landing at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following an in-flight cockpit struggle. Flydubai dispatched a replacement aircraft to evacuate the stranded passengers, though some travelers initially hesitated to reboard the carrier. Tabuk airport authorities later confirmed that all passengers departed Saudi Arabia for their final destination.