Saudi Arabia earns draw with Iraq to secure World Cup berthReuters
In a tense and tightly contested match at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia secured their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a goalless draw against Iraq. The draw was enough for the hosts to advance thanks to their superior goal difference in Group B of Asia's fourth-round qualifiers. Reuters
A Victory Without a Goal
While there were no goals scored, the match was far from passive. Over 60,000 fans filled the stands, pushing the home team forward. Saudi Arabia led the group on goal difference after a strong 3-2 win over Indonesia earlier in the campaign. Reuters
Saudi attackers, especially Saleh Abu Al-Shamat, put pressure on the Iraqi defense throughout, while Nawaf Al-Aqidi, in goal for Saudi, made a critical injury-time save from a free kick by Hassan Abdulkareem. That stop preserved the draw and sealed qualification. Reuters
Meanwhile, Iraq’s goalkeeper Jalal Hassan showcased a series of key saves, thwarting moments from Salem Al-Dawsari, Nasser Al-Shehri, and others in Saudi’s front line. Despite his efforts, Iraq couldn’t break the deadlock. Reuters
Significance of the Qualification
This marks Saudi Arabia’s seventh World Cup appearance since their debut in 1994, reinforcing the Kingdom’s consistent presence on the global football stage. Reuters
For a team that has invested heavily in domestic leagues, infrastructure, talent recruitment, and coaching development, this qualification is a validation of long-term strategy. It also comes at a moment when Saudi football is trying to ramp up international credibility and competitiveness.
Tactical Notes & Match Context
Saudi’s strategy was cautious but controlled — they prioritized defensive solidity and counterattacks rather than all-out attack.
The midfield worked diligently to disrupt Iraqi build-ups, and the defensive line remained composed even under periodic Iraqi pressure.
Iraq’s approach shifted in the second half toward more urgency, but opportunities were limited by Saudi’s organization and key saves.
The timing of the goal difference advantage gave Saudi room to play conservatively in final minutes, preserving the draw.
What’s Next for Saudi Football
With qualification secured, the focus moves to preparations for 2026 — squad depth, balance of experienced versus young players, training camps, and scheduling high-level international friendlies. Saudi Arabia will aim to assemble a team capable of not just participating but competing.
The domestic momentum is strong. The Saudi Pro League has grown in prominence, attracting high-profile players and increasing standards. That infrastructure will support the national team, providing match fitness, exposure, and tactical growth.
Qualification also helps in building national pride and momentum for upcoming Saudi-hosted global events (such as Expo 2030), reinforcing the sports diplomacy narrative tied to Vision 2030.
Saudi Arabia’s economy is projected to grow by 4 % in 2025, up from previous estimates of 3 %, following a rebound in oil output, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The IMF’s World Economic Outlook report attributes the upward revision to stronger-than-expected recovery in oil production and continued momentum in non-oil sectors. Reuters
The revised forecast also nudges Saudi Arabia’s 2026 growth estimate slightly higher at 4 %. In the wider region, the IMF now expects Middle East & Central Asia GDP growth to reach 3.5 % in 2025 and 3.8 % in 2026.
The report notes that non-oil growth accounted for over 55 % of Saudi Arabia’s real GDP expansion in the first half of 2025, underscoring the success of diversification efforts. Reuters
In recent months, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has maintained a high profile across multiple arenas — diplomacy, economic diversification, technological initiatives, and infrastructure development. His actions continue to shape Saudi Arabia’s domestic trajectory and its global posture. Below is a survey of his key undertakings and strategic priorities as reported by major news sources.
Strengthening Ties with Russia via Aviation Diplomacy
One of the most visible signals of MBS’s diplomatic influence in 2025 has been the elevation of Saudi–Russian relations, marked by the inaugural direct flight between Riyadh and Moscow operated by Saudia. The first direct passenger flight landed in Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport in early October, establishing a regular connection of three weekly return services. Reuters
This development underscores more than just travel convenience — it reflects deepening political, economic, and energy cooperation between the two nations. President Vladimir Putin had publicly thanked MBS for Saudi mediation in a U.S.–Russia prisoner exchange, demonstrating the personal rapport the two leaders maintain. Reuters
The timing also aligns with efforts by MBS to position Saudi Arabia as a nexus between global power centers, leveraging energy diplomacy and strategic connectivity.
Advancing the AI Agenda via “Humain”
On the technological front, MBS has advanced Saudi Arabia’s ambition in artificial intelligence with the launch of “Humain”, a new company under the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Announced in May 2025, Humain is designed to develop AI infrastructure, cloud services, data centers, and advanced models — including efforts to build a powerful Arabic language multimodal large language model (LLM). Reuters
This initiative aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in the Arab world’s digital transformation, accelerating capabilities in high-tech fields that complement the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of diversification. MBS chairs the new entity, reinforcing its importance as a strategic pillar. Reuters
However, a recent analysis suggests tensions underneath the ambition. According to Intelligence Online, there is pressure to shift resources from existing Saudi projects to prioritize Humain, potentially disrupting other development agendas. Some experts point to talent shortages and the reliance on foreign expertise as challenges. Intelligence Online
Diplomacy with Iran: A Delicate Reset
In July 2025, MBS hosted Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Jeddah — the first visit by a senior Iranian official to Saudi Arabia in recent years. The meeting, involving MBS alongside key Saudi leaders, signals an attempt to recalibrate relations amid broader regional tensions. Reuters
The agenda reportedly spanned bilateral ties and regional security challenges. Saudi and Iranian officials discussed the shifting dynamics in the Middle East, especially in light of recent conflicts and the fallout of proxy engagements.
This move reflects MBS’s desire to hedge Saudi diplomacy — managing relations with both Western and regional powers to preserve flexibility. It also underscores Riyadh’s willingness to engage Iran directly, rather than leaving regional mediation solely to external actors.
Absence from Global Forums: G7 Nonattendance
While MBS remains active domestically and regionally, he has avoided certain high-level multilateral venues. In June 2025, he declined an invitation to attend the G7 Summit in Canada. The official reason was not publicly clarified, but analysts interpret the decision as a reflection of shifting priorities: emphasizing regional engagements over global prestige events. Reuters
Saudi-state media did not respond immediately to inquiries. A consistent pattern has been that MBS has reduced his participation in distant international travel, focusing instead on consolidating initiatives closer to the Kingdom’s strategic core.
Infrastructure & Urban Ambitions: New Murabba & Soudah Peaks
MBS continues to drive visionary infrastructure projects that align with Saudi Arabia’s broader transformation narrative. Among them is New Murabba, a central downtown development spanning Riyadh and Diriyah, featuring iconic architecture, public spaces, cultural venues, and sustainability goals. Wikipédia
Meanwhile, the Soudah Peaks project, led under PIF-backed entities, is another major signature initiative. Located in ‘Asir Province, it is a luxury mountain tourism development expected to contribute significantly to non-oil GDP and employ thousands. Wikipédia
Such projects position MBS not only as a policymaker but as a master planner of Saudi Arabia’s future spatial and urban identity.
Strategic Alignment: Defense Pact with Pakistan
In September 2025, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) at Al Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, with MBS and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as signatories. Under the pact, both nations agreed to treat an act of aggression against one as an act against both — formalizing deeper security cooperation. Wikipédia
This move reflects Riyadh’s expanding influence in South Asia, diversifying alliances beyond the Gulf. For MBS, the pact bolsters Saudi Arabia’s role as a strategic security actor beyond its immediate neighborhood.
Observations & Strategic Patterns
Diversification of influence: MBS is weaving soft power, tech leadership, infrastructure, and defense alliances into Saudi Arabia’s expanding international footprint.
Focused diplomacy over global spectacle: His selective attendance at major global fora suggests prioritization of regional relevance and practical impact.
Risk of overextension: The tension between new tech ventures and existing commitments may invite scrutiny into resource allocation and project management.
Narrative framing: MBS continues to frame these activities as components of a broader transformation — not just in oil, but in society, governance, and regional leadership.
As the 2025 calendar evolves, MBS’s next steps will be telling: which alliances deepen, what projects accelerate, and how these moves are communicated to both international observers and Saudi citizens. His recent activity underscores the ambition — and complexity — of leading a Kingdom in transition.
References & Sources
Reuters — “First direct Riyadh–Moscow flight operated by Saudia lands in Russian capital.” Reuters
Reuters — “Saudi launches company to develop artificial intelligence under PIF.” Reuters
Intelligence Online — “MbS destabilising existing Saudi projects to bring up his new AI baby.” Intelligence Online
Reuters — “Saudi crown prince meets Iranian foreign minister in Jeddah.” Reuters
Reuters — “Saudi Crown Prince MBS will not attend G7 Summit in Canada.” Reuters
Wikipedia / project pages — New Murabba & Soudah Peaks Wikipédia+1
Wikipedia / defense pact — Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement with Pakistan Wikipédia
As the Saudi Pro League (SPL) undergoes a period of rapid transformation, its ambitions extend well beyond domestic competition. Under the umbrella of Vision 2030, structural changes, strategic investments, and global branding are reshaping the league into a driving force in international football. This article explores how the SPL is evolving, what challenges lie ahead, and what the league’s future might hold.
The SPL’s Vision for Growth and Influence
At the World Football Summit in Riyadh, league officials, coaches, and football leaders convened to articulate the SPL’s roadmap for growth. According to Arab News, they highlighted the league’s swift evolution, its rising global appeal, and intentions to balance development across men’s and women’s football. Arab News
Omar Mugharbe, CEO of the SPL, underscored transparency, strategic transformation, and inclusive growth as cardinal principles. His message: those observing the changes from the outside would gain belief when they see the infrastructure, professionalism, and ambition on the ground. Arab News
Meanwhile, coaches and technical directors emphasized long-term investments in player development, coaching education, and outreach to global audiences. The league seeks not only to import star names but to empower local talent and establish sustainable growth across all tiers.
Star Power & Global Messaging
One notable narrative shaping perceptions is the prominence of Cristiano Ronaldo in the SPL. In a recent interview, Ronaldo claimed that the Saudi league is now among the top five globally, citing its rising competitiveness and continuous improvement. ESPN.com
Earlier, media analyzed whether Ronaldo could become the all-time top scorer in SPL history if he maintained his scoring form over the next seasons. Al Arabiya English These statements serve both as promotional tools and as symbols of league prestige.
The SPL’s growing media coverage—through global sports media, digital platforms, and streaming services—reinforces its narrative of ambition. As the league draws more international attention, the message is clear: Saudi Arabia is no longer a football periphery but a rising contender in the global sports arena.
Institutional Reforms & Club Ownership
A crucial pillar of this transformation is the restructuring of club ownership. As part of broader economic reforms, Saudi Arabia has moved to privatize professional clubs and allow greater injection of capital, accountability, and modernization. Some media note that foreign firms have begun acquiring stakes in Saudi clubs—one such case: Al Kholood, fully acquired by the American-led Harburg Group, became the first fully foreign-owned Saudi club. The Times of India
Privatization aims to reduce government dependency, incentivize better governance, and attract domestic and international investors. With capital commitments expected to increase, clubs can more confidently invest in training facilities, international partnerships, and youth academies.
However, this shift also imposes challenges: aligning sporting goals with business returns, ensuring fan engagement amid new ownership models, and maintaining competitive balance across the league.
Infrastructure, Talent & Grassroots Development
Transforming a league goes beyond big signings—it demands sustained investment in infrastructure and youth development. The SPL is prioritizing upgrades to stadiums, training facilities, and youth academies across the country.
Such upgrades aim to ensure that clubs meet both domestic and continental standards in competition and club licensing.
Another area of focus is coaching education and technical development. The league has signaled support for more rigorous certification, international exchange programs, and capacity building—especially for women’s football. Arab News
Grassroots outreach is a complementary priority. Leveraging the Kingdom’s resources, programs are being expanded to bring football to remote regions, engage youth cohorts, and build a sustainable talent pipeline—a long-term investment whose returns may be seen in a decade or more.
Challenges on the Road Ahead
Despite strong momentum, the SPL’s ambitions face several obstacles.
1. Competitive balance and parity
With top clubs enjoying better resources, the risk of concentration of success in a few clubs rises. Ensuring competitive balance across 18 clubs (current league size) is vital to maintain interest and legitimacy.
2. Financial sustainability
While capital inflows are strong now, clubs must build diversified revenue streams (broadcast, merchandise, sponsorships) to become less reliant on state or sovereign funds.
3. Regulatory & governance frameworks
New ownership structures require clear rules on financial fair play, transparency in transfers, and robust oversight to prevent distortions.
4. Integration in continental competition
Performance in AFC competitions will test the SPL’s maturity. Success there enhances reputation; failure can undermine global ambitions.
The SPL’s Role in Saudi Sports Strategy
The rise of the SPL aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader national objectives:
Diversification of economy — by making sports and entertainment a pillar sector under Vision 2030
International branding — the league helps shape narratives about the Kingdom’s modernity, openness, and capacity to host global events
Social development — football can foster youth engagement, national pride, and healthier lifestyles
Preparations for global tournaments — With Saudi Arabia confirmed as host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the domestic league serves as a testing ground for standards, infrastructure, and talent (elevating stadium operations, broadcast technology, fan services). AP News
Looking Forward
As the 2025–26 season progresses, certain watchpoints will define the SPL’s next phase:
Will clubs sustain high investment in talent, or pursue more measured growth?
Can younger Saudi players break into starting roles, balancing star imports?
How will Saudi teams fare in AFC Champions League matches?
Will privatized clubs deliver on business metrics and fan expectations?
The direction the SPL follows could reshape Asian football’s balance of power. If it executes well, Saudi Arabia may transition from a major net importer of football talent to a credible hub for domestic development, continental competition, and global narratives.
For now, the Kingdom's Super League is not merely a competition—it’s a statement of intent.
First direct Riyadh–Moscow flight operated by Saudia lands in Russian capital
Saudia made history with the first direct Riyadh–Moscow flight, which landed at Sheremetyevo Airport. The route signals deepening diplomatic and economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Russia.
Initially operated at three weekly frequencies, the service is designed to boost tourism, business flows, and bilateral engagement. The connection comes amid strengthened collaboration in OPEC+ and enhanced alignment between Saudi and Russian leaders, including coordinated prisoner exchanges and strategic dialogues.
The new link plays into Saudi Arabia’s agenda to expand international connectivity and establish Riyadh as a hub in line with Vision 2030.
IMF ups Saudi Arabia’s 2025 GDP growth forecast to 4%
Saudi Arabia’s economy is expected to grow more robustly in 2025 after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) revised its projections upward. According to Reuters, the IMF now forecasts a 4 % growth rate, up from earlier estimates, citing stronger oil output and resilient non-oil sectors.
The revision follows upward oil price revisions and increased production plans among OPEC+ members. Saudi Arabia, as the largest crude producer within the bloc, benefits directly from these shifts. The IMF also pointed to improved fiscal stability and continued reforms in non-oil sectors, such as tourism and logistics, as contributing factors.
Economists note that while oil revenues drive much of the increase, the Kingdom’s emphasis on diversification under Vision 2030 supports more balanced growth. The upward revision signals improved market confidence and may attract further foreign and domestic investment in sectors like renewable energy, transportation infrastructure, and technology.
Saudi coach Renard labels Iraq game most important of his career
Saudi Arabia’s national-team coach Hervé Renard described the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Iraq in Jeddah as the most important match of his career, emphasizing its decisive impact on the Kingdom’s campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Saudi Arabia leads Group B in the Asian qualifiers, narrowly ahead of Iraq on goal difference following consecutive wins against Indonesia. A draw would be enough for Saudi qualification, while Iraq must win to stay in contention.
Renard praised experienced players Salem Al-Dawsari, Saleh Al-Shehri, and Hassan Al-Tambakhti for their leadership, adding that the team’s preparation has been “focused and disciplined.” Iraqi coach Graham Arnold acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s consistency but vowed an all-out effort from his squad.
The fixture is viewed as a defining moment for Renard’s tenure and Saudi football’s broader ambitions to solidify its global presence through both club-level investments and national-team achievements.
References & Source:
Reuters — “Saudi coach Renard labels Iraq game most important of his career.
First direct Riyadh-Moscow flight operated by Saudia lands in Russian capital
The first direct Riyadh–Moscow flight operated by Saudia landed at Sheremetyevo Airport, marking a new stage in Saudi-Russian diplomatic and economic relations.
Saudia will run three weekly round-trip flights on the route. The service aims to deepen tourism, trade, and political engagement between the two nations.
The opening follows a period of intensified cooperation between Riyadh and Moscow within OPEC+, and growing personal rapport between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and President Vladimir Putin. Both leaders have recently coordinated prisoner-exchange efforts and economic dialogues.
The new air corridor reflects the Kingdom’s broader agenda to expand global connectivity and attract inbound tourism under its Vision 2030 diversification plan.
References & Source:
Reuters — “First direct Riyadh-Moscow flight operated by Saudia lands in Russian capital.”
New Saudi carrier Riyadh Air to launch with London service
Saudi Arabia’s new national airline Riyadh Air, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), will inaugurate operations later this month with a direct Riyadh-London Heathrow route beginning October 26 2025, according to Reuters and the Financial Times.
Initially, the flights will serve PIF employees and airline staff using a reserve aircraft until Riyadh Air’s dedicated fleet is delivered. A follow-up route to Dubai is expected in November.
The carrier has placed orders for 182 planes from Boeing and Airbus, including 72 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, A320neo aircraft for regional routes, and A350-1000 jets for long-haul services, with deliveries starting 2027.
Riyadh Air’s goal is to connect 100 destinations within five years, transforming the Saudi capital into a major global hub competing with Emirates and Qatar Airways. The launch aligns with Vision 2030 objectives to diversify the economy and make the Kingdom a global transport and tourism nexus ahead of Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
References & Source:
FT / Reuters — “New Saudi carrier Riyadh Air to launch with London service.”
Aramco completes deal to up stake in struggling JV Petro Rabigh
Saudi Aramco has finalized the acquisition of an additional 22.5 percent stake in its joint venture Petro Rabigh, previously co-owned with Japan’s Sumitomo Chemical, for 2.63 billion riyals ($701.8 million). The move raises Aramco’s total ownership to roughly 60 percent, giving it greater operational control.
Petro Rabigh has faced financial difficulties since 2021, accumulating 12.4 billion riyals in losses between 2022 and mid-2025. To stabilize the company, Aramco and Sumitomo plan a capital injection of 5.26 billion riyals and a $1.5 billion debt write-off.
The restructuring gives Aramco marketing rights for Petro Rabigh’s output, tightening vertical integration into its downstream business. The deal forms part of Aramco’s efficiency drive following a 22 percent profit decline in Q2 2025 due to lower oil prices.
By consolidating control, Aramco seeks to restore Petro Rabigh’s profitability and embed it more deeply into the group’s refining and petrochemical network, ensuring long-term value creation within its industrial ecosystem.
References & Source:
Reuters — “Aramco completes deal to up stake in struggling JV Petro Rabigh.”
Algeria’s state energy company Sonatrach signed a $5.4 billion production-sharing contract with Saudi Arabia’s Midad Energy to explore and develop oil and gas fields in the Illizi Basin near the Libyan border, Reuters reported.
The 30-year contract, with an optional 10-year extension, allocates full financing of the initial seven-year exploration phase to Midad Energy, which has already committed $288 million for early-stage work. The project’s estimated recoverable reserves amount to 993 million barrels of oil equivalent, including 125 billion m³ of natural gas.
The deal aligns with Algeria’s policy of boosting foreign investment in its energy sector. Sonatrach has also signed an $850 million partnership with China’s Sinopec, while the government targets $60 billion in overall sector investments over the next five years.
For Saudi Arabia, this agreement extends its oil-industry expertise abroad and strengthens its international energy footprint, consistent with Vision 2030’s strategy to diversify income and export know-how across the Middle East and Africa.
References & Source:
Reuters — “Algeria signs $5.4 billion oil and gas deal with Saudi firm Midad Energy.”
Saudi Aramco’s CEO, Amin Nasser, declared at the London Energy Intelligence Forum that the company is capable of sustaining its crude oil production at a ceiling of 12 million barrels per day (bpd) for up to one year without incurring additional cost burdens. Reuters
Nasser emphasized Aramco’s ultra‑low cost upstream operations, citing production cost of approximately $2 per barrel for oil and $1 for gas. Such cost efficiency, he argued, underpins the company’s strategic resilience, even amid volatile global markets. Reuters
Earlier expectations had targeted a 13 million bpd ceiling, but in early 2024 the Saudi energy ministry adjusted the target downward to 12 million. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates Saudi’s current spare capacity at roughly 2.43 million bpd, out of OPEC+’s 4.05 million bpd total spare capacity. Reuters
Aramco is broadening its strategic focus beyond crude oil. Investments in chemicals, petrochemicals, and downstream operations are central to its future growth. The company acquired a major stake in Petro Rabigh, invested in China’s Rongsheng Petrochemical, and is partnering on an $11 billion ethylene complex with TotalEnergies, expected to commence production by 2027. Reuters
Cette annonce confirme la position de force d’Aramco dans le secteur et rassure les marchés sur sa capacité à absorber les chocs à court terme.
References & Source
Reuters, “Saudi Aramco can sustain 12 million bpd maximum oil capacity for a year”