Hajj Heat Warning: A new study says climate change is shrinking the “safe window” for Hajj in Mecca, with 40C temperatures now typical of summer even in May—raising risks as the pilgrimage shifts earlier in the calendar. Green Hospitality: Novotel Riyadh Sahafa earned its first Green Globe certification, citing energy and water controls, motion sensors, and cooling-cost cuts via reflective building materials. Pilgrimage Operations & Waste: Saudi authorities reported large-scale cleanliness and health efforts during Hajj, including major waste clearance at Arafat and thousands of inspections, as crowd-management tech supports safer movement. Saudi Anti-Corruption Link: Saudi Arabia and Syria signed an MoU between Nazaha and Syria’s oversight body to share information and best practices to tackle cross-border corruption. Sustainable Food Research: Almarai opened the 2026 cycle of its dryland food security research prize, offering USD 500,000 for projects tackling hunger in the world’s driest regions. Local Entertainment: Saudi GEA launched Qatif Cinema, an open-air coastal movie experience running daily along the Corniche through mid-June. Labour Rights Probe: Saudi HRSD opened an investigation after a viral video showed a woman damaging items in a mall perfume kiosk, with claims about unpaid wages under review. Air Travel Upgrade: Saudia welcomed its first Airbus A321XLR, boosting long-range narrow-body capacity for more efficient international routes.