Expo 2030 Riyadh Progress: Riyadh says it has completed 8 million cubic meters of excavation and backfilling for Expo 2030, with 2 km of a 7.5-km main service corridor done, plus 2.1 million safe working hours; the project also reports environmental steps like safely reintroducing 80 creatures and relocating 719 trees, while aiming for “transformational technology” and “sustainable solutions” across a 6 million sq m site. Red Sea Night-Sky Conservation: Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve on Saudi’s Red Sea coast, became one of the first resorts to earn DarkSky Approved certification, citing lighting design and stewardship to protect the natural night environment. Water & Chemicals for Cleaner Operations: Aquatech acquired UAE-based Metichem (Metito Chemical Solutions), expanding water-lifecycle treatment, specialty chemicals, and operations/maintenance services across MENA and Southeast Asia, including work in Saudi Arabia. Shipping Risk to the Environment: Reports describe fresh threats and explosions around the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waters, with no pollution confirmed yet—raising ongoing concerns for marine safety and potential environmental impacts. Tourism With a Climate Lens: Saudi’s Aseer region is pushing an integrated tourism economy built around year-round access and eco/cultural assets, while Oman’s Khareef Dhofar campaign leans on “natural beauty” and climate-driven travel appeal. Maritime Security Meets Trade: A Windward report says 22 Chinese-linked vessels transited Bab el-Mandeb and Saudi ports (July 20–Aug 2) without incidents, even as Houthi attacks targeted Saudi oil tankers—highlighting how security volatility can still shape shipping patterns.