AGP Executive Report

Hajj Security Crackdown: Saudi Arabia says it will not allow Hajj to be used for anything that strays from its religious purpose, as more than 1.5 million pilgrims arrive and authorities dismantle 217+ fake Hajj campaigns and turn back thousands of violators. Iran Talks, Strait of Hormuz Pressure: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio calls the latest Iran talks “slight progress,” while Qatar and Pakistan keep shuttling mediation efforts; the big fight is over the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran is pushing for long-term control via fees—something Washington says it won’t accept. Regional Fallout in Iraq: Iraq says a high-level committee is analyzing attacks on Saudi Arabia and the UAE with both countries, insisting there are no rushed deadlines. Aviation Safety Rule: Saudi Arabia bans passengers from recharging power banks onboard and limits them to hand luggage only. World Cup Build-Up: England coach Thomas Tuchel says he had “clear the air” talks with Ivan Toney before recalling him to the 2026 squad. Sports Business: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League title run keeps him atop global rich-athlete lists, while LIV Golf reportedly seeks new funding after Saudi PIF support ends.

Saudi Football Glory: Cristiano Ronaldo finally ended his Saudi Pro League trophy wait as Al Nassr beat Damac 4-1, with Sadio Mané and Kingsley Coman joining Ronaldo’s two goals to clinch the title on the final matchday. Hajj Momentum: Saudi officials say 42,000 Iraqi pilgrims have arrived in Makkah, praising smoother services and electronic handling of sacrificial offerings. Oil & Trade: Saudi merchandise trade surplus jumped to its highest since 2022, helped by a 37.4% rise in oil exports and the East-West pipeline boosting Red Sea shipments. Markets Shift: Ashmore says Saudi trading is moving from short-term speculation toward more institutional money, with sukuk growth and deeper liquidity. Diplomacy Under Strain: With US-Iran talks still uncertain and Hormuz disruption lingering, oil prices remain jumpy—Barclays keeps its 2026 Brent forecast at $100 but warns risks are skewed higher.

Saudi Pro League Glory: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr sealed the title with a 4-1 win over Damac, scoring twice in a late surge to finish two points clear of Al Hilal. Capital Markets Crackdown: Saudi CMA issued final rulings and fines totaling nearly SR18m against 11 former Middle East Healthcare officials over financial statement manipulation. Insurance Growth Outlook: A GCC-wide insurance market forecast puts growth on track to reach $61.8bn by 2030, led by non-life demand, with Saudi expected to stay the biggest market. Construction Costs: GASTAT says Saudi’s construction cost index rose 2.4% in April, driven by higher residential and non-residential costs. Hajj Health Readiness: Weqaya says Saudi is prepared for Ebola and Hantavirus risks, with no confirmed or suspected cases and enhanced monitoring for pilgrims. Regional Tensions: Gulf markets rebounded on Iran-deal hopes and firmer oil prices after reports of a uranium directive from Iran’s leader. Tech & Finance: SAB Invest became Tadawul’s first ETF market maker, while NCM is rolling out AI-powered weather forecasts for Hajj.

Esports Shift: The Esports World Cup 2026 is moving from Riyadh to Paris (July 6–Aug 23), with organizers citing the regional security situation and a push for stability for players and partners. Hajj Focus: Saudi officials are doubling down on “contemporary ijtihad” for Hajj management, stressing healthcare, technology, and pilgrims’ safety as the season scales up. Energy Pressure: Saudi Arabia is set to burn more fuel oil for power this summer as gas supply tightens, a sign of how regional conflict is reshaping domestic energy choices. Trade & Diplomacy: Saudi and Egypt’s foreign ministers coordinated on de-escalation and keeping US-Iran talks on track. Customs Crackdown: In a separate incident, Indian customs seized 396 grams of gold hidden in chocolate packets from passengers arriving from Riyadh.

Iran-US Brinkmanship: Trump says the US could launch another strike on Iran within days, even as he claims talks are in “final stages” and warns of “nasty” action if no deal lands. Diplomacy via Pakistan: Iran and the US keep exchanging messages through mediators, with Pakistan’s interior chief Mohsin Naqvi shuttling between Tehran and regional capitals as a draft framework reportedly nears completion. Gulf Security & Energy Pressure: With shipping disruptions tied to the Strait of Hormuz crisis, the UAE’s new pipeline bypass is reported ~50% complete, while Saudi crude exports hit record lows in March—another sign of how the war is reshaping flows. Saudi Hajj Tech Push: Saudi authorities say Hajj operations are running on expanded digital systems—thousands of towers, added fiber networks, and AI tools for crowd management—while health officials inspect holy-site hospitals ahead of the season. UK-GCC Trade Deal: Britain sealed a long-awaited free trade agreement with six Gulf states, cutting tariffs on UK goods including food and advanced manufacturing, as regional instability from the Iran war hangs over markets.

Iran Strike Pause: US President Trump says he was “an hour away” from resuming attacks on Iran, then delayed action after requests from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE—giving Tehran a “two or three days” deadline to return to talks. IRGC Warning: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warns any renewed US aggression could spark a wider war “beyond the region.” Gulf Tension Signals: Chinese tankers have reportedly exited the Strait of Hormuz as Trump and JD Vance hint at deal progress, while the Strait remains a flashpoint for energy and security. Saudi Hajj Tech: SDAIA expanded AI and data systems across Hajj sites and ports to speed pilgrim services, including support for the Makkah Route. Heat Alert for Pilgrims: Saudi Arabia’s meteorology warns Makkah could hit 48°C, with Malaysian Haj teams on high alert and advice to limit outdoor exposure. Business & Travel: Riyadh Air opens public ticket sales for London; British Airways cuts some Middle East routes; and ADNOC Distribution plans up to 200 QSR outlets via Americana.

Green Hydrogen Push: SARCO signed a one-year MoU with Ally Hydrogen Energy to develop a green ammonia plant and a hydrogen equipment hub in Jazan, signaling Saudi’s push to turn clean fuels into real industry. World Cup Fever: With the 2026 FIFA World Cup starting June 11, FIFA squad lists are coming fast and Miami is set to host seven matches—while resale prices in the US have dipped about 23% in a month, even as “get-in” prices still sit around $558. Iran Tensions, Again: Trump says he’s “an hour away” from striking Iran but has given Tehran a short window to reach a deal; meanwhile, Gulf states keep urging diplomacy as drone incidents keep rattling the region. Aviation Moves: Riyadh Air opens public ticket sales for Heathrow–Riyadh from July 1, and British Airways is cutting flights to seven Middle East destinations amid the Iran-linked security climate. Hajj Security: Saudi Cabinet reiterated it won’t hesitate to protect security and reviewed Hajj preparations and the Pilgrim Experience Program.

Iran-US Tension, Saudi at the Center: US President Donald Trump says he has put a “very major” planned strike on Iran on hold after requests from Gulf leaders including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, while warning the Pentagon stays ready for a full assault if talks fail. Tehran’s Offer: Iran’s latest peace proposal to the US calls for ending hostilities on all fronts (including Lebanon), US force withdrawal near Iran, and reparations—plus lifting sanctions and releasing frozen funds. Gulf Politics: Coverage also points to rising strain inside the GCC as the Iran war deepens regional fault lines, with Saudi-UAE dynamics under scrutiny. Markets Watch: Oil and regional stocks swung on the diplomacy headlines, with Dubai’s main index extending losses for a seventh straight session. Saudi Business & Travel: flyadeal plans daily flights from Riyadh to Hyderabad from July 1, and GymNation secured a $100m credit facility to expand across the GCC.

Iran Strike Pause: President Trump says he’s called off a planned Tuesday strike on Iran after Gulf leaders—including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman—asked for more time, citing “serious negotiations,” while warning the U.S. is ready for a “full, large-scale assault” if no acceptable deal is reached. Drone Tensions Around Saudi: Somalia condemned an attempted drone attack on Saudi Arabia, while Iraq says its air defenses detected no launches from its territory after Saudi reported intercepting three drones from Iraqi airspace; Pakistan and the UAE also condemned the incident. Houthi Court in Yemen: A Houthi-controlled court sentenced 19 people to death for allegedly aiding the Saudi-led coalition, as a major prisoner swap was agreed. Saudi Calendar & Hajj Prep: Saudi confirmed Dhul Hijjah begins May 18 and Eid al-Adha will be May 27, as the Kingdom ramps up Hajj services and security. Energy Watch: Oil prices climbed on renewed Gulf drone and Iran-war fears, keeping Strait of Hormuz supply worries in focus.

Gulf Tensions, Energy Shock: Trump escalated pressure on Iran, warning the “clock is ticking” as drone attacks hit US allies—UAE reported a fire near the Barakah nuclear plant, while Saudi said it intercepted three drones entering from Iraq—pushing oil higher and rattling markets. Regional Security: Jordan and Kuwait condemned the drone attacks as violations of sovereignty and international law, while Oman urged dialogue and rejected “hostile and escalatory acts.” Hajj & Eid Timetable: Saudi Dar al-Ifta confirmed Dhu al-Hijjah begins May 18, with Eid al-Adha on May 27 and Arafah on May 26; Qatar also named its 2026 Hajj mission head. Business & Finance: Dar Al Arkan moved toward a USD sukuk issuance, appointing a syndicate of banks for investor calls. Culture & Sports: “Khaleeji 27” Gulf Cup draw is set for Jeddah, and Riyadh’s KAFD hotel Atheel is slated to open in Q4 2026. Losses: Saudi journalism pioneer Mohamed Ali Hafez and adviser Hassan Yassin both passed away.

Drone Tensions at Barakah: A drone strike sparked a fire near the UAE’s Barakah nuclear power plant, with no injuries or radiation impact reported; the UAE says the drone entered from the western border direction and investigations are ongoing, while the IAEA warned of “grave concern” as the Iran ceasefire remains fragile. Saudi Response: Saudi Arabia condemned the attack and said it intercepted three drones that entered from Iraqi airspace, warning it will take “necessary operational measures” to protect sovereignty. US-Iran Pressure: US President Trump escalated rhetoric as nuclear talks stall, posting that “the clock is ticking” for Iran. Hajj Calendar Lock-In: Saudi Arabia confirmed Dhul Hijjah begins May 18, Arafah is May 26, and Eid al-Adha is May 27—setting the timeline for pilgrims across the region. Hajj Enforcement: Saudi Interior penalized five people (including four expatriates and one Saudi) for transporting seven Hajj-goers without permits, with fines, jail, deportation, and re-entry bans.

Hajj Readiness: Qatar’s official Hajj mission delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia and is running around-the-clock field operations from Makkah’s Al Naseem district to lock in services, safety, and fast responses ahead of the first pilgrim groups on the 4th of Dhul Hijjah. Regional Diplomacy: In a phone call, Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif reviewed ties with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and discussed regional de-escalation efforts tied to the US-Iran ceasefire. Energy Security: Saudi Arabia’s UN envoy stressed protecting maritime routes and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, warning against attacks on energy infrastructure. Clean Energy Push: SARCO signed an MoU with China’s Ally Hydrogen Energy to develop a green ammonia plant and a hydrogen equipment hub in Jazan, plus an R&D centre with Saudi universities. Sports Shock: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr were stunned 1-0 by Japan’s Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, extending his trophy wait.

French Court Moves Khashoggi Case Forward: A French investigating judge will now examine a complaint by rights groups accusing Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of involvement in Jamal Khashoggi’s 2018 killing, after a Paris appeals ruling said the case could fall under crimes against humanity. Hajj Tech Push: Saudi’s Tawakkalna app is supporting the 2026 Hajj season with 19 languages and 1,300 digital services, linking permits to the Tasreeh platform. Security Crackdown: Saudi authorities arrested 9,576 illegal residents in a week, including thousands for residency, border, and labor violations, and detained people accused of helping illegal entry. Regional Trade Focus: GCC leaders say the post-Iran-attack period demands deeper economic integration and better logistics to keep trade moving. Sports Spotlight: Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr trophy wait continues after a 1-0 loss to Japan’s Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final.

Regional Security: Saudi Arabia is pushing a non-aggression pact with Iran modeled on the Helsinki Accords, with the Financial Times citing support from several European leaders as Gulf states worry about post-war threats and reduced US presence. Diplomacy in Motion: The GCC welcomed a Yemen detainee swap deal, calling it a humanitarian step to build trust, while urging solutions tied to the Gulf Initiative, Yemen’s national dialogue outcomes, and UN Security Council Resolution 2216. War’s Ripple Effects: Iran’s top diplomat says lack of trust is blocking US talks to end the war, as international airlines keep rerouting flights over Middle East tension. Economy & Markets: With the Iran conflict still squeezing energy flows, oil prices climbed and Gulf markets are watching how Fed leadership and rate expectations could shift dollar liquidity. Sports & Culture: Qatar closed Gulf Games Doha 2026 swimming with eight medals, while Saudi football chatter continues around Ronaldo’s title chase.

Customs Crackdown: Saudi ZATCA says it stopped an attempt to smuggle 426,162 amphetamine pills at the Al Haditha border by finding them hidden in spare-tire cavities inside a truck. Middle East Tensions: Iran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi says “lack of trust” is blocking talks with the U.S., as oil prices jump on renewed flare-ups around the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Security Diplomacy: Saudi Arabia is floating a Middle East non-aggression pact with Iran, drawing on the Helsinki model, while the U.S. and Iran ceasefire talks remain stalled. Energy Diversification: The UAE is fast-tracking a pipeline to double exports via Fujairah by 2027—another bid to bypass Hormuz. Tech & Economy: Saudi Arabia is exploring stablecoin-powered real estate settlement as part of a broader tokenization push. Sports & Culture: Saudi PIF backs the 2026 World Cup, and Riyadh Metro’s Western Station opens as the city expands transit.

Sports Investment Push: Saudi Arabia’s PIF just became an “official tournament supporter” of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, doubling down on sport as it scales back other bets like LIV Golf. Cricket Expansion: Organisers say the kingdom’s first pro T20 league, the Dunes League, is set for October with six teams and legends plus emerging talent. Hajj Logistics: Saudi Arabia is tightening the Hajj complaint and service flow while also rolling out major operational prep, including pre-clearance and heavy on-the-ground inspections ahead of the season. Regional Security & Energy Pressure: The Strait of Hormuz remains a live risk as Iran conflict fallout keeps oil and shipping uncertainty front and center, with Gulf markets still jittery. Tech & Finance: Saudi-linked business moves continue, from esports and AI career platforms to banking liquidity stress reports and new investment deals.