Capital city of Saudi Arabia and hub of politics and commerce
As of April 10, 2026, Iraq has emerged as a critical battleground in the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran. Iranian-backed militias and US forces have exchanged drone and airstrikes, killing hundreds including civilians, commanders, and UN peacekeepers. Iraq has authorized Iran-aligned Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) to defend themselves and demands stronger government action to contain escalating violence.
Gulf cities including Riyadh, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi are experiencing heavy rainfall and flooding. Authorities have activated emergency plans, increased field efforts, and issued safety warnings. The storms are linked to seasonal atmospheric instability, with recent data showing widespread rainfall and flash floods across the region.
Airlines are shifting capacity and raising fares due to ongoing Middle East conflicts. Qantas is reducing domestic flights and increasing prices, while European and US carriers are expanding routes to Africa and Asia. These changes are driven by geopolitical tensions and rising fuel costs.
The United Arab Emirates has announced it has withdrawn from OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance effective May 1, saying a review of its production policy and expanded domestic capacity require greater national control. The move removes a major spare-capacity holder and will weaken OPEC's ability to stabilise global oil supply when Gulf shipping resumes.
GCC leaders in Jeddah are coordinating a unified regional response to Iran-related attacks and the war, while pressing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and accelerate cross-border projects in transport, energy and water security.
Cristiano Ronaldo has helped Al-Nassr clinch the Saudi Pro League title with a 4-1 win over Damac, securing the club’s 11th league crown and Ronaldo’s first major trophy with the club. The victory follows closely after he was named in Portugal’s World Cup roster. Al-Hilal finished second, undefeated in 34 games.
Oil markets are facing a prolonged impact from the current crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, with analysts and industry leaders warning that a full rebound in flows may take years. Saudi and UAE officials emphasise resilience strategies to cushion prices, while other observers caution that the damage to global trading systems will extend beyond the immediate conflict.
Former Yemeni president Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has died in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at the age of 80. State media confirm three days of mourning and the transition of power in Yemen’s internationally recognized government continues from exile.
Saudi Arabia is expanding Riyadh Air as part of Vision 2030, aiming to turn the capital into a global aviation hub and reduce reliance on oil. The first Dreamliner deliveries have begun, with a plan to connect Riyadh to over 100 destinations and boost passenger capacity while expanding airport capacity to support this growth.
The National Resistance Council of Iran says a planned Paris rally against executions has been cancelled by Paris police “after business hours,” citing public order concerns. Paris police deny the link to a call between French and Iranian ministers. NCRI says it will appeal; Reuters confirms the ban and notes prior protests by the NCRI in Paris.
Three pairs of conjoined twins, Olivia and Gianna in Riyadh; Mercy and Goodness in Abu Dhabi; and a fourth Filipino pair in Saudi care, have undergone or prepared for separation surgeries funded by national programs and charities. Updates show varying stages of recovery and ongoing post-operative care.
Usyk has vacated all current belts, stating a farewell to the titles while promising more in the sport. Verhoeven delivered a bruising, undefeated performance but Usyk closed with a late surge to stop him in the 11th round beneath the Pyramid. The fight marks a dramatic end to Usyk’s belt era and raises questions about future matchups.