Arab News Pakistan

3 days ago | arabnews.pk | Nour El-Shaeri

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is poised to play a key role in propelling the growth of the global Islamic finance industry in 2025, underpinned by non-oil economic expansion and robust sukuk issuance, according to a new analysis.   The Kingdom’s banking system growth, supported by Vision 2030 initiatives, is expected to contribute significantly to the expansion of Islamic banking assets next year, S&P Global Ratings said in its latest outlook report.

4 days ago | arabnews.pk | Jasmine Bager

DHAHRAN: Animation lovers attending the 11th Saudi Film Festival this week were treated to a masterclass by Oscar-nominated Japanese director Koji Yamamura. Yamamura gave a masterclass titled “Giving Shape to Invisible Light” on Saturday. While the Saudi Film Festival typically focuses on local and regional cinema, it also offers audiences a chance to engage with global voices. This year, Japan holds a special place in the lineup, with the festival running until April 23.

5 days ago | arabnews.pk | Nour El-Shaeri

RIYADH: Startup investment in the Middle East and North Africa region fell sharply in March, with total funding declining 76 percent month on month to $127.5 million across 28 deals, down from $530 million in February. The decline — observed even after excluding debt financing from both months — reflects broader economic uncertainty stemming from ongoing US trade tensions with global partners.

5 days ago | arabnews.pk | Naimat Khan

Pakistan deputy PM meets Afghan premier in Kabul to discuss militancy, trade cooperation ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday met Afghanistan’s acting Prime Minister Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund during a day-long visit to Kabul, where the two sides discussed militancy, regional security, trade and efforts to boost bilateral cooperation.

6 days ago | arabnews.pk | Jasmine Bager

DHAHRAN: The red carpet was rolled out for the 11th edition of the Saudi Film Festival on Thursday, as the event confirmed its role as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s burgeoning movie culture. Hosted by the dynamic duo — Saudi actors Aixa Kay and Khaled Saqer — the celebration at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran was brimming with glamor and drama.