Saudi Press

Saudi Arabia and the world
Friday, Feb 20, 2026

Trigana Air Incident Highlights Indonesia's Aviation Challenges; Saudi Mortgage Boom and New India Sea Route; UAE's GDP Growth; Kentucky Manhunt Suspends Schools

Trigana Air ATR-42 skids off Papua runway, sparking safety concerns; Saudi mortgage loans surge 33% amid Vision 2030 push.
In breaking news, a Trigana Air ATR-42 aircraft carrying 48 people skidded off the runway in Papua, Indonesia, on September 9, injuring several passengers. This incident highlights Indonesia's reliance on air transport to connect its islands and the challenging aviation conditions in Papua.

Meanwhile, over in Saudi Arabia, residential mortgage loans surged by 33% in July as apartment demand soared, particularly in Riyadh. This significant rise reflects the country's changing economic and demographic trends, driven by the ambitious Vision 2030 initiatives.

Speaking of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has also launched a new sea route to India, connecting Jeddah Islamic Port with major Indian ports, Mundra and Nhava Sheva. This new ten-day service supports Saudi Arabia's goal to become a global logistics hub and strengthens its role as a key trading and energy partner with India.

Turning to the UAE, the country's GDP saw impressive growth in Q1 2024, increasing by 3.4%, thanks to robust gains in the non-oil sector. Finance, transportation, construction, and tourism all contributed, showcasing the UAE's innovative economic approaches.

On the diplomatic front, Saudi Arabia and Greece held their fifth round of political consultations in Riyadh, focusing on enhancing bilateral ties and addressing both regional and international issues. This meeting was led by high-ranking officials from both nations, emphasizing the importance of their relationship.

Lastly, in the United States, a manhunt has led to the closure of several schools in Kentucky as authorities search for Joseph A Couch, suspected of shootings on Interstate 75. Authorities have urged vigilance in the affected areas while the search continues.
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