May 04 2021, 2:23 PM
May 04 2021, 11:48 AM
May 04 2021, 2:23 PM
(Bloomberg)
(Bloomberg)
Saudi Aramcoâs profit soared in the first quarter following a recovery in global oil and gas markets, though free cash flow remained too low to fully cover dividend payments.
The worldâs biggest energy firm kept its quarterly payout, almost all of which goes to the Saudi Arabian government, at $18.75 billion. The money is a vital source of cash for the kingdom as it tries to narrow a budget deficit that ballooned last year, with the coronavirus pandemic sinking oil prices and shutting down local businesses.
The bumper results follow those last week of Big Oil firms such as Royal Dutch Shell Plc and BP Plc, whose earnings are back to pre-pandemic levels as major economies reopen and more people are vaccinated. Brent crude has gained 31% this year to more than $68 a barrel.
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Apps to help ensure health protocols are followed
Updated 04 May 2021
May 04, 2021 06:34
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has given the go ahead for hotels surrounding the Grand Mosque in Makkah to issue permits to guests.
The measure will be implemented by the ministry in collaboration with the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence through the “Eatmarna” and “Tawakkalna” apps, with invitees being required to strictly meet regulatory requirements and health protocols.
The procedures will play a role in activating the investment process of the hotel sector, Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Abdelfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat said in a statement to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).