Kingdom to host FIFA Club World Cup in December, Asian Cup in 2027; sports a major component of crown prince's Vision 2030 reform agenda

After Mohammed bin Salman blames 'bad laws' for harsh rulings, brother of man sentenced to death for social media posts says de facto ruler can 'cancel them'

MBS accused of 'sportswashing' in latest and perhaps most dramatic move by to wield his kingdom’s oil wealth in advancing its economy and influence

Officials in Australia and New Zealand, co-hosts of July tournament, cite Gulf state's poor women's rights record in joint letter to the sport's governing body

FIFA, soccer's world governing body, accredits Anoud Al-Asmari with international refereeing badge as opportunities for women in ultra-conservative kingdom continue to grow

David Shuker grew up in small Jewish community in Najran that dissolved in 1948 amid regime hostility; 'I want to visit the place where I was born. I came from the dirt of Najran'

At least 3 gyms now offering pole dancing in Riyadh, though activity remains tainted by association with seedy strip clubs and burlesque houses depicted in Hollywood

In a triumphant week, Riyadh brokers Ukraine-Russia prisoner swap, holds UN summit, hosts German chancellor and talks energy with White House, but human rights pushed aside

Kingdom seeks to accomplish goal by 2023; part of 'Vision 2030' initiative to overhaul economy, reduce oil dependency and further integrate women into workforce

Saudi restaurant 'Shadows' caters to horror film buffs with strong stomachs, allowing them to savor their dishes while staff in gory costumes put on interactive shows