In spite of persistent conflict and the rapidly changing political  configurations across the Middle East, Arab countries must galvanise around their common interests [...] Additionally, a shared language, cultural affinity and a rich resource base must act as rallying points to bring the region together.

The ASDA’A Burson-Marsteller survey found that Arab youth see Saudi Arabia as their country’s biggest ally for the 5th consecutive year. [...] “Inside the hearts and minds of Arab youth” was the theme of a conference [...] in Dubai on April 12. Regional experts, business leaders and economists discussed the research findings of the Arab youth survey conducted to explore the attitudes of Arab youth in 16 countries in the Middle East and North Africa region. 

Some of the Kingdom’s young people have joined a cultural exchange program that aims at giving them the opportunity to share and gain more practical knowledge [...] during the initial trips of the program, called “Direction Tour — Knowledge/Culture Exchange Program."

A Saudi Arabian sociologist aims to counter stereotypes about her country with a coffee table book profiling successful Saudi women [...] "We are facing challenges but we are succeeding," said [Mona AlMunajjed] at the book signing for her work "Saudi Women: A Celebration of Success." The large-format book features her interviews with 40 Saudi women from a variety of fields, alongside their photographs.

Pope Francis will receive in private audience Iranian President Hassan Rouhani tomorrow, the latest meeting in a flurry of Holy See diplomatic activity concerning the Middle East and China. […] The Pope and Holy See diplomats will probably try to use the occasion of Rouhani’s visit to help defuse tensions between the two Muslim-majority countries.

Closer economic ties will top the agenda during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visits to Egypt, Iran and Saudi Arabia this week. However, Chinese mediation in the feud between Tehran and Riyadh is unlikely, say experts.