Al Riyadh Newspaper to End Print Edition After Six Decades

After six decades of print journalism, Al Riyadh newspaper is preparing to end its daily print edition, marking a major transition for one of the Kingdom’s long-established media institutions as it moves fully toward digital platforms.

According to Al Arabiya, the newspaper plans to stop publishing its daily print edition on August 24, 2026, while continuing its editorial operations through its digital platforms. The decision also includes Al-Yamamah magazine, which is published by Al-Yamamah Press Establishment, the publisher of Al Riyadh.

Six Decades of Saudi Journalism

Founded in 1965, Al Riyadh was the first Arabic-language daily newspaper to be published in the capital. Over the decades, it went through several stages of development, evolving from a relatively small print publication into a major media institution.

The newspaper’s digital presence began in 1998 with the launch of its website, providing an online extension of the print edition and later becoming an increasingly important channel for reaching readers.

Throughout its history, Al Riyadh expanded its daily edition significantly and at one point recorded circulation of more than 150,000 copies per day inside and outside the Kingdom, according to Al Arabiya.

From Print to Digital

The decision to end the print edition reflects a broader transformation taking place across the global media industry, as audiences increasingly rely on websites, mobile devices and digital platforms for news and information.

Al Riyadh began its digital transition relatively early and has continued to expand its online journalism and digital products. The move allows the publication to maintain its editorial presence while adapting to the changing ways audiences consume news.

In an article published by the newspaper in May 2026, Al Riyadh described the transformation of journalism as a shift from the printed page to the screen, while emphasizing the continued importance of journalism in documenting events and shaping public awareness.

A Legacy Built Across Generations

Al Riyadh’s six-decade history has covered politics, culture, sports, business, investigations and daily affairs, while contributing to the development of generations of journalists and media professionals.

Among the most prominent figures associated with the newspaper was the late journalist Turki Al-Sudairi, who served as editor-in-chief for nearly four decades and became one of the most influential figures in Saudi and Arab journalism.

The newspaper also underwent significant professional and organizational developments, including the establishment of one of the early women’s sections in local journalism and the adoption of modern publishing technologies as the institution evolved.

The End of Print and the Beginning of a New Era

As August 24 approaches, Al Riyadh is set to close the print chapter of a journey that has lasted around six decades, while continuing its journalism through digital channels.

The transition does not mark the end of the newspaper, but rather a transformation in how its journalism reaches readers, particularly as audiences increasingly seek faster, more interactive news experiences through websites, mobile platforms and social media.

Al Riyadh is therefore entering a new chapter in its history, leaving behind decades of paper and ink while continuing its journalistic journey in the digital age.