Home Blog

Knowledge Economic City welcomes eligible international buyers to own property in one of Islam’s holiest cities

Knowledge Economic City welcomes eligible international buyers to own property in one of Islam's holiest cities

Knowledge Economic City (KEC) has welcomed the Saudi Government’s approval of the Executive Regulations for the ownership framework of real estate by non-Saudis, together with the designation of the zones in which such ownership is permitted, marking a historic milestone that opens a new chapter for international investment in one of Islam’s holiest cities. As one of the designated developments in Madinah, Knowledge Economic City is ready to welcome eligible international buyers as implementation of the new farmwork progresses.

  

The new framework establishes a clear legal pathway that will enable eligible non-Saudi individuals, companies and qualifying entities to own property within designated developments, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions to diversify the economy, attract international investment and strengthen the Kingdom’s real estate sector. Once it comes into effect, the framework will introduce a transparent, government-regulated ownership journey, giving eligible buyers greater confidence and clarity throughout the purchasing process. 

For millions of Muslims around the world, the decision to purchase a home in Madinah is far more than a real estate investment.

It is an aspiration.

It is the opportunity to establish a lasting connection with a city that holds profound spiritual significance and occupies a unique place in the hearts of Muslims across the world. For many families, owning a home in Madinah represents a lifelong ambition and a legacy that can be passed from one generation to the next.

Once that decision has been made, buyers naturally begin asking another important question:

Where in Madinah should we invest?

Today’s buyers are seeking more than a home. They are looking for a destination that combines spiritual significance with modern living, excellent connectivity, world-class amenities and long-term investment potential.

Knowledge Economic City has been created to deliver exactly that.

Located within the Haram boundary of Madinah, Knowledge Economic City spans more than 6.8 million square metres, making it one of the Kingdom’s largest integrated master-planned destinations. The development brings together residential communities, hospitality, retail, commercial offices, education, healthcare and public spaces within a vibrant urban environment designed for future generations. 

Residents enjoy exceptional connectivity, with close proximity to the Prophet’s Mosque, Mount Uhud, Quba Mosque and Qiblatain Mosque, while benefiting from direct access to the Haramain High-Speed Railway Station and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, connecting Madinah with Makkah, Jeddah and international destinations.

Many homes within Al Alyaa also enjoy views towards Mount Uhud, combining contemporary living with one of Madinah’s most iconic landscapes.

Knowledge Economic City’s residential offering builds on the successful delivery of Dar Al Jewar, one of Madinah’s established residential communities. Today, the next chapter continues with Al Alyaa, offering eligible international buyers the opportunity to become part of one of the Kingdom’s most ambitious integrated destinations.

Designed as a contemporary residential neighbourhood, Al Alyaa combines modern architecture, landscaped public spaces, family-focused amenities and integrated community facilities, creating a destination where residents can live, invest and build their future in Madinah.

Once the new framework comes into effect, eligible buyers will benefit from a clear and transparent purchase journey. Depending on their residency status, applicants will complete the relevant government requirements before purchasing through the official Saudi property platform and receiving their title deed following handover. At every stage, Knowledge Economic City sales team will be ready to provide dedicated guidance and support, making ownership simple, secure and straightforward. 

The approval of these regulations represents one of the most significant developments in Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector in recent years. By expanding access to international buyers and strengthening transparency across the market, the new framework is expected to further position Madinah as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for faith-inspired living and long-term investment.

Hazem Banna, Acting CEO & CCO, Knowledge Economic City, said: “The approval of Saudi Arabia’s new ownership framework marks a defining moment for Madinah. For the first time, eligible international buyers will have a clear and transparent pathway to own property in this remarkable city. As one of the designated developments, Knowledge Economic City, looks forward to welcoming buyers from around the world and to offering a destination that brings together faith, lifestyle and long-term investment. Building on the success of Dar Al Jewar and now with Al Alyaa, we are creating communities where people can invest, belong and become part of Madinah’s future.”

Knowledge Economic City is already witnessing strong interest and enquiries from priority international markets including the United Kingdom, USA, Egypt, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia and across the GCC, reflecting growing demand from buyers seeking to own a home in Madinah while investing in one of Saudi Arabia’s fastest-growing destinations.

As global awareness continues to grow, KEC will be ready to support buyers throughout every stage of the ownership journey once the framework comes into effect, while contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambition of creating a more open, diversified and globally connected real estate market.

For more information about Al Alyaa and property ownership opportunities at Knowledge Economic City, visit www.madinahkec.com or contact the Knowledge Economic City Sales Centre.

 SAUDI INTRODUCES “PACKAGE VISA”, INTEGRATING TRAVEL BOOKING WITH EASIER VISA APPLICATION

 SAUDI INTRODUCES “PACKAGE VISA”, INTEGRATING TRAVEL BOOKING WITH EASIER VISA APPLICATION

Saudi has announced the launch of Package Visa, a new digital initiative designed to simplify travel to Saudi by integrating tourist visa application directly into curated travel bookings. The launch is currently underway through qualified travel and tourism service providers across selected international markets ahead of a broader rollout.

The initiative builds on Saudi’s wider efforts to simplify visiting the country. Since launching the tourist e-Visa, Saudi has introduced several new ways to visit, including visa on arrival and the Stopover Transit Visa. Together, these initiatives have supported the country’s rapid tourism growth, with Saudi welcoming more than 29 million inbound visitors in 2025.

Commenting on the initiative, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism, said:

“As Saudi’s tourism sector continues to grow at pace, Package Visa reflects our commitment to making travel to Saudi more seamless for visitors. By integrating visa issuance with travel bookings, we are simplifying the visitor journey and creating a more connected travel experience. This initiative also strengthens collaboration across the tourism ecosystem and supports Saudi’s position as an increasingly accessible global destination.”

For visitors, Package Visa means fewer steps between planning a trip and experiencing Saudi. Instead of arranging flights, accommodation, and a visa separately, eligible travelers can book everything through one integrated travel process, with the option to add events, activities and tourism experiences. The result is a simpler, more connected journey from booking to arrival.

For qualified travel and tourism service providers, the initiative creates an opportunity to offer more attractive travel packages, streamline the traveler journey, and encourage longer stays and richer travel experiences.

To ensure a smooth and reliable travel experience, Package Visa is available only through qualified travel and tourism service providers that meet clear service standards and offer 24/7 customer support.

As Saudi continues to grow its tourism sector, Package Visa marks another step toward making travel easier, more connected, and more seamless for visitors discovering the country.

AHRC Calls for the Immediate Release of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya

The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) joins all peace‑loving people and the global human rights community in calling for the immediate release of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, Director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza.

According to multiple credible sources, including Dr. Abu Safiya’s legal team, his health has drastically deteriorated, and he faces imminent danger, including the risk of death while in Israeli detention. His legal representatives are urgently appealing to the international community and all people of conscience to intervene without delay to compel Israel to release him before it is too late.

Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya is a physician who consistently places his patients’ lives above his own safety. He refused to abandon the hospital or leave the wounded behind despite repeated Israeli demands and threats. He continued his humanitarian mission under bombardment, siege, and near-total depletion of medical supplies.

Throughout the crisis, Dr. Abu Safiya repeatedly appealed to the international community to protect hospitals, medical staff, and patients from military operations. His calls were grounded in international humanitarian law and the universal principle that medical facilities must never be targets of war.

Despite the bombardment of Kamal Adwan Hospital, Dr. Abu Safiya remained at his post—even after being injured himself, even after his son Idris was wounded, and even after the killing of his son Ibrahim, whom he buried with his own hands inside the hospital. His courage and devotion to human life embody the highest ideals of the medical profession.

Since his arrest on December 27, 2024, Dr. Abu Safiya has reportedly been subjected to torture, abuse, and prolonged solitary confinement. His health continues to deteriorate, and he has been denied communication with his family and legal team. Reports indicate he was recently transferred to an isolated cell, raising further alarm about his safety and well‑being.

Dr. Abu Safiya’s case is not isolated—several other doctors and medical personnel have also been arrested by Israeli forces, deepening the humanitarian crisis and undermining the protection owed to medical workers under international law.

AHRC urgently calls upon international medical associations, physicians’ unions, humanitarian organizations, and global civil society to join in efforts to demand his immediate release. The global medical community has a moral obligation to defend colleagues who are persecuted for fulfilling their humanitarian duties. Silence or delay may cost Dr. Abu Safiya his life. His release is a moral, legal, and humanitarian imperative.

 

“We urge everyone to take a stand and push for the good doctor’s release,” said Imad Hamad, AHRC Executive Director. “This is not about politics; this is about medicine and human rights,” added Hamad.

Thales to equip Egypt’s artillery systems with advanced VHF tactical radios through its JV TBEI.. Thales and Benha for Electronic Industries

Thales to equip Egypt’s artillery systems with advanced VHF tactical radios through its JV TBEI.. Thales and Benha for Electronic Industries
Thales to equip Egypt’s artillery systems with advanced VHF tactical radios through its JV TBEI.. Thales and Benha for Electronic Industries

Thales today announced the signature of the VHF-HD contract with the Egyptian Ministry of Defence, marking the first major programme awarded to TBEI, the joint venture between Thales and Benha Electronics Industries, a company fully owned by Egypt’s Ministry of Military Production, created in January 2025.

This contract is part of the broader agreement signed in 2022 between EMOD and Hanwha Defense for the delivery of the VHF-HD tactical communication devices, which require robust interoperability and proven tactical communications solutions.

With this first contract, TBEI begins its journey to become Egypt’s national champion in military communications, supporting industrial localisation across several domains including tactical radios, tactical networks and network hybridisation, military satellite communications and services.

“This new contract marks a major step forward in our long-standing partnership with Egypt. By leveraging Thales’ field-proven tactical communications portfolio, we are proud to support through TBEI the Egyptian Ministry of Defence with interoperable, reliable and scalable systems that enhance operational effectiveness while contributing to local industry development.” said Christophe Salomon, Executive Vice-President, Secure Communications & Information Systems, Thales.

Thales has been present in Egypt for over five decades, supporting the country in defence, identity and cybersecurity. The creation of TBEI reflects a shared ambition to reinforce sovereign capabilities and expand opportunities in the regional re-export market.

The Thales VHF-HD radios selected by EMOD are combat-proven tactical systems renowned for meeting rigorous operational requirements. Their robustness, performance and maturity were key factors in the customer’s choice. Future technology enhancements — including advanced networking and AI-enabled features — are already being examined jointly by TBEI and Thales.

Thales contributes to Egypt’s growth and national sovereignty through local cooperation, and by fostering local talent. Employing close to 460 people across four sites, the Group works closely with national partners, including Benha which have already assembled thousands of Thales technology-based radios for the Egyptian Armed Forces. Thales also invests in developing local talent, notably through the Thales Training Academy for Technology and Engineering launched in 2024 in partnership with the Ministry of Defence and the French University in Egypt.

Led by Strong Demand, Volumes Growth, and Disciplined Execution Almarai Delivers Strong Q2 2026 Growth and Resilient Profitability

Led by Strong Demand, Volumes Growth, and Disciplined Execution
Almarai Delivers Strong Q2 2026 Growth and Resilient Profitability

Almarai Company (“Almarai” or the “company”, 2280 on the Saudi Exchange), the world’s largest vertically integrated dairy company and the largest food and beverage manufacturing and distribution company in MENA, today announced strong financial results for the second quarter of 2026 (Q2) despite costs, shipping, and regional pressures. The strong performance is driven by strategic expansions, resilient supply chain, and robust demand across its core categories, particularly poultry and dairy.

Revenue grew by 11% year-on-year to 5.87 billion SAR in Q2, bringing first half revenue to 12.03 billion SAR, up 9% compared to H1 2025. Profitability remained stable with net profit reaching 635.7 million SAR in Q2, supported by topline growth and portfolio expansion underscoring the resilience of Almarai’s business model and its sound cost management.

Ongoing cost control initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and service levels combined with improvements in the sales mix contributed positively to the financial performance, despite the impact of shipping, energy and raw materials costs as well as logistical challenges across the food industry. In addition, Almarai benefited from strong demand and increased sales volumes reflecting continued positive momentum across key markets.

Fawaz Al Jasser, CEO of Almarai Company, said: “Q2 2026 reflects another quarter of strong growth momentum for Almarai, attributable to healthy demand across our core product categories, particularly poultry and dairy. Disciplined execution and cost management have enabled us to deliver a stable and resilient financial performance. We remain confident in our strategy and commitment to food security and to strengthening our leadership across target markets, while continuing to innovate, meet evolving consumer expectations, and drive sustainable growth.”

Categories Performance During Q2

Poultry delivered strong growth in Q2, supported by an expanding customer base across markets. Continued investments in production capacity and operational efficiency have further reinforced the category as a key growth driver for the company.

Dairy and Juice also performed well, supported by increased demand. Almarai continues to expand its portfolio through innovation and the development of fresh products to meet customer expectations. 

Bakery achieved a stable performance, attributed to an improved product mix and continued innovation. The company will maintain its focus on product development and selective geographic expansion within this product category.

Almarai remains confident that its current strategy will continue to deliver sustainable growth while strengthening its market position. Through ongoing investment in dairy, poultry and innovation, the company is well positioned to capture future growth opportunities and create long-term value.

America at 250: A Defining Moment for Unity, Democracy, and All Our Histories

America at 250: A Defining Moment for Unity, Democracy, and All Our Histories

As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its independence, we celebrate more than the birth of a nation. We honor the enduring ideals that have guided the American experiment—liberty, democracy, justice, equality, the rule of law, and the inherent dignity and rights of every person.

This milestone arrives at a defining moment for our democracy. Our nation faces deep polarization and strains public discourse, yet history shows that America’s strength has always been its ability to rise above division through constitutional principles, civic responsibility, and a shared commitment to the common good.

Our Founders created not a perfect nation, but a constitutional republic built on enduring ideals and the promise of a “more perfect Union,” entrusting each generation with the duty to protect liberty, justice, and the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

For 250 years, the United States Constitution has stood as the cornerstone of our democracy—a living charter anchored in liberty, justice, checks and balances, and the separation of powers.

America’s strength lies in its people. We are a nation shaped by diverse cultures, faiths, and traditions, united by a shared belief in freedom, opportunity, and equal justice. Our diversity is a defining strength, reflected in the enduring motto E pluribus unum— “Out of many, one.”

Commemorating America at 250 also means acknowledging the fuller story of this land, including the histories, contributions, and sovereign rights of Native American and Indigenous peoples. Long before 1776, Indigenous nations lived on and cared for this land, and their resilience and pursuit of self‑determination remain essential to the American narrative. Honoring this anniversary requires recognizing that the promise of liberty and equality must extend to all people.

As we celebrate, we are called to renew our commitment to the Constitution, democratic values, and human rights for all. True patriotism is measured not only by pride in our past, but by responsibility for our shared future.

America at 250 is a defining moment—a chance to reaffirm the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, and to ensure that the next chapter of our story is shaped by unity, justice, and hope.

Independence and the sovereign equality of nations are universal human rights that must be respected by all people everywhere, grounded in the shared principles of dignity, freedom, and self‑determination.

The American Human Rights Council (AHRC) wishes everyone a safe and pleasant Fourth of July holiday, a time to come together and celebrate the enduring values that define our nation.

UN Tourism and The Bench Enter Groundbreaking Partnership to Drive Global Tourism Investment

UN Tourism and The Bench announce strategic partnership (1)

UN Tourism and The Bench have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the beginning of a strategic collaboration to advance tourism investment, innovation, and education on a global scale.

The agreement was signed during a formal ceremony in Madrid by Shaikha Al Nuwais, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, and Ali Shahid, Chief Executive Officer of The Bench. UN Tourism has been actively involved with The Bench’ events for many years, including FHS Saudi Arabia which took place in Riyadh last week, and this partnership is a natural next step to further elevate the collaboration.

The partnership establishes a framework for cooperation focused on fostering sustainable tourism development, strengthening public-private collaboration, supporting entrepreneurship and startups, and creating new opportunities for investment across global markets.

“Potential exists in every destination. But potential only becomes opportunity when people choose to invest in it,” said Shaikha Al Nuwais. “Through this partnership, UN Tourism and The Bench will bring together the ideas, capital and partnerships needed to unlock tourism’s full contribution to economic growth, community development and long term resilience.”

Through platforms including The Bench’s Future Hospitality Summit series, the collaboration will explore the development of global tourism investment initiatives, high-level policy and investor dialogues, knowledge-sharing programs, and innovation-focused activities designed to support the future growth of the tourism and hospitality sectors.

UN Tourism and The Bench sign MoU in Madrid

Ali Shahid commented: “At The Bench, we believe meaningful progress happens when governments, investors, and industry leaders come together with shared purpose. This collaboration with UN Tourism represents an exciting opportunity to help drive innovation, facilitate investment, and create long-term positive impact for the global tourism industry.”

The MoU outlines several strategic areas of collaboration, including tourism investment promotion, knowledge creation, innovation and startup support, and the expansion of international engagement opportunities through joint forums and initiatives.

Among the first initiatives that will be explored as part of the agreed Strategic Action Plan include the development of a joint Investment Facilitation Mechanism through curated investor engagement formats within FHS events, the establishment of dedicated UN Tourism Investment and Policy sessions at FHS events, and the development of a Global Tourism Investment Pipeline.

Azizi Developments and Dubai Islamic Bank Sign Sustainable Real Estate Financing Agreement

Azizi Developments and Dubai Islamic Bank Sign Sustainable Real Estate Financing Agreement 

Azizi Developments, a leading private developer in the UAE, has signed a strategic agreement with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) to boost sustainable real estate financing. The agreement was formalised at the bank’s inaugural sector-specific sustainability roundtable, “Unlocking Sustainable Finance: Transitioning Real Estate”.

In the presence of Mr. Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman of Azizi Developments, and Dr. Adnan Chilwan, Group Chief Executive Officer from Dubai Islamic Bank, the agreement was signed, by Mr. Farhad Azizi, Group CEO of Azizi Developments, and Mr. Naveed Ali, EVP – Head of Corporate Banking Group & Financial Institutions from DIB, at Park Hyatt Dubai. 

The collaboration reflects the shared ambition of both organizations to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices across the built environment and explore solutions that support environmentally responsible developments and long-term value creation.

Mr. Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman of Azizi Developments, said:

“At Azizi Developments, we view sustainability as a key driver of long-term value and responsible growth. Our partnership with Dubai Islamic Bank marks an important step in advancing innovative financing solutions that support the UAE’s sustainability agenda and contribute to a more resilient and future-ready real estate sector.”

In his comments, Mr. Farhad Azizi, Group CEO of Azizi Group, said: “We are pleased to partner with Dubai Islamic Bank on this important initiative, which aligns with our long-term vision of delivering developments that contribute positively to the UAE’s sustainable future. As the transition to a greener real estate value chain continues to shape the sector, partnerships such as this play an important role in advancing innovation, enabling responsible growth, and creating lasting value for communities and stakeholders alike.”

The roundtable brought together senior representatives from government entities, master developers, contractors, architects, engineers, and industry experts to discuss the future of sustainable real estate and green financing solutions in the UAE. Participants also took part in specialized workshops and technical briefings focused on data-driven retrofit financing and waste management protocols, while exploring opportunities to advance circular real estate practices across the UAE.

Abu Dhabi Chamber Launches Procurement Connect Initiative to Enhance Business Readiness for Future Opportunities

The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has launched “Procurement Connect”, a new initiative designed to help businesses prepare for future procurement and supply opportunities with leading organisations and entities across the emirate, enabling them to better position themselves for growth and enhance their competitiveness.

The initiative was launched during a dedicated forum organised by the Chamber, which brought together leading organisations from across Abu Dhabi, alongside representatives from the private sector and the media. The event reflects the Chamber’s commitment to strengthening engagement across the business ecosystem and providing a practical platform that helps companies identify future opportunities and prepare to capitalise on them.

The forum featured participation from Etihad Airways, e& UAE, and ADNOC Group, with participating entities outlining their future procurement priorities and requirements, while highlighting potential opportunities for businesses to collaborate and participate in upcoming projects and initiatives.

H.E. Ali Mohamed Al Marzooqi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Chamber, emphasised that enhancing the readiness of businesses to seize future opportunities remains a key pillar of the Chamber’s efforts to support private sector growth. He noted that providing companies with early access to market insights and information on the requirements of major organisations helps strengthen their competitiveness and expand their growth potential.

His Excellency said: “Procurement Connect reflects Abu Dhabi Chamber’s commitment to building stronger bridges between businesses and the emirate’s leading organisations, enabling the private sector to gain deeper insights into future opportunities and market requirements, while helping companies better prepare for and benefit from them.”

The initiative aims to enhance business readiness—particularly among SMEs—by providing greater visibility into the needs and requirements of major organisations, while enabling companies to better understand future priorities and procurement plans. This, in turn, supports more effective planning, strengthens competitiveness, and improves preparedness to pursue upcoming opportunities.

The event also provided a platform for direct dialogue and knowledge exchange between participating entities and members of the business community, allowing companies to gain valuable insights into future procurement requirements, explore potential areas of collaboration, and identify opportunities to participate in forthcoming projects across key sectors of the economy.

Procurement Connect reflects Abu Dhabi Chamber’s ongoing commitment to developing impactful initiatives that create added value for its members by providing access to knowledge, networks, and opportunities that support business growth and expansion. The initiative further aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision of building a more competitive and sustainable economy driven by innovation, partnership, and private sector empowerment.

IsDB Institute Strengthens Global Partnerships through Strategic Bilateral Engagements at 2026 Group Annual Meetings

The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) successfully conducted a series of bilateral meetings with government institutions, multilateral organizations, financial regulators, academic institutions, development agencies, and industry leaders on the sidelines of the 2026 IsDB Group Annual Meetings in Baku, Azerbaijan.

 

The meetings reaffirmed IsDBI’s commitment to advancing Islamic economics and finance as a catalyst for sustainable development, innovation, financial inclusion, and economic transformation across Member Countries and beyond.

The engagements covered a wide spectrum of strategic themes, including Islamic finance ecosystem development, regulatory and legislative reform, capacity building, sukuk market development, Islamic social finance, digital transformation, fintech, sustainable finance, waqf innovation, and knowledge partnerships.

Among the key engagements were discussions with representatives from the Governments of Tajikistan, Libya, Maldives, Türkiye, Ethiopia, and Sierra Leone on strengthening Islamic finance ecosystems through technical assistance, regulatory enhancement, and institutional capacity development.

The Institute also met with leading international organizations and standard-setting bodies, including the Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB), AAOIFI, the Eurasian Development Bank, and the Islamic Microfinance Development Fund (FDMI). The meetings explored avenues for collaboration in research, standards development, capacity building, and strategic initiatives aimed at broadening the global reach and impact of Islamic finance.

Several meetings focused on innovation and emerging opportunities, including discussions with Rosatom State Corporation on sustainable financing solutions and sukuk structures, Islamic Money Australia on digital Islamic banking models, and INCEIF University on Islamic social finance data, waqf tokenization, and applied research collaboration.

The Institute also explored partnerships with organizations from Brazil, Palestine, Somalia, Senegal, Djibouti, and the private sector to advance knowledge dissemination, capacity-building programs, blended Islamic finance solutions, cash waqf digitalization initiatives, and investment-related research.

Commenting on the outcomes of the engagements, the Institute’s team, led by Acting Director General, Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, noted that the meetings reflected the growing global interest in leveraging Islamic economics and finance to address contemporary development challenges and unlock new opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.

The discussions generated a pipeline of follow-up initiatives, including technical assistance programs, joint research projects, capacity-building activities, policy advisory support, and collaborative knowledge-sharing platforms.

The 2026 IsDB Group Annual Meetings provided a valuable platform for strengthening existing partnerships, establishing new strategic relationships, and advancing the Institute’s mission of promoting innovative, impactful, and development-oriented Islamic economics and finance solutions worldwide.