Thu, 2022-05-19 00:10 RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with his Algerian counterpart Ramtane Lamamra on Wednesday evening, during his official visit to Algeria. During the meeting, they reviewed the solid historical relations linking the two countries and ways of developing them in all fields. The two sides also discussed enhancing joint cooperation in many aspects, the latest regional and international developments, and issues of common interest. Lamamra hosted a dinner in honor of Prince Faisal and his accompanying delegation. The foreign minister had arrived in the Algerian capital earlier on Wednesday. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi ArabiaAlgeriaPrince Faisal bin FarhanRamtane Lamamra Kahila horse championship to kick off May 25 in Saudi ArabiaSaudi, Indian foreign ministers discuss bilateral relations during call

Thu, 2022-05-19 17:05 RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his Algerian counterpart chaired the third session of the Saudi-Algerian Political Consultation Committee in Algiers on Thursday. Prince Faisal and Ramtane Lamamra also noted the consensus of their views on regional and international issues of common concern, and reviewed bilateral relations, Arab, regional and international issues, and ways to support security, stability and prosperity. They also discussed ways to confront challenges in order to achieve progress in their countries and support international peace and security. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune hosts Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the El-Mouradia Palace in Algiers on Thursday. (SPA) Later, Prince Faisal was hosted by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune at the El-Mouradia Palace and the two officials reviewed the close relations between the Kingdom and Algeria and ways to strengthen them in all fields. They also discussed current Arab and regional issues. Prince Faisal conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Tebboune, and the Algerian president in turn sent his greetings to the Saudi leadership. Lamamra hosted a dinner in honor of the Kingdom’s foreign minister and his accompanying delegation on Wednesday. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi ArabiaAlgeriaSaudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin FarhanPresident Abdelmadjid TebbouneRamtane Lamamra Saudi foreign minister meets Algerian counterpart during official visitSaudi foreign minister meets Thai counterpart

تزامنا مع زيارة الأمير خالد بن سلمان، نائب وزير الدفاع السعودي والشقيق الأصغر لولي العهد محمد بن سلمان للولايات المتحدة، قام نائبان في الكونغرس بالضغ...

أفادت وكالة “بلومبيرغ” بأن وزارة المالية السعودية، عينت شركة “روتشيلد وشركاه” المملوكة لرجال أعمال يهود، للمساعدة في الإشراف على إعادة هيكلة أكبر مجم...

Thu, 2022-05-19 06:06 RIYADH: A Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs official confirmed Wednesday that the Kingdom had taken crucial steps to enhance food security, put forward strategies to promote food growth and face climate change and water scarcity.  Waleed Al-Khuraiji, Saudi deputy minister of foreign affairs, said these measures contributed to improving food security indicators in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported. During the Global Food Security Call to Action meeting at the United Nations on Wednesday, Al-Khuraiji said that the food security challenge proves that sustainable recovery depends on international cooperation. He said despite progress in the development process, achieving the 2030 SDG (social development goals) had become extremely difficult, as global expectations and indicators show a deviation in the path towards achieving the second goal of the program, which includes the eradication of hunger. “Among the global health challenges are the spread of pandemics, as the spread of the COVID-19 revealed to us the fragility of the international system in combating a virus that is not visible to the naked eye, which led to severe consequences that affected societies and economies,” Al-Khuraiji said, adding  that this affected people’s lives, their livelihood and declining economic indicators. He said Saudi Arabia led a global response to the pandemic that accompanied the Kingdom’s G20 presidency, as it supported global efforts to confront this pandemic with $500 million, in addition to providing $300 million to help countries’ efforts to address the pandemic. “The Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 focused within sustainable development efforts on building a sustainable agricultural sector, strengthening sectors that support food systems, developing systems and improving agricultural productivity, and worked to strengthen research and innovation capabilities to ensure sustainable progress in food security,” Al-Khuraiji said. In this regard, he said Saudi Arabia presented crucial initiatives to the region and the world, and had created a road map for facing environmental challenges. These intuitive include the Saudi Green Initiative the Middle East Green Initiative, and the circular carbon economy initiative. Al-Khuraiji said the  Kingdom’s foreign policy attached great importance to enhancing security and stability, supporting dialogue and peaceful solutions, and providing conditions that support development and achieve people’s aspirations for a better tomorrow, weather in the Middle East or the world. He added Saudi Arabia had always reiterated its commitment to helping the disadvantaged and countries hit by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. “The Kingdom is the largest donor of humanitarian and development aid at the Arab and Islamic levels, and is one of the top three donors at the international level,” he said.  Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Global Food Security Call to Actionfood security2030 SDGVision 2030 UN urges Ukraine grain release, warn of ‘mass hunger’ that could last for yearsUS calls on all nations to invest in global food security amid worst food crisis in 70 years

Author: Wed, 2022-05-18 23:15   JEDDAH: At this time every year the mountainous city of Taif is adorned with the hues of bright pink roses that produce some of the world’s most alluring perfumes and oils. The Taif Rose Festival is the modern iteration of a tradition of cultivation and harvesting that has taken place in this region over the past nine centuries. It was launched on May 6 at Al-Rudaf Park in the southern part of the city, and is open from 4 p.m. to 12 midnight. The Ministry of Culture, in cooperation with Taif Municipality and under the patronage of Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, have organized the festival for two years in a row. However, it has been running for the past 17 years, Arab News was told by Ahmad Al-Joaid, a tour guide from Taif who has been operating for 15 years in the field. Al-Joaid said: “A number of new activities are added to the festival every year. Al-Rudaf Park is an area of over half-a-million square meters … a theater has also been created for the festival … Concerts (are) also a new addition.” The ministry tweeted on its account @MoC_Engage: “Between the beauty of roses and the creativity of art, we welcome you to Taif roses festival.” The festival has 13 sections featuring 50 live performances and folkloric dances from across the Kingdom in the park, and music shows by male and female artists. The organizers have set up a workshop aimed at young people that provides information on how to become involved in the perfume-making industry. There is also an exhibition titled “Claude Monet,” named after the French painter and founder of impressionism, who portrayed nature with such startling creativity. Several of Monet’s renditions are on display. The festival also provides an opportunity for aspiring Saudi artists to display their paintings at “Cultural Street,” and drawings and other artwork at “Drawing Exhibit.”  Many families have set up booths to sell byproducts of Taif’s produce such as rose water, perfumes, deodorants, soaps, body and skincare products, food and sweets. The festival is also a great place for social media enthusiasts because it has several picturesque backdrops for photographs such as the Rose Dome, which contains a giant painting made of natural roses, the largest basket of the flowers in the city, and models and gates decorated with the produce. Visitors can also view and listen to various rare birds. Taif roses have historic, economic and religious importance. The oil is used to perfume the walls of the Kaaba, which is also washed twice annually with its scented water. The region has more than 2,000 flower farms producing over 200 million roses every season. Residents of Makkah and Jeddah visit Taif regularly in summer. “People can do plenty of things in Taif in addition to visiting the festival during their one-day visit …  (including) museums, local markets, rose factories in Al-Shafa and Al-Hada, the cable car, strawberry farm, zoo, and historical castles,” the tour guide said. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi ArabiaTAIF ROSE FESTIVAL Saudi Culture Ministry launches Taif Rose festivalSaudi culture minister to head board of directors for Taif development commission

Author: Wed, 2022-05-18 23:28 RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 73 people after border patrols foiled massive drug smuggling attempts in several regions of the Kingdom. Col. Misfir Al-Qarini, spokesman for the General Directorate of Border Guard, said that land patrols in the Jazan, Najran, Asir and Tabuk regions thwarted attempts to smuggle 682 kilograms of hashish, 62.3 tons of khat and 194,300 amphetamine tablets. The seized drugs were handed over to authorities and legal steps taken against those detained, he added. Among the alleged violators were 20 Saudi citizens, 26 Ethiopians, 23 Yemenis, two Pakistanis, one Sudanese and one Eritrean.  Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Border Guarddrug smugglingwar on drugs Saudi authorities thwart attempt to smuggle over 1m amphetamine pills in TabukSaudi authorities foil plot to smuggle thousands of amphetamine pills in Riyadh

Author: Wed, 2022-05-18 23:37 RIYADH: An international event to celebrate the history of purebred Arabian horses is set to get underway in Saudi Arabia. Prince Bandar bin Khalid Al-Faisal, chairman of the Equestrian Authority and the Horse Racing Club, will on May 25 patronize the launch of the second edition of the five day Kahila championship meeting. Organized by the King Abdulaziz center for purebred Arabian horses, the event will be staged at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Convention Center and will highlight the significance of the ancient sport and the Kingdom’s efforts to advance it through local and international forums. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Arabian horsesSaudi Arabia Saudi Cup horse race holds world record for biggest prize

Thu, 2022-05-19 00:04 Majed Al-Sulami is a diplomat at the permanent mission of Saudi Arabia to the UN, where he is head of the humanitarian and development affairs department in Geneva. His responsibilities are in the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, International Organization for Migration, International Committee of the Red Cross, UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, Food and Agriculture Organization, World Food Programme, Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) and humanitarian assistance in areas affected by conflicts, armed disputes and natural disasters. Al-Sulami attained his bachelor’s degree in English literature from King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah. He also received a master’s degree in international relations and diplomacy affairs from the University of Ghana, and another master’s degree in business administration for executives from Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK. Al-Sulami also served as the chargé d’affaires at the Saudi Embassy in Ghana, and the deputy head and head of the consular section between September 2011 and 2013. He was also the deputy head of the media section at the Saudi Embassy in London between September 2013 and 2017. Al-Sulami also served as director of the specialized meetings at the permanent mission of Saudi Arabia to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation between September 2017 and 2020. His participation included the 47th and 48th sessions of the OIC’s permanent finance committee, the 13th and 14th sessions of the OIC Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission and the workshop held by the OIC’s commission with the UN. Al-Sulami was a political committee member for preparatory meetings and foreign ministers’ meetings and the OIC conference held in Makkah in 2019. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Who's Who Who’s Who: Talal Al-Tuwaijri, deputy minister at Saudi Ministry of HealthWho’s Who: Daniah Orkoubi, chief economist and general manager at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology

Thu, 2022-05-19 01:57 RIYADH: Prince Khalid bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s deputy minister of defense, on Wednesday met the US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin in Washington, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The pair reviewed the Saudi-US partnership, and ongoing and future strategic military and defense cooperation between the Kingdom and US. Prince Khalid expressed Saudi Arabia’s appreciation for the close cooperation between the two countries' defense bodies to achieve the two sides’ common interests and enhance security and peace regionally and internationally.   On HRH the Crown Prince’s directive, I met with @SecDef to review the Saudi-U.S partnership, and ongoing strategic military cooperation between our two friendly countries. pic.twitter.com/kHyIuptfWr — Khalid bin Salman خالد بن سلمان (@kbsalsaud) May 18, 2022   He also said that the meeting was organized based on Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s directives. Prince Khalid and US Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl, then, co-headed the Saudi-US joint strategic planning committee meeting. The Saudi and US defense delegations join a photo session after their meeting in Washington on May 18, 2022. (SPA) The meeting discussed regional and international developments, and a number of issues on defending common interests and global security and stability. The meeting was attended by Gen. Fayyadh bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili, Saudi Chief of General Staff, and other Saudi and US senior officials. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Lloyd AustinPrince Khalid bin SalmanSaudi-US Ties Saudi deputy defense minister meets US national security adviserFM Prince Faisal, Blinken discuss strategic Saudi-US relations

وصل وزير الخارجية السعودي فيصل بن فرحان، مساء الأربعاء، إلى الجزائر، في زيارة عمل تأتي في إطار الدورة الثالثة للجنة التشاور السياسي بين البلدين، وأجر...

أكد رئيس الوفد الوطني اليمني المفاوض محمد عبدالسلام، أن دول العدوان لم تلتزم ببنود الهدنة، حيث أضاعت شهرا ونصف من زمن الهدنة دون أي رحلة من وإلى مطار...

أثار مجسم من الحجر لولي العهد السعودي الأمير محمد بن سلمان، يتم بيعه بمتاجر السعودية جدلا واسعا بين السعوديين....

رحب المبعوث الأممي لليمن هانس غروندبرغ بهدنة الشهرين السارية في البلاد التي أعلنت في 2 أبريل، آملا أن تستمر إلى بعد 2 يونيو، وذلك إثر اجتماع مغلق لمج...

كشف مسؤولان أمريكيان لموقع «أكسيوس» أن نائب وزير الدفاع السعودي خالد بن سلمان، يزور واشنطن لإجراء محادثات أمنية مع كبار مسؤولي البيت الأبيض والبنتاغو...

Author: Wed, 2022-05-18 05:33 RIYADH: Prince Khalid bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s deputy minister of defense, on Tuesday met with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Washington to review bilateral ties. Prince Khalid said in a Tweet that the meeting was upon the directive of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. “I met with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan to review the enduring and historic Saudi-US partnership, and discuss solidifying US-Saudi coordination,” he said. On HRH the Crown Prince’s directive, I met with U.S National Security Advisor @JakeSullivan46 to review the enduring and historic Saudi- US partnership, and discuss solidifying U.S Saudi coordination. pic.twitter.com/2rJZ8AVcD2 — Khalid bin Salman خالد بن سلمان (@kbsalsaud) May 18, 2022 The deputy defense minister and his accompanying delegation arrived this morning in the US capital on an official visit, during which he will meet a number of officials to discuss bilateral relations and issues of common interest at the regional and international levels, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi ArabiaUnited StatesUS National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan Saudi deputy defense minister to discuss Yemen truce on Washington visitSaudi deputy defense minister oversees King Abdulaziz Military College graduation ceremony

ارتكبت قوى تحالف العدوان ومرتزقتها 121 خرقاً للهدنة الإنسانية والعسكرية في اليمن، خلال الـ 24 ساعة الماضية....

Tue, 2022-05-17 21:50 RIYADH: The Saudi Entertainment and Amusement Expo and Summit began in Riyadh on Monday, alongside the Saudi Light and Sound Expo, the first dedicated event in the Kingdom for professional lighting and audio equipment. The three-day dual event at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center showcases thousands of cutting-edge products and solutions for the entertainment sector, and offers professionals in the leisure and entertainment sector the chance to discover new products, learn about the most exciting innovations in the sector, network and do business with vendors. The international exhibitors are presenting a wide range of products and services, including thrill rides, playground equipment, arcade machines, food and beverage equipment, professional lighting rigs, sound systems, event technology, security tools, and marketing solutions. Attendees can experience a variety of fun events and activities while engaging with local, regional and global entertainment communities at the Amusement Services International pavilion during the expo, where the line-up includes virtual reality experiences, the latest video and arcade games, and carnival attractions, to name but a few. Among the technology on show is the 3Motion simulator, which uses hydraulic actuators with precise control to deliver the same dynamic feedback you would get when driving a real racing car. Meanwhile SODIKART, a leader in the karting industry, presents its latest products and services, including a kart simulator. Matt Wells, the CEO of Frontgrid, which owns ParadropVR, a virtual reality flying experience, told Arab News: “I am very happy to be here having a great time at the SEA summit and looking forward to working with the people here.” In March, Frontgrid announced an exclusive distribution partnership with ASI to support the continued growth and success of ParadropVR. ASI is now Frontgrid’s distributor across the Middle East, including in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the UAE, and in Egypt, Tunisia and Morocco. Marloes Knippenberg, the CEO of lifestyle operator Kerten Hospitality is appearing as a panelist at the summit. “The world has really changed; consumer behavior has changed a lot,” he told Arab News. “More than 60 percent of the Saudi population is under 35 and the expectations from them as consumers has really changed. “When you look at this conference, at the perfect timing, I think never was there so much conversation like today, with a lot more opportunity for the hospitality sector in the entertainment segment. There are a lot more expectations and I am looking forward to it.” The SEA and SLS expos were expected to attract more than 10,000 visitors. In addition to the exhibitors showcasing business opportunities, entertainment options, innovations, and technology, there are also sessions to discuss trends and future visions within the industry, and networking events. The inaugural SLS Expo, meanwhile, offers businesses and developers the chance to show off their products and services through specially staged laser, light and sound shows. RS Research and Strategy will share insights from its Voice of The Market research, conducted on behalf of the expo, to offer a deeper understanding of the factors that can help generate opportunities, or create challenges, for those considering entering the light and sound or entertainment markets. Saudi Arabia has embarked in recent years on a rapid transformation that is not only economic in nature but also cultural, by identifying travel, tourism and entertainment as priority sectors as part of the nation’s Vision 2030 economic diversification initiative. The General Entertainment Authority was founded in 2016 to organize, develop and lead the entertainment sector in the country, triggering a transformation and the introduction of a wide range of exciting entertainment options. Since then, the sector has grown exponentially in the Kingdom, helping to improve the quality of life of residents and contributing to economic development by creating investment opportunities and thousands of jobs. The SEA expo, which was launched four years ago, is the only trade show in the country dedicated to the flourishing leisure and entertainment sectors. “Saudi Arabia is leading the way in encouraging collaboration and action by thinking big,” said Sarkis Kahwajian, SEA Expo’s event director. “This will lead to a strong and sustainable future for the entertainment and amusement industry. “Saudi Arabia is developing its tourism destinations, which represent great opportunities, especially since the Kingdom’s wealth of spectacular landscapes and cultural heritage is still unknown to the international traveler.” Yael Coifman, a senior partner at Leisure Development Partners and the president of the Europe and Middle East division of the Themed Entertainment Association, said: “The goals proposed as part of the entertainment strategy for KSA are inspiring and visionary. “We think there is real potential in this market and although some of the members are already involved in the planning, there are opportunities for many others to influence and help shape the future of the entertainment industry in the Middle East, bringing global knowledge to the region.” One example of the ways in which the entertainment sector in Saudi Arabia is evolving was the decision by the government in 2018 to end a 30-year ban on cinemas. By the end of 2021, 45 movie theaters had opened in the country and screened more than 1,000 films. In addition, the Red Sea International Film Festival was launched in 2019 and the inaugural event took place in December last year. It is expected that by 2030 there will be 350 cinemas and 2,500 movie screens in Saudi Arabia, and the industry will be worth about $1 billion. The development and expansion of the entertainment sector in the Kingdom has spawned an ambitious construction pipeline of movie theaters, theme parks and sports-related infrastructure, along with the hosting of live mega events. In addition, the great success of Saudi Seasons — an annual series of festivals across the country featuring concerts, motor racing, pop-up restaurants, auto shows and other forms of entertainment — have shown the huge demand in the sector. The GEA has pledged to invest up to $64 billion by 2028 to develop the Kingdom’s domestic entertainment sector. In terms of tourism, Saudi authorities plan to welcome more than 100 million visitors each year by 2030, and to this end have implemented numerous related initiatives, including an electronic visa system for citizens of 49 countries. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi ArabiaentertainmentVision 2030 Saudi Arabia issues 5,319 commercial registers for entertainment sector in 2022: Al-EqtisadiahJeddah Season 2022 adds to Eid entertainment bonanza

Tue, 2022-05-17 21:49 RIYADH: Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the US, received an honorary doctorate from Marymount University in Virginia last Friday in honor of her work empowering women across sectors in the Kingdom and globally. The president of Marymount University, Dr. Irma Becerra, presented Princess Reema with the honorary degree — her first — at the commencement ceremony. The Saudi ambassador gave the commencement address for the College of Health and Education graduates at the university. HIGHLIGHTS • Princess Reema gave the commencement address for the College of Health and Education graduates at the university. • She congratulated the graduates and thanked the university for hosting Saudi students throughout the years. In her address, she congratulated the graduates and thanked the university for hosting Saudi students throughout the years. Princess Reema, who graduated from George Washington University with a degree in museum studies, has an extensive career working towards the empowerment of women in both the private and public sectors. From 2007 to 2015, she was CEO of Alfa International Co. Ltd. — Harvey Nichols Riyadh, a multi-brand luxury retail company. During her time in this position, she commissioned the study “Obstacles for Women in the Workplace.” The study set the tone for female inclusion in retail and resulted in the opening of the first workplace nursery. In 2013, she founded Alf Khair, a social enterprise aimed at elevating the professional capital of Saudi women through a curriculum developed to enable financial self-sufficiency. In 2016, Princess Reema left the private sector to begin a career in public service as vice president of women’s affairs at the Saudi General Sports Authority, where she developed policies and programs that benefited women and children throughout Saudi Arabia. In 2018, she was also appointed president of the Mass Participation Federation, making her the first woman to lead a multi-sports federation in the Kingdom, a role she occupied until her appointment as Saudi ambassador to the US. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud Change in Saudi Arabia is ‘profound’, Princess Reema tells Arab Women ForumWomen at the helm of defense and leadership: Princess Reema bint Bandar

Tue, 2022-05-17 23:09 RIYADH: The Diriyah Gate Development Authority has signed an agreement with the Riyadh Third Health Cluster to collaborate on the provision of healthcare and community services for residents of Diriyah. The agreement was signed by Jerry Inzerillo, chief executive officer of the authority, and Abdullah bin Khathlan, CEO of Riyadh Third Health Cluster. Inzerillo highlighted the importance of cooperation in joint initiatives and programs for community development in Diriyah and the necessity of collaboration to increase health awareness and the healthcare services offered in the city. He added that both parties will work together to support the local community’s participation in international healthcare days using events and social media. Bin Khathlan said the agreement will boost efforts to spread the culture of healthcare volunteering, adding that the Riyadh Third Health Cluster is committed to providing the best possible healthcare “in a comprehensive, sustainable way.” The Diriyah Gate Development Authority aims to improve the quality of life within the entire Diriyah district by introducing regulations and guidelines which are designed to preserve the area unique cultural status within the Kingdom, while maintaining Saudi heritage.   Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Ad Diriyah Gate Development Authority Diriyah Gate will contribute $7.2bn to Saudi GDP, says Abdullah TaibahSaudi Arabia’s Diriyah plans to attract 7 million visitors, says CEO

Tue, 2022-05-17 23:22 TABUK: Tabuk Gov. Prince Fahd bin Sultan received Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Japan in Saudi Arabia Hirofumi Miyake and his delegation as it visited the area. After welcoming Miyake and his team, Prince Fahd commended the deep-rooted relations between the two friendly countries, and the joint cooperation in various areas, and both parties exchanged friendly conversations and discussed topics of common interest. Miyake expressed his happiness at meeting Prince Fahd and praised Tabuk’s developmental progress in all crucial areas. He also presented the Tabuk governor with a memento at the end of the reception.   In recent years, the bilateral relationship between Saudi Arabia and Japan has grown, especially after the launch of the Saudi-Japan Vision 2030 in the year 2017. Many events and activities have been held recently in various Saudi cities that are rich in cultural diversity. Despite the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, both the Kingdom and Japan have made every effort to accomplish these projects and ensure that their bilateral relations flourish. In March, Japanese premier held talks with the Saudi leadership regarding Saudi oil output in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.     Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Hirofumi MiyakeTabuk Gov. Prince Fahd bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Tabuk governor highlights strong Saudi-Pakistan ties during meeting with nation’s envoyTabuk governor meets secretaries-general of the regions’ councils

Tue, 2022-05-17 23:35 JEDDAH: Saudi Islamic Affairs Minister Dr. Abdullatif Al-Asheikh met with Sheikh Naim Ternava, grand mufti and head of the Islamic Sheikhdom in the Republic of Kosovo, and his accompanying delegation, in Jeddah. The minister highlighted the efforts made by Saudi Arabia in serving Islam and Muslims around the world, caring for the Two Holy Mosques, spreading tolerance and combating extremism and hate. Sheikh Ternava extended his congratulations to King Salman after he left the hospital following medical tests, treatment and a recovery period. The grand mufti highlighted the historical importance of the Kingdom to Kosovo and the assistance that helped its people overcome crises, commending the efforts of the Saudi leadership. He also referred to the constructive cooperation with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in the service of Islam, implementing Ramadan programs that served the country’s people and spreading the value of moderation. Saudi Arabia aims to boost the relationship between Muslim communities around the world. In February, Al-Asheikh met the grand mufti of Egypt, Dr. Shawki Allam, on the sidelines of his official visit to Cairo. They discussed a number of issues of common interest, especially those related to intensifying efforts to spread the Islamic religion’s tolerance.   Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Sheikh Naim Ternava

أكد عبد القادر المرتضى رئيس اللجنة الوطنية لشؤون الأسرى في اليمن من ضمن النوايا السعودية انهم كانوا يريدون ان يضعوا بين المعتقلين اليمنيين جنسيات أخر...

العلاقات مع دول الجوار الإقليمي طالما شكلت أولوية بالنسبة لإيران ومضت في هذا الإتجاه لتعلن وعلى لسان أكثر من مسؤول استعدادها لعقد لقاءات مشتركة تنهي ...

قالت منظمة العفو الدولية إن السلطات السعودية تمنع 19 فردا من عائلة الداعية سلمان العودة من السفر بشكل غير قانوني....

Tue, 2022-05-17 08:34 DUBAI: One of the conjoined Yemeni twins who underwent a separation surgery has died after a severe drop in blood circulation and heart failure, state news agency Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Tuesday.  The other twin is currently stable but is under observation in the Intensive Care Department of King Abdullah Specialist Paediatric Hospital in Riyadh, according to the Saudi team of specialized surgeons who performed the operation. “The surgical team had faced great difficulties and challenges during the separation process, which made the deceased’s condition critical after the operation,” SPA reported. Yousef and Yassin had undergone a “complicated” 15-hour long surgery to separate several of their organs under the directives of King Salman, the state media added.  A team of 24 doctors, led by Dr. Mutasem Al-Zughaibi, took part in the operation as part of an initiative by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief).  “This was a complex operation due to the twin sharing in the sinuses, cerebral venous and parts of the brain,” Dr Nazar Al-Zughaibi, head of pediatric anesthesia at the King Abdullah Specialized Children’s Hospital at the National Guard Health Affairs in Riyadh, had told Arab News earlier. The team specializes in pediatric neurosurgery, plastic surgery, anesthesia, and nursing were involved in the procedure that had to be carried out in several stages: anesthesia, navigation planning, preparing for surgery, skincare, and preparation for brain tissues, bone and reconstruction. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi ArabiaYemenKing Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) Saudi surgeons separate Yemeni twins after complicated 15-hour operationYemeni conjoined twins to be transported to Riyadh following King Salman directive

Tue, 2022-05-17 11:58 DUBAI: As Saudi Arabia continues to undergo significant economic and social reforms, its women and youth find themselves at the heart of this profound change. With several initiatives transforming the Saudi economy, workplace and society among other things, the role of Saudi women has become an integral part of this. The above observations were made by Sarah Al-Tamimi, vice chair of Saudi Arabia’s National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking, and Noor Nugali, assistant editor-in-chief at Arab News, ahead of their participation in a panel discussion entitled “Saudi Women Pioneers: Change from Within” at the Arab Women’s Forum in Dubai on May 17. In Nugali’s opinion, Saudi women have always been strong, resilient and extremely hardworking, regardless of their occupations. The difference today, in her view, is that they have the opportunities that were not available before the launch of Vision 2030. “We had trailblazers, we had women who fought to make their way in this world and pave that road for their successors,” she said. Arab News’ assistant editor-in-chief Noor Nugali, left, moderates the Storytellers From The War Front session at the Arab Women Forum in Dubai. “Now we see more Saudi women reaching high positions, more Saudi women shining in different fields. It was not because of a lack of talent in the past but a lack of opportunity, which now has come to light. So now we can see many more women joining the workforce in senior positions.” The foundation for future female leaders in Saudi Arabia rests on a number of pillars. In addition to ambition and hope, having a very strong support system – from family, friends and role models they can learn from — is crucial. “Saudi society is very tight-knit,” Nugali said. “It’s a large community and both women and men need that support system — we’re also talking about equality, which means giving the opportunity to the best person, regardless of gender. “The Saudi leadership’s brilliant Vision 2030 has created a strategy to level the playing field for the work force and have the most qualified candidates chosen.” Nugali underscored the importance of equality and opportunity for all, saying: “Don’t hire women to fill a quota. Hire the most qualified, whether male or female, and give them all equal chances. That is what our vision is about.” She believes gender stereotypes and gender bias, both conscious and unconscious, are fast disappearing, a process that was many years in the making. “I’m seeing this happen. It is momentous and marvelous that this is where we are because we had a very sheltered life,” Nugali said. “Now we’ve shattered the glass ceiling, and this was something we’ve been waiting for a very long time. The only challenge is believing in yourself and working hard in order to attain what you aspire to be. You have to be focused, you have to have a huge support system, you have to believe in yourself and know that it’s okay to make mistakes because that’s part of growing, learning and excelling.” Sarah Al-Tamimi, vice chair of Saudi Arabia’s National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking. (Supplied) Al-Tamimi, who is also the deputy president of Saudi Arabia’s Human Rights Commission, said women in the Kingdom are currently experiencing a golden age, with opportunities expanding at a more dramatic pace than at any other point in the country’s history. She added that the Saudi government is playing an active role in ensuring that women realize these opportunities. “Several reforms have been implemented to incentivize women to enter the labor market and also to protect their rights, from freedom of mobility and travel to anti-harassment laws and regulations,” she told Arab News. “A lot has happened from a regulatory and legislative perspective.” Many traditionally male-led sectors previously closed to women, such as construction, car repair shops and the police force, have also opened up to them in the past few years, providing them with massive opportunities. “The work continues to ensure women’s participation across the board,” Al-Tamimi said. “And (the) creation of new opportunities for women in the workplace is definitely a significant component of Vision 2030.” Saudi women jog in the streets of Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district on March 8, 2018. (AFP) Labor equality and education will prove crucial to the advancement of women going forward, and with the Saudi government investing tremendous resources in young girls’ and women’s education, they now outnumber their male counterparts in university degrees. In the workforce, women’s share of entrepreneurship is also rapidly growing, placing them at the heart of the Kingdom’s transformation, with the latest data from the General Authority for Statistics revealing that Saudi women make up 35 percent of the Saudi workforce. “Women are reaching more and more leadership positions each day and this serves to spearhead further development,” Al-Tamimi said. “We need women in the labor market, they should be contributing, thriving and leading — we need to tap into the full potential of Saudi women and we’re seeing this every day in Saudi Arabia, women have so much to offer the country in terms of their capabilities and their talents.” Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Arab Women ForumEditor’s ChoiceSaudi Arabia International Women’s Day: The march of female empowerment in Saudi ArabiaHow Saudi female labor force participation in e-commerce is gaining momentum

Author: AFPID: 1652784713070980400Tue, 2022-05-17 09:40 RIYADH: An intense sandstorm engulfed several areas in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, hampering visibility due to the widespread dust, slowing road traffic and forcing authorities to issue a weather warning. The sandstorm battered Riyadh, enveloping the Saudi capital’s skyline with gray haze. The thick blanket of sand made iconic buildings in Riyadh, such as Faisaliyah Tower, Kingdom Center, and other skyscrapers in the King Abdullah Financial District almost impossible to see from a distance of a few hundred meters. Electronic signs along Riyadh’s highways warned drivers to reduce their speed because of the lower visibility. Cautioning motorists because of the the heavy sandstorm, the traffic department advised drivers to drive slow and exercise restraint, as well as keep their headlights on. The General Directorate of Civil Defense also advised Riyadh residents to avoid going to various outskirt spots in sands to avoid accidents during the blinding sandstorm. There have been no flight delays or cancellations in Riyadh because of the sandstorm. Issuing the daily weather forecast for the Kingdom, the National Center of Meteorology on Tuesday said: “The surface dusty winds will be active in the Eastern Region and some parts of Riyadh Region, reducing horizontal visibility, while the dusty wind will continue to occur in some parts of Qassim, Hail, Madinah, Makkah and Najran regions, extending to eastern parts of Baha and Asir regions, reducing horizontal sight.” The report added that partly cloudy skies will be seen in some parts of Tabuk, the Northern Borders and Jawf regions. The NCM added that surface wind movement in the Red Sea will be northerly to north-westerly at a speed of 25-45 kilometers per hour on northern and central parts, and westerly to north-westerly on southern parts at a speed of 15-35 kilometers per hour. Surface wind movement in the Arabian Gulf will be westerly to north-westerly at a speed of 25-45 kilometers per hour. In Riyadh, the dusty weather has made it tough for outdoor workers, and residents have struggled to keep sand out of their homes. Abdul Qadeer, a Bangladeshi construction worker, told Arab News: “The heavy sandstorm that started late last night and engulfed the city and its outskirts in gray haze this morning has made it really tough for us to continue working outdoors due to widespread dust.” Though not infrequent for May — the sandstorm is the third to hit the Kingdom this month — Tuesday’s storm created unfavorable conditions, with the maximum temperature in Riyadh recorded at 38 degrees Celsius and the minimum at 24 degrees Celsius. The relative humidity was recorded at 11 percent. Parts of Saudi Arabia typically experience sandstorms at the end of winter and advent of summer between March and May, with varying intensity. Besides the Kingdom, Tuesday’s sandstorm has affected other countries in the region, including neighboring Iraq, which recorded its eighth sandstorm since mid-April, a phenomenon fueled by soil degradation, intense droughts and low rainfall linked to climate change. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi ArabiaRiyadhSandstorm Massive sandstorm envelops RiyadhSandstorms expected in Saudi Arabia

Tue, 2022-05-17 16:55 RIYADH: Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Mufti Abdul Shakur, has visited the King Abdulaziz Complex for Holy Kaaba Kiswa. He was received by the head of public relations and media at the complex, Ahmed bin Musaed Al-Suwaihri. The minister and his accompanying delegation watched a visual presentation on the Kiswa including the stages of its manufacture in the Kingdom and how it is replaced. Mufti Abdul Shakur and his delegation praised the mastery and dedication that goes into making the covering of the Kaaba and the attention with which the materials used to make it are prepared. They also learned about how the gilded pieces that adorn the Kiswa are embroidered and the craftsmanship behind it. The delegation thanked the president of the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, and the under-secretary-general of the complex, Abdul Hamid bin Said Al-Maliki, for giving them the opportunity to learn about the great efforts made by the Kingdom’s government to serve the two holy mosques, pilgrims, and the Kaaba’s Kiswa. Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi ArabiaPakistankiswaKaaba Makkah: Maintenance of Kaaba’s Kiswa carried out in preparation for RamadanThe Kiswa: The story behind the covering of the holy Kaaba

أعلنت اللجنة السعودية للرقابة على المنشطات عن إيقاف لاعب في فريق الاتحاد لمدة موسم ونصف الموسم بسبب وجود مادة محظورة في عينته التي تم الكشف عنها خلال...

بعد مرور أكثر من شهر على تشكيله تحت شعار توحيد صفوف التيارات الموالية للتحالف السعودي - الإماراتي، يشهد «المجلس الرئاسي» تصدّعات داخلية عزّزتها الزيا...

قال رئيس اللجنة الوطنية لشؤون الأسرى في اليمن عبد القادر مرتضى إنّ المبادرة السعودية التي زعمت أنها انسانية للإفراج عن الأسرى لم تكن إلاّ مسرحية....

حذر الدفاع المدني السعودي من عواصف رملية تشهدها منطقة الرياض حتى الثالثة من فجر يوم الثلاثاء، وفق توقعات المركز الوطني للأرصاد الجوية....

Tue, 2022-05-17 01:00 RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s universities and research-related institutions have been ranked 17th in the world for their pioneering project work. The country’s position in the SCImago Rankings 2021 league table has now jumped up on two occasions, from 21st last year, and 26th in 2018. Ongoing support from the Saudi leadership and Ministry of Education has been credited for helping the Kingdom’s academics enhance the quality of scientific research, and initiatives and projects being conducted with universities under the ministry’s supervision. SCImago Rankings have been a leading international annual classification system for research outcomes since 1996. It is a publicly available portal that includes the journals and country scientific indicators developed from the information contained in the Scopus database. These indicators can be used to assess and analyze scientific domains. Journals can be compared or analysed separately, and country rankings may also be compared or analysed separately.   Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Saudi universitiesSaudi ArabiaSCImago Rankings Saudi universities join global institutions in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings14 Saudi universities in global university rankings 2022

Tue, 2022-05-17 01:08 ABHA: Soudah Development, a company of the Public Investment Fund, announced that six newborn Nubian ibex have been welcomed after the company launched a repopulation program last December in cooperation with the National Center for Wildlife. It is part of efforts by the company to maintain the environment and protect the endangered species. Soudah Development introduced 15 endangered ibex in the Soudah area with the aim of relocating endangered wild animals and protecting the natural environment in the region. The initiative contributes to supporting the Kingdom’s environmental efforts. Soudah Development continues its efforts to preserve biodiversity, restore environmental balance and encourage sustainability in Soudah, which is home to several important species, including the ibex. Located in the Asir region in the southwest of the Kingdom, the juniper-covered mountains of Soudah are home to the highest peak in Saudi Arabia, situated more than 3,000m above sea level.   Main category: Saudi ArabiaTags: Soudah Development Company (SDC) Soudah Development eyes 2 million annual visitors over 3,000 meters above sea level: Year in Review15 endangered mountain ibexes released in Soudah