Saudi project clears 737 Houthi mines in Yemen in a week
Project’s special teams destroyed 611 unexploded ordnance, 116 anti-tank mines, eight anti-personnel mines and two explosive devices
Devices, which are planted indiscriminately by the Houthis across Yemen, pose a significant threat to the lives of innocent people, including children, women and the elderly
Updated 18 December 2023
Arab News
RIYADH: Project Masam, a Saudi initiative to clear land mines in Yemen, in the second week of December dismantled 737 mines planted by the Iran-backed Houthi militia.
Overseen by the Saudi aid agency KSrelief, the project’s special teams destroyed 611 unexploded ordnance, 116 anti-tank mines, eight anti-personnel mines and two explosive devices.
The devices, which were planted indiscriminately by the Houthis across Yemen, posed a significant threat to the lives of innocent people, including children, women and the elderly.
Project Masam is one of several initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia on the orders of King Salman to help the Yemeni people, clearing routes for humanitarian aid to reach the country’s citizens.
The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.
A total of 425,264 mines have been cleared since the start of the initiative in 2018, according to Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the project’s managing director.
These include 268,569 items of unexploded ordnance, 142,339 anti-tank mines, 7,923 improvised explosive devices and 6,433 anti-personnel mines.
The project trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.
Up to 5 million people are estimated to have been forced to flee their homes since the beginning of the conflict in Yemen, many of them displaced by the presence of mines on their land.
Masam teams are tasked with clearing areas as an immediate humanitarian priority. They clear areas such as villages, roads and schools to facilitate the safe movement of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian goods and services.
The project’s contract was extended for another year in June at a cost of $33.29 million.
Recently, KSrelief humanitarian projects were presented at an exhibition at the UN’s headquarters, which ended on Sunday, and was a part of the world body’s “Humanitarian Week” held from Dec. 7-15.
Ambassadors, diplomats and representatives from humanitarian and relief organizations visited the exhibition.
There was an emphasis on initiatives in Yemen and 95 other countries. These initiatives included mine clearance through Yemen’s Project Masam and the provision of prosthetic limbs to those injured in the conflict.
Last month, KSrelief's Prosthetic Limbs and Rehabilitation Center project in Taiz Governorate provided 1,705 medical services to 461 people who had lost limbs.
Amputations on civilians have been a prominent feature of the war in Yemen, with many requiring assistance from KSrelief after suffering injuries from bomb explosions and mines.
Since its inception in 2015, KSrelief has implemented 2,670 projects worth more than $6.5 billion in 95 countries, in cooperation with 175 local, regional and international partners.
According to a report by the agency, the bulk of the support has gone to Yemen ($4.3 billion), Syria ($391 million), Palestine ($370 million) and Somalia ($227 million).
Saudi Arabia’s literary renaissance captivates local and international audiences
Stories by Saudi writers reflect the Kingdom’s rich cultural tapestry, rapid societal changes
Updated 20 August 2024
Waad Hussain
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s literary scene is experiencing a vibrant renaissance with a new generation of writers captivating local and international audiences.
“Saudi literature has witnessed significant acceleration over the past decade, particularly during the period when culture and its literary derivatives became one of the key objectives of Vision 2030,” said Ibraheem Al-Sinan, head of editorial at Raff Publishing.
He added: “This newfound openness to knowledge and literature, spurred by various initiatives, competitions and activities, has enabled young people to make significant leaps in literary production. What once took decades to learn, the youth now accomplish in just a few years.”
The literary renaissance in Saudi Arabia is not just about individual achievements but also about fostering a community of writers who support and inspire each other. (Supplied)
From the heart of Riyadh to the picturesque streets of Jeddah, Saudi writers are crafting stories that reflect the Kingdom’s rich cultural tapestry and rapid societal changes. These writers include Raja Alem, Mohammed Hasan Alwan and Badriya Al-Bishr, whose works range from allegorical tales to poignant memoirs.
The literary movement in Saudi Arabia can be divided into two main themes: “Cultural Reflections” and “Modern Narratives.”
The first explores issues of identity, heritage, and societal norms.
HIGHLIGHT
The literary movement in Saudi Arabia can be divided into two main themes: ‘Cultural Reflections’ and ‘Modern Narratives.’
For instance, Alem’s “The Dove's Necklace” delves into the complexities of Makkan culture through allegory and symbolism. Alwan’s “A Small Death” is a spiritual journey through the life of Ibn Arabi and also fits this theme, offering a deep dive into spiritual and cultural identity.
The second theme, “Modern Narratives,” focuses on contemporary issues and personal experiences.
The literary renaissance in Saudi Arabia is not just about individual achievements but also about fostering a community of writers who support and inspire each other. (Supplied)
Al-Bishr’s novel “Love Stories on Al-Asha Street” tackles the everyday lives and struggles of Saudi women, portraying their quest for identity, love and freedom within a rapidly changing society. Her work sheds light on the societal pressures and cultural expectations faced by women, providing a candid and often critical perspective on modern Saudi life.
Both themes underscore the notion that identity and societal evolution is deeply personal, with each writer drawing on their unique experiences.
Yasmina Al-Mutabagani, a rising Saudi author, shared her early inspirations and journey as a writer. “I loved the idea of writing in a journal and allowing my imagination to lead the words,” she said. “What motivated me was the possibility of creating stories that drew a smile or made a heart flutter.”
The literary renaissance in Saudi Arabia is not just about individual achievements but also about fostering a community of writers who support and inspire each other. (Supplied)
Al-Mutabagani’s writing has evolved significantly since her early days. “I would proudly say I’m self-taught,” she said. “Reading has helped me a lot in developing my writing style. “Whenever I learned a new word, I wrote it down. Little by little, I realized when a comma should be added or when a sentence finished.”
Saudi culture and heritage deeply influence her stories. “Whenever I write, my characters are either fully Saudi or half Saudi, and each time I make sure that those characters represent the Saudi culture in terms of ethics, behavior, and boundaries, she said.
Balancing cultural heritage with questioning societal norms is an art for Al-Mutabagani. “Communication is the compass. In Saudi culture, there has always been conservativeness, which is beautiful and understandable. In my novels, I ensure that my characters’ conversations are based on human experience.”
Through her books, Al-Mutabagani hopes to convey the beauty of simplicity and the charm of little details. “My two messages are: See how your life changes when you focus on the beauty of little things and details, and when you communicate your feelings and things,” she said.
Despite challenges, such as the lack of resources and direction to become a published author in Saudi Arabia, Al-Mutabagani has achieved significant milestones.
She has published two books: “Waheeba’s Lie” in 2018 and “Beyond the Surface (Conversations in the Pandemic)” in 2023. Her recent novel is available in Jarir bookstores across the Kingdom.
As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve culturally and socially, its literary scene is becoming a vibrant tapestry of voices and stories that reflect both heritage and modernity. With initiatives like Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s literary future looks promising.
Al-Sinan emphasizes the importance of these cultural initiatives. “The Saudi government has introduced several programs aimed at nurturing and promoting local talent. These efforts have not only broadened the scope of local literature but have also made it more accessible to the international audience.”
Al-Mutabagani sees her role as a writer within this broader cultural and societal evolution as a bridge between tradition and modernity. “I convey to my readers that the Saudi culture and Saudi Arabia beholds beauty because its society booms with kindness and openness to different cultures,” she said.
This openness is also reflected in the diverse themes that contemporary Saudi writers are willing to explore. From feminist narratives and social commentaries to historical fiction and personal memoirs, the Saudi literary scene is rich and varied, offering something for every reader.
For instance, in addition to Al-Mutabagani’s exploration of love and beauty, other authors are tackling pressing social issues.
Alem’s work often delves into the complexities of identity and societal norms, while Al-Bishr’s novel “Hend and the Soldiers” critically examines the societal pressures and cultural expectations faced by Saudi women, advocating for their rights and empowerment.
Moreover, the rise of digital platforms and social media has provided Saudi authors with new avenues to share their work and connect with readers worldwide.
As Al-Sinan points out: “The digital age has allowed for a democratization of literature. Writers can now publish their work online and reach a global audience without the traditional gatekeepers.”
The literary renaissance in Saudi Arabia is not just about individual achievements but also about fostering a community of writers who support and inspire each other. Literary festivals, book fairs and writing workshops are becoming more common, providing spaces for dialogue and collaboration.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s literary landscape is experiencing a dynamic transformation. With the support of cultural initiatives, the passion of its writers, and the engagement of its readers, the Kingdom is poised to make a significant mark on the global literary stage.
Al-Sinan said: “We are witnessing the dawn of a new era in Saudi literature, one that honors our rich heritage while embracing the possibilities of the future.”
As Saudi Arabia's literary scene continues to flourish, many works by Saudi authors offer fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling that capture the essence of contemporary Saudi life, for example:
“Beyond the Surface (Conversations in the Pandemic)” by Yasmina Al-Mutabagani: This book explores how diverse perspectives can harmonize through communication. It delves into themes of love, human nature, beauty and life, displaying the power of dialogue to bridge differences.
“Fear: Legends of the Fall” by Osamah Al Muslim: This book, part of his “Fear” series, combines fantasy, horror and folklore, exploring supernatural themes and deep-rooted fears. It’s a thrilling and immersive read.
“HWJN” by Ibraheem Abbas and Yasser Bahjatt: This science fiction and fantasy novel has captivated readers with its imaginative blend of jinn folklore and modern-day Saudi Arabia. It explores themes of love, culture and the supernatural, offering a unique lens on Saudi society.
“Cities of Salt” by Abdul Rahman Munif: While not a new book, this classic has gained renewed attention for its profound exploration of the impact of oil discovery on Saudi society. Munif’s epic narrative remains relevant and thought-provoking.
These works by Saudi authors not only highlight the diverse and dynamic voices emerging from the Kingdom but also provide readers with an understanding of the evolving cultural landscape.
Artisans in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Baha province welcome economic boost from traditional handicraft practices
The two artists sculpt, paint and use calligraphic and pyrographic skills they learned from their parents and grandparents
Updated 20 August 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Al-Baha region is known for its handicraft traditions and has a large number of artisans who have been practicing their craft to preserve heritage and benefit from its economic opportunities.
Two such artisans from the region are Mohammed bin Jamaan Al-Zahrani and Eida Ali Al-Zahrani, who are passionate about pyrography.
Handicrafts have become a source of income for those who create them. (SPA)
The two artists sculpt, paint and use calligraphic and pyrographic skills they learned from their parents and grandparents.
Mohammed has been sculpting for years, the Saudi Press Agency reported. “I used to watch my parents and grandparents practicing carpentry with their simple tools,” he said.
FASTFACT
The artists say that the Heritage Commission is interested in handicrafts and supports them by organizing workshops and other events to promote them, because their work is reflection of the region’s identity and history.
Carving and pyrographing on wood, he added, needs skill, accuracy and patience, because there is no room for mistakes and the process is time-consuming.
Eida uses modern painting techniques and pyrography to decorate wooden sculptures, doors and windows, inspired by Al-Baha’s nature and history.
Handicrafts have become a source of income for those who create them. (SPA)
The artists say that the Heritage Commission is interested in handicrafts and supports them by organizing workshops and other events to promote them, because their work is reflection of the region’s identity and history.
Handicrafts have also become a source of income for those who create them.
There is great interest in handicrafts in Al-Baha region where they are popular with various sectors of society and are passed down from generation to generation. Artists today are developing and modernizing the skills to keep pace with the times.
Initiative ensures top-quality services without intermediaries
Updated 20 August 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the Direct Umrah Program, which allows companies to serve pilgrims directly, ensuring high-quality standards without intermediaries.
The aim is to enhance pilgrims’ experiences through visits to historical sites linked to the Prophet’s life and discovering the Kingdom’s attractions.
The program supports service providers, encouraging companies to adopt professional destination management and trip organization, after 13.5 million pilgrims were recorded in 2023.
HIGHLIGHT
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah held the second Umrah organizations’ gathering in Makkah to address challenges and propose solutions to ensure top-quality services and introduce companies to new tools and indicators for monitoring performance.
In collaboration with the Pilgrim Experience Program, part of Saudi Vision 2030, the ministry held the second Umrah organizations’ gathering in Makkah, led by Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah.
This meeting aligned with the ministry’s strategy to enhance the Umrah experience and empower the private sector to provide services year-round, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
It also streamlines procedures and enforces commitment and compliance standards throughout the Umrah journey.
The meeting addressed challenges and proposed solutions to ensure top-quality services, introducing companies to new tools and indicators for monitoring performance. It also discussed strategic directions for the Umrah season and launched innovative services.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah continues to enhance Umrah services, with the intention each year to welcome more pilgrims and provide a rich, unique faith journey in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Saudi Cultural Development Fund partners with top banks to drive sector growth and sustainability
The partnerships between the fund and the banking sector highlight their shared interest in enhancing the private sector’s role in achieving economic diversity and sustainability in the cultural sector, Al-Furaih said
Updated 20 August 2024
Hebshi Alshammari
RIYADH: The Cultural Development Fund, a key financial enabler of the Kingdom’s cultural sector, signed five agreements on Tuesday in Riyadh with leading local banks Al-Rajhi Bank, Alinma Bank, Banque Saudi Fransi, Arab National Bank, and Bank AlJazira.
These agreements will support the upcoming launch of the first financing solution of its kind in the Kingdom, aimed at bridging the public, private and nonprofit sectors to drive the cultural sector’s growth and sustainability.
The Cultural Development Fund has announced the signing of five cooperation agreements with local banks. (Supplied/CDF)
The fund plans to sign additional agreements with leading banks to diversify financing channels for the cultural sector. Through these partnerships, the fund will offer financing solutions for micro, small and medium-sized cultural enterprises, marking a significant step in sector-specific financing.
The fund will soon unveil financing options for enterprises in all cultural sub-sectors, aimed at stimulating the growth of cultural businesses and increasing private sector contributions to economic diversification.
Ibraheem Al-Sinan, head of editorial at Raff Publishing, said: “This signing is a strategic step toward enhancing and sustaining the cultural economy. The cultural sector is a key component of the creative economy, contributing directly to economic growth and income diversification.”
The Cultural Development Fund has announced the signing of five cooperation agreements with local banks. (Supplied/CDF)
Al-Sinan added that the agreements provide funding to support cultural projects, increase investment opportunities and reduce financial risks. This funding helps grow social and cultural capital, enabling publishers and creators to develop high-quality content, boosting the sector’s competitiveness locally and internationally, and contributing to GDP growth.
“These initiatives also create new jobs in the cultural market, positively impacting unemployment and supporting long-term sector sustainability,” Al-Sinan said.
Mohammed Al-Furaih, director of Obeikan Publishing, said diversifying funding sources and providing innovative solutions will empower cultural institutions to continue and expand.
He added that launching the first-of-its-kind financing solution in the Kingdom represents a major shift in sectoral financing, providing solutions tailored to the needs of micro, small and medium-sized cultural institutions.
The partnerships between the fund and the banking sector highlight their shared interest in enhancing the private sector’s role in achieving economic diversity and sustainability in the cultural sector, Al-Furaih said.
Who’s Who: Shouq Alfawaz, general manager of governance, risk, compliance and business continuity at the Ministry of Economy and Planning /node/2568199/saudi-arabia
Who’s Who: Shouq Alfawaz, general manager of governance, risk, compliance and business continuity at the Ministry of Economy and Planning
Updated 20 August 2024
Arab News
Shouq Alfawaz has been the general manager of governance, risk, compliance and business continuity at the Ministry of Economy and Planning since January 2023.
With over 12 years of experience in strategy, governance, risk management, regulatory compliance, and business continuity, Alfawaz is a seasoned expert.
From March 2022 to December 2022, she was the chief compliance officer at Tap Payments, where she established a strong compliance foundation and a culture of innovation.
Before that, Alfawaz was head of compliance at fintech company HALA from March 2020 to February 2022, leading the compliance team and developing the company’s compliance infrastructure.
Alfawaz has also worked as a consultant for entities like the Real Estate General Authority and Simplified Financial Solutions Co., helping to establish governance, risk, and compliance frameworks.
Earlier, she served as a senior compliance relationship officer at Banque Saudi Fransi from September 2018 to February 2020 and held various roles at Riyad Bank from January 2013 to September 2018, including compliance assistant manager and anti-money laundering manager.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from King Saud University and multiple professional certifications. She is also a graduate of the Qiyadat Global program with Georgetown University and Esade’s Executive Leadership Program.
Recently, she completed the Misk 2030 Leaders Program and was honored with a membership in the Saudi Leadership Society.
