Saudi authorities foil attempt to smuggle more than 117,000 Captagon pills
The drugs were hidden in two trucks at Al-Haditha and Al-Batha
Updated 23 December 2023
SPA
RIYADH: The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority has foiled a plan to smuggle more than 117,000 Captagon pills and 6,000 grams of crystal methamphetamine into the country.
The drugs were hidden in two trucks at Al-Haditha and Al-Batha.
The authority, which was working with the General Directorate of Narcotics Control, said there had been three arrests in relation to the seizure of the drugs.
The authority has called on the public to help combat smuggling by getting in touch with relevant information by phoning 1910, or by emailing [email protected].
Moonlight exhibition illuminates Jeddah with art and emotion
Updated 53 min 25 sec ago
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: The Ehsass Moonlight Exhibition at Jeddah Park’s Wasl Art Space features 120 meticulously curated paintings and artworks.
The event, which began on Sept. 10 and continues until Sept. 14, offers a vibrant platform for both established and emerging local artists to share their creative vision.
The exhibition was officially inaugurated by Abdulkhaleq Al-Zahrani, director general of the Ministry of Information branch in Makkah region, who expressed his appreciation for the variety and scale of the event.
“I’m grateful to be part of such a grand exhibition, filled with a diverse array of beautiful artworks. Meeting so many talented artists and experiencing their brilliant work has been inspiring. The quality of some exhibits is truly remarkable,” he said.
Work by Rahaf Al Ghamdi. (Supplied)
The exhibition also features a variety of events including art workshops, live performances and interactive experiences.
Among the activities are clay and handicraft workshops, face painting, mural drawing, T-shirt illustration, cartoon sketching, and live calligraphy by renowned artist Saud Khan.
Attendees can also enjoy piano performances at the Cocoa Lounge and participate in a podcast with artists. The event is not only an opportunity to appreciate art but also to purchase pieces from the exhibition.
Ali Alqahtani, CEO of Upgrade Ventures and the founder of the exhibition, said: “Ehsass Moonlight was born from a desire to bring the emotive expressions of local artists into a shared space, symbolized by the light of the moon — representing reflection and serenity.”
“Through this exhibition, we aim to highlight the importance of connection, both with ourselves and others, through the medium of art. We want people to rediscover the beauty and emotional depth that often gets overshadowed in our busy lives,” he said.
Alqahtani told Arab News that the artist selection process involved both an open call and curated invitations. “We looked for artists who displayed a deep emotional connection in their work and strong technical abilities. The pieces chosen reflect the exhibition’s central themes of introspection and light, creating a cohesive narrative through a variety of styles and mediums.”
Asked about the exhibition’s contribution to the art community, Alqahtani highlighted the significance of supporting local talent. “This exhibition provides a platform for local artists, many of whom are emerging talents, to reach a broader audience. It fosters a sense of artistic community and collaboration, while also emphasizing the universal language of emotion in art.”
Naila Hamadani with her artwork. (Supplied)
Alqahtani noted the challenges of organizing such an event, particularly finding the right venue and coordinating with a diverse group of artists.
“Creating the serene, intimate ambiance we envisioned was key,” he said. “We worked closely with the artists to ensure the space reflected the moonlight theme, allowing for a collaborative approach in the display of their works.”
First-time participant Naila Hamadani, who has been painting since she was 7, shared her experience. “I’ve been creating art for almost 20 years, but this is my first exhibition. I showcased two paintings, one of which is called ‘After Two Years.’
“It represents my return to art after a creative block. The colors and brightness of the piece reflect the positive changes I’ve experienced during this time.”
Hamadani’s second piece, “Imagination Moon,” is a personal interpretation of the moon, driven by her preference for imagination over realism.
“I enjoy creating from my imagination, and this painting reflects my personal vision of the moon. What I love about art is that people can understand my emotions through my work without needing any explanation.”
The exhibition was officially inaugurated by Abdulkhaleq Al-Zahrani, Director General of the Ministry of Information branch in Makkah region. (Supplied)
Another artist, Rahaf Al Ghamdi, who specializes in abstract and landscape art, drew inspiration from her experiences in AlUla.
“It’s my first time participating in an exhibition. My artwork captures the serenity of stargazing in AlUla — its weather, rocks and mountains. As an emerging artist, I’ve found there are many opportunities in Saudi Arabia, and this exhibition has been a great platform to share my work alongside more established artists.”
Saudi crown prince receives written message from Angolan president
Prince Faisal bin Farhan relayed the message via Angolan Minister of External Relations Tete Antonio
Updated 12 September 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received on Thursday a written message from Angola’s President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco addressing relations and ways to boost ties in various fields.
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan received the message from Angolan Minister of External Relations Tete Antonio, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
They also reviewed relations, ways to boost ties, and issues of common interest.
Facility, operating under the region’s General Administration of Education, is set to revolutionize scientific research skills among students
Center covers a wide range of scientific disciplines including applied physics, biochemistry, computer engineering, robotics and artificial intelligence
Updated 12 September 2024
Arab News
BURAIDAH: Qassim Gov. Prince Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud inaugurated on Thursday the Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mushaiqih Center for Scientific Research and Innovation, in Buraidah.
The facility, operating under the region’s General Administration of Education, is set to revolutionize scientific research skills among students.
Equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, the center covers a wide range of scientific disciplines including applied physics, biochemistry, computer engineering, robotics and artificial intelligence.
It also features dedicated spaces for emerging fields such as solar and alternative energy, aviation, space sciences, project showcases and a digital manufacturing workshop. The facility can accommodate 380 students.
During his tour, the governor received a briefing from Mohammed Al-Fraih, director general of education in the region.
The governor expressed his enthusiasm for the center’s potential, emphasizing its role in empowering students to discover their talents and develop their capabilities.
He said: “I am proud of our education department’s achievements and their commitment to preparing our youth for future challenges, particularly in technology, space sciences and specialized research.”
Saudi Interior Minister meets with Emir of Qatar in Doha
The meeting also reviewed bilateral relations and security cooperation
Updated 12 September 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz met on Thursday with Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani in Doha.
During the meeting, Prince Abdulaziz conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, along with their wishes for continued progress and prosperity for the government and people of Qatar.
The meeting also reviewed bilateral relations and security cooperation between the two countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
200 local and international brands will take part, as well as renowned international chefs
Event aims to provide a new global destination on the culinary event map
Updated 12 September 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The world of hospitality and fine cuisine descends on the capital when the Sirha Arabia exhibition is held at the Riyadh Front Exhibitions and Conventions Center from Oct. 1-3.
The exhibition, with the support of the Culinary Arts Commission, is a first-of-its-kind event in the Middle East, in which 200 local and international brands will take part, as well as renowned international chefs.
The global exhibition is an opportunity for chefs, businessmen and food and beverage manufacturers worldwide to participate and display their expertise and excellence in culinary innovations, services and technologies, making it a global platform that anchors the Kingdom’s leadership in the culinary sector.
The event aims to provide a new global destination on the culinary event map, and bring together distinguished chefs from different cultures, food and beverage industry experts, and food service providers from around the world, boosting the Kingdom’s food and beverage industry and hospitality sector.
The Saudi food and beverage industry is the largest in the Middle East and, after being valued at more than SR53 billion ($14 billion) in 2022, is expected to reach about SR130 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate approaching 11.4 percent.