Riyadh to host 2024 Saudi Water Forum

Riyadh will host the Saudi Water Forum from April 29 to May 1 under the patronage of the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley. (Supplied)
Riyadh will host the Saudi Water Forum from April 29 to May 1 under the patronage of the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley. (Supplied)
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Updated 12 April 2024
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Riyadh to host 2024 Saudi Water Forum

Riyadh to host 2024 Saudi Water Forum
  • The forum aims to achieve security and sustainability in the water-scarce Kingdom

RIYADH: Riyadh will host the Saudi Water Forum from April 29 to May 1 under the patronage of the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley.

Water security and sustainability are two of the most important concerns being examined and discussed internationally, and are major challenges facing Saudi Arabia, given the region’s scarcity of water resources and continuous population growth.

Increasing and accelerating demands for water place great strain on Gulf states, driven by economic growth and the improvement of quality of life.

The SWF posted on X: “Sustainability of water resources is among the fundamental issues that concern countries ... How can it be enhanced in Saudi Arabia!!? Join us to explore the proposed solutions and learn about the prominent local and regional experiences contributing to enhancing the sustainability of water resources within the #SaudiWaterForum program from April 29th to May 1st, 2024, at Hilton Riyadh.”

The Ministry Environment Water and Agriculture plans to organize the SWF as one of the most important events at local, regional, and international levels, to create a meeting platform between industry leaders, experts, and key stakeholders.

The forum endeavors to gather developers, investors, scientists, and researchers in the field with the relevant official entities, represented by the MEWA, Saline Water Conversion Corp., National Water Co., Saudi Water Partnership Co., the Saudi Irrigation Organization, Water Transmission and Technologies Co., the Water Regulator, and the National Water Efficiency and Conservation Center to present strategies on achieving solutions to challenges facing the sector.

The SWF will showcase the best practices and successful experiences in developing water projects that align with the needs of the Kingdom and contribute to confronting the challenges.

Saudi Arabia, one of the world’s driest countries and the world’s third largest per capita consumer of water after the US and Canada, announced a national program for rationalizing water consumption in the Kingdom at the SWF in 2019, setting ambitious targets that include slashing usage by nearly 24 percent by 2020 and around 43 percent by 2030. 

Speaking at the SWF in 2019, Al-Fadley, officially launched the Qatrah (Arabic for ‘droplet’) program, aimed at reducing water consumption as part of the MEWA’s efforts to attain water sustainability.

Through the program, the MEWA aims to reduce daily per capita consumption from 263 liters to 200 liters by 2020 and to 150 liters by 2030.


Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Iwai Fumio hosts reception to celebrate JSDF’s 70th anniversary

Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Iwai Fumio hosts reception to celebrate JSDF’s 70th anniversary
Updated 10 sec ago
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Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Iwai Fumio hosts reception to celebrate JSDF’s 70th anniversary

Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Iwai Fumio hosts reception to celebrate JSDF’s 70th anniversary
  • Ambassador Iwai welcomed the enhanced cooperation in the field of defense and security between Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Japan: Japan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia IWAI Fumio recently hosted a reception at his residence on the occasion of the Japan Self-Defense Forces’ (JSDF) 70th anniversary.

H.E. Major General Shallah bin Thaar AlSalmi, Royal Saudi Land Forces, and a number of government officials and diplomats graced the occasion.

During his speech, Ambassador Iwai said the JSDF has now become a very active contributor to the international peace and stability through its participation in the international peace efforts such as counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden and the MFO in the Sinai Peninsula.

Ambassador Iwai welcomed the enhanced cooperation in the field of defense and security between Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia particularly after the visit of HRH Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman to Japan on July 31, 2023.

He mentioned the active communication on possible defense equipment and technology, cooperation on women’s empowerment and defense training and exchange programs.


18th KSrelief plane departs Saudi Arabia carrying vital aid to Lebanon

18th KSrelief plane departs Saudi Arabia carrying vital aid to Lebanon
18th Saudi relief plane departs for Lebanon with essential aid supplies. (SPA)
Updated 30 min 29 sec ago
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18th KSrelief plane departs Saudi Arabia carrying vital aid to Lebanon

18th KSrelief plane departs Saudi Arabia carrying vital aid to Lebanon

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief on Sunday sent an 18th plane to Lebanon carrying food, medical supplies and shelter kits.

The plane departed from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and landed at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut.

KSrelief chief Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabiah said the initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to helping people and countries in need worldwide.


Expo showcases Korean creativity at Boulevard City

Expo showcases Korean creativity at Boulevard City
Updated 03 November 2024
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Expo showcases Korean creativity at Boulevard City

Expo showcases Korean creativity at Boulevard City
  • The blend of modern and traditional elements provided visitors with a deeper understanding of Korean culture, showcasing its evolution and depth

RIYADH: An expo in Riyadh has showcased the diversity of Korean culture, drawing crowds to Boulevard City.

The Korea Brand Expo was held on Oct. 31-Nov. 1 as part of Riyadh Season.

Opening its doors from 5 p.m. until midnight, the expo created an inviting space for attendees to immerse themselves in the latest Korean goods while enjoying a variety of artistic performances.

One of the highlights of the event was the appearance of renowned Korean artist Kwon Yuri, who captivated the audience with her presence and talent.

Alongside her, popular musical groups such as NOMAD and OZMSR energized the crowd with their performances, creating a lively ambience that reflected the dynamic spirit of contemporary Korean music.

The Changtique band added another layer to the musical experience by performing traditional Korean music, celebrating the nation’s rich artistic heritage.

The blend of modern and traditional elements provided visitors with a deeper understanding of Korean culture, showcasing its evolution and depth.

In addition to the musical acts, the event featured a variety of engaging activities designed to entertain and connect fans with their favorite stars. Interactive signing sessions allowed attendees to meet and greet their idols, creating memorable moments that fans will cherish.

Talk shows with Korean celebrities offered insights into their personal stories and experiences, fostering a deeper connection between the artists and the audience.

The Korea Brand Expo served as an excellent platform for introducing local audiences to a wide array of Korean products, all within an environment that seamlessly blended art, creativity and innovation.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore diverse exhibits that showcased the latest trends in fashion, accessories, technology and lifestyle. Each exhibit was thoughtfully curated to reflect the essence of Korean culture, providing a captivating experience for all who attended.

Entry to the exhibition was free. The Korea Brand Expo not only celebrated Korean creativity, but also strengthened cultural ties, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

As the event concluded, it was clear that the expo highlighted the richness of Korean culture and its potential to inspire and connect with audiences around the world.


The wheel of time: Jazan’s vibrant pottery reflects heritage

The wheel of time: Jazan’s vibrant pottery reflects heritage
Updated 02 November 2024
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The wheel of time: Jazan’s vibrant pottery reflects heritage

The wheel of time: Jazan’s vibrant pottery reflects heritage
  • Pottery in Jazan is a lasting symbol of authenticity and belonging through the efforts of artisans and enthusiasts

RIYADH: In Saudi Arabia’s Jazan region, pottery is not just a craft but also among the oldest heritage crafts embodying the region’s cultural identity. Its creative legacy echoes locals’ dedication to preserving the traditions of their ancestors.

Over the years, the people of Jazan learned to transform clay into durable and functional tools and utensils. These handcrafted items reflect the beauty of Jazan’s nature and the depth of its heritage — a historic art form that strengthens the relationship between locals and land.

Jazan’s artisans have mastered the art of pottery, molding the clay extracted from dry valleys known as “valley clay.” The clay is carefully collected, purified and kneaded to become soft and moldable, Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

Simple tools are used in molding clay items before leaving them to dry under the sun for several days. The plates are later placed in traditional kilns at high temperatures to become durable and solid to withstand high temperatures and daily use.

Among the pieces created are cooking pots, cups and utensils that continue to be valuable and are used to cook and serve traditional dishes. 

Cooking in clay pots is part of experiencing the region’s heritage and brings with it the warmth of the past. The slow and even distribution of heat makes enhances the dishes that are cooked in it, such as madhbi and mandi.

Despite the emergence of modern household appliances, clay pots for cooking and serving food are still widely popular in Jazan and beyond. 

However, SPA’s report noted that although pottery is an appreciated part of heritage in Jazan, it is facing several challenges, including the lack of young Saudi craftsmen and the lack of natural clay resources.

This has compelled local authorities to intensify efforts to support the craft of pottery, such as organizing training courses that enable youths to acquire the skills for carrying the legacy of this tradition into the future.

Local festivals are also being organized to introduce visitors to the importance of pottery in the region’s heritage and its role in the Saudi culture, SPA reported. 

Pottery in Jazan is a lasting symbol of authenticity and belonging through the efforts of artisans and enthusiasts. It combines locals’ love for land and nature and represents a significant aspect of the region’s cultural identity.


Saudi authorities arrest 21,370 visa violators, border intruders in a week

Saudi authorities arrest 21,370 visa violators, border intruders in a week
Updated 03 November 2024
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Saudi authorities arrest 21,370 visa violators, border intruders in a week

Saudi authorities arrest 21,370 visa violators, border intruders in a week

RIYADH: A campaign to track down and arrest violators of residency, employment and border security regulations was conducted across the Kingdom in last week of October. 

A total of 21,370 violators were caught throughout Saudi Arabia, including 12,274 violators of the residency regulations, 5,684 violators of the border security regulations, and 3,412 violators of the employment regulations.

Some 1,492 people were arrested while attempting to cross the border into the Kingdom, of whom 35 percent were Yemeni citizens, 61 percent Ethiopians, and 4 percent of other nationalities. Moreover, 34 people were caught for attempting to irregularly cross the border out of the Kingdom.

Fifteen people were detained for their involvement in transferring, sheltering or employing violators of residency, employment and border security regulations.