How the adoption of electric vehicles is driving Saudi Arabia’s green agenda

Special How the adoption of electric vehicles is driving Saudi Arabia’s green agenda
The shift from traditional combustion engine vehicles to new electric models has accelerated worldwide as companies and consumers opt for greener modes of transport. (Supplied photo)
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Updated 20 April 2024
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How the adoption of electric vehicles is driving Saudi Arabia’s green agenda

How the adoption of electric vehicles is driving Saudi Arabia’s green agenda
  • Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund wants to produce half a million electric vehicles by 2030
  • The Kingdom has installed charging outlets in public areas in Diriyah to encourage EV ownership

RIYADH: Around the world, electric vehicles are already revolutionizing leisure, public transportation and logistics, shrinking the carbon footprint of travel, improving air quality and reducing pollution in the air, on land and in the sea.

As Saudi Arabia embarks on a range of environmental initiatives designed to address the challenges posed by climate change and foster sustainable economic development, EVs have become an important focus area.

The shift from traditional combustion engine vehicles to new electric models has accelerated worldwide as companies and consumers opt for greener modes of transport. Saudi Arabia is no exception.




Saudia, the Kingdom's national flag carrier, has signed an arrangement to acquire 100 electric-powered jets from Lilium, developer of the first all-electric vertical take-off and landing (“eVTOL”) jet. (Supplied)

The transition from regular cars to electric vehicles in the Kingdom is flourishing. The EV trend has gone beyond personal vehicle ownership, with the proliferation of everything from e-scooters to electric buses.

There are even discussions around whether EV technology will soon be applied to aircraft and perhaps space travel.

Stephen Crolius, former climate adviser at the Clinton Foundation and current president of Carbon-Neutral Consulting, supports the idea of EV ownership due to its environmental benefits.

Although it might still be a challenge to educate the public in some societies about the benefits of transitioning to EVs, Crolius says the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.

“For mass transition to occur on any front, there has to be a set of circumstances that cause it to happen,” he told Arab News.

“Through government encouragement, we can continue to build volume (and) cause industries to mature, like, for example, the battery industry, which has done a lot of maturing over the last 15 years … the cost of batteries and the prices of batteries have come down to an extraordinary degree.

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“We are developing renewable generation for electricity. Are we developing fast enough to head off the climate crisis? I don’t know. But compared to new generations of technology getting rolled out, we are deploying a lot of renewable electricity generation, in historical terms, really fast.”

Companies such as CEER and Lucid, which are heavily funded by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, are at the forefront of driving growth in Saudi Arabia’s electric vehicle industry.

US electric car manufacturer Lucid signed a contract with the PIF two years ago to build a factory in the King Abdullah Economic City on the Red Sea. Today, PIF shares a little over half of the ownership of the group in the Kingdom, and aims to produce almost half a million EVs by 2030.

Since last year, the use of electric vehicles in the Kingdom has expanded to include electric buses as a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

Electric buses have zero emissions and therefore significantly reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases in urban areas, especially during the Hajj season, when pilgrims flock to the Kingdom and make use of its mass transit network.

An electric bus service connecting the airport to the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah was launched by the region’s governor Prince Faisal bin Salman bin Abdulaziz during the last Hajj season.

DID YOUKNOW

• The Kingdom has invested at least $10 billion in US electric car manufacturer Lucid Motors.

• With 61% of shares, Saudi Arabia is the majority owner of Lucid Group through its Public Investment Fund.

• PIF aims to produce 500,000 EVs annually by 2030.

• In Riyadh, the EV share is targeted to increase by 30% in 2030.

The route connecting the two locations enabled high operational efficiency, with a bus able to travel 250 km on just a single charge.

Electric buses offer a variety of benefits, including reduced noise, improved energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs. In addition, they have a smaller carbon footprint, which is a crucial step toward sustainability.

Saudis committed to protecting the environment have also included EVs in their daily commute, with e-scooters now found in Riyadh and other cities. E-scooters provide an eco-friendly solution to local transport by cutting toxic emissions and lowering noise pollution.

Offering e-scooter services in various locations in Riyadh is a clear sign of the Kingdom’s eagerness to not only set regulations and promote electric vehicles, but also lead society in adopting a positive attitude toward sustainable living.




Gazal's e-scooter services have become a popular option for those traveling specially in crowded places in Riyadh. (Photo courtesy of Gazal)

Furthermore, with advancements in battery technology and the development of charging infrastructure, electric vehicles are becoming a viable option for companies aiming to decarbonize their operations.

For example, in public areas in Diriyah such as Albujairi and At-Turaif, standard wall outlets are available for EV owners to charge their vehicles while enjoying a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site.

As the aviation industry is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions, the concept of electric aircraft may offer a promising solution to global decarbonization.

Three years ago, British automobile maker Rolls-Royce broke records when its “Spirit of Innovation” aircraft reached 628 km per hour, making it the world’s fastest all-electric vehicle.

At the time, Warren East, the company’s then-CEO, said that electric aircraft could make “jet zero” a reality and help decarbonize all forms of transport.

Compared to existing commercial aircraft, which rely on petroleum and synthetic fuel blends, electric planes produce less noise, have lower operating costs and emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases.

However, there are still several obstacles to the widespread adoption of electric aircraft — in particular the sheer expense of adapting the existing infrastructure needed to support their use.

Though governments and private companies worldwide could collaborate and build a comprehensive network of charging stations to meet growing demand, this may burden the economies of some countries.

Nevertheless, the growing importance of electric vehicles beyond cars, such as buses, electric scooters and airplanes, holds great promise for a decarbonized future.




The growing importance of electric vehicles beyond cars, such as buses, electric scooters and airplanes, holds great promise for a decarbonized future. (Shutterstock photo)

Utilizing alternative sources of energy in these areas can change the carbon emissions game for the better, fight air pollution, and pave the way for sustainable transport systems in the Kingdom and around the world.

To realize the full potential of electric vehicles, however, governments and businesses will first have to address challenges such as the provision of sufficient charging infrastructure as well as range limitations in battery technology.

Through continued innovation and investment, electric vehicles will play a key role in creating a greener and more sustainable future.
 

 


Young Saudi rug makers weave kaleidoscope of dreams

Young Saudi rug makers weave kaleidoscope of dreams
Updated 29 December 2024
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Young Saudi rug makers weave kaleidoscope of dreams

Young Saudi rug makers weave kaleidoscope of dreams
  • Bassam Al-Khalifi, Saud Al-Rasheed master the art of tufting rugs

RIYADH: In the wake of the pandemic Bassam Al-Khalifi and Saud Al-Rasheed transformed their isolation into creativity, leading to the birth of Ghazlah Studio — a hub for unique, hand-tufted rugs.

The Saudi men’s story is not just about artistry but a testament to how challenging times can inspire innovation and passion.

Al-Khalifi’s journey began when he sought to decorate his room. Frustrated by the lack of appealing rugs in the market, he decided to create his own.

Saudi duo Bassam Al-Khalifi and Saud Al-Rasheed’s story is not just about artistry but a testament to how challenging times can inspire innovation and passion. (Supplied)

“I wanted something different, so I ordered the equipment and dedicated a year to learning how to tuft,” he told Arab News. What started as a personal project quickly evolved into a larger vision.

Initially, neither Al-Khalifi, an artist and designer, nor Al-Rasheed, an avid art collector, had any experience in weaving. They faced a steep learning curve but were undeterred.

“We took six months to learn how to conceive designs, source materials, and weave the rugs,” Al-Khalifi explained.  

HIGHLIGHTS

• The journey of Ghazlah Studio began when Bassam Al-Khalifi, frustrated by the lack of appealing rugs in the market, decided to create his own.

• Their debut collection titled ‘Color as a Scene’ evokes a range of emotions, reflecting the complex sentiments many experienced during the pandemic.

They experimented with various techniques, ultimately settling on a “cut and loop” method using 100 percent acrylic yarn. This approach stands in contrast to traditional Arabian carpet-making methods which often utilize wool and time-honored designs.

The duo’s success can also be attributed to their innovative marketing strategies. (Supplied)

Their learning process was filled with challenges, but their determination pushed them forward.

Al-Khalifi pored over tutorials, consulted with experts, and practiced tirelessly. Al-Rasheed, with his keen eye for aesthetics, contributed by curating color palettes and design concepts.  

What started as a hobby soon blossomed into a commercial venture. With their rugs gaining traction, Al-Khalifi and Al-Rasheed launched Ghazlah, featuring a debut collection titled “Color as a Scene.”

The duo’s success can also be attributed to their innovative marketing strategies. (Supplied)

The collection evokes a range of emotions, reflecting the complex sentiments many experienced during the pandemic. “I wanted to splash all these emotions on the piece itself,” Al-Khalifi said. The vibrant tapestries of feelings capture the essence of joy, nostalgia, and hope.

The vibrance of their work makes a statement piece in any room. Each piece is unique, with some featuring Saudi themes that enhance their significance and appeal. The artists also draw inspiration from their heritage, incorporating traditional motifs and modern designs, creating a fusion that resonates with a broad audience.

In Ghazlah’s Riyadh workshop, the atmosphere is filled with creativity and energy. The walls are lined with neatly organized shelves filled with spools of yarn in every imaginable color. There are some of Al-Khalifi’s paintings and rugs still in progress, showcasing their journey.

The duo’s success can also be attributed to their innovative marketing strategies. (Supplied)

Al-Rasheed gestured around the space, saying: “This place is full of rugs that we made but decided not to sell. Why? Because we love them. I’m trying to push Al-Khalifi to sell them, but he won’t.”

Ghazlah Studio has made a notable impact in Riyadh, showcasing creations in three galleries. Their work has garnered attention not just locally but also from international platforms, leading to collaborations with major brands such as Vogue and Sephora.

These partnerships have elevated their profile and allowed them to reach a wider audience with which they can share their artistry and craftsmanship.

The duo’s success can also be attributed to their innovative marketing strategies. They leverage social media to share their creative process, engage with customers, and build a community around their brand.

By showcasing behind-the-scenes footage, they invite their audience into their world, allowing them to witness the transformation of raw materials into stunning art pieces.

As they continue to grow, Al-Khalifi and Al-Rasheed are committed to exploring new design possibilities, as well as looking into creating home decor items. They plan to expand their collections, experimenting with different textures, materials, and techniques.

From a simple idea born during quarantine to a noteworthy business, Ghazlah Studio continues to make waves in the art scene, proving that even in isolation, inspiration can thrive.

As they weave their stories into every rug, Al-Khalifi and Al-Rasheed invite us all to find beauty and meaning in our own creative pursuits.

 


Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center

Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center
Updated 28 December 2024
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Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center

Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center
  • The 10,000-square-meter facility features the latest marine technology

HAIL: Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, the governor of Hail, inaugurated the Excellence Center for Salmon Production on Saturday, the largest facility of its kind in the Middle East.

A collaboration between the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and King Abdulaziz University, the center aims to produce 100,000 tons of salmon annually, bolstering Saudi Arabia’s food security and aquaculture sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The 10,000-square-meter facility features the latest marine technology, including recirculating aquaculture systems and aquaponics units, which integrate fish and vegetable production.

It is designed to reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on salmon imports, currently at 23,000 tons per year.

Prince Abdulaziz hailed the project as a cornerstone of Vision 2030, promoting sustainable development and economic diversification, while attending officials highlighted its potential to enhance innovation, create jobs, and serve as a model for sustainable aquaculture in the region, SPA added.


Islamic minister highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting peace

The group, comprising 250 European pilgrims, participated in various cultural and entertainment activities. (SPA)
The group, comprising 250 European pilgrims, participated in various cultural and entertainment activities. (SPA)
Updated 28 December 2024
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Islamic minister highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting peace

The group, comprising 250 European pilgrims, participated in various cultural and entertainment activities. (SPA)
  • European guests praise Saudi Arabia’s hospitality, cultural outreach efforts

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs hosted a cultural event for the second group of Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Umrah and Visit, featuring various cultural and entertainment activities.

The group comprised 250 pilgrims from 14 European countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs

They expressed their gratitude to the leadership and the ministry for hosting them, allowing them to perform Umrah rituals and visit historic sites in Madinah and Makkah.

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh said Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was committed to being a beacon of goodness and moderation.

HIGHLIGHT

The minister also highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid to those in need around the world, in line with Islam’s core values of promoting compassion and support.

During a reception for the guests, he said the Kingdom would continue to serve Islam and Muslims, and promote tolerance, coexistence and understanding worldwide.

Al-Asheikh, who is also the general supervisor of the program, met the guests, conveyed the greetings of the Saudi leadership and along with members of the program’s working committees reviewed the services provided and received a briefing on their work.

Under its leadership, the Kingdom strove to offer top-tier services to the visitors of the Two Holy Mosques from around the world, he said.

The guests commended the Kingdom on its efforts to promote Islam’s message of tolerance and foster appreciation for its historical and spiritual legacy. They also praised the new projects and expansions at the holy mosques and sites, which align with Saudi Vision 2030.

Al-Khamar Al-Baqari, head of imams in the Netherlands, expressed his gratitude to Saudi Arabia, its government and its people for their hospitality.

Sheikh Ali Al-Zughaibi, the program’s executive director, said that since its launch in 2014 it had provided the opportunity for 4,500 men and women from around the world to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque.

Al-Asheikh also highlighted the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to providing humanitarian aid to those in need around the world, in line with Islam’s core values of promoting compassion and support.

 


Art, animals take center stage at Riyadh camel festival

Saudi craftsman Abdulrahman Al-Zahem is best known for his depictions of camels and traditional tools. (SPA)
Saudi craftsman Abdulrahman Al-Zahem is best known for his depictions of camels and traditional tools. (SPA)
Updated 28 December 2024
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Art, animals take center stage at Riyadh camel festival

Saudi craftsman Abdulrahman Al-Zahem is best known for his depictions of camels and traditional tools. (SPA)
  • The combination of arts and animals makes the event an appealing option for visitors and supports the economic and cultural growth of the Kingdom

RIYADH: The works of a renowned local sculptor are among the creative highlights of this year’s King Abdulaziz Camel Festival, which celebrates not only ships of the desert but arts and crafts from around the Kingdom.

Abdulrahman Al-Zahem is best known for his depictions of camels and traditional tools. Each of his pieces serves as a symbol of the Kingdom’s heritage and connection to the land, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

FASTFACT

The combination of arts and animals makes the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival an appealing option for visitors and supports the economic and cultural growth of the Kingdom.

As well as creating his own works, Al-Zahem spends much of his time helping to nurture the next generation of artists, including his own daughter.

Besides providing a global hub for all things camel, the festival in Al-Sayahid, northeast of Riyadh, is an important platform for the arts, offering an opportunity for artists to showcase their work to a global audience.

The combination of arts and animals also makes the event an appealing option for visitors and supports the economic and cultural growth of the Kingdom. 

The festival ends on Tuesday.

 


Riyadh’s Souq Al-Awaleen celebrates Saudi traditions

Riyadh Season runs until March 2025, and has already been attended by more than 12 million people. (SPA)
Riyadh Season runs until March 2025, and has already been attended by more than 12 million people. (SPA)
Updated 28 December 2024
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Riyadh’s Souq Al-Awaleen celebrates Saudi traditions

Riyadh Season runs until March 2025, and has already been attended by more than 12 million people. (SPA)
  • Souq Al-Awaleen features handicrafts, folk art, and live performances reflecting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage and providing a platform for local artisans to showcase their work and revive traditional crafts

RIYADH: Souq Al-Awaleen, a part of Riyadh Season, offers a “captivating journey through Saudi traditions,” according to a recent Saudi Press Agency report.

The souq, entry to which is free, “blends traditional elements with modern touches, creating a vibrant cultural hub,” the SPA continued.

Souq Al-Awaleen features handicrafts, folk art, and live performances reflecting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage and providing a platform for local artisans to showcase their work and revive traditional crafts. Visitors can also participate in workshops focused on Sadu weaving and pottery.

Sufrat Al-Deira, meanwhile, offers “a taste of authentic Saudi cuisine,” the SPA reported, adding that the “atmosphere evokes a bygone era, with activities like cooking demonstrations and cultural performances enriching the experience.”

Riyadh Season runs until March 2025, and has already been attended by more than 12 million people, according to the SPA.