Saudi Arabia is ‘committed to environment’s conservation’

Special Saudi Arabia is ‘committed to environment’s conservation’
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Session in progress at HIMA forum Riyadh. (AN Photo/Abdulrahman Alnajim)
Special Saudi Arabia is ‘committed to environment’s conservation’
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Guests at HIMA forum Riyadh. (AN Photo/Saad Al-Anzi)
Special Saudi Arabia is ‘committed to environment’s conservation’
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Guests at HIMA forum Riyadh. (AN Photo/Saad Al-Anzi)
Special Saudi Arabia is ‘committed to environment’s conservation’
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Session in progress at HIMA forum Riyadh. (AN Photo/Abdulrahman Alnajim)
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Updated 22 April 2024
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Saudi Arabia is ‘committed to environment’s conservation’

Saudi Arabia is ‘committed to environment’s conservation’
  • Local and international experts gather at first Hima protected areas forum in Riyadh
  • Arabian leopard, which is critically endangered, provides flagship species for conservation efforts in Kingdom

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is committed to the environment’s conservation and working to transform the landscape by promoting large-scale tree planting, combating desertification and enhancing biodiversity, an expert said at the first Hima protected areas forum in Riyadh.

Keynote speaker Dr. Faisal Wali, energy and water manager at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, who spoke on Monday on the “Conservation in an Era of Climate Change” panel, said: “Saudi Arabia is committed toward conservation.

“Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s economic and social reform plan, prioritizes environmental sustainability under the National Transformation Program, National Renewable Energy Program, Environmental Strategy and the Saudi Green Initiative, and aims to transform the landscape by promoting large-scale tree planting, combating desertification and enhancing biodiversity.”

The Arabian leopard, which is critically endangered, provided a flagship species for conservation efforts in the Kingdom, Wali noted. Recognizing Saudi Arabia’s efforts, the UN last year designated Feb. 10 as the International Day of the Arabian Leopard.

He went on to add that loss of habitat and fragmentation were major threats to wildlife and that the Kingdom had established protected areas and camera traps to monitor populations of its animals.

Speaking of conservation efforts in the Red Sea, he stressed that it was home to more than 1,200 species of fish and more than 300 types of hard corals in a unique ecosystem.

The Red Sea boasts the world’s largest coral nursery and research is being conducted on threatened species like the hawksbill sea turtle.

Wali emphasized the work KAUST was doing toward sustainability goals, adding that the efforts of Saudi Arabia, which had been bolstered by Vision 2030, offered a promising path into the future.

Climate change is not a problem limited to the Middle East, he noted, but a global phenomenon, and conservationists had worked on creating protected areas, reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainable hunting practice.

Coral bleaching in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, rising sea temperatures, and acidification are recent issues that are adding to growing problems,Wali explained.

He added that conservation efforts included implementing stricter rules on fishing and tourism, promoting marine-protected areas and funding research on coral resilience. Conservation efforts had a track record of success when it came to protecting endangered species, he added.

“We need to build upon this success by incorporating climate considerations into conservation strategies. Climate change presents new challenges but pre-existing conservation efforts provide a foundation,” he said.

Panelist Mohammed Qurban, CEO at the Saudi National Center for Wildlife, said that the center was working to address problems: “Under Saudi Vision 2030, environmental strategy conservation in the face of climate change is paramount. With five dedicated centers working in tandem and the implementation of the 30x30 program, we are actively addressing environmental challenges head on.”

Dr. Mazen Asseri, director at the National Center for Meteorology, highlighted the management of protected areas for conservation, and the accuracy of data that will help in monitoring the wildlife population and protecting biodiversity.

He added that collaboration between governments, nongovernmental organizations and local communities was crucial, but that working together would ensure the continued survival of the planet’s biodiversity.

Dr. Jacques Trouvilliez, executive secretary of the secretariat of the African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement, stressed the need of ecological corridors for conservation, and the need to maintain habitat ecology.

He praised Saudi Arabia, adding: “I am glad that the Kingdom has a timely response in Vision 2030, and its green initiatives are crucial to conversations.”

Dr. Andrew Gardner, chair of the Emirates Natural History Group, who moderated the panel discussion, pointed out that climate change had a huge effect on biodiversity, causing many challenges, recent excessive rains and flash floods in the UAE and Oman providing a good example.

The National Center for Wildlife organized the forum to discuss conservation efforts for natural habitats and wildlife in Saudi Arabia.

It was inaugurated on Sunday by the minister of environment, water, and agriculture and chairman of the board of the National Center for Wildlife, Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli.

The four-day event, which concludes on April 24, is the first of its kind in the region and attracts both local and international participants.

Since its founding in 2019, the National Center for Wildlife has addressed challenges facing wildlife and marine ecosystems, aiming to protect the environment for future generations.


Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh

Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh
Updated 20 sec ago
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Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh

Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh
  • Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture

RIYADH: The Global Harmony initiative concludes its third edition with a week-long celebration of Egyptian music, art and tradition in Suwaidi Park as part of Riyadh Season.

Running from Nov. 24-30 and organized by the Ministry of Media, the event invites visitors to experience Egypt’s rich heritage through a range of cultural activities.

Speaking to Arab News, Egyptian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Tarek El-Meligy highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the two nations. “The Egyptian community is the most harmonious, coexistent and understanding in a positive way within Saudi society,” he said.

“If you ask any Egyptian which country they would like to live in after Egypt, they will say Saudi Arabia.”

The Egyptian ambassador to Saudi Arabia visits the Egyptian festival at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, held as part of the Global Harmony initiative on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Sarry Shaaban, an executive and consultant at the General Entertainment Authority, said: “We are talking about millions of visitors, both residents and Saudis, entering the park. Whether I’m a resident, a Saudi or from a country hosting the event, it provides an opportunity for residents to learn about your culture, colors, explore its arts, food, crafts, and traditional industries.”

Live music and dance performances displaying Egypt’s cultural traditions, with the rhythm of drums and flutes and performers in traditional costumes, have brought the life and spirit of Cairo’s streets to Riyadh.

A separate bazaar area has been set up featuring Egyptian cuisine, traditional clothing and handcrafted items.

Performers showcase traditional Egyptian folk costumes and dances during celebrations at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, part of the Global Harmony Initiative, on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

“An event like this carries positive messages and highlights something we strive to emphasize every day, that we are one people, united by love and affection,” said El-Meligy.

Egyptian Sameh Nabil emphasized the feel of unity: “This initiative brought us closer together as Egyptians, and with Saudis here, I feel like we are brothers. I always feel like we are not expatriates.”

And visitor Khaled Zahir said: “This event reflects the love, connection and affection between Egyptians living in the Kingdom and Saudis.”

Performers in Egyptian attire take part in a parade at Riyadh’s Suwaidi Park, celebrating Egyptian culture as part of the Global Harmony initiative on Nov. 24, 2024. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Egyptians make up 11 percent of Saudi Arabia’s population, according to the Saudi Census, meaning such exhibitions are important in promoting mutual respect and harmony.

El-Meligy said Saudi Arabia hosted the largest Egyptian expatriate community abroad, with remittances from those in the Kingdom forming a significant part of their home nation’s income.

“In recent months, remittances from Egyptians abroad have increased substantially, thanks to the facilities between the two countries and the confidence in both the Saudi and Egyptian economies,” he added.

Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture. In his October visit to Cairo, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss investment opportunities and the establishment of a supreme coordination council to deepen bilateral relations.

Trade between Saudi Arabia and Egypt saw a 35.16 percent annual increase in the first half of 2024, according to the General Authority of Statistics. The increase was driven by a 73.44 percent surge in Saudi imports from Egypt, totaling $4.18 billion.

Egypt has also shown a growing interest in investing in Saudi Arabia, with a 71 percent rise in licenses granted to Egyptian firms in the second quarter of 2024.

The festival, which began in October, highlights the lives, contributions and cultural integration of its residents. So far, it has celebrated cultures including Indian heritage and moving through Philippine, Indonesian, Pakistani, Yemeni, Sudanese, Bangladeshi, Jordanian, Lebanese and Syrian traditions.

 


Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE

Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE
Updated 3 min 29 sec ago
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Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE

Riyadh Expo 2030 provides progress update to international exhibitions regulator BIE
  • Members of Riyadh Expo 2030 update Bureau International des Expositions on progress toward hosting the event

RIYADH: A Saudi delegation representing Riyadh Expo 2030 took part in a Bureau International des Expositions meeting on Tuesday to review the Kingdom’s readiness to host the global event.

In November 2023, Saudi Arabia won the bid to host the 2030 World Expo between October 2030 and March 2031 in the capital, Riyadh.

The Riyadh Expo 2030 delegation took part in the 175th general assembly meeting of the BIE, a Paris-based intergovernmental organization which oversees and regulates World Expos, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

They updated senior officials of the BIE about the latest Saudi developments and preparations for hosting the event. They also discussed progress on work to accommodate an expected 246 exhibitors, including countries, organizations and companies, at a site north of Riyadh.

Under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow,” the event aims to be a unique platform for innovations and modern technologies which aim to find answers to challenges facing the planet in various fields, according to the Expo 2030 website.


Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition

Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition
Updated 34 min 18 sec ago
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Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition

Hospitality sector innovations, trends showcased at Riyadh exhibition
  • Event gathers local and international exhibitors, industry leaders, and visitors to showcase trends, innovations, and business opportunities in the sector
  • Exhibition features an array of engaging activities, including live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a barista competition, and workshops for aspiring culinary professionals

RIYADH: This year’s HORECA exhibition held in Riyadh is underscoring the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global hospitality market.

Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the three-day event concludes on Nov. 27 and gathers local and international exhibitors, industry leaders, and visitors to showcase trends, innovations, and business opportunities in the sector.

The event contributes to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by fostering private-sector growth, promoting tourism, and enhancing the country’s food and beverage industries.

The exhibition features an array of engaging activities, including live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a barista competition, and workshops for aspiring culinary professionals.

Visitors can sample creative dishes, observe new techniques in food and beverage, and explore sustainable packaging solutions, among other highlights.

Prince Waleed bin Nasser, guest of honor and CEO of Mukatafa Co., highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors.

Speaking at a session on public policies impacting the food and beverage sector, he said: “The vision today aspires for the private sector to play a significant role in the development of the economy. The private sector must take the initiative to have a voice. To achieve this, it needs to be organized and united in presenting a single perspective.”

He also emphasized the need for proactive engagement: “We must work as one, united with a common vision, and present this vision in a professional manner backed by facts, ensuring that the decisions made have a positive impact on the sector and the citizens.”

Culinary competitions are among the highlights celebrating creativity and technical skills at HORECA. Mohammed Naif, a participant representing Saudi Arabia’s Hotel and Tourism Management Institute, told Arab News: “The atmosphere was amazing, and the competition was all about passion and enjoyment. There was a panel of judges and organizers who were very supportive — if you made a mistake, they would help you, and if you had an incomplete idea, they would guide you.

“I encourage anyone with a passion for cooking to join, showcase their creativity, and learn while bringing out their best.”

The exhibition also provided a platform for networking, with exhibitors showcasing local innovations as well as international brands. From cutting-edge hospitality tech to Saudi-inspired culinary creations, the event highlighted the Kingdom’s growing reputation as a global hub for the sector.


MoU signed to strengthen humanitarian ties

MoU signed to strengthen humanitarian ties
Updated 26 November 2024
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MoU signed to strengthen humanitarian ties

MoU signed to strengthen humanitarian ties
  • Memorandum was signed by Prince Mohammed bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz, chairman of the PMFHD, and Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, supervisor general of KSrelief
  • Memorandum highlights the Kingdom’s global leadership in relief, humanitarian aid and charity, and expands the scope of operations and the support for missions of both organizations

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief and the Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Foundation for Humanitarian Development signed a memorandum of understanding in Riyadh on Tuesday to enhance cooperation in humanitarian fields and establish a strategic partnership for mutual benefit.

The memorandum was signed by Prince Mohammed bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz, chairman of the foundation, and Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, supervisor general of KSrelief.

The memorandum highlights the Kingdom’s global leadership in relief, humanitarian aid and charity, and expands the scope of operations and the support for missions of both organizations.

Prince Mohammed praised KSrelief’s exceptional efforts in humanitarian work, saying: “KSrelief’s vast expertise and capabilities qualify it to provide humanitarian services worldwide. Through this collaboration, we aim for the foundation to contribute to global humanitarian efforts alongside KSrelief.”

He also expressed gratitude to the leadership for its continuous support of humanitarian initiatives delivering aid to those in need.

He added: “The foundation has signed numerous MOUs locally and globally, all achieving their goals and benefiting thousands.

“A notable achievement is the Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Award for Best Charitable Performance in the Arab World, which has benefited many organizations across the Arab world.”

Issa Al-Ansari, the foundation’s secretary-general, said that the memorandum aimed to strengthen cooperation in areas such as training volunteers, conducting research, and implementing developmental and humanitarian projects.

“The parties have agreed to form a joint team responsible for developing an action plan for implementing the memorandum’s terms, including follow-up mechanisms and regular meetings,” Al-Ansari added.


First group of royal guests performs Umrah

First group of royal guests performs Umrah
Updated 26 November 2024
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First group of royal guests performs Umrah

First group of royal guests performs Umrah
  • Schedule includes visits to the Kiswa Factory of the Holy Kaaba, the Revelation Exhibition, meetings with the imam of the Grand Mosque
  • Group arrived in Madinah where they visited the Prophet’s Mosque and toured other historic sites

RIYADH: The first group to arrive in the Kingdom through the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Umrah and Visit has performed Umrah rituals in Makkah.

The program’s organizing committees ensured that the visitors enjoyed excellent services, including upon arrival in Madinah where they were warmly welcomed by officials.

According to participants, the program, which is implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, reflects the Kingdom’s leaders’ dedication to supporting Muslims worldwide.

They expressed gratitude for the opportunity to visit the Grand Mosque in Makkah and perform Umrah, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The first group included 250 prominent Islamic figures from 12 countries, part of a total of 1,000 Umrah performers from 66 countries. The guests will visit in four groups as part of the program.

The schedule includes visits to the Kiswa Factory of the Holy Kaaba, the Revelation Exhibition, meetings with the imam of the Grand Mosque, and participation in various scientific and cultural programs.

The group arrived in Madinah where they visited the Prophet’s Mosque and toured other historic sites, including the King Fahd Glorious Qur’an Printing Complex, the Battle of Uhud site, Mount Al-Ramah, the Uhud Martyrs’ Cemetery, and the International Fair and Museum of the Prophet's Biography and Islamic Civilization.