Environment Week events put Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in the limelight

Arab News interviews Ibrahim Thiaw 1
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Updated 04 May 2024
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Environment Week events put Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in the limelight

Environment Week events put Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in the limelight
  • Riyadh hosts series of discussions focused on the challenges posted by drought, desertification and land degradation
  • Unsustainable agricultural practices, overgrazing, deforestation and soil erosion seen contributing to desertification

RIYADH: The region of Middle East and North Africa is known for its hot, dry climate and scarce water resources. The harsh climatic conditions are a contributing factor to the region’s perennial scourge of drought, desertification and land degradation.

These challenges result in imbalances in different ecosystems, harming especially the agriculture sector and imposing economic hardship on local populations. The growing importance of this regional issue has been a motivating factor for Saudi Arabia to host regular discussions.

This week, Environment Week, has been an opportunity to take stock of the challenges ahead and the progress made so far. Events organized during Environment Week highlighted Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in environmental preservation and sustainable development.




Desertification, the process by which fertile land transforms into arid desert, is a significant challenge confronting countries of the Middle East and North Africa. (Shutterstock)

Environmentalists were given a forum to exchange on a range of subjects, with the emphasis naturally on drought, desertification and land degradation. For this occasion, Arab News interviewed Ibrahim Thiaw, executive secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Riyadh.

“It has become extremely difficult for humanity to cope with the frequency of challenges,” he said. “Saudi Arabia is playing a very important role of course. It is not a small economy, therefore the demand for support from Saudi Arabia is also growing.”




Ibrahim Thiaw, executive secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. AN photo by AN Abdulrahman Alnajim

Thiaw spoke of some of the outcomes of land degradation and drought such as the increase of irregular migration due to land degradation and drought. “You will likely see more competition of land and water, and therefore, more conflict,” he said.

Drought, a major problem in many Middle East countries, has put water resources under stress in tandem with rising temperatures. Both surface water and groundwater reserves are failing owing to declining precipitation and rising evaporation rates.




A picture shows a view of the dried-up bed of the al-Kalal River in the city of Badrah, near the Iran border, on August 28, 2023. Iraq's drought reflects a decline in the level of waterways due to the lack of rain and lower flows from upstream neighboring countries Iran and Turkey. (AFP)

As a result, rivers and lakes are drying up and water shortages have become a serious problem. Moreover, because of multiple environmental reasons, including drought, the region has been experiencing frequent sandstorms.

“There are around 50 countries that are sources of dust storms, but there are 150 countries that are affected by this phenomenon. Therefore, it has become a global issue,” Thiaw said, speaking about the impact of dust storms in one nation on another.

“You may use one country to shine a spotlight on dust storms, but these constitute a global phenomenon that we all need to address. To do that, you need global treaties like the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, which at the moment has 197 parties. So, it is a universal body and has a summit, a meeting every two years.




Infographic from the Global Drought Snapshot 2023 report of the International Dought Resilience Alliance and the UN Convention to combat Desertification. 

“The next meeting will be held here in Riyadh in December 2024, where the 197 countries will come together at the level of heads of state, at the level of ministers and the level of experts, communities and NGOs and civil society organizations, to discuss just that, namely the consequences of land degradation and drought on the lives and livelihoods of communities.”

Furthermore, experts point out that drought and desertification influence each other. Desertification, the process by which fertile land transforms into arid desert, is another significant challenge confronting countries of the Middle East and North Africa. Unsustainable agricultural practices, overgrazing, deforestation and soil erosion all contribute to the problem.




Infographic from the Global Drought Snapshot 2023 report of the International Dought Resilience Alliance and the UN Convention to combat Desertification. 

Consequently, arable land is lost and food production decreases, exacerbating the problem of food insecurity. Desertification also leads to the displacement of communities, according to Thaiaw, as people are forced to migrate in search of more habitable areas.

Speaking to Arab News on the occasion of Environment Week in Riyadh, Elizabeth Mrema, deputy executive director of the United Nations Environment Program, offered her views on the crisis of desertification.




United Nations Environment program’s deputy executive director, Elizabeth Mrema. (Supplied) 

“As far as Saudi Arabia is concerned, the country has clearly seen its impact and treated it as a priority for this year. I am saying ‘this year’ because at the UN Environmental Assembly at the end of February, Saudi Arabia took the lead on an initiative to combat degradation. It went through and was adopted, and that was on a global level,” said Mrema.

“Beyond that, this country next month, on June 5, will host World Environment Day. This day is celebrated every year. It is global because it was adopted by the UN General Assembly. This year, it is being hosted by Saudi Arabia.

“This year Saudi Arabia will host the UN Conference to Combat Desertification. It will be hosted here with the theme ‘Our land, our future’ again, Land is the focus.”




Infographic from the Global Drought Snapshot 2023 report of the International Dought Resilience Alliance and the UN Convention to combat Desertification. 

Additionally, the combination of drought and desertification in one area leads to land degradation, further compounding the Middle East's environmental crisis. Soil erosion, salinization, and depletion of soil nutrients are some of the results of land degradation.

As agricultural productivity declines worldwide, farmers face key challenges in securing their livelihoods, in addition to the fact that the environmental problems heighten ecosystem vulnerability, which also leads to biodiversity loss and ecosystem imbalance.

“Saudi Arabia is showing the world that this is a global issue. The initiatives which have been taken by the government in recent years demonstrate the commitment in dealing with these issues,” said Mrema.




The Saudi Green Initiative Day reflects Saudi Arabia’s vision and dedication to fostering a culture of sustainability (SPA)

“I look at the Saudi Vision 2030, I look at the environmental strategies of 2018, I look at the Saudi Green Initiative. I look at the Middle East Green Initiative with a commitment to reach a regional level to plant 50 billion trees, 10 of which Saudi Arabia has committed to plant in this country. And not in committed in words, but put an institution to lead the road, to make sure that this is happening.”

Addressing the three challenges of drought, desertification and land degradation in the Middle East requires a multifaceted approach. Thiaw and Mrema were of the view that governments, international organizations and local communities need to work together to implement sustainable water management strategies, promote efficient irrigation technologies and invest in renewable energy sources.

Additionally, they said, reforestation efforts and the protection of natural habitats can help reduce desertification and land degradation.

Raising awareness about the importance of sustainable land use practices and supporting affected communities is an important step toward long-term solutions for both the Middle East and North Africa region and the world.

To sum up, countries of the Middle East and North Africa are suffering from effects of intensifying drought, desertification and land degradation. Urgent action is required to reverse this trend and ensure regional environmental sustainability.

By adopting sustainable methods, investing in water management, and promoting conservation actions, communities of the region will be able to reduce the severity of these challenges and assure themselves of a more resilient future.
 


Saudi Crown prince discusses Gaza with leaders from Gulf, Jordan, Egypt

Saudi Crown prince discusses Gaza with leaders from Gulf, Jordan, Egypt
Updated 22 February 2025
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Saudi Crown prince discusses Gaza with leaders from Gulf, Jordan, Egypt

Saudi Crown prince discusses Gaza with leaders from Gulf, Jordan, Egypt

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hosted a meeting of leaders from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Jordan, and Egypt in Riyadh on Friday.

The meeting discussed joint efforts in support of the Palestinian cause, and developments in Gaza, along with other regional and international issues, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The meeting was attended by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Jordan’s King Abdullah, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa.

The leaders welcomed the holding of the emergency Arab Summit in Cairo on March 4.


Lucid unveils one-of-a-kind Lucid Air Sapphire at Saudi Cup meeting

Lucid unveils one-of-a-kind Lucid Air Sapphire at Saudi Cup meeting
Updated 21 February 2025
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Lucid unveils one-of-a-kind Lucid Air Sapphire at Saudi Cup meeting

Lucid unveils one-of-a-kind Lucid Air Sapphire at Saudi Cup meeting
  • Vehicle to be presented to winner of Saudi Cup race

RIYADH: Lucid has unveiled its one-of-a-kind lavender Lucid Air Sapphire, exclusively designed and built for the winner of the world’s richest race, the Saudi Cup 2025.

Faisal Sultan, vice president of Lucid Middle East, said: “Presented as a special award to the Saudi Cup winner, this exclusive vehicle is more than just a symbol of triumph; it represents a celebration of the Kingdom’s leadership in sustainability, innovation, and global excellence.”

During his speech, which took place on day one of the Saudi Cup meeting at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh, Sultan added: “I am also privileged to introduce a creation that exemplifies the pinnacle of what Lucid can achieve: The world’s first one-of-a-kind Lucid Air Sapphire.”

The vehicle features a lavender finish and boasts a triple-motor system and driving dynamics with 1,234 horsepower and carbon-ceramic brakes.

Sultan said that the unveiling of the vehicle was the result of Lucid’s partnership with the Saudi Cup.

The winner of the Saudi Cup race, which takes place on Feb. 22, receives $20 million, along with the car.

Sultan also unveiled Lucid’s newest vehicle, the Lucid Gravity SUV, and added: “Its (the Lucid Gravity SUV) debut at the Saudi Cup reflects Lucid’s shared vision and support of the Kingdom’s bold vision for the future.

“It is particularly fitting that this groundbreaking vehicle is now available in the Kingdom — a nation that stands at the forefront of innovation and sustainability through Vision 2030.”

The two-day Saudi Cup is an equestrian event that brings together some of the world’s top jockeys at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse and boasts a prize pool of over $38 million.


Echoes of power: Pioneering women who shaped the First Saudi State

Echoes of power: Pioneering women who shaped the First Saudi State
Updated 21 February 2025
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Echoes of power: Pioneering women who shaped the First Saudi State

Echoes of power: Pioneering women who shaped the First Saudi State
  • Women ‘were essential, significant in all parts of society,’ says historian

RIYADH: In the chronicles of the First Saudi State (1727–1818), history often focuses on the men who led armies, negotiated alliances, and built political legacies. Yet, behind these triumphs stood women whose influence was equally vital — as warriors, strategists, poets, and economic forces. Their contributions were woven into the very fabric of the state’s survival and expansion.

Historian Zain Al-Shiran told Arab News: “In terms of the First Saudi State, I believe women were essential and significant in all parts of society, which makes them important in political life.”

Among the extraordinary women in the First Saudi State, Ghalia Al-Bogammiah emerged as a fierce military and economic leader, striking fear into Ottoman forces, while Moudi bint Saad Al-Dahlawi wielded the power of poetry and intellect, rallying resistance through words that inspired generations.

 Saudi women's contributions were woven into the very fabric of the state’s survival and expansion. (Supplied by King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah)/ the Ministry of Culture "Saudi Founding Day" book.)

The First Saudi State, with Diriyah as its capital, was a thriving political, intellectual, and economic hub.

“This city held political, intellectual, and economic life, and it was very important for all members of society to almost play a pivotal role in terms of intellectual, cultural, material, textual exchange,” said Al-Shiran.

One of the most influential women in Saudi cultural history was Al-Dahlawi, an educator whose impact extended beyond poetry to shape intellectual thought and literacy. A poet and intellectual, her work was a force of defiance that resonated through generations.

(Supplied by DGDA)

Al-Shiran said: “She has this stirring poetry, to say the least. It was to motivate the people of the First Saudi State.

“She wrote it … to motivate and spur the defenders in the face of the Ottoman invading forces.

“This poetry that she has written, and I think is passed through generationally, speaks of the power of women in poetry from the First Saudi State.”

Illustration by Julius Euting Women in the northern Arabian Peninsula. (Photo courtesy: King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah)/ the Ministry of Culture "Saudi Founding Day" book.)

Al-Dahlawi was part of a larger movement of women who championed education, promoting literacy and intellectual growth in those times.

Other women, such as Ruqaiyah bint Abd Allah Al-Saad Al-Salihi, who is documented in “Prominent Women from Central Arabia” by Dalal Mukhlid Al-Harbi, also left a lasting impact with their verses of wisdom and defiance, reinforcing the cultural resilience of their people.

And while Al-Dahlawi inspired resistance with her poetry, Al-Bogammiah led men into battle.

Al-Shiran added: “Militarily, I think the most prominent woman would be Ghalia Al-Bogammiah. (She) was a supporter through and through of the First Saudi State.”

The First Saudi State, with Diriyah as its capital, was a thriving political, intellectual, and economic hub. (DGDA photo)

The historian explained how manuscripts and first-hand accounts from the time detail how Al-Bogammiah supported the military efforts of tribal leaders and dignitaries who were able to repel two Ottoman expeditions in 1811 and 1813.

“She is known for her sound opinions and accurate knowledge of military matters and her understanding of defense, and she would push the tribe towards defending the First Saudi State,” Al-Shiran explained, citing the Swiss writer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt who recorded his travels in Arabia in the early 19th century.

The Saudi victory was so momentous that Ottoman forces reportedly believed Al-Bogammiah was a sorceress.

“Her efforts are shown not only through the stories that are passed down generationally, but also manuscripts and firsthand accounts of Ghalia’s efforts,” said Al-Shiran.

Beyond warfare and culture, women like Al-Dahlawi and Al-Bogammiah were also deeply involved in the economy.

Al-Shiran said: “When I understand the economic situation, specifically Diriyah, it was alive. It was this rebirth and this renaissance of cultural, economic, political, intellectual exchange, and we understand that… there were industries where occupations were performed by men and also by women.4

The First Saudi State, with Diriyah as its capital, was a thriving political, intellectual, and economic hub. (DGDA photo)

“And when we understand trade, we understand that (trade) was something that they had in common. Both men and women would be trading in one of the most important (markets) in the First Saudi State, which is Souq Al-Mawsim in Diriyah,”

According to Al-Harbi’s book, women of the era contributed to both governance and social stability, reinforcing the political resilience of the First Saudi State through their leadership and advisory roles.

Women such as Princess Modhi bint Sultan Abi Wahtan were significant for the philanthropic role they played, patronizing free education and accommodation for needy travelers.

Al-Shiran further emphasized the political presence of women, adding: “Politics, I think, is an umbrella to all, because if they are prominent in economic affairs, in military affairs, in cultural affairs, then they are also prominent in political affairs.”

Their contributions, and the efforts of countless other warriors, poets, and scholars, reveal the resilience of Saudi women in the state’s formative years.

Though history often overlooked their defiance, their words, actions and victories have echoed through time.

The legacy of these pioneering women has not faded with time. The principles they fought for — education, leadership, and resilience — continue to inspire modern Saudi women who now take leading roles in academia, politics, and business. 

 


Diplomatic corps visits Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu Industrial City

Diplomatic corps visits Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu Industrial City
Updated 21 February 2025
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Diplomatic corps visits Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu Industrial City

Diplomatic corps visits Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu Industrial City
  • The visiting delegation received a comprehensive briefing on Yanbu Industrial City’s quality of life initiatives and development projects

YANBU: Heads of consular and diplomatic missions accredited to the Makkah region toured Yanbu Industrial City in a visit organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Royal Commission for Yanbu.

Abdulhadi Al-Juhani, CEO of the Royal Commission for Yanbu, welcomed the delegation at the King Fahd Cultural Center, accompanied by several officials.

The visiting delegation received a comprehensive briefing on Yanbu Industrial City’s quality of life initiatives and development projects.

Their tour included key landmarks, notably the Yanbu Industrial Lake, a haven for migratory birds.

A highlight of the visit was the 15th Flowers and Gardens Festival, where diplomats explored the festival’s facilities and exhibitions.

 


Riyadh turns green for Founding Day

Riyadh turns green for Founding Day
Updated 21 February 2025
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Riyadh turns green for Founding Day

Riyadh turns green for Founding Day
  • Citizens and residents will take to the streets in their thousands tomorrow
  • The Riyadh Municipality has arranged for the streets to be adorned with more than 8,000 national flags

RIYADH: It is one of two occasions — the other is National Day — when the Kingdom is adorned with national flags.
Citizens and residents will take to the streets in their thousands tomorrow, Feb. 22, to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s fourth Founding Day.
The Riyadh Municipality has arranged for the streets to be adorned with more than 8,000 national flags, turning the capital green. The flags, representing both the First Saudi State and the modern Kingdom, have been hung strategically on main road masts, squares, bridges, intersections and lampposts, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
The positioning was carefully planned to ensure aesthetic harmony with the city’s landscape and were safely installed by mechanical means. The range of sizes means the flags can also be clearly seen.
Specialized field teams followed a strict timetable to carry out the installations efficiently, prioritizing safety, sustainability and regular maintenance throughout the celebrations.
The efforts reflect the Riyadh Municipality’s commitment to highlighting national identity and improving the urban landscape, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 to enhance the capital’s visual appeal and emphasize the Kingdom’s heritage.
Landmarks including ministry buildings were decorated with green lights on Friday, the eve of Founding Day, while special events across the region will include firework displays and traditional folk acts.
“We invite you to attend the Riyadh Municipality events in 47 municipalities within the governorates and centers of the region in more than 47 locations; to enjoy lively events, quality activities, diverse areas and participations,” Riyadh Municipality wrote on X.
Abdullah Ahmed, a resident of the capital, praised the authority for its efforts to make Founding Day such a special occasion.
He told Arab News: “I am thankful to the Almighty Allah for bestowing safety and security on us as we live in complete solidarity and peace. We are fortunate that we have good leadership in King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and we are fortunate to have Imam Mohammed bin Saud as the founder of the First Saudi State in 1727.”
The modern Kingdom took its first steps on the road to nationhood in 1727, when Imam Mohammed bin Saud succeeded his cousin, Zaid bin Markhan, as ruler of the city state of Diriyah. It is this pivotal moment, recognized as the date when the First Saudi State came into being, that is celebrated as Founding Day each year.