Saudi Arabia to experience scorching heat through the month

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Riyadh and cities in the Eastern Province are on the meteorological department’s high alert. (Supplied)
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Updated 02 July 2024
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Saudi Arabia to experience scorching heat through the month

Saudi Arabia to experience scorching heat through the month
  • Temperatures expected to surge to 50 C in late July and early August
  • Riyadh and the Eastern Province are expected to experience extreme heat

RIYADH: Temperatures in Saudi Arabia are expected to rise to 50 degrees Celsius in late July and early August.

Riyadh and cities in the Eastern Province were on the meteorological department’s high alert over the searing heat forecast for the month, with the maximum temperature soaring to 44 C in Riyadh and 47 C in Dammam on Tuesday.

According to the National Center of Meteorology, temperatures across Saudi Arabia are expected to remain high this month. From Monday, July 1, until next Friday, July 12, 2024, Riyadh and the Eastern Province are expected to experience extreme heat, with maximum temperatures surging to 47 C in Riyadh and 49-50 C in Dammam.

Similar conditions are forecast for parts of Makkah and Madinah, with temperatures surging to 42-45 C.

The NCM forecasts that heatwave conditions will persist throughout the month and continue until the first week of August. The authority issued a severe weather warning, or orange alert, in some areas including Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and the Makkah region.

An orange alert means that high temperatures are expected and that prolonged exposure to the sun could likely result in heat-related illnesses.

In areas where an orange alert has been issued, doctors recommend drinking plenty of water even when not thirsty, along with oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte replenishments and homemade summer drinks like laban, lemon water, and fruit juices.

Dr. Abdullah Ahmed, who works at a hospital in Riyadh, told Arab News: “Homemade drinks such as lemonade or coriander mint water are effective remedies that not only keep you hydrated but also offer various health benefits. By taking these simple precautions and consuming these refreshing drinks, you can enjoy a healthier summer season.”

The NCM also forecast that high-speed winds will affect some parts of the Kingdom including Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province.

Meanwhile, a climate expert has warned that temperatures in Saudi Arabia are expected to soar above 50 C in late July and early August.

Abdulaziz Al-Mazrui, the head of a climate change research center at King Abdulaziz University, underscored the severity of the impending heatwave and urged residents and authorities to prepare for the scorching heat during the peak summer season in the Kingdom.

Iffat Aabroo, a Riyadh resident, told Arab News: “Even early in the morning, you don’t feel comfortable going for a walk or doing any work. As the day progress, the air conditioning at home does not work properly when you have high temperatures.”

Syed Wasiuzzaman, an Alkhobar resident, told Arab News: “We are experiencing very high temperatures in the Eastern Province. It was 43 degrees in the morning at 9 a.m. when I was going to the office. As the day progressed, it surged to 47 degrees, making the day uncomfortable.”


Saudi explores quality higher education practices at Tokyo conference

Saudi explores quality higher education practices at Tokyo conference
Updated 58 min 58 sec ago
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Saudi explores quality higher education practices at Tokyo conference

Saudi explores quality higher education practices at Tokyo conference

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia’s Education and Training Evaluation Commission participated in the 18th International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education from May 13 to 16 in Tokyo.

The conference was titled “The Big Bang Theory: The Quality Assurance Paradigm Shift.”

Hosted by the Japan University Accreditation Association, the event facilitated collaboration between institutions on quality practices amid rapid technological advancements and evolving societal needs.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the ETEC’s participation forms part of its ongoing efforts to engage with international counterparts and explore leading global practices in education and training.


Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud hails Saudi-Japan ties

Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud hails Saudi-Japan ties
Updated 19 May 2025
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Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud hails Saudi-Japan ties

Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud hails Saudi-Japan ties
  • Prince Abdullah highlights investment growth with Japan
  • Praises role of Arab News Japan in boosting cooperation 

TOKYO: In an interview with Arab News Japan, Saudi Arabia’s Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud has lauded the strong ties between Japan and the Kingdom, and said he was deeply honored to have received a top honor from the Asia nation.

The former governor of the Saudi General Investment Authority received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun last month.

“Receiving the Imperial Award is indeed a great honor. Like many in the Kingdom, including officials and former officials, I hold the Japanese emperor, government and people in the highest regard,” Prince Abdullah said in the recent interview with Arab News Japan. 

Reflecting on his tenure at SAGIA, now the Ministry of Investment, Prince Abdullah highlighted the collective nature of the recognition. 

“The award reflects the work carried out during my tenure at SAGIA ... This recognition is not solely mine, it is a shared achievement with my colleagues.

“More importantly, it reflects the leadership’s ongoing commitment to strengthening relations with Japan,” he said. 

He emphasized the Kingdom’s investment in international cooperation, noting the evolution of SAGIA into a full ministry under the Council of Ministers. 

“The elevation of SAGIA to a full ministry ... highlights the strategic importance the Saudi leadership places on investment and international cooperation,” he added.

During his recent visit to the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Prince Abdullah shared his impressions of the Saudi Pavilion, which he described as a powerful representation of the Kingdom’s transformation and culture. 

“The Saudi Pavilion was excellent,” he said of the expo which opened on April 13 and ends Oct. 13. 

“I was particularly interested in the design elements of the Saudi Pavilion, how it captured the essence and transformation of our land, and how quickly and effectively the structure was developed.”

He praised the role of the Ministry of Culture and the young Saudis staffing the pavilion.

“The presence of talented young Saudi men and women at the pavilion was especially noteworthy.

“The structure itself, using stones especially brought from the Kingdom, was impressive, with features such as embedded loudspeakers, combining aesthetics and functionality,” he told Arab News Japan.

Prince Abdullah, who previously served as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the US, also lauded the Japanese Pavilion, saying it was “outstanding. Their designers, architects, and scientists demonstrated exceptional innovation.”

 “I even recommended our ambassador Dr. Ghazi Binzagr, who began his academic career in physics, to revisit the pavilion, as the advanced technologies on display merit deeper understanding,” he said. 

Turning to the broader significance of Saudi Arabia-Japan relations, Prince Abdullah emphasized the need for robust media and cultural exchange, pointing to Arab News Japan’s role as a valuable bridge between the two nations. 

“First, I would like to commend the efforts behind Arab News Japan. It is an important initiative, both in its content and in the way it delivers information. 

“It serves a valuable audience and contributes meaningfully to deepening understanding between our two countries.” 

He added: “There is deep mutual respect between our peoples. There is great potential for cooperation, especially among small- and medium-sized enterprises on both sides,” he said. 

Praising Japan’s technological innovation and the Kingdom’s transformative development, he said: “What we can realize by our partnership is amazing.” 

Prince Abdullah added that Japan and Saudi Arabia will benefit from increased cooperation, as well as the global economy.


Riyadh hosts a world of jewels

Riyadh hosts a world of jewels
Updated 19 May 2025
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Riyadh hosts a world of jewels

Riyadh hosts a world of jewels
  • Jewelry exhibition showcasing Saudi designers and global luxury pieces dazzles visitors

RIYADH: Under the chandelier-lit halls of Riyadh’s Mandarin Oriental Al-Faisaliah Hotel, the Jewels of the World exhibition gathered more than 60 brands for an eager crowd of jewelry and watch enthusiasts.

The exhibition, which ended on Monday, featured notable global names including Bil Arabi, Yoko London, Scavia and FerriFirenze.

Local talent was also spotlighted, notably Renad Al-Amoudi’s striking Marque Legacy collection, which draws inspiration from the flora of the Saudi deserts, including Ruby Lily and Petit Iris.

Nader Freiha, director and organizer of Jewels of the World, said that the exhibition this year is “the culmination of a journey that began in 2016.”

He added that hosting the event in Riyadh reflects “the remarkable growth of the jewelry market in the Kingdom, which has become a destination for global brands thanks to its discerning clientele.”

The exhibition offers the opportunity to explore new collections debuting in Saudi Arabia, from everyday jewelry to ornate bridal sets, many of which are inspired by global artistic and cultural heritage, Freiha said.

“The exhibition is a benchmark for ensuring both quality and luxury simultaneously,” he added.

Ahmed Al-Shirazi, director of SJC Saudi Arabia, a destination for luxury jewelry, said that the exhibition is an opportunity to strengthen brands and attract new customers through showcasing designs and engaging directly.

The Bahraini jeweler observed a rising inclination among clients to use luxury jewelry as a form of self-expression and personal style, highlighting a heightened appreciation for the finer details in their overall look.

Nezar Mukhtar, a member of the Precious Metals and Gemstones National Committee at the Saudi Chambers Federation, observed visitors’ keen interest in renowned brand names.

“Hosting exhibitions locally spares enthusiasts and designers the hassle of traveling and saves them valuable time,” he said.

Mukhtar added that events like Jewels of the World support the national economy and spotlight the sophisticated taste of Saudi consumers.

“Such an exhibition addresses the expectations of many discerning clients seeking specific quality standards in jewelry,” he said.


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Level Up’ social hub in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Level Up’ social hub in Riyadh
Updated 19 May 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Level Up’ social hub in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Level Up’ social hub in Riyadh

Level Up is a social hub in Riyadh for those seeking entertainment and connection. For just SR60 ($16), visitors gain access to activities ranging from board games and video games to virtual reality experiences.

This multifaceted venue stands out as a gathering place for individuals with shared interests, making it easy to forge new friendships.

One of the highlights at Level Up is its open mic nights, where local bands showcase their talents. This not only provides entertainment but also fosters a sense of community among those attending.

The friendly vibe welcomes both extroverts and introverts, making it a space where people can comfortably engage in conversation or simply enjoy the performances.

The hub also sells PlayStation 5 consoles and accessories, catering to gaming enthusiasts, as well as a range of anime and video game action figures for those into pop culture.

One of the items on the menu I enjoyed was the iced matcha, which is popular among patrons.

While visiting with a friend, I was captivated by the talented musicians at the open mic event, followed by an engaging session of board games.

Level Up hosts discussions every Tuesday, featuring industry leaders such as marketing heads, board members, talent acquisition directors, CEOs, and founders.

These events provide opportunities to learn from and engage with influential figures, helping to enrich the community experience.

Whether you are looking to socialize, enjoy live music, or dive into gaming, Level Up is well worth a visit.


Saudi deputy FM receives Turkmenistan’s ambassador in Riyadh

Saudi deputy FM receives Turkmenistan’s ambassador in Riyadh
Updated 19 May 2025
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Saudi deputy FM receives Turkmenistan’s ambassador in Riyadh

Saudi deputy FM receives Turkmenistan’s ambassador in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic and Development Affairs Abdullah bin Zarah received Oraz Mohammed Charif, Turkmenistan’s ambassador to the Kingdom, in Riyadh.

During the meeting, they reviewed economic issues of common interest, the foreign ministry said in a post on X on Monday.

Meanwhile, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received a phone call from Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger during which they reviewed bilateral relations and regional and international developments