Saudi women participate in kiswa changing ceremony for the first time

Saudi women participate in kiswa changing ceremony for the first time
1 / 5
Special team of technicians and craftsmen install the new Kiswah at the Kaabah in Makkah. (SPA)
Short Url
Updated 09 July 2024
Follow

Saudi women participate in kiswa changing ceremony for the first time

Saudi women participate in kiswa changing ceremony for the first time
  • The kiswa weighs 1,350 kilograms and measures 14 meters in height
  • Special team of about 200 technicians and craftsmen carry out the installation process

MAKKAH: Saudi women participated in the kiswa changing ceremony at the Kaaba in Makkah for the first time, Sunday as part of the team organized by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque. 
Installation of the elaborately designed black cloth cover was completed by a team from the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Kiswa of the Kaaba, composed of 159 skilled workers which included women for the first time.


As described by the Saudi Press Agency, the specialist team first removed the gold-embroidered pieces of the Kaaba’s old kiswa while the new one was being brought to the Grand Mosque from the complex.

The Kiswa contains 53 gold-embroidered pieces consisting of 16 for the belt area, seven for under the belt, four corner pieces, 17 lanterns, five pieces for the door curtain, one piece for Al-Rukn Al-Yamani, and two pieces for the Black Stone outline, along with the gutter.




The installation of a new Kiswa is a complicated process that takes up to 200 skilled technicians and craftsmen to complete in a few hours. (SPA)

The complex’s operational staff includes 159 skilled craftsmen who work to produce 56 gold-embroidered pieces for the kiswa. Work is done by hand and takes between 60 and 120 days to complete one gold-embroidered piece.

A total of 120 kilograms of gold, 100 kilograms of silver and 1,000 kilograms of silk are used in the production of the kiswa. As one piece, the kiswa weighs 1,350 kilograms and measures 14 meters in height, and consists of four separate sides and a door curtain, according to the complex in charge of kiswa production.

The covering is adorned from the outside with inscriptions woven with black threads.

To install the kiswa, the four sides have to be lifted separately to the top of the Kaaba to allow for the process to be completed. “After all the sides are fixed, the corners are sewed from the top of the covering to the bottom. After that is done, the curtain is placed, which requires time and skill in putting it up. An opening is made in the black fabric that is the size of the curtain, which is approximately 3.33 meters wide until the end of the covering and 6.35 meters long. Then, three openings are made in the black fabric to fix the curtain from under the fabric. Finally, the edges are fixed by sewing them into the black fabric on the covering,” SPA explained.

On May 22, about three weeks before the Hajj pilgrimage, the lower part of the kiswa was raised. The procedure is repeated every year to protect the kiswa from getting soiled and damaged as pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba.




The installation of a new Kiswa is a complicated process that takes up to 200 skilled technicians and craftsmen to complete in a few hours. (SPA)

Previously the kiswa was replaced during the Hajj season, specifically on the morning of Dhul Hijjah 9 after the pilgrims go to Mount Arafat, in preparation for receiving worshippers the next morning, which coincides with Eid Al-Adha.

Last year, Saudi Arabia’s General Presidency for the Two Holy Mosques announced the change in tradition so that the annual event would be held on the eve of Muharram 1, the first day in the Hijri calendar.

Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, president of religious affairs for the Two Holy Mosques, said the change was made based on a royal decision.


Saudi FM meets with counterparts on sidelines of G20 meeting in Johannesburg

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan attends a meeting of G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg on Thursday. (SPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan attends a meeting of G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg on Thursday. (SPA)
Updated 21 February 2025
Follow

Saudi FM meets with counterparts on sidelines of G20 meeting in Johannesburg

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan attends a meeting of G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg on Thursday. (SPA)
  • Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan is attending a meeting of G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with his counterparts from the UK, China, Australia, and France separately in Johannesburg on Thursday.

On the sidelines of a meeting of G20 foreign ministers held for the first time in Africa, Prince Faisal discussed regional and international developments with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy.

With Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Prince Faisal discussed intensifying coordination on issues of common interest.

Ways to enhance and develop joint relations were reviewed by Prince Faisal and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong.

Prince Faisal also discussed regional developments and efforts made to achieve stability and peace in the region with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot.


How AI is transforming education — but potentially impacting child development

How AI is transforming education — but potentially impacting child development
Updated 20 February 2025
Follow

How AI is transforming education — but potentially impacting child development

How AI is transforming education — but potentially impacting child development
  • AI has enabled personalized learning by adapting content to students’ pace and style, offering interactive, gamified experiences
  • However, experts warn that excessive AI use may impact early childhood cognitive growth and reduce real-world learning

RIYADH: Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing industries across the globe, and education is no exception. From personalized learning experiences to administrative efficiency, AI is reshaping classrooms and redefining the roles of both teachers and students.

However, as AI’s influence in education expands, experts warn of potential drawbacks — particularly when it comes to young children.

AI-powered tools are becoming increasingly prevalent in education. According to a 2024 report by the UK-based digital safety organization Internet Matters, nearly 44 percent of children are currently using AI, and 54 percent have incorporated it into school assignments.

The report, titled “Artificially Intelligent? Children’s and parents’ views on generative AI in education,” found that teachers, too, are integrating AI into their daily tasks, with 60 percent reporting that they use the technology to enhance their work.

The adoption of AI in education reflects a broader global trend. Experts at Allied Market Research project the market for AI-driven educational tools will grow from $2.5 billion in 2022 to $6 billion by the end of 2025, highlighting the increasing reliance on technology in schools.

In Saudi Arabia, the government has embraced AI’s potential in various sectors, including education. The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence, established in 2019, aims to drive innovation in AI and position the Kingdom at the forefront of data-driven economies.

For educators, AI presents exciting opportunities to enhance learning experiences.

“AI has transformed education by personalizing learning experiences, allowing for tailored content that meets individual student needs,” Faleh bin Saad Al-Huqbani, director of Al-Muqaddimah Schools in Riyadh, told Arab News.

By adapting content to a child’s pace and learning style, AI enables more individualized instruction, helping students grasp difficult concepts with greater ease. Additionally, AI-powered tutoring systems provide real-time feedback and support, reinforcing learning outside the classroom.

Young students attend a lecture on artificial intelligence and robotics during a science exhibition conducted by the King Salman Science Oasis in Riyadh. (SPA file photo)

“AI tools can engage children with interactive and gamified learning environments, making education more enjoyable,” Al-Huqbani added.

Beyond the classroom, AI is also streamlining administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus more on teaching rather than paperwork. Automated grading systems, data analysis tools, and AI-powered lesson planning are freeing up valuable time for teachers to engage with students more effectively.

While AI’s impact on education is largely positive, some experts caution against its overuse — especially among young children.

Dr. Sultan Ayoub Meo, professor of physiology at the College of Medicine at King Saud University, stresses the importance of cognitive development in early childhood, warning that excessive reliance on AI and electronic devices could have unintended consequences.

Dr. Sultan Ayoub Meo. (Supplied)

“It is not just a natural biological maturation; it is shaped by the infant’s experiences and interactions with their environment,” Dr. Meo told Arab News.

“Children’s cognitive development from birth to 5 years of age is critical due to rapid brain growth and acquiring initial knowledge in thinking, learning, problem-solving, language, and understanding.”

Dr. Meo believes AI has an important role to play in higher education, but he does not recommend its use for children under the age of 6.

While AI has an important role to play in higher education, Dr. Meo does not recommend its use for children under the age of 6. (SPA file photo)

“In this age group, the most important and highly sensitive systems, nervous and endocrine systems, and their physiological processes are rapidly developing,” he said.

He also pointed out potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to AI-enabled devices. “Using AI for children at the age of 6 can cause behavioral and psychological issues,” he said.

“We cannot deny the effects of electromagnetic field radiation generated by AI-allied devices and their hazards on various body organs, including the brain, ears, and eyes, especially in infants and children.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• AI is transforming education, with 60 percent of teachers using it to automate grading, analyze data, and streamline administrative tasks.

• Experts warn that excessive AI use may impact early childhood cognitive development and reduce real-world learning opportunities.

• Experts advocate balancing AI with traditional education to ensure students develop both technological and interpersonal skills.

Despite these concerns, Dr. Meo acknowledges that AI is now an integral part of education and research.

“This is the era of science and technology,” he said. “The future of digital education is extremely important in academia and research. Digital education makes knowledge easily accessible and enables students to access the same knowledge resources.”

In addition to making education more accessible, AI facilitates lifelong learning and skill acquisition, helping students meet the demands of an evolving job market. However, Dr. Meo highlighted the importance of being selective in how and when AI is introduced in the classroom.

KAUST Academy focuses on talent development in AI with programs targeting outside learners. (Supplied/File)

“It will be helpful at higher school and university levels rather than primary schooling,” he said. “Digital education at primary school levels may replace real-world learning and human interaction.”

While AI’s impact on education is undeniable, experts agree that a balanced approach is necessary. AI should complement, rather than replace, traditional teaching methods, ensuring that students continue to benefit from human interaction and hands-on learning experiences.

“We must balance technology with traditional teaching and learning methods,” Dr. Meo added.
 

 


Secretary-general of Etidal welcomes director of UN’s Counter-Terrorism Centre

Secretary-general of Etidal welcomes director of UN’s Counter-Terrorism Centre
Updated 20 February 2025
Follow

Secretary-general of Etidal welcomes director of UN’s Counter-Terrorism Centre

Secretary-general of Etidal welcomes director of UN’s Counter-Terrorism Centre

RIYADH: Mansour Al-Shammari, the secretary-general of the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology — also known as Etidal — welcomed Mauro Miedico, director of the UN’s Counter-Terrorism Centre, to Etidal’s headquarters in Riyadh on Thursday.

The parties discussed combating extremism and terrorism and subjects of mutual interest.


Saudi artist’s ‘Tafawut’ exhibition showcases harmony between art and architecture 

Saudi artist’s ‘Tafawut’ exhibition showcases harmony between art and architecture 
Updated 20 February 2025
Follow

Saudi artist’s ‘Tafawut’ exhibition showcases harmony between art and architecture 

Saudi artist’s ‘Tafawut’ exhibition showcases harmony between art and architecture 
  • Salman Al-Amir’s use of acrylic and oil paint allows for a wide range of textures and tones making his works both thought-provoking and visually striking

RIYADH: Saudi artist and architect Salman Al-Amir’s exhibition, “Tafawut” (Disparity) which was held at Mahd Alfnon Gallery in Riyadh from Feb. 13-19, showcased a glimpse of his creative process, in which he skillfully blended art and architecture. 

Born in 1963 in Al-Ahsa, Al-Amir holds a master’s from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s from King Faisal University. 

With a background in interior design and architecture, he creates spaces that blend functionality with artistic expression, transforming each project into an exciting adventure.

“Tafawut” presented a diverse and engaging collection of 37 artworks that serve as a window into the artist’s emotions and experiences. 

The exhibition showcased a stunning variety of styles and mediums; some pieces were abstract and displayed a masterful play of geometric shapes and others representational, with artworks focusing on people, animals, or objects. Some featured prints, while others featured dreamy backdrops. 

His use of acrylic and oil paint allows for a wide range of textures and tones making his works both thought-provoking and visually striking.

The color palettes were equally varied, ranging from earthy to vibrant tones, further demonstrating the versatility of Al-Amir’s artistic vision and skill. 

This flair is a testament to Al-Amir’s architectural background, where precision and creativity come together. Each artwork invites viewers to explore the harmonious relationship between structure and form. 

His talent lies in merging his architectural expertise with his artistic passion. The paintings on display incorporate intricate details, touching upon various elements of Al-Amir’s experiences.

When asked about a specific painting that links his personal and professional experiences, Al-Amir said: “A painting titled ‘Ideas on a Flat Carpet’ is devoid of ideas but filled with the principles and foundations of Islamic miniature arts, often overlooked in our Islamic cultural heritage, yet rich with inspiration for the Saudi, Arab, and Islamic artist.” 

This painting reflects Al-Amir’s strong connection to his cultural roots and his passion for reinterpreting traditional artistic forms in a contemporary context.

Reflecting on his creative process, Al-Amir explained: “I am still on a journey to discover the creative form that satisfies me and relieves me from the arduous search.” 

The exhibition itself displays this ongoing exploration and experimentation.

Discussing the exhibition’s theme, Al-Amir stated: “Disparity here means diversity, not a difference in levels.

“This is precisely the message I wanted to convey to my fellow artists and amateurs to explore the depths of their talents and strive to reveal them,” Al-Amir told Arab News. 

The exhibition celebrated the multifaceted nature of art and the importance of embracing diverse styles and approaches.

As Al-Amir looks ahead, he shared his artistic goals. “I’m working to bring more Eastern influences into my art,” he explained.

He aims to give his creations a unique character that reflects the beauty and richness of Eastern traditions.

The artist shared valuable advice for aspiring artists. “Learn the rules like a professional so you can break them like an artist. Additionally, I encourage aspiring artists not to imitate Western styles; instead, they should adapt and reformulate these influences to support their local identity.”

Al-Amir is a dynamic force in the art world, leading workshops that ignite creativity. As a juror for art shows and a lecturer at King Fahd University, he inspires and helps direct many other aspiring artists.


Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs finalizes Madinah’s Ramadan preparations

Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs finalizes Madinah’s Ramadan preparations
Updated 20 February 2025
Follow

Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs finalizes Madinah’s Ramadan preparations

Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs finalizes Madinah’s Ramadan preparations

The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance has completed its preparations for this year’s holy month of Ramadan in Madinah.

Mosques, praying areas and their facilities have been prepared to receive worshippers, ensuring they perform their rituals in an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence.

Sheikh Osama bin Zaid Al-Madkhali, director general of the ministry’s branch in Madinah, said that the body’s efforts included intensifying regular maintenance rounds to ensure that mosques were free of any malfunctions or issues.

In addition, specialized field teams have been formed to handle emergency maintenance work around the clock, ensuring uninterrupted services.

Inspection tours of mosques have also been intensified to identify needs and ensure optimal preparation, in addition to following up on imams, preachers and muezzins to ensure their adherence to the ministry’s directives in serving worshippers.