Saudi crown prince to deliver annual royal address at Shoura Council on Wednesday
The crown prince will deliver the address on behalf of King Salman
Address will cover the Kingdom’s domestic and foreign policies and its positions on international issues
Updated 17 September 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will deliver an annual royal address to inaugurate the first year of the ninth session of the Shoura Council on Wednesday.
The crown prince will deliver the address on behalf of King Salman and it will cover the Kingdom’s domestic and foreign policies and its positions on regional and international issues, Saudi Press Agency reported.
Shoura Council Speaker Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh said the council is guided by the contents of the royal address every year in its work, discussions, and decisions.
New project to plant 90,000 trees in Hali Wildlife Park
Updated 31 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has launched a project to restore Hali Wildlife Park in Al-Qunfudhah governorate, Makkah region.
Part of the Saudi Green Initiative, the project aims to enhance vegetation cover and promote sustainable environmental goals, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The initiative involves planting 90,000 native and wild trees, such as vachellia tortilis, tamarix aphylla, vachellia seyal, balanites aegyptiaca, maerua crassifolia, delonix elata, salvadora persica, leptadenia pyrotechnica and acacia nilotica.
The trees will cover approximately 6 million sq. meters, irrigated using water from nearby dams. A 6-kilometer pipeline will be built to channel water from Wadi Hali Dam to the park.
Hali Wildlife Park is known for its scenic landscapes, diverse vegetation and proximity to Wadi Hali Dam, attracting local and international visitors.
The center’s afforestation efforts contribute to creating green spaces, preserving endangered native plants, lowering temperatures, improving air quality, and controlling sand encroachment.
The center is committed to enhancing and managing vegetation sites, protecting natural resources, combating illegal logging, and safeguarding biodiversity, the SPA reported.
‘Climate action must be a collective effort,’ says COP CEO Soltanov
Fight against climate change will fail unless countries come together
National interest linked with global actions
Updated 17 November 2024
Haifa Alshammari
BAKU: Countries from around the world must come together in a “collective effort” to fight climate change, COP29 CEO Elnur Soltanov told Arab News.
“When we say, ‘in solidarity for a greener world,’ we mean that climate action must be a collective effort. Unless it is collective, it won’t work, and we risk losing everything,” said Soltanov.
He pointed out the moral imperative of international solidarity, particularly for nations that contribute minimally to global warming yet suffer the most from its effects, such as African countries and small island nations.
“African countries, contribute less than 4 percent to global warming, but the majority of climate-vulnerable countries are in the African continent,” he said.
For example, as of last year, extreme heatwaves during summer have critically affected the northern parts of Africa, such as Tunisia. The temperature in Tunis reached 49°C, whereas Agadir in Morocco, recorded 50.4°C, according to the World Meteorological Organization.
One of the major components of this solidarity is climate finance, which Soltanov believes is essential for creating a fair balance of responsibilities among nations.
“Different countries have different responsibilities, in terms of what is happening in the world today. There are beneficiaries, there are not so many beneficiaries, so this balance and fairness between them could only be provided in case we are moving collectively, and to move collectively, we believe we should deliver on climate finance this year,” he said, stressing that climate finance is critical for enabling of collective action.
Soltanov acknowledged that the outcomes of such gatherings are frequently scrutinized.
“The crisis we are facing is real, it is significant and therefore whenever it is helped, whatever the outcomes are, there will be criticism. It is not about Azerbaijan, it is not about Saudi Arabia, it is not about any country,” he said.
Despite the criticism, the CEO prefers to be heavily focused on achieving tangible results and delivering meaningful climate action instead of focusing on who to blame for this global environmental problem.
“We are ready to listen to constructive arguments,” he said. “What would I tell everybody is, if you want to serve that national interest of Azerbaijan, you need to serve the global interest, which is about producing outcomes and deliverables in terms of tackling the climate crisis.”
He added: “Our focus is on delivering action, climate action, that is really consequential.”
Soltanov noted that developed countries have special responsibilities to assist others, highlighting the need for a cooperative approach to ensure that nobody is left behind.
“We don’t see the difference between oil producing or oil consuming country because oil transactions, gas transactions and coal transactions happen in a free market. Nobody is forced to buy from anybody.”
He added: “Therefore, all the countries are oil countries and all the countries are gas countries because the entire global development models are based on hydrocarbons, and we are trying to figure out these alternative models of development so that development and energy security, development and poverty are not things we choose from, they happen at the same time.”
Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia, for example, can share their capabilities, experience, and partnerships to bring more to the table.
“We believe that, the way we look at, if there is anything Saudi Arabia, a country like Azerbaijan, could do for us, they are valuable in terms of experience and technology they acquire because they are at the forefront of the other forms of energy developments.”
Saudi Arabia to host 6th UN World Data Forum in 2026
Kingdom’s successful bid endorsed by High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity-Building in Statistics (HLG-PCCB)
Updated 17 November 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia was confirmed on Friday as host of the sixth edition of the UN World Data Forum in 2026, Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
The announcement was made at Friday’s conclusion of the fifth edition, held in Medellin in Colombia and attended by representatives from all 193 UN member states.
The Kingdom’s successful bid was endorsed by the High-Level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity-Building in Statistics (HLG-PCCB), recognizing Saudi Arabia’s significant progress and commitment to leveraging data for sustainable development.
Fahad Aldossari, president of the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT), expressed his congratulations to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continued support.
He acknowledged their backing and the role it has played in strengthening GASTAT’s global presence and expertise, enabling it to compete on an international scale.
Aldossari noted that hosting the 6th UN World Data Forum was a testament to Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive advancements across various sectors, particularly in data and statistics.
“This forum will be an invaluable platform for sharing technical expertise, fostering partnerships with national statistical offices worldwide, and enhancing global cooperation in statistics,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to Colombia’s government, the UN, and the National Department of Statistics (DANE) for their successful organization of the 5th forum, as well as to the HLG-PCCB and participating representatives for their dedication.
The UN World Data Forum is a premier global event, drawing more than 20,000 participants from government bodies, national statistical offices, international and regional organizations, academia, civil society, and the private sector.
It addresses challenges in global data and statistics, fosters collaboration, and underscores the importance of data in shaping effective policies and initiatives.
Soul searching: How astrology and crystals are captivating younger generations
Younger generations are more open to exploring unconventional topics, says astrology enthusiast
Updated 16 November 2024
Waad Hussain
RIYADH: In recent years, young Saudis have been increasingly drawn to astrology and crystals.
Arab News spoke to several Saudis who explained how this trend reflects a deeper desire for self-exploration and healing, particularly among the younger generation, who are navigating an era of rapid change and seeking guidance beyond traditional frameworks.
Young Saudis say that astrology — a system linking the position of planets to personality traits — as well as crystals, which some believe aid in personal healing, have provided avenues for them to explore their identities, face their anxieties and find meaning.
Wedad Bughararah says her whimsical workspace decor creates a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere. (Supplied)
Mawadda Al-Surehi, owner of AGAPE & Co., a store in Saudi Arabia, described her journey as a response to a society that she believes often overlooks the well-being of the soul.
“We’re in an era where people are becoming more materialistic, focusing on possessions and forgetting their souls,” she said.
Al-Surehi’s products purportedly support meditation, inner peace and calmness. “Crystals are often underrated and seen only as pretty or aesthetic, but they actually carry a lot of energy and frequency,” she said. “I believe they’re part of our spiritual journey and have been for centuries.”
HIGHLIGHTS
• In a time of rapid change, uncertainty and global challenges, astrology and crystals promise young Saudis a sense of control, comfort and connection.
• Mawadda Al-Surehi predicts that crystals will become a staple in the lives of many Saudis, and are not just a passing trend.
“Crystals work like lemon and honey for the flu,” Al-Surehi said. “They’re for healing the spiritual side of you.”
Kyanite. (Supplied)
She predicted that crystals will become a staple in the lives of many Saudis, and are not just a passing trend.
Salsabil Al-Shajiri spoke about how her initial interest in astrology stemmed from curiosity. “I was interested in learning how these practices had captivated so many people,” she said. While she does not view astrology as an absolute truth, Salsabil appreciates its potential to help people reflect on their characteristics and tendencies, providing insight into relationships and behaviors.
She believes that the popularity of astrology among young Saudis is largely due to a desire for self-exploration. “They seek a way to discover their true selves,” she said, explaining how studying astrology has improved her mental health and perspective on life, helping her progress through personal development with a more positive outlook.
We’re in an era where people are becoming more materialistic, focusing on possessions and forgetting their souls.
Mawadda Al-Surehi, AGAPE & Co. owner
Abeer Ahmed shares a similar sentiment. “At the age of 27, astrology fits naturally and intuitively into my life,” she said. For Ahmed, astrology provides insight into daily life, although she approaches it with a balanced perspective. “I’ve learned through the years to take everything with a grain of salt,” she added, highlighting how she views astrology as a supportive tool rather than a definitive guide.
Labradorite. (Supplied)
Ahmed believes that young Saudis are drawn to astrology because of its fun and mysterious nature. “The idea that we each have a birth chart, unique to us, and can gain insight through studying constellations — that’s so fun,” she said. Younger generations, Abeer said, are more open to exploring unconventional topics. At various points in her life, astrology has provided her with confidence and a sense of direction. However, she cautioned against allowing it to dominate one’s life, highlighting that nothing should replace one’s own inner compass.
For Jomanah Nawaf, an interest in astrology and crystals began in 2018 when she discovered her placement — an aspect of astrology that attributes personality characteristics related to the time of a person’s birth.
Her particular placement of Sagittarius and Jupiter is said to represent a drive for personal freedom, truth and understanding — qualities that Jomanah found “ironically fitting.”
Lapis lazuli. (Supplied)
What started as a casual interest on social media quickly became a daily ritual. “Not a day goes by where I don’t use my astrology knowledge for personal reasons,” Nawaf said, adding that she incorporates astrology into everything from salon appointments to medical decisions.
Nawaf said that social media played a significant role in spreading these practices, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when people spent more time online. She likens astrology to a personality test that offers labels to help people understand their experiences. “Astrology helps you understand what’s going on in your life and brings some relief,” she said. For Jomanah, astrology provides a sense of clarity and control in an unpredictable world, helping her navigate challenges with a calm perspective.
Wedad Bughararah was initially drawn to crystals because of their beauty, not necessarily because she believed they held energy. “Just having them around brought a sense of calm,” she said. This sense of peace led her to explore spirituality more deeply, discovering a world that felt both comforting and enlightening.
Bughararah commented on the generational draw to age-old practices. “Most of generation Z is struggling with depression because we don’t see a lot of hope for the future,” she said, adding that these practices provide a beacon of hope in an otherwise unpredictable life.
For some, like Al-Surehi, spirituality is a holistic journey that encompasses mind, body and soul. For others, like Ahmed and Nawaf, astrology serves as a tool for navigating life’s complexities.
In a time of rapid change, uncertainty and global challenges, astrology and crystals promise young Saudis a sense of control, comfort and connection. As Al-Surehi, eloquently puts it: “At the end of the day, you’re a soul inside a body.”
For this generation, spirituality presents itself as both a medicine for the soul and a guide to navigating the complexities of modern life.
A highlight of the exhibition is an immersive recreation of the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have received his first revelation
Updated 16 November 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The Hira Cultural District in Makkah is currently hosting the Revelation Exhibition, drawing visitors from all walks of life.
The exhibition provides a unique opportunity to delve into the stories of the prophets, from Adam to Muhammad.
A highlight of the exhibition is an immersive recreation of the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have received his first revelation.
Visitors can go back in time to experience the historic moment through state-of-the-art technology and interactive displays.
The exhibition also features a range of artifacts, including a photographed copy of the Qur’an that belonged to the esteemed companion Uthman ibn Affan, and ancient stone inscriptions bearing verses from the Qur’an.
The Hira Cultural District is a cultural and tourism destination which is committed to enriching the visitor experience.
Its Autumn Vacation series of events offers a diverse range of experiences, including equestrian skills demonstrations, a display of traditional caravans, and engaging challenges.
