King’s Cup: History, dreams and drama in KSA’s oldest tournament

Over the years a fierce rivalry emerged between Al-Ittihad and Riyadh’s Al-Ahli, and to this day the two teams have clashed more than any other Saudi sides in what is known as Saudi Arabia’s “Al Clasico.” (Supplied)

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Updated 22 September 2024

Nada Hameed

September 22, 2024 12:52

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King’s Cup: History, dreams and drama in KSA’s oldest tournament

Updated 22 September 2024

Nada Hameed

September 22, 2024 12:52

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JEDDAH: The King’s Cup tournament holds a special place in the hearts of football fans in Saudi Arabia, tracing its roots back to the inaugural edition in 1957. It is the Kingdom’s longest-running tournament, and has witnessed the rise of notable clubs and players, shaping the landscape of Saudi football over the years.

Makkah’s Al-Wehda clinched the maiden title, but Al-Ittihad soon emerged as the dominant force, securing consecutive victories in 1958, 1959, and 1960.

The 1958 final between Al-Ittihad and Al-Wehda remains a standout moment in the tournament’s history. In a display of exceptional prowess, Al-Ittihad emerged victorious with a resounding 3-0 win, courtesy of goals from Ibrahim Al-Jaithan, Ahmed Jumaa, and Hassan Doush. This momentous victory not only crowned Al-Ittihad as champions, but also solidified their status as a powerhouse in Saudi football.

Ahmed Eid Al-Harbi: A Saudi Football Legend. (Saudipedia)

Over the years a fierce rivalry emerged between Al-Ittihad and Riyadh’s Al-Ahli, and to this day the two teams have clashed more than any other Saudi sides in what is known as Saudi Arabia’s “Al Clasico.”

The tournament was not contested between 1990 and 2007. It was reinstated in 2008 in a revamped format involving only the top six teams of the Saudi league, before returning to its original format in 2014.

The story of the King’s Cup would be incomplete without mentioning the illustrious career of Ahmed Eid Al-Harbi, the Saudi national team’s first goalkeeper who later become a high-ranking official in the sporting world.

Playing for the Al-Ahli side that won the King’s Cup in 1970, Al-Harbi later went on to serve in various capacities, including president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation.

In an exclusive interview with Arab News, Al-Harbi shared insights on his career: “When I was 13, I was determined to make my mark in football, aspiring to join the ranks of the stars who served the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”

In 1967, he transferred from Al-Tasami Club to Al-Ahli.

Al-Harbi said that meeting King Faisal was the dream of every young footballer at that time, and “I was no exception.”

After winning the Western Region Championship, Al-Ahli advanced to the final against Al-Shabab Club in 1970. The match was attended by King Faisal and other members of the royal family.

(Left) Ahmed Eid Al-Harbi: A Saudi Football Legend, (right) Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, governor of the Makkah region.
(Supplied)

“The mental and physical pressure was immense,” Al-Harbi said. “The king’s presence added to the awe of the moment, along with the significance of the event and the distinguished guests.”

He recalls a particular highlight of his footballing career: “One of my most cherished memories is asking the king to sign the ball. I carefully chose my words and timing, but when the moment came, I realized I didn’t have a pen.

“The king signed the ball with his personal pen and then gifted it to me. This remains one of the most unforgettable moments in my sports career, even though I experienced similar moments about 10 more times afterward.”

Al-Harbi still has the ball, and having played in more than 12 King’s Cups, says that each one holds special memories.

“The experience as a player offers invaluable life lessons; being part of a club is an essential element, and interacting with the club, its fans, and its management is a rich experience.”

Al-Harbi said: “I consider myself fortunate to have entered the sports arena at an early age while still a student. The school played a crucial role in nurturing our athletic abilities, as school activities instill ethics, competition, and culture, all of which contribute to creating champions.”

The future of sports in the Kingdom has seen significant progress over the years, with over 170 clubs where Saudi youth engage in various sports— not just football but many other disciplines as well.

As for the King’s Cup, the tournament has gone from strength to strength, and is gaining attention internationally with the country’s big-name acquisitions in recent years.

“Today, we see stars like Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr Club, Neymar at Al-Hilal Club, and Mahrez at Al-Ahli Club, all of whom contribute positively to the Kingdom’s sports culture,” Al-Harbi said.

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Topics: FIFA World Cup 2034 Saudi National Day 2024

Diriyah Season exhibition honors symbols of Saudi resilience

Updated 8 min 23 sec ago

Lama Alhamawi

December 27, 2024 21:06

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Diriyah Season exhibition honors symbols of Saudi resilience

Imam Turki bin Abdullah’s legacy explored in immersive display for Second Saudi State’s bicentennial anniversary

Updated 8 min 23 sec ago

Lama Alhamawi

December 27, 2024 21:06

RIYADH: Diriyah Season’s “Enduring Resilience” exhibition highlights the life of ruler Imam Turki bin Abdullah in celebration of the 200th anniversary of the establishment of the Second Saudi State.

“I enjoyed the exhibition. I honestly think that exhibitions like this are so important because they show Saudi history and the bravery of important people of the past, such as Imam Turki bin Abdullah,” said Maha Al-Aamri, a Saudi visiting the exhibition being held at Diriyah’s Bujairi Terrace with her friends.

Visitors were drawn to Turki’s Cave, created based on a cave Imam Turki strategically sought refuge in. (AN photo by Lama Alhamawi)

Speaking about what stood out to her, she said, “All of it … The storytelling about Al-Ajrab Sword was probably the best part of the exhibition.”

Al-Ajrab Sword is one of the most well-known symbols of the Kingdom’s history, representing the courage, determination, and nobility of Imam Turki in unifying and restoring the sovereignty of the Second Saudi State in 1824 when he entered Riyadh.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Al-Ajrab Sword is one of the most well-known symbols of the Kingdom’s history.

• It represents the courage, determination, and nobility of Imam Turki bin Abdullah in unifying and restoring the sovereignty of the Second Saudi State in 1824.

Through the exhibition, visitors are transported back in time through a guided and immersive journey that explores how Imam Turki established and shaped the Second Saudi State, reclaiming the land and restoring the legacy of his ancestors.

The exhibition takes visitors on a guided and immersive trip back in time as they explore the establishment and shaping of the Second Saudi State by Imam Turki. (AN photo by Lama Alhamawi)

“The experience was very nice and something different to try,” Vindeep Gupta, a computer technician working and living with his family in Riyadh, told Arab News.

“I will just say that I wish it (the exhibition) was bigger, but I like that it captured the struggles and challenges in achieving the victory … The historians did a good job in making the display,” he said.

The ‘Enduring Resilience’ exhibition transports visitors back in time through a guided and immersive journey that explores how Imam Turki bin Abdullah established and shaped the Second Saudi State. (AN photo by Lama Alhamawi)

Among the areas of the exhibition where visitors noticeably spent more time taking pictures and videos was Turki’s Cave.

According to a document published by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, Imam Turki sought refuge in a cave high atop a rugged mountain, choosing it as his base of operations. The cave, located in Aliyyah, became one of the most well-known in Najd.

Its inaccessibility made it a perfect hideout, strategically situated near several key towns and villages including Al-Kharj, Al-Houtah, Al-Hareeq, Al-Hulwah, and Al-Dalam.

The exhibition, in Arabic with English translation, is open to the public until the end of the year. It offers a deeper understanding of the values of unity, belonging, justice, and loyalty that were exhibited by the imams of the state.

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Topics: Saudi Arabia Imam Turki bin Abdullah

Black limes: a unique staple of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine

Black limes boast a harmonious blend of sour and slightly sweet flavors, rounded out by a touch of bitterness. (AN photo)

Updated 8 min 48 sec ago

Hind Al-Khunaizi

December 27, 2024 21:56

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Black limes: a unique staple of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine

Dried citrus adds zesty kick to dishes
Originated as a way to preserve fruit in hot climes

Updated 8 min 48 sec ago

Hind Al-Khunaizi

December 27, 2024 21:56

RIYADH: Anyone who has not yet dived into the world of black limes is in for a treat. Known in English as dried limes or black lemons, these intriguing ingredients are referred to as noomi basra in Iraq, limoo amani in Iran, and loomi in Saudi Arabia and Oman.

They are a must-have for elevating culinary creations and have graced dishes across the Middle East and North Africa for more than 1,000 years. It’s about time they were brought into every kitchen.

So, what exactly are black limes? Think of them as the sophisticated cousins of fresh limes. They undergo a transformation process: first, they are packed in salt, and then they bask in the sun until they turn a striking black.

The result is a hard, dried fruit that delivers a remarkable burst of flavor.

When it comes to taste, black limes pack a powerful punch. The flavor is a harmonious blend of sour and slightly sweet, rounded out by a touch of bitterness.

“It was a game-changer to realize that (adding black lime) isn’t just about adding tanginess to a dish — it’s a full-on spice with a smoky aroma and earthy notes that bring out so much flavor,” Shadia Al-Bayat — a home cook from Qatif — told Arab News.

“Beyond that, it’s packed with nostalgia, calling to mind traditional Gulf dishes like seafood, grilled meats, and hearty stews. It’s also the key to the signature hot ‘loomi’ tea, a staple at traditional gatherings and celebrations,” Al-Bayat added.

FASTFACTS

• Black limes are packed in salt and then they bask in the sun until they turn a striking black.

• They add a zesty kick to Saudi dishes; they originated as a way to preserve fruit in hot climate.

This unique profile makes them perfect for enhancing stews, tagines and a variety of other dishes. A black lime added to a cooking pot will instantly elevate any meal.

Cooks can get creative with black limes. They can be used whole or crushed into powder, allowing for versatility.

Imagine a flavorful tagine or a warming soup that gets a delightful kick from a black lime. If preferred, the lime can be removed before serving, but leaving it in adds an appealing touch.

For something refreshing, blend black limes into limonana, a delightful drink that combines lemon and mint, perfect for quenching thirst.

And for something soothing, consider brewing some dried lime tea — a comforting drink that can settle the stomach and provide a sense of warmth.

They also make excellent additions to marinades for meats and fish, giving dishes a fantastic zest.

In Saudi cuisine, loomi is a prized ingredient that adds a distinctive tangy flavor to traditional dishes.

In kabsa, a popular rice dish, black lime is added whole or ground to add acidity and elevate the dish’s depth.

Black limes have a history that dates back centuries. They are believed to have originated in the Middle East and North Africa, where they were a valued ingredient in ancient cooking.

Historically, they were prized not just for their flavor, but also for their ability to preserve food in the warm climate. Over time, dried limes became a staple in various cuisines, with each culture adding its own flair to their use.

Today, they are recognized for their versatility and are celebrated in dishes in many cultures.

Beyond their culinary charm, black limes come with health benefits, too. Packed with vitamin C, calcium and potassium, they are a nutritious addition to any diet.

Black limes are a cultural staple. While they share ties with fresh limes, black limes have a distinct personality, bringing an intriguing bitterness and complexity to dishes.

They can even be spotted in spice blends like baharat, because a little extra flavor never hurt anyone.

Black limes are a unique and flavorful ingredient that can bring depth to cooking and are worth adding to any culinary repertoire to impress the taste buds.

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Topics: Loomi Noomi Limoo Saudi Arabia

King Salman Global Academy launches Camel Lexicon

A glimpse from a camel competition held durring the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival in Riyadh on Thursday. (SPA)

Updated 7 min 9 sec ago

Hebshi Alshammari

December 27, 2024 21:00

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King Salman Global Academy launches Camel Lexicon

Lexicon aims to facilitate those interested with reliable, authentic information on camels

Updated 7 min 9 sec ago

Hebshi Alshammari

December 27, 2024 21:00

RIYADH: The King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language unveiled the Camel Lexicon, a comprehensive source compiling authentic information related to camels in Arabic, on Thursday.

According to Dr. Abdullah Al-Washmi, KSGAAL secretary-general, the Camel Lexicon is a continuation of KSGAAL’s efforts in the field of lexicography.

It offers a rich linguistic resource, including terms and expressions specific to camels, such as their breeds, descriptions, species, colors, life stages, as well as diseases and defects they may encounter.

The lexicon also features distinctive marks and includes idioms, proverbs, stories, tales, and poetry associated with camels and aims to prevent it from getting lost or distorted over a period of time.

The Camel Lexicon will facilitate researchers and those interested in accessing accurate and reliable information about this field. It will also play a crucial role in preserving the linguistic and cultural heritage tied to camels by documenting the words and expressions that have been used by Arabs throughout history. It also endeavors to revive and pass down this rich heritage to future generations.

This lexicon demonstrates the academy’s strategic role in serving various key sectors, as it serves as the primary reference for the Arabic language in the Kingdom.

The academy previously introduced a series of specialized lexicons, Al-Washmi added.

The concept behind the Camel Lexicon stemmed from the esteemed position of camels in Arab culture. It was meticulously crafted based on the “Camel” blog, established by the academy in August 2024, and is part of the linguistic corpora available on the “Falak” platform for linguistic blogs, the KSGAAL secretary-general explained.

These efforts were part of programs inspired by the Cabinet's decision to declare 2024 as the “Year of the Camel,” showcasing the Kingdom’s pride in the cultural and historical value of camels and their cherished position in the heart of Saudi society, Al-Washmi noted.

The Camel Lexicon is an essential tool for documenting and deepening the understanding of camels and their role in Arab culture. It serves as a valuable reference for enthusiasts and researchers in this field, Al-Washmi said.

“Language and culture are deeply intertwined and preserving the terms and expressions linked to heritage plays a vital role in strengthening Arab cultural identity. It serves as a living record of both tangible heritage, such as camels and the tools associated with them, and intangible heritage, like the customs and traditions surrounding camels. By documenting these elements, we ensure that this history remains vibrant and enduring,” Al-Washmi said.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Fifi, head of the linguistic computing department at the academy, said: “By meticulously documenting terms that capture the essence of camel life, traits, and their profound roles in Arab traditions, it ensures this cultural treasure is safeguarded. Moreover, it stands as an inspiring bridge to pass this linguistic wealth on to future generations.”

The documentation of terminology showcasing the diverse facets of camel life — encompassing their breeds, colors, conditions, and unique traits — has preserved a treasure trove of knowledge for future generations.

The academy relied on the “Camel” blog, which contains 666,186 words collected from 971 Arabic texts, according to Dr. Yahya Allateeni, director of the Digital Dictionaries Department at KSGAAL.

The team extracted camel-related terms and their definitions using an automated process, organizing them into a dictionary according to the global LMF standard for the lexicographic industry.

This automated approach was adopted to ensure the terms could be used to feed various computational applications. “These terms were reviewed by experts in camel culture from outside the academy to assess the dictionary from a technical perspective,” Allateeni said.

“We do not stop at this point. We welcome all feedback from interested parties and experts, incorporating it into an ongoing review and evaluation process. We also ensure that any terms not included in the previous edition are carefully considered,” he added.

KSGAAL commended the pivotal role of the Camel Club in refining the lexicon’s content, expressing deep gratitude for their invaluable contributions. The academy emphasized the importance of sustaining this productive partnership to further enrich the Camel Lexicon with new and diverse entries, strengthening its content and broadening its scientific reach.

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Topics: King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language Camel Lexicon Saudi Arabia

How Saudi organizations are building a sustainable future for wildlife

Updated 27 December 2024

Ghadi Joudah

December 27, 2024 21:29

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How Saudi organizations are building a sustainable future for wildlife

Recent initiatives underscore strong commitment to restoring ecosystems and protecting biodiversity
Kingdom’s approach seen as proof that environmental stewardship and economic growth can coexist

Updated 27 December 2024

Ghadi Joudah

December 27, 2024 21:29

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is solidifying its position as a global leader in biodiversity preservation through a series of pioneering initiatives aimed at protecting endangered species and restoring fragile ecosystems.

From the release of endangered animals in the King Khalid Royal Reserve to the historic birth of Arabian leopard triplets, the Kingdom’s conservation efforts highlight a forward-looking commitment to safeguarding its natural heritage for generations to come.

On Dec. 23, 2024, the National Center for Wildlife (NCW) achieved a significant milestone with the release of 66 endangered animals into the King Khalid Royal Reserve, located northeast of Riyadh.

The release included 40 rhim gazelles, 10 Arabian oryx, 10 Houbara bustards and six Idmi gazelles.

This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority, is part of a broader strategy to restore ecological balance, enhance biodiversity and promote eco-tourism.

To ensure the program’s success, some of the released animals were equipped with solar-powered tracking devices, enabling researchers to monitor their integration and behavior in the wild.

The Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Centre in Taif has reached a groundbreaking achievement — a rare litter of Arabian leopard triplets, two males and one female, was born earlier this month.

This marks the first recorded triplet birth of the critically endangered Arabian leopard in Saudi Arabia and only the third such occurrence in captivity worldwide over the past 30 years.

The birth is a pivotal moment for Saudi Arabia’s conservation efforts led by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU).

Fewer than 120 Arabian leopards remain in the wild, placing them in the critically endangered category of the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List.

Opinion

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Since partnering with Panthera in 2019 under the Arabian Leopard Initiative, RCU has made significant strides in protecting this iconic species.

“When we assumed management of the Arabian Leopard breeding program in December 2020, we inherited 14 leopards and immediately began drafting strategic plans for new enclosures, team building, and breeding targets,” Abdulaziz Al-Enzy, senior manager of the RCU Breeding Center Management, told Arab News.

The initiative focuses on boosting wild populations, expanding breeding programs, and advancing research to ensure the species’ survival.

The breeding center, now home to over 32 leopards, has emerged as a global leader in conservation efforts.

“Through our KPIs, the center set an ambitious goal of producing two cubs annually,” Al-Enzy said.

“To date, it has consistently exceeded expectations: one cub in 2021, three in 2022, seven in 2023, and five in 2024.”

The center also follows strict protocols for pregnant leopards.

Al-Enzy said females are separated from males during their final trimester, and all activity around them is minimized to ensure a stress-free delivery.

Veterinary teams remain on standby to intervene in case of complications.

“We’ve achieved remarkable growth by constructing state-of-the-art open-top enclosures, the first of their kind in the Middle East for Arabian leopards, and implementing 24-hour monitoring using 200 CCTV cameras,” Al-Enzy said.

The team, according to him, ensures the leopards are healthy, safe and enriched in their environment.

Protecting the Arabian leopard is not just about saving a species—it’s about preserving ecological balance and cultural heritage.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Saudi Arabia released 66 endangered animals, including Arabian oryx, into the King Khalid Royal Reserve.

• Arabian leopard triplets were born in the Kingdom, a rare event for this critically endangered species.

• The Arabian oryx population has increased 60-fold in Saudi Arabia after being declared extinct in the wild.

• The Kingdom reintroduced cheetahs, with four cubs born in captivity after a 40-year absence.

“The Arabian leopard plays a critical role in regulating prey populations, maintaining the health of ecosystems, and is deeply rooted in Saudi Arabia’s culture," Al-Enzy said.

The ultimate goal is to reintroduce these magnificent creatures into the wild sometime in the future. However, this process is fraught with challenges.

“Leopards must be trained to hunt and acquire survival skills, and pre-release enclosures are currently being developed to prepare cubs for life in the wild.”

Genetic diversity remains a significant concern, with active collaboration between Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, and the UAE to enhance breeding programs.

“To address these challenges, RCU launched a genetic exchange program in 2023, swapping male leopards with Oman’s Royal Court to strengthen genetic diversity,” Al-Enzy said.

These conservation efforts are not just about Saudi Arabia.

“We are working to save the Arabian leopard from extinction globally, which requires international collaboration and learning from others’ experiences,” Al-Enzy said.

Reintroducing captive-bred Arabian leopards to their natural habitat is a complex and long-term goal. Each cub undergoes rigorous evaluation before release, and success depends on partnerships with local and international organizations.

“We aim to save the Arabian leopard not for one country but for the world. The progress we’ve made so far is just the beginning of this long journey,” Al-Enzy said.

By combining cutting-edge breeding techniques, meticulous monitoring, and global collaboration, Saudi Arabia is setting an example for wildlife conservation efforts across the region.

Saudi Arabia is also making strides in reintroducing cheetahs, which disappeared from the Arabian Peninsula over 40 years ago. Under the National Cheetah Reintroduction Program, four cubs were born in captivity in 2024—a landmark achievement given the complexity of breeding cheetahs.

Globally, only 15 percent of wild-born cheetahs manage to reproduce in captivity, with just 20 percent of those continuing to do so.

By overcoming these odds, the National Center for Wildlife is contributing to the survival of a species that now numbers only 7,100 worldwide.

Combining habitat restoration with advanced research and breeding programs, Saudi Arabia is playing a pivotal role in ensuring the cheetah’s future.

The Arabian oryx, once extinct in the wild by 1972, symbolizes the Kingdom’s conservation triumphs.

Reintroduced into its natural habitat, the species was reclassified as vulnerable in 2011.

By 2019, the wild population had risen to 1,220, with an additional 6,000–7,000 individuals thriving in semi-captive conditions worldwide.

Saudi Arabia has reported a remarkable 60-fold increase in the oryx population, making it one of the most successful wildlife restoration programs globally.

Saudi Arabia’s conservation efforts extend far beyond individual species. The Kingdom’s integrated approach leverages cutting-edge technology, international collaborations and community engagement to achieve its goals.

Programs such as the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, the Arabian Leopard Fund and the National Cheetah Conservation Strategy reflect a deep commitment to restoring ecosystems and protecting biodiversity.

From reintroducing onagers to the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve after a century-long absence to breeding endangered species at state-of-the-art facilities, the Kingdom is setting a global benchmark for conservation.

As biodiversity faces unprecedented threats worldwide, experts say Saudi Arabia’s approach demonstrates that environmental stewardship and economic growth can coexist.

These efforts not only preserve the Kingdom’s natural legacy but also offer a blueprint for global action to protect the planet’s most vulnerable species. Through innovation, dedication, and collaboration, Saudi Arabia is proving that a sustainable future for wildlife is possible.

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Topics: Green & Blue Editor’s Choice

Islamic military coalition training program focuses on hazardous risks

Updated 34 sec ago

SPA

December 27, 2024 22:09

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Islamic military coalition training program focuses on hazardous risks

Candidates from 17 member states took part in the training program as part of efforts to enhance international cooperation and build shared capabilities

Updated 34 sec ago

SPA

December 27, 2024 22:09

RIYADH: The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition concluded a training program titled “Intervention in Hazardous Material Incidents,” attended by the IMCTC Secretary-General Maj. Gen. Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi and Civil Defense Acting Director General Maj. Gen. Hammoud bin Suleiman Al-Faraj.

The program was held at the Civil Defense Institute in Riyadh, and was jointly organized by the IMCTC and the General Directorate of Civil Defense. Funding was provided by the Saudi government.

Candidates from 17 member states took part in the training program as part of efforts to enhance international cooperation and build shared capabilities.

Participants were trained to handle hazardous material incidents, including nuclear, radiological, chemical, and industrial accidents.

The program also covered techniques for addressing biological risks, preventive measures, and intervention strategies at accident sites.

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Topics: The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition

King’s Cup: History, dreams and drama in KSA’s oldest tournament

King’s Cup: History, dreams and drama in KSA’s oldest tournament

Diriyah Season exhibition honors symbols of Saudi resilience