Saudi Arabia making ‘significant strides’ in health tourism, expert says

Saudi Arabia making ‘significant strides’ in health tourism, expert says
Dr. Saad Baslom at Health Global Exhibition in Riyadh. (AN photo by Jafar Alsaleh)
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Updated 25 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia making ‘significant strides’ in health tourism, expert says

Saudi Arabia making ‘significant strides’ in health tourism, expert says
  • Sustainability is a cornerstone of Kingdom’s health tourism strategy

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a top destination for health and wellness tourism, working to develop specialized healthcare facilities and wellness resorts to attract international visitors.

At the Global Health Exhibition, held in Riyadh Oct. 21-23, Dr. Saad Baslom, Advisor for Health Tourism and Complementary Medicine, shared valuable insights into Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in health tourism.

Baslom participated in a session at the forum titled “Investment Opportunities in Health Tourism and Wellness in KSA,” where he discussed the country’s position as a leader in global health tourism.

Highlighting the Kingdom’s advancements, he told Arab News: “The Saudi Ministry of Health is actively transforming the healthcare system by fostering partnerships with the private sector and integrating complementary medicine into mainstream healthcare. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are now key components in providing holistic care.”

This integration positions Saudi Arabia as a destination offering a comprehensive health tourism experience, enriched by the nation’s deep-rooted customs and traditions, according to Baslom.

One prominent example of the country’s new wellness tourism offerings is AMAALA, a luxury wellness project on the Red Sea coast, the first phase of which is set to be completed by 2025.

It is expected to contribute SR11 billion ($2.9 billion) to the economy and create 50,000 jobs.

The AlUla Wellness Festival, another key initiative, promotes wellness travel. Held annually in one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic heritage sites, AlUla, the festival focuses on physical and mental well-being through ancient healing practices, yoga sessions, meditation and other activities.

Baslom elaborated on the unique cultural context that makes Saudi Arabia stand out: “What distinguishes the emotional experience and perhaps creates the desire among medical tourism visitors is the nature and spirit of the Kingdom.

“It is this inheritance through successive generations in the history of this region… This is what creates the desire and that image that is formed in our minds when we want to experience something or want to visit a country.”

The blend of tradition and modern medical expertise appeals to international patients seeking not only treatment but also a meaningful connection with the culture.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s health tourism strategy. Baslom explained how the Kingdom prioritizes environmentally friendly practices: “Sustainability is an essential component of Saudi Arabia’s health tourism strategy.

“By prioritizing environmentally friendly practices in healthcare facilities, the Kingdom aims to minimize its ecological footprint while providing exceptional care.

“This commitment extends to the use of herbal treatments, which align with sustainable practices by promoting natural remedies that are both effective and respectful of the environment.”

He further emphasized the importance of digital health services that reduce travel needs and support environmental sustainability.

“The integration of digital health solutions, such as telemedicine and e-health services, further supports sustainability goals. These innovations reduce the need for travel, lowering carbon emissions and making healthcare more accessible,” he said.

Saudi Arabia’s healthcare infrastructure also plays a pivotal role, he said.

“The Kingdom’s commitment to achieving international accreditation for its healthcare facilities ensures that they meet rigorous quality standards,” Baslom said.

“This dedication enhances the appeal of the Kingdom as a destination for international patients seeking reliable and high-quality healthcare services.”

The Kingdom is actively building partnerships across healthcare, tourism, and other sectors to enhance the visitor experience.

“Facilities such as King Fahd Medical City and King Faisal Specialist Hospital are at the forefront of offering acupuncture and herbal medicine, supported by qualified practitioners who adhere to strict regulatory standards,” Baslom added.

As the Kingdom continues to expand its healthcare offerings, Baslom is optimistic about the future: “Saudi Arabia’s medical and wellness tourism is supported by a diverse network of partners, including prominent healthcare institutions and travel agencies, enhancing the overall visitor experience and showcasing the Kingdom as a destination for holistic wellness.”


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

Saudi Crown prince discusses Gaza with leaders from Gulf, Jordan, Egypt
Updated 34 sec ago
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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 scheduled to be held 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.