Saudi Arabia praised by UNESCO for achievements in artificial intelligence
Saudi Arabia praised by UNESCO for achievements in artificial intelligence/node/2583066/saudi-arabia
Saudi Arabia praised by UNESCO for achievements in artificial intelligence
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization issued a report on Saturday that highlighted Saudi Arabia’s progress in the field of artificial intelligence. (UNESCO)
Saudi Arabia praised by UNESCO for achievements in artificial intelligence
Report, part of UNESCO’s initiative to measure AI readiness through its Readiness Assessment Methodology, commended the Kingdom’s achievements as “global benchmark”
Updated 10 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization issued a report on Saturday that highlighted Saudi Arabia’s progress in the field of artificial intelligence, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The report, part of UNESCO’s initiative to measure AI readiness through its Readiness Assessment Methodology, commended the Kingdom’s achievements as “a global benchmark for the ethical and innovative adoption of advanced technologies,” according to the SPA.
The UNESCO report evaluated Saudi Arabia’s AI readiness in six key areas: national governance; legislation and regulations; societal and cultural; research and education; economic impact; and technical infrastructure. It concluded that the Kingdom had the capacity to adopt AI ethically and responsibly while achieving sustainable outcomes.
The report highlighted the establishment of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority in 2019 and the launch of the National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence in 2020 as key steps in Saudi Arabia’s AI journey, and praised the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering a robust regulatory environment, promoting innovation while managing risks, enhancing education and workforce capabilities, and empowering women in AI-related fields, the SPA added.
UNESCO’s assistant director-general for social and human sciences, Gabriela Ramos, acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s efforts to lay strong foundations for AI governance and expressed confidence in the Kingdom’s ability to achieve sustainable, equitable outcomes through the technology.
The Kingdom ranked first globally in the Government Strategy for Artificial Intelligence category of the Global Artificial Intelligence Index 2024, second globally in public awareness of AI per the Artificial Intelligence Index 2023, and first regionally in overall AI performance.
Infrastructure development has been another area of strength. The Kingdom increased the capacity of its data centers to 204 megawatts in 2023, and launched the cutting-edge supercomputer Shaheen 3, and advanced digital communication through platforms including the Saudi Private Integration Network Exchange.
The report also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s strides in innovation and scientific research — noting that AI-related research publications more than doubled from 4,100 to 10,500 between 2019 and 2023 — as well as the establishment of institutions including the SDAIA-KAUST AI Center.
Rays of creativity: Noor Riyadh concludes after bright run
Festival aims to safeguard ‘Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural heritage,’ says Nouf Al-Moneef
Updated 14 December 2024
Hebshi Alshammari
RIYADH: Noor Riyadh 2024 concluded on Saturday after 17 days filled with creativity, art, and culture.
The festival, held under the theme “Light Years Apart,” featured artworks from more than 60 Saudi and international artists across three hubs: King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifa, and JAX District.
Each piece was inspired by the history and culture of the Kingdom, weaving together tradition and creativity. The artworks explored the bond between humans and the environment, and emphasized the importance of preserving natural resources.
Fahd Alnuaimah’s light installation “Mangiah” depicted a caravan of white camels and masterfully brought to life the spirit of the desert. Saeed Gamhawi, meanwhile, created a sculpture symbolizing the unification of the Kingdom, composed of 21 lit columns, which became a striking icon of this year’s event.
“Energy of Vision” was an interactive installation created by Hmoud Al-Attawi that embodied the Kingdom’s vision for a bright and prosperous future, glowing brighter when sensors detect a presence nearby. The artwork depicts how “how human contributions are vital to growth and progress,” according to the artist’s statement.
Dr. Effat Fadag, curator of Noor Riyadh 2024, told Arab News that the festival is a valuable opportunity to foster artistic collaboration and knowledge exchange between creators from the Kingdom and around the world.
“This exchange significantly supports local artists and plays a pivotal role in the growth of Riyadh’s art scene, solidifying the city’s position as a global hub for contemporary art,” she said.
One of the key goals of the festival is to enhance the quality of life in the capital by providing an inspiring platform that brings together families, artists, and creatives, encouraging them to embark on a journey of artistic discovery, and “transforming Riyadh into a vibrant cultural destination teeming with creativity,” Fadag added.
Festival director Nouf Al-Moneef noted that Nour Riyadh underscores Saudi Arabia’s position as a cultural and creative hub in the region.
“(The) festival captivated global attention with its extraordinary art installations, while shining a spotlight on the vital importance of safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural heritage,” she said. “Noor Riyadh 2024 was a resounding success, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s ability to host world-class events.”
RIYADH: Saudi female falconers expressed their joy at participating in the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, organized by the Saudi Falconry Club.
The festival, held at the club’s headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, runs until Dec. 19 and features prizes exceeding SR36 million ($9.6 million) for both the Al-Mellwah racing and Mazayen (falcon beauty pageant) competitions.
Participants expressed their gratitude to the club for dedicating a special round to women, saying that this step is significant as it allows them to pursue their hobby professionally under strict regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported
Huda Al-Mutairi, a falconer, said she has previously taken part in falconry competitions and won first place, noting that she is the first Saudi falconer with a disability.
Al-Mutairi added that she has prepared well to compete for first place in this festival.
The festival is a three-time Guinness World Record holder for hosting the world’s largest gathering of falcons, SPA reported.
It brings together top falconers from around the world to celebrate the cultural heritage of falconry, encourage competition, and ensure its sustainability for future generations.
The club’s CEO, Talal Al-Shamaisi, said the festival’s primary aim was “to advance falconry as a cultural hobby, while preserving and promoting this Arab tradition.”
Riyadh: Saudi authorities arrested 18,489 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
According to an official report, a total of 11,358 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,994 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,479 for labor-related issues.
The report showed that among the 1,303 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 60 percent were Ethiopian, 38 percent Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities.
A further 173 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 25 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.
The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.
Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.
KSrelief’s global humanitarian activities continue
Updated 14 December 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) continues with its work in various countries, delivering support and services to needy individuals ranging from prosthetics to winter clothing.
KSrelief delivers food and hygiene kits to earthquake-hit northern Syria. (SPA)
In Syria’s northern city of Aleppo, the Saudi aid agency distributed food and hygiene kits to 797 families in earthquake-hit areas, benefiting 4,782 individuals.
In Afghanistan, 100 shelter kits were handed out by KSrelief on Friday in the Yakawlang District of Afghanistan’s Bamyan Province. The kits, benefiting 600 people, are part of this year’s shelter project for those returning from Pakistan and those affected by floods.
KSrelief handed out 100 shelter kits were handed out on Friday in the Yakawlang District of Afghanistan’s Bamyan Province
KSrelief also provided prosthetic limbs to nine Ukrainian refugees in Rzeszow, Poland, as part of a medical mission this week.
KSrelief provides prosthetic limbs to Ukrainian refugees in Poland (SPA)
In Yemen’s Hadhramaut, KSrelief launched a vocational training program with a Yemeni civil-society organization to train 200 young men and women.
The program will train displaced people and host community members in eight vocational skills and help them find jobs.
KSrelief distributes winter vouchers in Lebanon (SPA)
In Lebanon, KSrelief distributed 1,009 winter clothing vouchers in the Beqaa Governorate and Zgharta District. The vouchers allow recipients to choose their own winter clothes from approved stores. The initiative has benefited 1,009 orphans, people with disabilities, Syrian refugees and members of the host community.
KSrelief distributes winter vouchers in Lebanon (SPA)
Why restoring ecosystem balance is crucial for economies, societies, and wildlife
Biodiversity loss weakens ecosystems, driving migration and potential conflict, says UN Environment Programme director
Saudi Green Initiative announces $60 million in environmental projects as 12-day COP16 conference concludes in Riyadh
Updated 14 December 2024
Haifa Alshammari
RIYADH: Imbalanced ecosystems and biodiversity loss, driven by habitat destruction, pollution, or climate change, are key challenges the Saudi Green Initiative is tackling to mitigate their environmental, economic, and social impacts.
The decline of certain species can destabilize food systems, leading to overpopulation of others and resource depletion. This imbalance, whether driven by natural factors or human activities, often degrades habitats as unchecked species overgraze or consume vegetation.
“The highest point of the mountain is connected to the deepest point in the ocean,” said Mohammad Qurban, CEO of the Saudi National Center for Wildlife, explaining how environmental damage in one area is linked to issues elsewhere.
For instance, desertification in mountain peaks leads to soil erosion, which is carried by rain into the seas. Along with the soil, plastics and toxins from land and air pollute the water, destabilizing marine ecosystems, he told Arab News at the UN Convention to Combat Desertification’s COP16, which concluded in Riyadh on Friday.
“Where does this go? It goes to the ecosystem,” Qurban said, referring to the movement of toxins from land to the sea. “So, we start losing coral reefs, seagrass, and we start losing fish.
“We are all part of this system that we call the food web. It is a chain. With each link lost, we lose the next one and the next one.”
As part of its ecosystem management efforts to combat desertification, the Saudi government plans to plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of land by 2030.
The Kingdom also aims to protect 30 percent of its land and marine areas by 2030 through the 30x30 initiative, which Qurban discussed last week during the session “MEAs Synergies for Strengthened Environmental Governance: Insights from the Bern III Conference,” held on the sidelines of COP16.
Qurban said disturbances in one animal population can have consequences elsewhere, such as the overpopulation of another species. In his recent interview with Arab News, he recounted an incident in which a farmer contacted him about a snake species affecting his soil.
“He called me and told me to get rid of all the snakes. I said sure, but you have to promise me that you won’t complain if you witness an increase in rats and mice around the area because (the snakes) feed on them.”
As part of its ecosystem management efforts to combat desertification, the Saudi government plans to plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of land by 2030. (SGI)
The UN has said that a million animal and plant species worldwide are at risk of extinction as a result of human-induced environmental issues.
Biodiversity loss also reduces resilience, making ecosystems more vulnerable to external shocks, such as diseases or climate events.
“Having a balanced ecosystem means the rains will come when we expect them to come, means the cold comes when it’s just right for our crops to get a little of a nip in the air, and means that the sun comes out at the right time when the grains have to ripen and dry under the sun. That is a balanced ecosystem,” Inger Andersen, executive director of the UN Environment Programme, told Arab News.
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Restoring balance is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, which sustain life on Earth, including human communities that depend on these natural systems for resources and services.
“Some people who are living in the cities may not think that they are relying on the ecosystem because they get their food from the grocery store,” Andersen said. “But the reality, of course, is that there is an ecosystem somewhere in the world that provides that food that they purchased. So, we are all relying on that ecosystem.”
DID YOU KNOW?
The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve Development Authority protects 90 percent of the reserve with more than 100 rangers patrolling it.
About 700,000 trees have been planted in the reserve to improve vegetation cover, according to CEO Mohammed Al-Shaalan.
The reserve, which is in the Kingdom’s northeast, spans several regions, including Jawf, Qassim, Hail, Northern Borders, and the Eastern Province.
Furthermore, an unstable ecosystem imposes a financial burden on the government for restoration and ongoing maintenance.
In Asir, in the Kingdom’s southwest, the decline in Arabian leopard populations led to a significant increase in the baboon population. Large troops of baboons, typically found in the southern mountain ranges, have negatively affected local communities. As a result, despite the region’s stunning landscapet, tourism in the area has declined in recent years.
“People lost tourists in Asir because of the baboons,” said Qurban, citing safety concerns. “Some people abandoned their farms; they abandoned their farms completely in Asir and Al-Baha.”
And while some argue that protecting and restoring a sustainable environment is costly to the economy, other business owners believe the cost of sustainable development depends on their objectives.
In Asir, in the Kingdom’s southwest, the decline in Arabian leopard populations led to a significant increase in the baboon population. (SPA)
During a panel discussion at COP16, Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed, CEO of the asset management company KBW Ventures, discussed the economics of ecosystems and the real financial costs of implementing green development.
He said that solutions vary by location and must align with the private sector’s objectives to effectively implement sustainable development goals.
“It is not a one size fits all,” he said. “It is a bouquet of opportunities that you have to be customized for it to be actually scalable and profitable for the private sectors and industries in these private sectors to actually flourish.”
During a panel discussion at COP16, Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed, CEO of the asset management company KBW Ventures, discussed the economics of ecosystems and the real financial costs of implementing green development. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
Although securing a balanced ecosystem may be costly, the Kingdom made several significant announcements at COP16 over the past two weeks regarding environmental projects.
The Saudi Green Initiative launched five new projects worth $60 million, reflecting the Kingdom’s bold environmental strategy and commitment to sustainable development. This brings the total investment in SGI projects to more than $188 billion.
But Saudi Arabia is not alone in its commitment to green development; many countries share this goal. However, some urban activities can inadvertently harm the environment despite efforts to protect it.
Damage to soil and polluted water sources have also increased social pressure in some communities, prompting people to migrate to regions with better environmental conditions for their families and future.
“If the ecosystem is so imbalanced that I can no longer farm, that I can no longer sustain my family, and I can no longer feed my children, I have only one choice, and it has been the same for thousands of years,” Andersen said. “I will walk.”
