How Saudi nonprofit Alnahda blazed a trail in women’s empowerment

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Updated 19 October 2020
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How Saudi nonprofit Alnahda blazed a trail in women’s empowerment

  • Alnahda, which will helm G20’s engagement group on women, has a proud history of fostering female participation in Saudi society
  • The charity stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist households with financial burdens and provide tools for remote learning

RIYADH: It has been 58 years since Alnahda Philanthropic Society for Women was established in Saudi Arabia to encourage female participation in society and help create a world of justice and equal opportunities.

And now, in recognition of its celebrated work, the organization has won King Salman’s endorsement to helm the Women 20 (W20) — the official G20 engagement group on women — in the run-up to the leaders’ summit in November.

Alnahda, which means “the awakening,” was founded in 1962 to help empower Saudi women economically and socially through targeted development projects. In June 2019, it was officially accredited by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

Its mission is to ensure a community environment that is conducive to women’s participation, preserves their dignity, and helps build their capacity to reach positions of leadership.

At the helm of the W20 Riyadh edition, Alnahda will help facilitate discussions among a network of delegates representing non-governmental women’s organizations, female entrepreneurs, and think tanks from across the G20 member states.

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The aim is to ensure gender considerations are placed firmly on the agenda and are included in the G20 Leaders’ Declaration as policies and commitments that foster gender equality and women’s economic empowerment.

The W20 is only the latest achievement in the foundation’s long history. Muneera Al-Touq, who sits on the Alnahda board, told Arab News the foundation was one of the oldest charitable organizations in the Kingdom, founded by Princess Sara Al-Faisal and a number of other women with the encouragement of Queen Effat, the pioneer of Saudi women’s education.

Al-Touq, an expert in community services, statistics, and epidemiology, joined Alnahda in 2010 to examine the foundation’s training programs, judge their efficiency, and consider how they could be improved. She was elected to the board in 2014.

“I saw the people who ran it, the people who founded it. It was always something that was different and pioneering. They were always ahead of their time. They think of everything before it happens. And the quality of their programs, the quality of work, is truly of a high standard.”

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Recounting the formative period of the organization, she said: “Alnahda’s founders started with general charity work in their community, but there was a big focus on working in the field of women’s illiteracy and fulfilling beneficiaries’ basic needs in terms of food, shelter, and clothing.

“This was in the early 1960s and, as Alnahda grew, its knowledge of these needs became clearer, helping to navigate through them. As the Kingdom developed, so did women’s needs.”

Alnahda’s programs continue to evolve and develop, as do the needs of the woman they target, said Al-Touq.

“We will always support and help women to become active members of our society. We will always try to ensure that the social environment and local community help women to build their capabilities and reach leadership positions.

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“How we do that has a lot to do with what’s happening around us. And we’ve seen so many positive changes and advances for women in the Kingdom that have accelerated our work very quickly, and we will continue to keep up with that and develop programs to support them and head into the future where I think there are no limits,” she added.

As the CEO of Alnahda since 2013, Rasha Al-Turki oversees the foundation’s strategy, direction, and financial health.

She told Arab News: “I first joined Alnahda as chief project officer in 2010. I joined because Alnahda is the leading organization in the field of women’s socio-economic development, a cause I have been dedicated to for most of my life. My personal educational and professional goals have always revolved around women’s empowerment.”

Al-Turki said Alnahda provided space to be creative, to try new things, and to come up with new solutions without the heavy burden of bureaucracy.

“I think for people who are dedicated to a cause, it’s important to be in such an environment that fosters new ways of thinking and encourages employees to be nimble and to react to changing realities or become proactive with solving issues,” she added.




Rasha Al-Turki
 

Alnahda’s work covers the main areas of grassroots assistance, research, and advocacy.

In its grassroots assistance, the foundation works directly with its thousands of beneficiaries, offering programs on career and capacity development. The bulk of its beneficiaries are covered by its financial and social support program, with assistance given to almost 400 families each year — around 2,500 individuals.

“We look at how we can help develop the family in a holistic approach. So, we always look into all development needs of the entire family unit when we are creating their development plan collaboratively with the beneficiaries,” Al-Turki said.

“Our financial support is used as a tool to lighten their financial burdens thereby allowing them the mental and emotional space to set and execute a development plan for themselves and their household with the assistance of their social worker.

“The fulfilment of this plan is essential to ensuring that they and their family are able to break the cycle of inherited poverty and graduate out of financial assistance — both ours and social security.”

In terms of research, Alnahda looks for new ways to improve the efficiency of its programs and the design of policies that target women, involving policymakers, social scientists, and other stakeholders.

In its advocacy, meanwhile, the foundation raises awareness among local and international policymakers to help promote women’s socio-economic inclusion.

None of this would be possible without Alnahda donors, who fall into three main categories. Al-Turki said. “We have individuals, who are the biggest source of our revenue. We also receive grants from companies, usually from their CSR (corporate social responsibility) departments.

“Then we have some companies that will ask us to do a particular project for which we get compensated. We sometimes receive funding from the government for particular projects.”




Volunteers packaging laptop computers for student beneficiaries of Alnahda. (Supplied photo)

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has placed new pressures on households. Early on, Alnahda was able to give immediate financial assistance to beneficiaries who had lost their jobs, help them pay rent, and prepare their homes for the lockdown.

“Before last summer, we collected and distributed more than 500 computers for 350 families,” added Al-Turki.

However, when virtual teaching resumed after the summer break, Alnahda realized one computer per family was not enough. That is why it launched Thaber — which means “persistent” — to help provide more devices and internet subscriptions, allowing students to flourish in the new virtual learning environment.

But empowerment is about more than just surviving tough economic times. During Saudi Arabia’s 2015 municipal council elections, which allowed women to participate as voters and candidates for the first time, Alnahda launched an influence-awareness campaign. Al-Touq said one of the foundation’s beneficiaries went on to win a seat in the election and became a community champion.




A volunteer prepares laptop computers for distrinution to student beneficiaries of Alnahda. (Supplied photo)

“Her story shows what Alnahda means. Our vision is to help these women become effective partners in the development of our society. So, when she goes from needing the help of Alnahda to becoming a representative for her community, it’s inspirational and it motivates us to keep working,” she added.

“It’s not a matter of helping someone reach a goal, it’s a matter of helping someone blossom into the best version of themselves. It is a matter of positively changing the individuals, their households, and their communities. And I think that’s where Alnahda stands out.”

A goal Al-Turki would like to see the foundation work toward was greater inclusivity. “I’d really like to be more inclusive of men within our organization, because I believe that only when women and men work together are they able to come up with better solutions and achieve a more sustainable impact.

“We’ve already started being more inclusive in our programming, especially when it comes to the beneficiaries. We believe that we rise and fall together,” she said.

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Twitter: @LujainBenGassem


Riyadh school selected as one of world’s top 100 for 2025

Updated 13 March 2025
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Riyadh school selected as one of world’s top 100 for 2025

  • BISR is one of just 100 schools from around the world selected for inclusion in the top tier of the Spear’s Schools Index

RIYADH: British International School Riyadh has been named in the Top 100 Independent Schools in the World list in the 2025 Spear’s Schools Index, a guide to the world’s most prestigious schools.

Its dedication to student excellence, state-of-the-art educational facilities, high academic results and hyper-tailored teaching programs all combined to secure the honor.

As well as the intellectual support on offer, the accolade recognizes BISR’s commitment to nurturing enthusiastic and kind global citizens through comprehensive pastoral schemes.

The full list will be announced at a launch event in London on March 15, where leaders from the best schools around the world will have the opportunity to network and celebrate their continued efforts in education.

Since its launch in 2020, the Spear’s Schools Index has garnered growing recognition in a range of national and international media and established its reputations as a definitive index of the world’s 100 leading private schools.

BISR Director of Schools Helen Olds said: “We are incredibly honored to be awarded this recognition. This achievement is testament to the dedication and hard work of our students, faculty and staff. We remain committed to providing an exceptional educational experience that fosters growth, innovation and excellence in every student. We extend our gratitude to our entire school community for making this possible.”

Edwin Smith, Spear’s editor-in-chief, said: “BISR is one of just 100 schools from around the world selected for inclusion in the top tier of the Spear’s Schools Index. This selection directly reflects the judgement and insights of the leading educationalists on our expert advisory panel, who took into account factors including academic attainment, social, cultural and pastoral considerations, standing, reputation and character.

“BISR thoroughly deserves its place. Its inclusion is testament to the school’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching and holistic development of its students.”


‘Ramadan hours’ — the social and economic effects of changing schedules

Updated 13 March 2025
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‘Ramadan hours’ — the social and economic effects of changing schedules

  • Markets and roads can be seen teeming with shoppers at night

RIYADH: With the advent of Ramadan, the rhythm of Saudi cities shifts more toward nightlife, carrying on until just before dawn.

In light of the fasting from food and drink throughout the day in Ramadan, establishments extend their opening hours later into the evening.

Markets and roads can be seen teeming with shoppers at night, and homes are busy welcoming visitors.

Reham Al-Azwari, clinical nutrition track leader at the Makkah Health Cluster, spoke to Arab News about the importance of healthy eating habits during Ramadan to enhance productivity as working hours shift.

The historic district of Jeddah during Ramadan. (Getty Images)

Healthy nutrition “helps improve productivity during the day, even with the change in lifestyle to nighttime,” Al-Azwari said.

“Despite the economic and social benefits, the nighttime shift in Ramadan is not without challenges, especially in terms of health,” she said.

“Changing sleep patterns and staying up late for long hours can negatively affect general health. Staying up at night and sleeping during the day can lead to disruptions in the body’s biological clock, affecting focus and productivity during the day.

“We have to follow moderation … in staying up late and having sufficient sleep, especially for people who work during the day,” Al-Azwari said‎.

Pilgrims from all over the world gather around Masjid al-Haram on the twenty-ninth night of Ramadan in Makkah. (Getty Images)

Abdulaziz Al-Kaltham, professor of sociology at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, spoke to Arab News about the societal effects of Ramadan hours.

“Ramadan rituals reshape social structures clearly and evidently, as most daily activities turn into intensive social activities,” he said.

“Many activities in Ramadan, such as charitable iftar tables, enhance the values of solidarity and giving, where individuals from different social classes participate in providing food,” Al-Kaltham said.

“This type of interaction contributes to bridging social gaps between social classes ‎and contributes to creating an atmosphere of social justice,” he said.

Dhahi Alwan Al-Barrak, CEO of Zatisto Services, has faced difficulties importing products from major establishments operating during daytime hours, and retail stores that often open during the evening.

Lights, celebrations, people talking and drinking Arabic coffee, shops selling drinks and snacks, and banners with Al-Baha Ramadan on them in the city of Al-Hajra in Al-Baha region celebrating the month of Ramadan. (Getty Images)

“During Ramadan, we operate under two systems. On one hand, we must deal with suppliers who work during the day, and on the other hand, we open our stores at night to receive customers. This requires extra effort and careful coordination,” he said.

However, Al-Barrak said that the month offers an opportunity for employees to form a closer bond.

“Ramadan brings us together as a team. We work together at night, and we share iftar and suhoor meals, which strengthens the bonds between us. This sense of cohesion helps us overcome challenges,” he said.

Mansour Al-Osaimi, founder of Right Decision for Customer Experience Consulting, said that Ramadan imposes a different rhythm on daily life, where the evening period after iftar becomes a valuable time for interacting with customers.

“Companies can adapt the customer experience by adjusting working and service hours to suit peak periods after iftar, and providing flexible services such as order delivery during evening hours,” he said.

“Challenges such as reduced concentration during fasting hours and different work patterns can be overcome by providing flexibility in working hours, such as adopting flexible hours or remote work for some periods.” 

He highlighted the importance of “reducing burdens and focusing on priorities, and enhancing internal communication among employees.”


Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Mauritius on its independence day

Updated 13 March 2025
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Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Mauritius on its independence day

  • The Indian Ocean nation gained independence from the UK on March 12, 1968

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Wednesday congratulated President Dharambeer Gokhool of Mauritius on his country's Independence Day, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

In a cable, King Salman wished Gokhool continued good health and happiness, and the government and people of Mauritius steady progress and prosperity.

Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman sent a similar cable to the Indian Ocean republic's leader, wishing him and his people all the best.

Mauritius, a nation of 1.27 million people and located east of Madagascar off the African continent, was a colony of Great Britain until it won independence March 12, 1968. 
 

 


Recipe renaissance – traditional foods brighten Saudi iftar spreads with heritage

Updated 13 March 2025
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Recipe renaissance – traditional foods brighten Saudi iftar spreads with heritage

  • Arab News spoke to Saudis carrying the taste of family legacy forward during holy month

JEDDAH/RIYADH: Ramadan is helping revive traditional dishes in Saudi Arabia, as many families prepare foods distinctive to their region.

Tables across the Kingdom showcase great diversity during the holy month, with families passing down culinary traditions through generations.

The connection between Ramadan and these traditional dishes is rooted in customs, but their nutritional value also plays a key role. Often rich in energy-boosting ingredients such as meats and vegetables, they provide essential nutrients that replenish the body after a long day of fasting.

In the Northern Borders, al-khumei’ah is a well-known dish, while the Eastern Province is famous for its harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat soup), according to the Kingdom’s Culinary Arts Commission.

Riyadh’s signature dish is marqooq (thin dough with meat, onions, and spiced broth), whereas Qassim is known for its al-tawah pastry.

In Tabuk, al-mafroukah (dough with dates, honey, and butter) is a popular choice, while Jazan is renowned for makshan fish, cooked with onions and spices.

Hail offers al-baseesa (dough balls with date paste), and Asir is known for tasabee’ (a flour, milk and sugar mix).

Najran features al-wafd and al-maraq (dough balls), while Makkah is recognized for its red barley soup. In Madinah, sobiyah is a well-loved traditional drink made from barley or oats.

Al-Baha is known for its maraqa bread, while Jouf specializes in saj bread, an unleavened flatbread. 

Young people are being drawn to traditional foods through social media.

“Living in this era where everyone’s trying to keep up with trends and compete on ‘who did it better’ along with the culture of sharing photos is a big motivation. But I can’t deny that nostalgia and emotional connection also play an important role,” said Maryam Al-Oufi.

Loza Al-Mahdi and Eman Al-Hussaini, a mother and daughter from western Saudi Arabia, believe these dishes represent important memories.

“No matter how many new recipes we try, traditional dishes have a special place because they hold childhood memories and connect us to the past.”

One staple that remains a must-have during Ramadan is maamoul, a date-filled pastry that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Al-Mahdi said: “No Ramadan is complete without making maamoul. It’s something that brings the whole family together.”

Platforms like TikTok and X have made it easier to share and preserve traditional recipes. “Sharing recipes on TikTok or even posting pictures of dishes on X really helps with that,” Al-Oufi explained. 

“When we see cool photos and videos, it gets us excited to try those dishes again and bring back recipes that had faded away.”

For many, Ramadan cooking is about familial legacy. “Families have the choice of continuing the tradition and passing it on to future generations or just burying it,” Al-Oufi stated.

Al-Mahdi emphasized the importance of hands-on learning: “I make sure to teach my children how to cook properly, just as I learned from my mother and grandmother.”

For some, certain dishes hold deep sentimental value. Al-Oufi recalls her grandmother’s attention to detail: “My grandma was very picky about food, especially when it came to the size and shape of the luqaimat. My grandma passed away, but her rules stayed with us.”

Similarly, Al-Hussaini shares a dish that remains close to her heart: “One of the most important dishes I have to make during Ramadan, and my kids love, is jaib al-tajir (merchant’s pocket).”

The Culinary Arts Commission has played a significant role in preserving traditional dishes by organizing a number of events and festivals that highlight Saudi heritage cuisine.

It has also documented preparation methods and cultural traditions, supported entrepreneurs, and published books and videos, helping to inspire interest in traditional foods.

Traditional markets and restaurants also play a major role in preserving these dishes, offering visitors the opportunity to experience authentic flavors and promoting traditional food culture across generations.

The Culinary Arts Commission promotes heritage foods during Ramadan by sharing special content on social media and its website.

This includes highlighting traditional Ramadan dishes, their preparation methods, historical origins, and cultural significance.

By sharing this knowledge, the commission encourages the community to appreciate and preserve Saudi culinary heritage during Ramadan.


Saudi joint forces chief receives UAE counterpart and delegation

Updated 13 March 2025
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Saudi joint forces chief receives UAE counterpart and delegation

Saudi Arabia’s Commander of the Joint Forces Lt. Gen. Fahd bin Hamad Al-Salman received Deputy Commander of the UAE Joint Operations Maj. Gen. Awad Saeed Al-Ahbabi and his accompanying delegation at the Armed Forces Officers Club in Riyadh on Wednesday.

During the meeting, they discussed various aspects of cooperation between the two sides, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Al-Ahbabi expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and stressed the importance of joint coordination between the Saudi and Emirati sides for the benefit of the two countries.