How Saudi Arabia is leveraging artificial intelligence to tackle land degradation

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Updated 06 December 2024
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How Saudi Arabia is leveraging artificial intelligence to tackle land degradation

  • Satellite imagery and remote sensing enable AI to detect land degradation early and suggest solutions
  • The Saudi Green Initiative is using AI to find suitable locations for 10 billion new trees and to rehabilitate land

RIYADH: As land degradation becomes an increasingly urgent environmental issue for Gulf nations, where arable land and permanent crops make up less than 2 percent of the total area, countries like Saudi Arabia are leveraging artificial intelligence to help forecast trends and guide decisions on land management and conservation.

The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction defines land degradation as the reduction or loss of land’s biological or economic productivity caused by human-induced activities, including deforestation, overgrazing and unsustainable agricultural practices.

Saudi Arabia’s Climate Envoy and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir believes land degradation is driving the displacement of millions and destabilizing entire regions across the globe.

“When people cannot grow food, they migrate,” he told delegates at the COP16 summit in Riyadh on Tuesday.

“This migration often leads to tension and conflict in the receiving areas, creating a cycle of dislocation and violence. This is an issue that touches every aspect of our lives — food security, national security, migration, air quality and biodiversity,” he said, urging nations to collaborate on finding solutions to reverse environmental degradation.

Samer Al-Chikhani, a partner with the consulting firm Strategy& Middle East, believes the main cause of land degradation in the Gulf region is overgrazing, which has been linked to more than 90 percent of land loss.

“Land degradation affects 20 to 40 percent of land, with the world witnessing the loss of more than 100 million hectares of land each year between 2015 and 2019, roughly twice the size of Saudi Arabia,” he told Arab News.




AI-driven models and digital twins could predict future land degradation trends by analyzing climate data. (UN)

Unregulated access to natural areas was another factor leading to “notable habitat damage,” he said, while “unsustainable agricultural practices contribute to soil degradation by causing salinization, erosion and loss of productivity.”

Meanwhile, urban expansion exacerbated land degradation by encroaching on natural habitats and diminishing the land available for agriculture, Al-Chikhani said.

“It is estimated that urbanization and human activities have led to the modification of 40 percent of the GCC coastline,” he said, adding that similar issues, including deforestation, forest fires, invasive species, drought and other climate impacts, also affected the Levant region and North Africa.

“The loss of healthy ecosystems affects communities that depend on the land for grazing, agriculture and other traditional livelihoods,” he said.

“Grazing is deeply tied to the Bedouin lifestyle, a defining feature of GCC history and culture. Healthy and thriving rangelands support the livestock sector, which contributes significantly to food security and rural economies.”


Moreover, as land degradation, erosion and salinization increased, land productivity declined, resulting in lower crop yields, Al-Chikhani said.

“For example, studies suggest that salinization has a negative effect on crop yields of up to 38 percent in Saudi Arabia. This impacts key produce such as dates and fodder crops.

“In the long term, land degradation weakens both the environment and the economy, posing a serious challenge to the region’s growth and stability.”

Land plays a crucial role in both adapting to and mitigating climate change, making the fight against land degradation all the more critical.

Al-Chikhani highlighted the emergence of AI as a powerful tool in land conservation and restoration projects worldwide.

In Saudi Arabia, “AI is being used to support the Saudi Green Initiative and identify optimal planting locations,” he said.

The Saudi Data and AI Authority has partnered with several government entities to harness AI solutions in support of the SGI, creating smart solutions for combating climate change. In pursuit of the SGI’s goal to plant 10 billion trees and rehabilitate 40 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, AI is used to analyze regional climate data, soil conditions and water availability to identify optimal planting locations and determine requirements for maximum efficiency.

By using satellite imagery and remote sensing technologies, Al-Chikhani said AI could analyze vast amounts of data to detect land degradation early and identify potential solutions.

AI-driven models and digital twins could predict future land degradation trends by analyzing climate data, rainfall patterns and land-use practices, enabling more informed decisions on land management and conservation, he said.

“Bespoke AI solutions adapted for the specificities of our Middle East environment can go a long way in restoring our degraded lands and reducing the long-term impacts of land degradation.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• About 40 percent of the world’s land is degraded, affecting more than 3.2 billion people.

• By 2050, crop yields in some regions could fall by 50 percent, increasing food prices by 30 percent.

• Investing in land restoration could yield up to $8 in benefits for every dollar spent.

(Source: UN Convention to Combat Desertification)

In the UAE, the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi recently piloted AI and drone systems to assess soil quality and used AI-powered drone-seeding to help rehabilitate the emirate’s deserts and mangroves.

“AI-driven data analytics can transform decision making by generating precise, actionable insights regarding land management and automatically proposing potential solutions for areas that need interventions,” Al-Chikhani said.

“By consolidating data from satellites, drones, sensors and weather models, AI can help decision makers identify at-risk areas, predict future changes and recommend effective restoration strategies, enabling better resource allocation.”

In fact, the power of AI is being harnessed globally to address environmental issues.




Samer Al Chikhani, Partner at Strategy& Middle East, part of the PwC network. (Supplied)


“MIT’s AI-Screening Reforestation Project uses AI to identify optimal restoration sites across the globe, based on factors such as current soil health, restoration potential and carbon capture potential,” Al-Chikhani said.

“In the Great Green Wall initiative in Africa, AI is being utilized to optimize tree planting locations and monitor soil restoration — in arid regions similar to the Middle East.

“AI tools are also being leveraged in Canada and Spain to predict and detect wildfires, hence supporting in combating deforestation.

“AI can also optimize agricultural water use by analyzing soil moisture, crop health and climate data, potentially reducing water consumption by 30 percent or more compared to traditional practices,” he said.

“In a region where agriculture accounts for 70-80 percent of total water use, this can significantly help reduce water waste and prevent groundwater depletion.”

The Gulf region, in particular, is in need of innovative, low-cost and water-efficient techniques for land restoration.

“This will be key for the successful delivery of large-scale greening programs with ambitious targets such as the Saudi and Middle East Green Initiatives,” Al-Chikhani said.




Land plays a crucial role in both adapting to and mitigating climate change, making the fight against land degradation all the more critical. (UN)


“Combining traditional knowledge with AI technologies offers a comprehensive approach to sustainable land management in the region.”

He highlighted the importance of engaging rural communities and the private sector, which should be supported by the development of practical, bankable business models.

“Advanced technologies, such as AI and satellite remote sensing, will accelerate progress, while cost-effective, water-efficient restoration techniques can also address local challenges at scale,” he said.

“It is important to empower ‘land champions’ and for all stakeholders to leverage platforms like the COP16 meeting in Riyadh, which are significant to spotlight the issue.

“Ultimately, sustainable land management will serve as a cornerstone for securing land and water resources, protecting biodiversity, building climate resilience and achieving lasting socioeconomic stability.”

 


Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

  • Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves

RIYADH: A Riyadh fashion seminar on Sunday brought together industry leaders and creatives to explore the future of Saudi Arabia’s fashion economy.

Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

Rafi Dikranian and Mohammed Bajbaa speak on “From Drops to Drives: Connecting with Communities,” exploring how culture, streetwear, and grassroots branding are reshaping consumer engagement. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

The agenda focused on three main themes: the evolution of fashion retail in the Kingdom; the role of cultural identity in building brands; and the rising importance of digital fashion and collaboration.

An awards ceremony honored the standout talents of this year’s cohort: APOA, Awaken, Bucketbox, Mona Al-Shebil, Noble & Fresh, Nora Al-Shaikh, Rebirth, Samar Nasraldin, The Untitled Project and USCITA.

FASTFACT

Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

One discussion explored consumer behavior in Saudi Arabia, revealing that the local market continues to grow despite global slowdowns.

Saudi brands that blend cultural heritage with bold innovation, as featured in the latest Fashion Lab showcase. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves.

Retail experiences — both physical and digital — were emphasized as key to engaging Saudi consumers.

Michael Chalhoub, CEO of Chalhoub Group, delivers the opening keynote at The Fashion Seminar 2025, highlighting the importance of creativity and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of Saudi fashion. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Youth culture, streetwear and sports are shaping brand narratives, a panel heard. Speakers discussed how fashion is being used as a tool for cultural storytelling, with an emphasis on grassroots creativity and community building.

Another topic highlighted the power of collaboration between local and international brands. Panelists discussed the importance of long-term partnerships, manufacturing localization, and mentorship to bridge gaps in knowledge and infrastructure.

Speakers also addressed the future of digital fashion, including virtual design, retail innovation, and new marketing strategies targeting Gen Z.

Saudi Arabia’s growing role in shaping the regional and global fashion economy was a prominent theme of the discussions.

 

 


First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

Updated 04 May 2025
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First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

  • Discussions aim to support sustainable development, promote safe tourism environment

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia — in partnership with the Maldives — is organizing the tourism sector’s inaugural Saudi-Maldives International Forum on Integrity, which is set to take place in the Maldives from May 6 to 7.

The forum is jointly organized by Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, and the Maldives’ Anti-Corruption Commission, in cooperation with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

It will cover key topics such as enhancing transparency and governance in the tourism sector, combating corruption, and boosting international partnerships and expertise exchange among member states and regional and international organizations.

The discussions aim to support sustainable development and promote a trustworthy and safe tourism environment, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The forum is expected to attract international participation from more than 40 countries and 10 regional and international organizations.

Attendees will include ministers, heads, and representatives of anti-corruption bodies from OIC member states, as well as key international organizations like the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Interpol, the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities, and the UN Development Programme. Local and international experts will also take part.

Organizing the forum reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global efforts promoting transparency and accountability in tourism, according to the SPA.

The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s recognition of tourism as a key driver of sustainable development, in line with Vision 2030. It aims to build a thriving tourism sector, diversify national income sources, and stimulate economic growth.

 


Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

Waleed Elkhereiji (R) holds talks with Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

  • They discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Kingdom Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas, the Foreign Ministry wrote on X.

Meanwhile, Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi received EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Varno in Riyadh.

 


Iraqi president invites King Salman to upcoming Arab summits in Baghdad

Updated 04 May 2025
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Iraqi president invites King Salman to upcoming Arab summits in Baghdad

  • Invitation was delivered to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan by Iraqi counterpart

RIYADH: King Salman received an official invitation from Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid on Sunday to attend the 34th regular session of the Arab League Council at the summit level, as well as the fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit, both set to be hosted by Iraq later this month.

The invitation was delivered to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan during a meeting in Riyadh with Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Mohammed Hussein, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The two officials discussed ties between the two countries and reviewed key regional and international developments.

The meeting was also attended by Saud Al-Sati, Undersecretary of the Ministry for Political Affairs.


Riyadh conference discusses future of occupational health

Event was inaugurated by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development.
Updated 04 May 2025
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Riyadh conference discusses future of occupational health

  • Minister launches initiatives to enhance Kingdom’s workplace safety

RIYADH: The seventh Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference opened in Riyadh on Sunday under the theme “The Future of Occupational Safety and Health.”

The three-day event was inaugurated by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development and chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.

Al-Rajhi launched initiatives to enhance Saudi Arabia’s occupational safety and health system, including the establishment of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the National Compliance and Excellence Incentives Program, and the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Guide.

Al-Rajhi said that work-related deaths in Saudi Arabia have dropped to less than one per 100,000 workers since the council’s establishment.

Meanwhile, the number of locals in occupational safety and health roles has risen by 130 percent, reaching more than 29,000 by the end of 2024, compared with 2022.

Al-Rajhi also highlighted improvements in safety compliance and automation. “The compliance rate with safety standards reached 72 percent by the end of 2024, and the automation of safety procedures exceeded 62 percent, up from 30 percent in 2020.”

The conference draws high-ranking officials, experts and specialists from Saudi Arabia and worldwide to discuss the future of occupational safety and health, as well as the challenges and opportunities in global labor markets.

It covers six key themes: workplace sustainability; digitization and technology in occupational safety; the economics of safety; the future of research and innovation; emerging challenges; and human behavior and safety culture.

This focus reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving work environments and achieving professional standards in line with global best practices, a key goal of Saudi Vision 2030.

The event highlights national efforts, displays modern technical trends, supports specialized research, and promotes the Kingdom’s legislative framework to international standards, contributing to the success of major national projects.

Al-Rajhi referred to international reports on workplace challenges. “International reports highlight the serious challenges facing work environments globally. Approximately 3 million worker deaths are recorded each year due to accidents and occupational diseases.”

He said about “395 million non-fatal work injuries occur annually. Statistics show 23 million injuries and 19,000 deaths from heat stress, and 15 percent of workers globally suffer from mental disorders related to stressful work environments.”

The conference program includes specialized scientific sessions, 60 workshops, 20 dialogue sessions, and the Global Occupational Safety and Health Hackathon, where 30 innovative projects are being presented.

An accompanying exhibition features local and international organizations, with several significant agreements expected and new initiatives to advance the Kingdom’s occupational safety system.

The ministry also emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to securing a healthy work environment and ensuring worker safety, which enhances labor market competitiveness and overall quality of life.

Al-Rajhi said: “In line with Vision 2030, we aim to make work environments safer, higher quality, and more attractive. This supports employee well-being, boosts labor market competitiveness, and fosters a culture of safety and sustainability. Therefore, the Kingdom established the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.”

The General Organization for Social Insurance launched a directory for occupational safety and health standards at the conference, serving as a unified reference for specialists, establishments, and relevant entities in the Kingdom.

This initiative aims to enhance safety and health standards while protecting workers from occupational hazards, as part of its broader strategy.

Based on international best practices, the directory provides clear preventive standards to help reduce injuries and hazards.

It covers more than 4,500 standards in six main sectors: public industries; construction; agriculture; maritime activities; transport; and mining. It also classifies more than 70 sectors based on the national directory of economic activities.