How Saudi Arabia is weaving sustainable practices into its fashion industry

Special How Saudi Arabia is weaving sustainable practices into its fashion industry
Left to right: A stunning design by Khoja, adorned with intricate, abstract patterns that pay homage to cultural storytelling while exuding modern elegance; a bold and artistic creation by Nasibah Hafiz, showcasing sustainable fashion through a recycled shirt made from various textiles; and Chaldene’s soft yellow two-piece set embodies effortless charm, featuring delicate details like natural buttons and airy fabrics. (Instagram: moekhoja, nasibahafiz and chaldene)
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Updated 18 January 2025
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How Saudi Arabia is weaving sustainable practices into its fashion industry

How Saudi Arabia is weaving sustainable practices into its fashion industry
  • Saudi Vision 2030 champions reducing, reusing, recycling, and upcycling clothing, with local designers leading the way
  • Initiatives like Riyadh’s GFX Fashion Swap promote exchanging quality garments to extend wardrobe life and cut waste

RIYADH: Thanks to the mass production and export of cheaply made clothing — a phenomenon of globalization known as “fast fashion” — consumers the world over have gained access to an almost limitless range of affordable outfits.

While this manufacturing and retail boom has stimulated growth, created jobs, and catered to consumer demand, it has also placed an immense strain on the workforces making these garments and on the environment.

In line with the sustainability goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform agenda and its circular economy approach, the Kingdom is encouraging consumers and manufacturers to reduce, reuse, recycle, and upcycle clothing to help ease the environmental burden.

With more than 80 billion garments produced worldwide every year, the industry has contributed to the pollution of the environment, the excessive use of resources, and a throwaway culture that has resulted in towering heaps of waste.

Globally, one garbage truck’s worth of textiles is sent to landfill or incinerated every second, depleting natural resources and increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Experts warn the industry could account for a quarter of the world’s carbon emissions by 2050.




Textile waste account for 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, according to UN figures. (AFP)

One of the most polluting industries globally, fast fashion is responsible for 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, according to UN figures — surpassing the combined emissions from international flights and maritime shipping.

Compounding the problem, a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation reveals that less than 1 percent of used clothing is recycled into new garments, perpetuating a destructive cycle of resource depletion and waste.




A striking design by Khoja, highlighting modern Saudi fashion with a blend of tradition and futurism. (Instagram: moekhoja)

“Sustainability in fashion isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity,” Mohammed Khoja, founder of Saudi clothing brand Hindamme, told Arab News.

“We focus on creating high-quality, timeless pieces designed to transcend trends. This avoids overproduction and ensures that our garments can become cherished vintage finds for future generations.”

Khoja’s emphasis on “timeless design” aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of reducing waste and promoting sustainable consumption.

To address the issue of waste, Saudi Arabia is investing in circular fashion — a model focused on reusing, recycling, and upcycling clothing to extend its life cycle.

The Fashion Commission, which is part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture, has launched initiatives like the GFX Fashion Swap in Riyadh, which encourages the exchange of high-quality garments while educating participants on the environmental benefits of prolonging wardrobe use.

“We don’t need to keep buying new items,” said Nasiba Hafiz, a Saudi fashion designer. “Why not use the things we already have and repurpose them? This way, we can reduce waste and become more conscious consumers.”




(Instagram: globalfashionexchange)

Hafiz collaborates with Al-Oula Women’s Charitable Society to transform surplus fabrics into new garments, reducing waste while empowering women from underprivileged backgrounds in south Jeddah.

Another significant initiative is the Sustainable Materials Research Center. Established in partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, the facility develops eco-friendly textiles for traditional garments like abayas and thobes.

By blending innovation with cultural heritage, the Kingdom advances sustainable design solutions.

Fast fashion’s impact extends beyond consumer waste, with a significant yet often overlooked toll on water resources. Factories in developing countries, where most clothing is produced, consume vast amounts of water and energy.




Efforts are being made to develop sustainable textile materials in the Kingdom. (AFP)

For instance, producing a single pair of jeans requires about 3,781 liters of water, according to the UN Environment Programme — enough to meet one person’s hydration needs for more than five years.

Textile factories also release hazardous waste that pollutes rivers and groundwater, with dyeing and treatment processes contributing heavily to water contamination.

The World Bank estimates the fashion industry generates 20 percent of global wastewater, which is often laced with toxic chemicals.




Waste from textile's factories is released to Dravyavati river in Rajasthan, India. Dyeing and treatment processes in textile factories contribute heavily to water contamination. (AFP)

In Saudi Arabia, where water is scarce, designers like Chaldene are championing sustainability. The brand incorporates eco-friendly materials, such as coconut-shell buttons, to reduce reliance on resource-heavy alternatives.

“Every detail in our collection reflects our commitment to minimizing waste and honoring nature,” Asma Al-Othaimeen and Ghada Al-Majed, the co-founders of Chaldene, told Arab News in a joint statement.

Indeed, Saudi designers are leading the Kingdom’s sustainable fashion movement, pioneering innovative approaches to reduce the industry’s environmental impact.

One such designer, Ghaydaa Majdaly, uses 3D technology to transform recycled plastic bottles into fabric, ensuring a zero-waste approach.




With 3D software programs simplifying the design process and improving product quality while reducing the environmental footprint, fashion designers are changing the way they approach their products, as well as pattern making and fittings. (Supplied)

“Technology allows us to reimagine what’s possible in fashion while addressing the environmental challenges of fast fashion,” said Majdaly.

To the same end, Nasiba Hafiz, in collaboration with Al-Oula, repurposes discarded fabrics into new garments. This partnership not only reduces waste but also provides economic support to women in south Jeddah.

“By reusing and repurposing, we can extend the life of materials and create something beautiful and meaningful,” said Hafiz.

DID YOUKNOW?

Sustainable fashion reduces waste and supports Vision 2030’s circular economy goals.

Brands like Yasmina Q and Al-Oula turn discarded materials into new garments.

Hajj ihrams are recycled into reusable garments through sterilization and repair.

Meanwhile, Hindamme creator Khoja, who focuses on timeless designs over seasonal trends, believes in creating heirloom-quality pieces meant to last generations.

“Sustainability isn’t just about the environment — it’s about preserving our cultural identity while reducing waste,” he said.

However, the shift to sustainable fashion is not just up to brands and designers. Consumers also play a key role in driving demand for eco-conscious products.

Fast fashion thrives on overconsumption, with surveys showing many garments are worn only seven times before being discarded.

Reyouf Madkhali, a Saudi model and sustainable fashion advocate, emphasized the role of consumer behavior. “Sustainable fashion is reshaping the industry by encouraging innovation and responsibility,” she said.

“As a model, I prioritize working with brands that align with these values to promote conscious consumerism to my audience.”




Saudi model and sustainable fashion advocate Reyouf Madkhali. (Supplied)

She also noted the growing interest in sustainable practices among younger generations.

“People are starting to ask questions and take ownership of their choices,” she said. “Supporting local brands is a passion of mine, and I’ve been gradually replacing pieces in my wardrobe with designs from Saudi designers.”

Saudi Arabia is proving that sustainability and cultural preservation can go hand in hand. By tackling the environmental impact of fast fashion and promoting innovative solutions, the Kingdom is forging a new path.



 


Madinah authority restores historic holy sites

Madinah authority restores historic holy sites
Updated 59 min 52 sec ago
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Madinah authority restores historic holy sites

Madinah authority restores historic holy sites
  • The work by the Madinah Region Development Authority includes ongoing restoration of the Battle of the Trench site and surrounding areas

RIYADH: Projects to preserve and restore important religious and historic sites in Madinah have brought a growing number of visitors to the area.

The work by the Madinah Region Development Authority includes ongoing restoration of the Battle of the Trench site and surrounding areas, where followers of the Prophet Muhammad dug a deep trench to fortify themselves against attack in 627 C.E.

A place that holds deep religious and historical significance for Muslims, the redevelopment includes restoring several mosques and other significant sites.

The authority is also redeveloping the Miqat of Dhu Al-Hulaifah, where the Prophet Muhammed entered the ritual state of Ihram before performing the Umrah pilgrimage. The initiative is focused on expanding the mosque’s facilities and improving services.

Over the past year, several Madinah landmarks have been enhanced with modern amenities and new guide services using digital technologies. Other upgrades include the installation of pedestrian facilities around the city’s central area and near the Prophet’s Mosque, such as electric vehicle access and a pedestrian path to Quba Mosque, and landscaping and public amenities.

The Rua Al-Madinah Project is a major development featuring an extensive tunnel network and numerous luxury hotels which will contribute to the target of increasing the holy city’s hospitality capacity to 30 million visitors by 2030.

The Al-Matal Project, another new initiative, features integrated tourist and recreational facilities built into the mountainside of the Al-Jamawat neighborhood.

The schemes will enrich the Madinah visitor experience, a key objective of Saudi Vision 2030.


Asir’s 2,400m-high Fog Walk attracts tourists seeking to beat the heat

Asir’s 2,400m-high Fog Walk attracts tourists seeking to beat the heat
Updated 25 July 2025
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Asir’s 2,400m-high Fog Walk attracts tourists seeking to beat the heat

Asir’s 2,400m-high Fog Walk attracts tourists seeking to beat the heat
  • Asir earmarked for multibillion-dollar tourism investment
  • Region’s mountains, forests have become top attractions

RIYADH: The Fog Walk promenade, at more than 2,400 meters above sea level in Saudi Arabia’s southern Asir region, has become a major attraction for those wanting to beat the heat this summer.

Located in the Al-Namas governorate, it is 7 km in length and has panoramic views of the Tihama plains coastal area, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

The region’s climate is typically foggy and mild in summer, with temperatures rarely going above 30 degrees Celsius, while other parts of the country are averaging above 40.

There are also towering mountains and dense forests for visitors to enjoy.

The promenade has wide paths, seating and rest areas, as well as food trucks, cafes and stalls selling handicrafts and traditional food from the region.

The annual Summer of Al-Namas festival includes folk art performances, sports competitions, an International Sculpture Forum, and a range of open cultural evenings.

Recent developments from the local authorities at the promenade include night lighting, improved green spaces and additional support services to promote the tourism industry.

The Asir Development Authority aims to attract 8 million tourists to the region by 2030. A SR1.3 billion ($346.5 billion) entertainment complex is being developed and slated for completion in 2025.

Its offerings will include arcade games, theme park rides, cinema, indoor golf course, bowling, and go-kart track.

As a part of Vision 2030, an additional SR6 billion will be invested into the region’s tourism industry. The Asir Development Authority is aiming to increase this to SR9 billion.


Chinese Embassy celebrates 98th anniversary of People’s Liberation Army

Chinese Embassy celebrates 98th anniversary of People’s Liberation Army
Updated 25 July 2025
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Chinese Embassy celebrates 98th anniversary of People’s Liberation Army

Chinese Embassy celebrates 98th anniversary of People’s Liberation Army
  • Envoy hails 35 years of Sino-Saudi diplomatic ties, growing trade
  • China urges Gaza ceasefire and rejects ‘deportation’ of Palestinians

RIYADH: The Chinese Embassy in Saudi Arabia hosted a reception on Thursday in Riyadh’s Cultural Palace to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army.

“The Chinese and Saudi people have a friendship and connection of more than 2,000 years,” said Zhu Je, the armed defense attache at the embassy.

He added that the two nations celebrated this week the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, which began on July 21, 1990.

In his opening remarks, Zhu highlighted the growing relations between the two nations. “China has become Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner; Saudi Arabia is China’s largest trading partner in the Middle East,” he said.

President Xi Jinping and Saudi Arabia’s leaders have worked on developing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership since 2022, Zhu said.

“In 2024, by instructions of the Saudi leaders, His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman visited China, Sino-Saudi military relationship was upgraded to strategic level.

“Chief of general staff, His Excellency Gen. Fayyadh Al-Ruwaili, led series of delegations to China, achieving solid results in multiple cooperation fields,” he said.

Zhu said the Chinese armed forces was created as a part of the country’s struggle for national unification and independence.

He said over the past 98 years, “led by the Chinese Communist Party and supported by the people, it has won more than 200 significant battles and defeated more than 10 million enemies.”

This had made a “great contribution to the independence, safety and development of the country, having become a strong force to deter aggression and threats.”

On the region, Zhu said China wants to play a constructive role in  promoting peace and stability. “China calls for (an) immediate and sustained ceasefire in Gaza, opposes the deportation of the Gaza people.

“China, together with Saudi Arabia advocate that the Palestinian issue should be resolved comprehensively, justly and lastingly on the basis of the two-state solution,” he said.

There were several ambassadors and defense officials at the reception, including Chinese Ambassador Chang Hua, who hosted the event alongside Zhu.

Zhu added: “I would again express our sincere gratitude to the Saudi leaders and people, especially the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Interior, the National Guard and other security institutions.”


Saudi team win 4 medals at 2025 International Physics Olympiad

Saudi team win 4 medals at 2025 International Physics Olympiad
Updated 25 July 2025
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Saudi team win 4 medals at 2025 International Physics Olympiad

Saudi team win 4 medals at 2025 International Physics Olympiad
  • Kingdom’s tally in annual contest now 7 silver and 23 bronze medals, 22 certificates of appreciation

PARIS: Saudi Arabia’s National Physics Team won four medals at the 55th International Physics Olympiad in Paris which ran from July 17 to 25, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

Mazen Al-Shakhs won silver, while Hussein Al-Saleh, Mohammed Al-Arfaj, and Ali Al-Hassan each won bronze at the IPhO.

The latest medal haul has raised the Kingdom’s overall tally at this annual event to seven silver, 23 bronze, and 22 certificates of appreciation.

A total of 425 students from 85 countries competed in the contest this year.

Saudi Arabia’s achievement was a result of intensive training for the students by the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, or Mawhiba, the SPA reported.

Support was provided by the Ministry of Education, and sponsorship by Saudi Aramco.

The IPhO is an annual competition for high school students, with each national delegation allowed up to five student competitors plus two leaders.

Similar to other Olympiads, member countries take turns hosting the competition. It was first held in Warsaw, Poland, in 1967, and last year in Isfahan, Iran.

In 2026, the host will be Bucaramanga, Colombia.

In the event’s 58-year history, China has emerged as the most dominant, with Russia, South Korea, Taiwan and the US completing the top five.

 

 


How AI speech-to-text technology is tuning in to a digital Saudi Arabia

How AI speech-to-text technology is tuning in to a digital Saudi Arabia
Updated 40 min 53 sec ago
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How AI speech-to-text technology is tuning in to a digital Saudi Arabia

How AI speech-to-text technology is tuning in to a digital Saudi Arabia
  • Speech recognition tools are becoming vital for real-time communication in multilingual, mobile-first societies
  • Gulf region’s high smartphone usage and digital transformation make it a key market for speech-enabled tech

DHAHRAN: In a world racing toward automation, Klemen Simonic believes the most natural interface is also the most enduring: the human voice.

As founder and CEO of Soniox — a cutting-edge speech-to-text platform — Simonic is betting that voice-powered technology will drive the next wave of digital innovation.

And in a country like Saudi Arabia, where smartphones dominate daily life and a young population is hungry for digital solutions, the potential is hard to ignore.

Soniox, which Simonic launched five years ago, offers speech recognition, transcription and real-time multilingual translation in more than 60 languages.

Unlike many competitors, it delivers ultra-fast, token-level outputs in milliseconds — a critical advantage for live assistants, wearables, bots and smart speakers.

But Simonic’s journey toward building the company began long before the rise of generative AI. 

“I started in programming development right after high school, and I was invited to join the Jozef Stefan Institute in Slovenia, one of the best institutes in this part of Europe,” he told Arab News. 

“I was working there with Ph.D. students and postdocs on machine learning, natural language processing, dependency parsing, tokenization, tagging and entity extraction.”

Klemen Simonic (2nd right) and his Soniox team. (Supplied)

That early exposure led him to two internships at Stanford University in 2009 and 2011, where he worked alongside top researchers in AI. “I wanted to join Google to work on these cool things,” he said.

After an internship there in 2014, Simonic was courted by both Google and Facebook — ultimately joining the latter in 2015 to help build speech recognition systems now used across Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

Today, his company is focused entirely on voice AI, and its promise goes beyond convenience. 

With privacy and compliance built in — including SOC 2 Type II certification and HIPAA readiness — Soniox is already being used in hospitals, call centers and emergency rooms where clear, accurate transcription can be a life-saving tool.

“We have many healthcare customers using our API in emergency rooms where real-time AI interpretation can bridge communication gaps that human translators sometimes cannot, especially with complex medical terminology,” said Simonic.

Saudi Arabia represents a particularly compelling market for the company’s ambitions. With more than 90 percent smartphone penetration and a population where 70 percent of people are aged under 35, the Kingdom is fertile ground for voice-enabled technologies.

The widespread adoption of government-developed platforms like Tawakkalna during the COVID-19 pandemic only accelerated the Kingdom’s reliance on mobile-first services.

“Data and artificial intelligence contribute to achieving Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030; this is because, out of 96, 66 of the direct and indirect goals of the vision are related to data and AI,” according to the Saudi Data & AI Authority.

The Kingdom’s communications and IT sector is now worth more than $44 billion — 4.1 percent of gross domestic product — and expanding quickly with strategic investments in cloud computing, automation and smart infrastructure.

Although Soniox does not yet have a team on the ground in the region, the company sees significant interest from Saudi organizations exploring AI-powered transcription and customer service tools.

Simonic said there are pilot programs in countries like Portugal and interest from companies in Saudi Arabia looking to improve call center and transcription services.

And while Arabic remains one of the more complex languages for voice AI, Simonic sees both the challenge and the opportunity. Many of Saudi Arabia’s rural communities speak dialects rich in cultural nuance — languages that are often excluded from mainstream datasets.

This environment offers fertile ground for Soniox’s technology, which strives to “enable all languages, so everyone in the world can speak and be understood by AI.”

Simonic’s team, primarily based in Slovenia, is committed to expanding language support to make the technology more inclusive, even in markets where none of the developers speak the local tongue.

Soniox is also designed with flexibility in mind. Businesses can integrate its API without storing any audio or transcripts, ensuring tight data control. For individual users, features like encrypted transcripts and a summarizing tool enhance productivity — even for the tech-averse.

“My mom is not very tech-savvy, but she uses our app to build her grocery shopping list,” Simonic said. “That was not the original purpose, but it shows how technology can evolve in ways we didn’t expect.”

In July, Soniox launched a new comparison tool that allows developers and businesses to benchmark different speech AI providers using their own voice samples and real-world data.

It is another step toward transparency and broader adoption — especially in regions like the Gulf, where choosing the right solution can hinge on performance in diverse linguistic contexts.

“The tech morphs, but the human voice remains the most intimate and effective way we communicate,” Simonic said.

As Saudi Arabia pushes forward with its digital transformation under Vision 2030, technologies like Soniox may find their voice amplified — not just as a tool for productivity, but also as a bridge between language, innovation and access in a rapidly changing world.