Saudi non-profit brings Jeddah’s youths together to distribute iftar to hundreds daily

The American International School of Jeddah's Middle School Happiness Club is also collaborating with AlOula this month to champion charity and community service. (Supplied)
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The American International School of Jeddah's Middle School Happiness Club is also collaborating with AlOula this month to champion charity and community service. (Supplied)
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Updated 07 April 2024
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Saudi non-profit brings Jeddah’s youths together to distribute iftar to hundreds daily

Saudi non-profit brings Jeddah’s youths together to distribute iftar to hundreds daily

RIYADH: Sanad Hourani was raised on philanthropic values from a young age which has inspired him to do more for his community.

Hourani and his friend Yousef Amjad established Subha, a Jeddah-based non-profit organization bringing the city’s youth together through charitable initiatives. 

Hourani told Arab News recently: “I realized the need for it. As much as Saudi is a great country with all of its livelihood and blessings, there are some areas that still need that help and a lot of people are willing to give back.”




Yousef Amjad (left) and Sanad Hourani (right) established Subha, a Jeddah-based non-profit organization bringing the city’s youth together through charitable initiatives. (Supplied)

This year they set up a one-year partnership with AlOula, the Kingdom’s first non-profit organization, that has worked for over 60 years building the local community. 

Dania Al-Maeena, CEO of AlOula, told Arab News: “The Subha community and individual volunteers help us distribute the iftar meals to the beneficiaries across the city, which set an example of giving during this holy month.”

Subha, a Jeddah-based non-profit organization, was born three years ago as a venture involving friends and family. Amjad and Hourani met in 2021 while they were both organizing different Iftar Saem initiatives. They decided to establish the Subha community together, as a way to complement their respective strengths and weaknesses.

Iftar Saem is an annual initiative under AlOula’s social and financial support program, which provides basic needs for 2,500 beneficiaries. Throughout the years AlOula has helped thousands of families.

Hourani said it was gratifying helping others. “The impact of it has been incredible. Last year, we helped feed around 7,000 individuals … one of my friends described it perfectly: ‘You know Sanad, humans are greedy by nature, so when you go against your nature, you get this indescribable feeling.’”

They are now recognized across Jeddah communities. “It’s such a great feeling to be someone that can help people,” he said.

Rather than taking a traditional approach to charity, the organization has focused on building a base of young adults to help out.

In previous years, the group would distribute Ramadan essentials which included rice, oil, sugar, salt, canned foods, and readymade meals.

Eid would also feature some fun festivities. Last year, they hosted a large celebration in Jeddah’s Al-Ruwais district with ice cream trucks and Eid gifts for the children attending.

Al-Maeena said: “Ramadan is the month of giving and it’s the time for the family to gather and enjoy the meal of iftar, and with this initiative we aspire to engage the community to give back to the less fortunate families so they can enjoy this Ramadan not only with the iftar meals but we, as AlOula, also provide rent for their housing, food baskets, Eid clothes and entertainment activities for the kids to ensure a quality of life for all.”

AlOula has partnered with multiple entities throughout the month, including the Middle School Happiness Club from the American International School of Jeddah, initiated by 13-year-old Aya Shata. The club aims to enhance well-being through giving and community service, evident in several Ramadan food drives and Eid clothing activities in collaboration with Aloula and others.

The organization has bigger plans for the future. “We wanted to start with Ramadan, because that’s what we know best and have the operation laid out for that, but the goal is to go beyond this month,” Hourani said.

The stereotype for charities in the region is large intimidating buildings and older employees, but Subha hopes to be a charity “built by the young, for the young,” Hourani said. 

The initiative encourages children to join and help out with the packaging process.

“I joined Subha because I wanted to join a community that spreads happiness with every meal,” one of their volunteers said. “One thing we have in common is that we love to cultivate goodness without return. This is something in us and from us,” another said.

Over 400 individuals are currently part of the Subha community, 50 of whom take turns volunteering every day to distribute the packages. They plan to feed 12,000 people by the end of the holy month.

“With AlOula, we have the chance to promote this much more, which means we have the ability to talk to influencers or advertisers on Instagram. Now we’re collecting donations online, so we made it easier on everyone,” Hourani added.

After a quality assurance check, the “maouna,” or iftar meals, are distributed to people in the underserved Al-Ruwais district in Jeddah.

Al-Maeena said: “This year we collaborated with Chicken & Chops and ICTC to provide nutritional meals that cover every meal group with fruits, dates, water, and main course of rice and chicken or fish and of course some of Ramadan specialties like sambosa.”

One truck is dedicated to passersby and another drops off packages to specific individuals, including fathers with health issues and widows in need. Around 700 meals are distributed daily.

One beneficiary, Yousef Mohammed Abdulrahman, thanked the young philanthropists: “God bless you. You made this month easier, especially for the families of Al-Ruwais district. There’s no lack of food provisions and we thank you and those helping out.”

The initiative is dependent on donations, so Subha relies on volunteers and members of the community with money to spare. Eight people can be fed with SR100 ($27). 

“Without donations, we can’t do anything. Yes, we’re young men and women wanting to volunteer and move — we have the energy, power, and financial stability — but we need the help of other people to continue doing this,” Hourani said.

The collaboration is still welcoming, through AlOula’s website, donations to help those who need it for Ramadan and Eid.


Saudi crown prince receives written message from Eritrean president

Saudi crown prince receives written message from Eritrean president
Updated 47 min 31 sec ago
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Saudi crown prince receives written message from Eritrean president

Saudi crown prince receives written message from Eritrean president
  • Prince Faisal bin Farhan received the message at the Foreign Ministry’s office headquarters

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received on Sunday a written message from Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, in relation to their countries’ ties.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the minister of foreign affairs, received the written message at the ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh.

The Eritrean Minister of Foreign Affairs Osman Saleh handed the message to Prince Faisal during a meeting that discussed issues of common interest to Saudi Arabia and Eritrea.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji and other senior officials attended the meeting, the Saudi Press Agency reported.


Saudi ministry distributes 29,000 copies of Qur’an to Umrah pilgrims

Saudi ministry distributes 29,000 copies of Qur’an to Umrah pilgrims
Updated 09 March 2025
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Saudi ministry distributes 29,000 copies of Qur’an to Umrah pilgrims

Saudi ministry distributes 29,000 copies of Qur’an to Umrah pilgrims
  • Pilgrims said a copy of Qur’an in their languages will accompany them long after returning home
  • They praised the warm welcome and commended the Saudi leadership’s efforts to serve Islam and Muslims

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance distributed tens of thousands of copies of the Holy Qur’an to Umrah pilgrims arriving at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah on Sunday.

The ministry distributed 29,000 copies of the Qur’an in Arabic and other languages to the new arrivals, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The King Fahd Complex for Printing published the copies in Madinah.

Pilgrims visiting to perform the Umrah expressed their joy upon arriving in the Kingdom, praising the warm welcome and commending the Saudi leadership’s efforts to serve Islam and Muslims.

Several noted that a copy of the Holy Qur’an in their language is a valuable gift and will accompany them long after returning home, the SPA added.


KAUST develops robotic system to Improve date palm harvesting

KAUST is developing a new robotic system designed to automate date palm harvesting. (Supplied)
KAUST is developing a new robotic system designed to automate date palm harvesting. (Supplied)
Updated 09 March 2025
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KAUST develops robotic system to Improve date palm harvesting

KAUST is developing a new robotic system designed to automate date palm harvesting. (Supplied)
  • By operating and collecting data, the robots will improve their productivity by enhancing their capabilities for many of the tasks associated with date farming

RIYADH: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology is developing a new robotic system designed to automate date palm harvesting.
The related research, led by KAUST Assistant Prof. Shinkyu Park, focuses on automating key processes in date farming, such as harvesting, pollination and tree maintenance through artificial intelligence-powered robotics, and promises to produce larger yields of more nutritious dates.
In a press release, Park said the study sees the robots starting as apprentices and gradually honing their skills in date farming routines, quickly becoming experts.
Park aims to have his robotic farmers handle dates of various sizes and firmness while maximizing the harvest rate.
By operating and collecting data, the robots will improve their productivity by enhancing their capabilities for many of the tasks associated with date farming.
Field trials are scheduled to begin during the 2025 harvest season, with full operational capability expected within three years.
Park suggested that a robots-as-a-service business model, in which companies offer the use of their robots on a subscription contract basis, could allow smaller farmers to benefit from the technology without the burden of purchasing the robots outright.
“We are developing robotics technologies that support national interests. Our cost-effective automation solutions for the date palm industry are just one example,” Park added.
According to the press release, the robotic arms of the system will be able to move as quickly as a human farmer while precisely picking each date without damage — to itself or the fruit. By equipping them with high-precision visual sensors, the robotic farmers can distinguish individual dates, flowers, and tree structures to execute various farming tasks like harvesting, spraying, and pruning, which ensures the health, productivity, and longevity of the trees and reduces the risk of pest infestations and diseases.
Dates have been central to the Saudi diet for thousands of years. It is a major food product, with the value of date exports by the Kingdom increasing 10 percent between 2023 and 2024 and another 10 percent between 2023 and 2024, according to the press release.
The project is just one of many at KAUST that will benefit date farming and food security. At the end of 2024, the National Center for Palms and Dates signed an agreement to fund SR100 million ($25 million) to KAUST for innovations in the data sector
“I’m excited that this initiative extends beyond engineering solutions and cultivates research and development opportunities for local talent, contributing to the long-term sustainable educational and economic growth of the Kingdom,” Park said.


Sharaan Nature Reserve in AlUla: Stunning rock formations and a thriving habitat for wildlife

Sharaan Nature Reserve in AlUla: Stunning rock formations and a thriving habitat for wildlife
Updated 09 March 2025
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Sharaan Nature Reserve in AlUla: Stunning rock formations and a thriving habitat for wildlife

Sharaan Nature Reserve in AlUla: Stunning rock formations and a thriving habitat for wildlife

RIYADH: The Sharaan Nature Reserve stands as one of the most prominent natural landmarks in AlUla, spanning an area of 1,500 sq. km. It is distinguished by its unique rock formations shaped over millions of years, which create breathtaking landscapes that reflect the region’s geological heritage.

The reserve is included in efforts by the Royal Commission for AlUla to protect the environment and wildlife. It provides a safe habitat for many endangered species, including the Arabian oryx, Nubian ibex, Arabian gazelle, hare, wolves and birds of prey that nest in its rocky heights.

Sharaan Reserve is an ideal destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts, offering opportunities to explore its stunning rock formations, embark on safari trips, hike mountainous trails and camp amid its remarkable terrain.

Visitors can immerse themselves in a unique experience surrounded by red rocks, sloping valleys, vast desert plains and scattered rocky plateaus, allowing direct interaction with nature and up-close exploration of its beauty.

The reserve also includes qualified teams trained by international wildlife conservation experts. They work around the clock to efficiently monitor and manage protected areas, implement surveillance programs, combat illegal hunting, and raise awareness among local communities about the importance of environmental preservation and ecosystem sustainability.


2nd ‘Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought’ conference concludes in Makkah

2nd ‘Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought’ conference concludes in Makkah
Updated 08 March 2025
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2nd ‘Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought’ conference concludes in Makkah

2nd ‘Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought’ conference concludes in Makkah
  • Participants from more than 90 countries discuss development of comprehensive Islamic identity
  • 1,800-page ‘Encyclopedia of Islamic Intellectual Harmony’ prepared by 60 scholars

MAKKAH: The second “Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought” international conference concluded in Makkah early on Saturday, with participants from more than 90 countries adopting the “Encyclopedia of Islamic Intellectual Harmony.”
Held under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the two-day conference gathered senior muftis, scholars, and thinkers who also approved the strategic and executive plan for the document “Building Bridges between Islamic Sects,” a media statement said on Saturday.
The conference was organized by the Muslim World League and held under the theme “Towards an Effective Islamic Alliance.”
The high-level session dedicated to the recitation of the conference’s final statement, which was issued at dawn on Saturday, was attended by the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, and Chairman of the Muslim Scholars Association, Sheikh Dr. Mohamed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa; Member of the Council of Experts for Leadership in Iran, Sheikh Ahmed Mobalghi; Adviser at the Royal Court in Saudi Arabia, Imam and Preacher of the Grand Mosque, Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Abdullah bin Hamid; Head of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, Imam and Preacher of the Grand Mosque, Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais; Secretary-General of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Dr. Mustafa Qutb Sano; Member of the Council of Senior Scholars in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Youssef bin Mohamed bin Saeed; and the Mufti of Sidon in Lebanon, Sheikh Mohamed Osseiran.
The attendees witnessed the launch of the “Encyclopedia of Islamic Intellectual Harmony,” which was supervised by the Intellectual Protection Center at the Saudi Ministry of Defense, and was prepared by 60 scholars over about 1,800 pages.
The encyclopedia was refereed by the General Secretariat of the Council of Senior Scholars in Saudi Arabia, the Islamic Fiqh Academy, and the Supreme Council of the Muslim World League to be a roadmap for relations between Muslim sects.
Participants also decided in the final statement to consider the “Document on Building Bridges between Islamic Schools of Thought” with its 28 articles as the basis and starting point for the path of joint Islamic action “scientifically” and “intellectually,” with a view to strengthening brotherhood and solidarity among the peoples of Muslim nations.
The attendees further extended their sincere thanks to the leadership of the Kingdom for the great services they are providing to Islam and Muslims.
They also affirmed their pride in the comprehensive Islamic identity, and their supportive stance toward the steadfastness of the Palestinian people on their land, and their rejection of displacement and destruction projects.
The conference witnessed several sessions addressing developments in Palestine, Sudan, and Syria, as well as issues concerning Muslim minorities around the world.