Remote Thabhloten in Empty Quarter has rich history, compelling beauty

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Thabhloten, considered the largest sand basin in the world, is characterized by towering sand dunes on all sides, rich natural resources, and lakes in the middle. (Supplied)
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Updated 03 October 2024
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Remote Thabhloten in Empty Quarter has rich history, compelling beauty

  • Most remote village in Saudi Arabia, situated near the Omani border
  • In 1930, some of the residents had met first British travelers in desert 

MAKKAH: Thabhloten Center, part of Al-Ahsa governorate in the Eastern Province and over 1,500 km from Riyadh and 1,200 km from Al-Ahsa, is Saudi Arabia’s most remote village. 

Thabhloten, considered the largest sand basin in the world, is characterized by towering sand dunes on all sides, rich natural resources, and lakes in the middle. 

It is the most remote village in Saudi Arabia, with few paved roads and connections to cities in the Kingdom.

Mubarak bin Klot, a resident of Thabhloten, said that the locals speak Arabic, contrary to the misconception that they converse in Mehri. 

He said people have lived in the area for generations and have a connection to the land. “We grew up on its hills and were shaped by its vast landscape.” 

He also spoke fondly of the first documented journey across the Empty Quarter in 1930, which included British travelers and explorers.

This included Thomas Bertram, with the support of Sheikh Saleh bin Klot Al-Rashidi.

This historic expedition took place during the reign of King Abdulaziz, the founder of the Kingdom.

He continued: “Seventeen years later, the journey was undertaken once again by Wilfred Thesiger, whom the Bedouins called Mubarak bin London.

“He crossed the Empty Quarter with my grandfather, Mohammed bin Saleh bin Klot, traveling from Manukh to the Emirates, then to Oman, and finally to Mukalla, successfully traversing the entire Empty Quarter alongside three companions from the same tribe.

“These remarkable journeys were thoroughly documented in Britain, and we have copies of the records.”

He added that Thabhloten is the only village in the Empty Quarter, with around 436 properties and a population of just 400 people, all from the Al-Rashid tribe.

The villagers are primarily Bedouins, whose lives are shaped by the natural elements, relying on the weather, grazing lands, water sources, and livestock. 

He said the village has produced several educated individuals, with many having graduated from various universities.

Bin Klot said that he completed his initial education in the village before pursuing a degree in political science in Jordan.

He chose to return to his village, driven by a strong sense of attachment and the deep significance the village holds for its people.

Bin Klot said the nearest city where residents can access supplies, medical care, and essential goods is Al-Ahsa. Members of the community face significant challenges to cover these distances.

He said the roads leading to and from the village are challenging, unpaved, and often impassable.

Despite this, he said there was a strong community spirit, with people sharing resources.

Bin Klot said the government supplies the village with fuel to ensure electricity is provided to all its residents. 

He said people prefer to live in the area because of its mild winters and compelling natural beauty. 

When asked about children leaving for opportunities elsewhere, he said these decisions were up to their guardians. 

Some families have moved to cities in the Kingdom, while others preferred to stay.


Saudi Arabia retains top spot in global cybersecurity rankings for 2025

Updated 07 July 2025
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Saudi Arabia retains top spot in global cybersecurity rankings for 2025

  • National digital transformation strategy helps propel Kingdom to forefront of international standards, officials say
  • Saudi Arabia cited as Tier 1 ‘role-modeling’ nation by UN specialist agency, further underlining its world standing

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has maintained its position as the top-ranked country in global cybersecurity, according to this year’s edition of the International Institute for Management Development World Competitiveness Yearbook.

The cybersecurity indicator ranking reflects what officials describe as continued support from the country’s leadership, including King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Officials added the leadership’s national digital transformation strategy has helped propel the Kingdom to the forefront of international benchmarks.

They also said the Kingdom’s achievements in cybersecurity stem from a comprehensive, long-term strategy that balances national security with economic and technological development.

Saudi Arabia was also designated a Tier 1 “role-modeling” nation in the Global Cybersecurity Index 2024 published by the UN’s International Telecommunication Union, further underlining its international standing.

Central to this model is the National Cybersecurity Authority, the country’s primary body for overseeing cybersecurity affairs, and the Saudi Information Technology Company, which serves as its technical and strategic partner.

Together, these institutions have helped strengthen national cyber defenses, localize key technologies, and expand collaboration both domestically and internationally.

The NCA, which acts as the national reference point for all matters relating to cybersecurity, is tasked with enhancing the Kingdom’s digital resilience by safeguarding critical infrastructure, key sectors, and government services.

It is also responsible for setting policies, frameworks, and standards while encouraging innovation, investment, and growth within the Kingdom’s cybersecurity sector.

These initiatives form part of Saudi Arabia’s wider efforts to build a secure and trusted digital environment that supports economic growth and global cooperation.


Riyadh’s coolest ride this summer is the metro

Updated 07 July 2025
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Riyadh’s coolest ride this summer is the metro

  • Designed for over 1m passengers a day, the system is impressing locals as temperatures soar

RIYADH: As Riyadh sizzles under peak summer heat, residents are turning to the city’s new metro system for a faster, cooler way to get around, proving that public transport can thrive, even when temperatures soar.

Arab News spoke to Riyadh residents about why the summer sun is no issue when it comes to commuting.

For the past couple of months, Rashid Alikhan has opted to use the metro to get to work, hopping on at SABIC Station and getting off at King Abdullah Financial District.

Commuters say the Riyadh Metro has significantly reduced travel times compared to navigating the city’s increasingly congested roads. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

“The most challenging aspect has been getting to the station and back home in a way that made sense. I’d say parking is an issue if you don’t go early,” he said.

“I go before it gets too hot to walk from the parking to the station … The stations are well AC’d … but it does get hot, so you just have to bear it.”

He recommends that passengers take a seat during the transit, whenever they are available, to minimize the burden of the trip.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Riyadh Metro features driverless trains and air-conditioned cabins with designated seating areas.

• The system is also integrated with the Riyadh Bus network, creating a unified public transport solution.

• Riders can pay via contactless cards, station kiosks, or the Darb app.

“Getting first class is worth it, and avoiding the rush and the sun. If you’re walking from the car to the station, I see a lot of people taking umbrellas, so that helps.”

Commuters say the Riyadh Metro has significantly reduced travel times compared to navigating the city’s increasingly congested roads. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Commuters say the Riyadh Metro has significantly reduced travel times compared to navigating the city’s increasingly congested roads.

The system includes several sustainable features, such as energy-efficient trains and stations, and regenerative braking technology that helps cut energy use.

To boost accessibility, rideshare platforms such as Uber are offering free connections through the RPT Link service, which transports passengers to metro stations within a 3 km radius.

Commuters at Qasr Al Hokm Station in Riyadh. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah) 

Nouf Al-Dossari, a content creator, said she relies on the metro for attending events and work-related outings. “It has been cost-friendly to me and saves me lots of time,” she said.

“Usually I’d leave my house an hour before to just reach in time because of the traffic, but now I leave 15 to 20 minutes before the scheduled time. It’s been wonderful.”

She encourages others to use the metro during the hot months, but also advises staying hydrated and in the shade as much as possible.

Commuters at Qasr Al Hokm Station in Riyadh. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah) 

“I believe the most challenging part is trying to find an available seat when coming back home, and even in the morning because everyone is heading to work,” she said.

While she is used to the Riyadh heat, she still uses Uber to reach the stations for safety reasons.

“Some are located near highways or busy roads which makes it a bit difficult to safely walk to and from,” she explained.

People purchase tickets at the King Abdullah Finance District "KAFD" metro station in the Saudi capital Riyadh on December 1, 2024. (AFP)

Noura Al-Dakhil has been using the metro for her daily commute for over a month and says that the transition has been relatively smooth.

“The stations I use have a big sidewalk next to it, safety measures, and comfortable access. Although the parking situation isn’t ideal — or, let’s say, nonexistent,” she said.

While she used to walk to a nearby station in cooler months, the summer heat has forced her to adapt.

The metro is built to accommodate up to 1.2 million passengers daily. (Supplied)

“In the summer, I use my car and park next to the station,” she said. For those without that option, she recommends preparing for the weather, such as using an umbrella.

“It’s a game changer. And wear airy fabrics. I switched to cold caffeinated beverages, which helped too.”

The metro is built to accommodate up to 1.2 million passengers daily. It features driverless trains and air-conditioned cabins with designated seating areas.

The system is also integrated with the Riyadh Bus network, creating a unified public transport solution. Riders can pay via contactless cards, station kiosks, or the Darb app.

 


Saudi traditional container keeps its cool — and makes a cultural comeback

For generations, Al-Samil played a vital role in desert life as a simple storage container for food and water. (SPA)
Updated 07 July 2025
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Saudi traditional container keeps its cool — and makes a cultural comeback

  • Al-Samil is handmade from tanned livestock skin using time-honored methods, and can preserve the quality and taste of ghee, yogurt, and water for extended periods without the need for cooling

RIYADH: As part of Saudi Arabia’s Year of Handicrafts, a traditional handmade leather container used to store food before the advent of refrigeration is making a comeback in the Northern Borders region.

For generations, Al-Samil played a vital role in desert life as a simple storage container for food and water.

For generations, Al-Samil  played a vital role in desert life as a simple storage container for food and water. (SPA)

Now the traditional items are being celebrated as a lasting emblem of Bedouin heritage, Saudi Press Agency reported.

Al-Samil is handmade from tanned livestock skin using time-honored methods, and can preserve the quality and taste of ghee, yogurt, and water for extended periods without the need for cooling.

FASTFACT

At Arar’s traditional market, local artisans display Al-Samil alongside other crafts, including sadu weaving, spinning tools, and embroidered garments.

More than just functional, Al-Samil reflects a self-sufficient way of life and craftsmanship passed down through generations.

Today, interest in Al-Samil is being reived at heritage festivals and handicraft exhibitions held across cities and governorates in the region.

The container is still valued for storing wild ghee and fermented yogurt, with the leather adding a distinct flavor. Many rural homes and farms still use it.

At Arar’s traditional market, local artisans display Al-Samil alongside other crafts, including sadu weaving, spinning tools, and embroidered garments.

The market has become a key attraction for both residents and tourists looking to experience the region’s cultural heritage firsthand, the SPA reported.

 


Saudi project clears 1,559 mines in Yemen

The project trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. (Supplied/Project Masam)
Updated 07 July 2025
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Saudi project clears 1,559 mines in Yemen

  • The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada

RIYADH: Members of Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam removed 1,559 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week.

The total included 1,513 unexploded ordnances, 45 anti-tank mines and one anti-personnel mines, according to a recent report.

Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the initiative’s managing director, said that 504,295 mines have been cleared since the project began in 2018.

The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.

The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.

The project trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.

Teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate the safe movement of civilians and delivery of humanitarian aid.

 


Saudi deputy FM receives EU ambassador

Waleed Elkhereiji (R) and Christophe Farnaud in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 07 July 2025
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Saudi deputy FM receives EU ambassador

  • They reviewed relations between the Kingdom and the EU, as well as regional and international developments of common interest

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received EU Ambassador to the Kingdom Christophe Farnaud in Riyadh on Monday.

During the meeting, they reviewed relations between the Kingdom and the EU, as well as regional and international developments of common interest, the Foreign Ministry said in a post on X.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic and Development Affairs Abdullah bin Zarah received Dya-Eddine Bamakhrama, ambassador of Djibouti and dean of the diplomatic corps, in Riyadh on Monday. They discussed economic matters of mutual interest.