Global experts to address space debris in Riyadh/node/2609059/saudi-arabia
Global experts to address space debris in Riyadh
The first edition, held in Riyadh in 2024, drew participants from over 50 countries, as well as international organizations and global companies. (SPA)
The agency invited interested participants to register at ssa.gov.sa/SDC26. It also announced the launch of the global DebriSolver Competition, to be held during the conference
Updated 15 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: The Saudi Space Agency will host the second International Space Debris Conference in Riyadh on Jan. 26–27, 2026, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.
The event is part of the agency’s efforts to strengthen the Kingdom’s leadership in global initiatives for the sustainability of the space sector.
The conference aims to foster international dialogue, develop joint policies to mitigate the growing impact of space debris, promote global cooperation on sustainable solutions and innovative technologies, and support strategies for the long-term sustainability of the space environment.
The agency invited interested participants to register at ssa.gov.sa/SDC26. It also announced the launch of the global DebriSolver Competition, to be held during the conference.
The competition seeks innovative solutions to address space debris challenges, focusing on technical, regulatory, economic, and social aspects. The registration deadline for the competition is Aug. 30, with applications accepted at ssa.gov.sa/c-ar.
The first edition, held in Riyadh in 2024, drew participants from over 50 countries, as well as international organizations and global companies. It concluded with recommendations aimed at raising awareness about the importance of managing space debris.
Qassim governor launches $53m health, energy, municipal initiatives
Solar power, hospital upgrades, heritage sites, and tourism trails drive development in Al-Bukayriyah governorate
Updated 8 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Prince Faisal bin Mishaal, the governor of Qassim, inaugurated health, municipal, energy and charitable projects in Al-Bukayriyah governorate, worth more than SR200 million ($53 milion).
He said these projects reflect the leadership’s strong support for development programs and better services for citizens and residents, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
Prince Faisal highlighted efforts to upgrade infrastructure, expand healthcare and social services, and enhance municipal initiatives to create a safe and vibrant urban environment. He thanked all government and civil entities involved.
Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of supporting high-quality tourism projects that contribute to rural development and offer diverse tourism options for residents and visitors to the region. (SPA)
The municipal projects, costing more than SR140 million, aim to improve infrastructure and the urban landscape and include, according to the mayor of Al-Bukayriyah, roads, streets, public squares, parks and pedestrian walkways.
Prince Faisal praised the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and local municipalities, stressing the need to continue delivering quality projects that serve citizens and support comprehensive development.
He inaugurated the second phase of a solar energy project at the governorate building, part of efforts to adopt renewable energy and improve efficiency in government facilities.
HIGHLIGHT
Prince Faisal reviewed projects to restore Al-Bukayriyah’s old town and develop the Jabal Saq trail. The projects aim to revive the town’s heritage character, create an attractive environment, and enhance the urban landscape.
The project is a step toward sustainability by reducing reliance on traditional energy and powering the facility with solar energy, the SPA reported.
Prince Faisal said the use of solar power cuts operating costs, lowers carbon emissions, and improves spending efficiency, and expressed the hope to expand such initiatives throughout the region.
The project is a step toward sustainability by reducing reliance on traditional energy and powering the facility with solar energy. (SPA)
He also launched several health projects, worth SR26 million, to strengthen the health sector and improve services. These include upgrades to Al-Bukayriyah General Hospital, an automated lab, improved inpatient, outpatient, and emergency services, the development of Al-Zahra Health Center, and replacement of the hospital’s electrical systems.
Prince Faisal also visited Basma Rural Resort in Al-Bukayriyah governorate. He toured the resort’s facilities and reviewed its tourism services and unique rural hospitality that reflect the region’s natural landscape and agricultural heritage.
Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of supporting high-quality tourism projects that contribute to rural development and offer diverse tourism options for residents and visitors to the region.
He commended the private sector’s efforts to invest in sustainable tourism activities aligned with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to develop tourism as a vital economic sector.
Prince Faisal said that Al-Bukayriyah, like other governorates in the region, possesses promising tourism potential that should be optimally leveraged.
The Qassim governor expressed hope for more high-quality tourism projects that support the local economy and generate job opportunities for Saudi men and women.
Prince Faisal visited Maqsourat Al-Suwailem at the Al-Bukayriyah heritage site, where he was briefed on its historical and architectural significance.
He underlined the importance of preserving heritage sites as part of national identity and promoting heritage tourism. Such projects, he said, honor the legacy of ancestors and help introduce younger generations and visitors to the region’s culture.
The governor praised the Al-Suwailem family for preserving and exhibiting the site, highlighting their role in fostering awareness of national heritage and supporting heritage tourism.
Prince Faisal also reviewed projects to restore Al-Bukayriyah’s old town and develop the Jabal Saq trail, implemented by the municipality in cooperation with the Al-Bukayriyah Community Committee.
The projects aim to revive the town’s heritage character, create an attractive environment, and enhance the urban landscape.
The Jabal Saq trail, at an elevation of 400m, is a tourist and recreational destination, offering walking, hiking, and scenic views to boost local tourism.
Prince Faisal highlighted the importance of such initiatives in preserving heritage and promoting tourism, praising the municipality and committee for their efforts aligned with Vision 2030 goals to develop tourist sites and improve quality of life.
Prince Faisal launched two major charitable initiatives worth about SR10.5 million: the Waqf Al-Walidayn by the Holy Qur’an Memorization Association; and the Investment Endowment by the Saei Association for Widows.
The Waqf Al-Walidayn supports the association’s Qur’anic education programs and financial sustainability, while the widows’ endowment funds Saei’s initiatives to improve widows’ living and social conditions.
He also sponsored an agreement between the People of Al-Bukayriyah Endowment Foundation and the Healthy Cities Program to support community initiatives that promote health and enhance quality of life.
Saudi interior minister holds meeting with employees on scholarship in London
Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif highlighted the ministry’s commitment to offering scholarships, educational opportunities for staff
Updated 22 July 2025
Arab News
LONDON: Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif in London on Tuesday met several ministry employees studying in the UK.
During the meeting, Prince Abdulaziz highlighted the ministry’s commitment to offering scholarships and distinguished educational opportunities to its employees, adding that investing in individuals is key to achieving the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
He said that scholarship holders will return to the Kingdom after acquiring academic and professional skills, bringing science and knowledge to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s development.
Assistant Minister of Interior Dr. Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al-Falih and several senior officials from the ministry attended the meeting in the English capital.
The vintage trucks that once connected Saudi Arabia’s villages and cities
From the 1940s through the 1970s, trucks — typically from American manufacturers such as Ford — played a crucial role in transport
Red truck held a unique social standing as the main alternative to camels
Updated 22 July 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: The vintage red truck, referred to in Arabic as a “lorry” after the British synonym, has become a cherished symbol of heritage in Saudi Arabia and across the Gulf.
From the 1940s through the 1970s, these trucks — typically from American manufacturers such as Ford — played a crucial role in transport, connecting remote villages with bustling cities at a time when travel options were scarce and conditions often difficult.
Historian Abdullah Al-Zahrani told the Saudi Press Agency that residents, visitors and religious pilgrims depended heavily on these vehicles for extended journeys, which could last several days.
He said that the red truck marked a turning point in transportation, providing families and children with a new level of comfort.
Beyond carrying passengers, the red truck was vital to the local economy. It transported food supplies to markets and commercial centers, enabling merchants to move goods such as dates, spices, livestock, and textiles. This, in turn, boosted rural trade and strengthened regional connections.
Salem Al-Abdali, a local resident whose father once drove a red truck in the villages south of Taif, fondly recalled its signature red paint, handcrafted sunroof, juniper wood floors, and hand-stitched canvas roof that sheltered passengers from harsh weather.
Al-Abdali noted that the red truck held a unique social standing as the main alternative to camels, and it became intertwined with memories, stories and traditional songs recited during journeys.
He added that some drivers would even transport villagers free of charge, reflecting the era’s strong sense of cooperation and community spirit.
Saudi Cabinet backs Syria reconstruction efforts, urges global action to end Gaza war and aid blockade
Saudi Cabinet reaffirms support for joint efforts in rebuilding Syria
Council of Ministers welcome joint statement by 28 countries calling for end to Gaza war
Updated 22 July 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: The Saudi Cabinet on Tuesday reaffirmed its support for joint efforts in rebuilding Syria while ensuring the country’s security, stability, unity and sovereignty.
In its weekly meeting, chaired by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman, the Cabinet highlighted the Kingdom’s support for the joint statement issued by foreign ministers of several brotherly countries regarding developments in Syria.
It also followed up on the relief and humanitarian efforts provided by the Kingdom to the Syrian people.
The Council of Ministers welcomed a joint statement by 28 countries that called for ending the war in Gaza and condemned Israel’s obstruction of aid delivery to civilians in the strip.
The countries urged Israel to lift all restrictions on humanitarian aid, and ensure its safe delivery to residents in the Palestinian enclave.
The Cabinet renewed the Kingdom’s call to the international community to urgently take decisions and practical steps in response to Israel’s obstinacy, which deliberately prolongs the crisis and undermines regional and international peace efforts.
Ministry of culture highlights 2024 achievements in historic Jeddah
Important archaeological findings further enriched Jeddah’s historical narrative
Updated 22 July 2025
Arab News
JEDDAH: The Saudi Ministry of Culture has unveiled a series of landmark achievements in the revitalization of Historic Jeddah, illustrating continued progress under the directive of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Launched in 2021, the project plays a key role in the national strategy to preserve the Kingdom’s heritage and enhance its cultural landscape, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
In 2024, the ministry successfully restored 27 historic buildings, rehabilitated an additional 10 structures, and supported the stabilization of 39 others, fortifying the district’s unique architectural identity.
As part of broader adaptive reuse efforts, the first three heritage hotels opened their doors, delivering luxury experiences steeped in authenticity. This is the beginning of an initiative to transform 34 heritage buildings into boutique accommodations that merge cultural heritage with modern hospitality.
Important archaeological findings further enriched Jeddah’s historical narrative. Excavations at the Othman bin Affan Mosque revealed Ceylonese wooden fragments on mihrab pillars dating back to the 1st century AH (7th century CE).
Also, the discovery of a 13th-century pottery shard reaffirmed Jeddah’s long-standing status as a pivotal maritime and commercial hub linking the Islamic world to the Far East.
In a milestone of urban regeneration, the ministry completed Phase I of the Al-Arbaeen Lagoon waterfront project, which included the removal of obstructive infrastructure to reconnect the sea with the historic Al-Bunt Port.
In parallel, 90,000 sq. meters of green space were developed, significantly enhancing the environmental and visual quality of the district. To enhance operational readiness, 110 pieces of equipment were used to service a six-sq. kilometer area.
Historic Jeddah is also going through a surge in cultural engagement. The Red Sea International Film Festival was hosted at Culture Square for the first time, attracting local and international audiences.
Simultaneously, the ministry inaugurated the teamLab Borderless Jeddah museum, spanning 10,000 sq. meters, and launched a Performing Arts and Cinema Centre, offering immersive experiences that bridge traditional heritage with contemporary expression.
A significant step in skills development was marked by the opening of the Royal Institute for Traditional Arts, which promotes local craftsmanship and empowers Saudi youth to participate in cultural restoration. To integrate leisure with heritage, the ministry introduced Irth, a concept store and cafe that blends cultural offerings with a modern hospitality experience.
In support of long-term sustainability, the ministry signed six strategic agreements aimed at bolstering investment and enhancing cultural infrastructure. A dedicated digital tourism platform was also launched to provide comprehensive access to landmarks, events, and visitor services in the district.
In 2024, more than 140 educational trips were organized, engaging 2,100 students in immersive cultural experiences. To enrich visitor journeys, 500,000 copies of the official visitor map were distributed. These efforts contributed to a record-breaking 5.7 million visitors to Historic Jeddah over the year, including 2.5 million during Ramadan.
As part of the Historic Jeddah Master Plan, the Ministry of Culture is committed to restoration, infrastructure enhancement, and improving livability. These endeavors aim to position the district as a global destination for cultural tourism and creative industries, reflecting the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and celebrating the Kingdom’s enduring cultural legacy.
