Experts discuss innovations in clinical pharmacy

International Clinical Pharmacy Ambulatory Care Conference brought together more than 700 healthcare professionals and experts in health and pharmaceutical sciences. (SPA)
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International Clinical Pharmacy Ambulatory Care Conference brought together more than 700 healthcare professionals and experts in health and pharmaceutical sciences. (SPA)
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Updated 29 June 2025
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Experts discuss innovations in clinical pharmacy

International Clinical Pharmacy Ambulatory Care Conference brought together more than 700 healthcare professionals and experts.
  • Two-day event aimed to showcase innovative solutions to improve healthcare quality and align with global advancements

RIYADH: The International Clinical Pharmacy Ambulatory Care Conference, organized by the Hail Health Cluster, brought together more than 700 healthcare professionals and leading international experts in health and pharmaceutical sciences.

The two-day event aimed to showcase innovative solutions to improve healthcare quality and align with global advancements, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday. It provided a key platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Discussions covered the latest in virtual health, strategies to enhance the patient experience along the medication journey, and future models for expanding pharmacy services.

Conference highlights included research poster presentations featuring innovations and evidence-based practices in clinical pharmacy, the SPA added.

An accompanying exhibition featured cutting-edge technologies and solutions from participating organizations, reinforcing the role of pharmacy in driving primary care innovation.


Protecting houseplants from Saudi Arabia’s summer heat

Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/
Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/
Updated 22 July 2025
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Protecting houseplants from Saudi Arabia’s summer heat

Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/
  • Indoor plants proven to improve health, but caring for them comes with challenges
  • Looking after plants teaches “patience and the slow waiting for results”

RIYADH: In Saudi Arabia’s intense summer heat, having a houseplant adds a cozy element to homes and can improve owners’ health, but caring for them can prove a challenge.

Plants purify the air, reduce stress and create a natural sense of calmness in the middle of the daily hustle and bustle of major cities.

However, as the country is reaching the peak of summer with daytime temperatures soaring above 40 degrees celsius, caring for indoor plants can come with difficulties.

Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)

Without suitable care, the summer heat can easily damage thriving indoor gardens.

Arwa Al-Otaibi, a plant owner and botany enthusiast, spoke to Arab News about the impact plants can make on homes, and the proper way to care for them.

“One of the most beautiful and relaxing things is when we visit places filled with plants and nature,” she said.

HIGHLIGHTS

• According to botany enthusiast Arwa Al-Otaibi, plants reconnect people with nature and the Earth, bringing comfort.

• It is critically important to pay attention to where a plant should be placed.

“We feel a wonderful sense of comfort, relaxation and calm, so imagine when we see the place we live in filled with plants, and when we own plants in our homes.”

Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)

According to Al-Otaibi, plants reconnect people with nature and the Earth, bringing comfort. This is felt by farmers, as she describes it, when they touch the leaves and soil, which she says “significantly reduces cortisol levels.”

Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being.

This is supported by scientific studies, including a 2015 paper in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology which found that subjects felt more “comfortable, soothed and natural,” and their blood pressure was lowered after transplanting an indoor plant.

Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)

Plants can also improve air quality by filtering toxins and increasing humidity in the air, which is essential in Riyadh’s dry weather.

Caring for plants teaches “patience and the slow waiting for results, such as the blossom of flowers and the growing of new leaves,” Al-Otaibi explained.

“This in itself inspires patience and calmness. Taking continuous care of a plant, even if in the small details, yields long-term results.

It is critically important to pay attention to where a plant should be placed. Some plants should be put near windows to keep them exposed to sunlight, while others thrive under indirect light.

Arwa Al-Otaibi, Botany enthusiast

“This is an example that reminds us of the long-term benefits of investing in ourselves, our health, and our relationships,” she added.

It is critically important to pay attention to where a plant should be placed. Some plants should be put near windows to keep them exposed to sunlight, while others thrive under indirect light.

Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)

Another point is that summer heat leads to faster evaporation, yet overwatering a plant can also be damaging. It is recommended to use well-draining pots and water early in the morning or after sunset to lower the stress on the plant.

Also, maintaining a cooler temperature inside the house is essential for the growth of plants.

“Another important aspect of plant care in hot weather is ensuring the overall atmosphere in the room,” Al-Otaibi said.

Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)

“The appropriate temperature for plants varies depending on the type of plant, but in general, during hot weather, the home temperature should not exceed 25 degrees Celsius.

“When leaving the house, there should be some sort of ventilation, like leaving windows slightly open, to refresh the air when the air-conditioning is off.”

Maintaining a balanced ecosystem for the plant is important. Misting leaves with water to protect them from becoming dry, or grouping them together to create a microclimate, could also be beneficial.

In general, taking care of houseplants in Riyadh’s intense summer heat can be a challenge, yet it is one can be overcome with proper attention.

Healthy houseplants can elevate the overall atmosphere with greenery creating a beautiful indoor jungle, bringing life into a quiet living room.

 


Young Saudis will power the Kingdom’s green future, says expert

Young Saudis will power the Kingdom’s green future, says expert
Updated 22 July 2025
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Young Saudis will power the Kingdom’s green future, says expert

Young Saudis will power the Kingdom’s green future, says expert
  • “Young Saudis bring an intrinsic value rooted in their unique perspective,” Eman Alhajji told Arab News

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia pursues its Vision 2030, sustainability has become a national priority. With more than 63 percent of the population under 30, young Saudis are emerging as key drivers of the Kingdom’s green transition.

Eman Alhajji, a scientific researcher and founder of the Saudi Youth for Sustainability initiative, believes the role of Saudi youths goes beyond participation.

In 2021, she was named Young Changemaker for leading sustainability initiatives by Universita della Svizzera italiana during the MEM Summer Summit, in collaboration with the Middle East and North Africa Division of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.

Eman Alhajji, Saudi Youth for Sustainability initiative founder

“Young Saudis bring an intrinsic value rooted in their unique perspective,” she told Arab News. “They possess a digital fluency and global awareness that allows them to seamlessly connect with international best practices and rapidly disseminate information.”

This combination, she said, makes them “indispensable partners in shaping a resilient and prosperous Kingdom.”

The presence of younger generations is increasingly visible in major efforts such as the Saudi Green Initiative, the Middle East Green Initiative, and global platforms such as COP27 and COP16. 

We are not only nurturing a generation of environmental stewards but also cultivating a new generation of green entrepreneurs, engineers and digital innovators — ensuring that Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification is synonymous with sustainable growth and technological leadership.

Eman Alhajji, Saudi Youth for Sustainability initiative founder

From renewable energy storage to sustainable agriculture and advanced recycling, youth-led initiatives can serve as incubators for the green economy.

“We are not only nurturing a generation of environmental stewards but also cultivating a new generation of green entrepreneurs, engineers and digital innovators — ensuring that Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification is synonymous with sustainable growth and technological leadership.”

A 2024 PwC report supports this, showing that 91 percent of Saudi youth are familiar with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, prioritizing quality education, clean water and sanitation, zero hunger, peace, justice and affordable clean energy. 

It also noted that young Saudis are showing increasing interest in fields such as health care, renewable energy and tourism, viewing them as ways to make an impact while building the future. 

Education remains a cornerstone. While AlHajji acknowledged progress in integrating sustainability into the Saudi school system, she called for more interdisciplinary and problem-based approaches.

“Sustainability should be seamlessly integrated across all subjects — from science and engineering to economics, urban planning, and even the arts — demonstrating its pervasive relevance,” she explained. 

Hanin Aljifri, CEO of the Saudi Youth for Sustainability organization, echoed the sentiment, while noting a gap between awareness and action.

“The biggest challenge isn’t a lack of interest — it’s a lack of clear starting points. Many young people simply don’t know where to begin or how to take the first step.”

Despite this, she remains optimistic.

“We’ve seen firsthand that a large number of youth in Saudi Arabia are eager to get involved in sustainability; they’re passionate, motivated, and ready to contribute.”

 


Qassim governor launches $53m health, energy, municipal initiatives

Qassim governor launches $53m health, energy, municipal initiatives
Updated 22 July 2025
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Qassim governor launches $53m health, energy, municipal initiatives

Qassim governor launches $53m health, energy, municipal initiatives
  • Solar power, hospital upgrades, heritage sites, and tourism trails drive development in Al-Bukayriyah governorate

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.

 


Global experts to address space debris in Riyadh

Global experts to address space debris in Riyadh
Updated 22 July 2025
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Global experts to address space debris in Riyadh

Global experts to address space debris in Riyadh
  • 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

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.

 


MWL chief meets Afghan premier in Kabul

MWL chief meets Afghan premier in Kabul
Updated 22 July 2025
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MWL chief meets Afghan premier in Kabul

MWL chief meets Afghan premier in Kabul
  • The two sides reviewed various topics of common interest, “with emphasis on the importance of the role of Muslim scholars in addressing major issues through effective dialogue”

KABUL: Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, secretary-general of the Muslim World League and chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars, was received by Afghan prime minister, Hassan Akhund, at the Jal Khana Palace in the presidential headquarters in Kabul.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed various topics of common interest, “with emphasis on the importance of the role of Muslim scholars in addressing major issues through effective dialogue,” the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

Al-Issa is on an official visit during which he will meet senior government leaders and scholars.