Saudi authorities crack down on drug offenders

Saudi police have arrested individuals carrying prohibited drugs. (SPA)
Saudi police have arrested individuals carrying prohibited drugs. (SPA)
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Updated 16 April 2024
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Saudi authorities crack down on drug offenders

Saudi police have arrested individuals carrying prohibited drugs. (SPA)
  • The Saudi government urges anyone with information related to suspected smuggling operations or customs violations to call the confidential hotline 1910, the international number +966114208417, or to email 1910@zatca.gov.sa

RIYADH: Saudi authorities recently made several drug-related arrests and confiscations in operations across the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

Border Guard land patrols in the Jazan region thwarted an attempt to smuggle 120 kg of qat. The patrols also foiled an attempt to smuggle 170 kg of qat in Al-Ardah governorate of the same region.

The General Directorate of Narcotics Control arrested two residents, a Pakistani and an Egyptian, in the Eastern Province for attempting to sell 1.2 kg of methamphetamine, a narcotic substance commonly referred to as “shabu.”

Additionally, authorities arrested a citizen in the Qassim region for selling amphetamines.

Preliminary legal procedures have been completed for all the individuals involved and all seized items have been handed over to the relevant authorities.

The Saudi government urges anyone with information related to suspected smuggling operations or customs violations to call the confidential hotline 1910, the international number +966114208417, or to email 1910@zatca.gov.sa.

Tips received relating to smuggling and breaches of common customs law are treated with strict confidentiality. Financial rewards are offered for valid tips.

 


Saudi Arabia pivotal in achieving peace, New Zealand deputy PM says as new Russia tariffs announced

New Zealand’s deputy prime minister Winston Peters spoke to Arab News during an official visit to Saudi Arabia. (AN photo)
New Zealand’s deputy prime minister Winston Peters spoke to Arab News during an official visit to Saudi Arabia. (AN photo)
Updated 57 min 10 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia pivotal in achieving peace, New Zealand deputy PM says as new Russia tariffs announced

New Zealand’s deputy prime minister Winston Peters spoke to Arab News during an official visit to Saudi Arabia. (AN photo)
  • On strengthening cultural ties in the education sector, the minister spoke dimly of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diminishing numbers of Saudi students attending New Zealand universities
  • The minister also touched on New Zealand’s stance on the war in Gaza, reaffirming his country’s support of a two-state solution

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is playing a pivotal role in achieving peace in an increasingly insecure world, New Zealand’s deputy prime minister told Arab News the same day his country announced new tariffs on Russia.

“This is a very dramatically changing world with greater insecurity than ever for a long, long time. And so, we’re looking at countries that are playing a pivotal role as Saudi Arabia is, and the Gulf states, in terms of peace here and world peace itself,” Winston Peters told Arab News during a state visit on Monday.

“I know these aspirations sound to be big and large objectives, but we have got to keep on trying to improve the world we’re in, and we’re looking and observing with a great deal of admiration of the new role in terms of stability that Saudi Arabia appears to be playing.”

The new sanctions announced by New Zealand target 52 individuals and entities involved in Russia’s military and energy industries, as well as North Korean support.

The minister firmly stated: “You will hear all manner of propaganda about Ukraine, but there was an invasion of Crimea in 2014, no one reacted.

“And then we had, just over three years ago ... the beginning of a war.

“Now we’re hearing that the so-called guilty party is utterly innocent, that somehow their soldiers coming over the border into Ukraine is an act of innocence.”

As an active member of the UN, New Zealand is looking for what Peters called “an illegal war” to end immediately.

Certain “uncertainties” from Russia’s point of view about where they fit in the NATO-sphere of nations and Ukraine’s position relevant to the alliance are, according to the Peters, irrelevant at this point in time.

The minister also touched on New Zealand’s stance on the war in Gaza, reaffirming his country’s support of a two-state solution.

“Observing this constant strife, decade after decade after decade, we all want a solution that is in the best interests of the people involved … No matter the government back in New Zealand, we have always been for a two-state solution,” he said.

But the minister said that the purpose of his visit was to take part in Saudi Arabia’s Founding Day weekend celebrations.

“It is a very important celebration … and also to see progress on Vision 2030, which we, even in a brief amount of time, can see so much has advanced from the point of view of economic and social progress,” he said.

He also discussed a recent free trade agreement between New Zealand and the Gulf Cooperation Council states.

New Zealand and the GCC concluded negotiations on an FTA on Oct. 31 of last year, and trade ministers on both sides are expected to sign the agreement in the coming months.

On strengthening cultural ties in the education sector, the minister spoke dimly of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diminishing numbers of Saudi students attending New Zealand universities.

“As a consequence, what used to be 6,000 students a year has dwindled away to a much lesser number, less than a thousand.

“So, we are going to have those talks going forward.”

Peters also touched on Saudi Arabia’s equestrian heritage, after watching New Zealand’s James McDonald perform in the Saudi Cup over the weekend.

“The Arabian horse is unique; it’s got stamina and can run enormous distances … From that, we’ve bred the best in the world.”

He also highlighted Kiwi boxer Joseph Parker’s two-round win over Martin Bakole in Riyadh on Saturday.

 


Saudi health ministry urges meningitis vaccine for Umrah

Saudi health ministry urges meningitis vaccine for Umrah
Updated 47 min 23 sec ago
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Saudi health ministry urges meningitis vaccine for Umrah

Saudi health ministry urges meningitis vaccine for Umrah
  • The ministry also urged people to book an appointment via the Sehhaty app to receive the vaccine at adult vaccination clinics

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has highlighted the necessity of receiving the meningitis vaccine for those intending to perform Umrah during Ramadan.

It is part of efforts to enhance preventive health measures and limit the spread of infectious diseases, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency on Monday.

The ministry urged the importance of getting vaccinated at least 10 days before traveling for Umrah to ensure the required immunity is achieved.

It said that people vaccinated within the past five years do not need a booster dose, as the vaccine remains effective throughout this period.

The ministry also urged people to book an appointment via the Sehhaty app to receive the vaccine at adult vaccination clinics, highlighting the importance of adhering to preventive measures to ensure a safe and healthy Umrah experience.

The directive aligns with the ministry’s efforts to protect the health of Umrah performers, raise health awareness, and develop an integrated healthcare system that enhances quality of life and healthcare services.

 


Crafting a future: Qatif’s artisans show off their skills

Crafting a future: Qatif’s artisans show off their skills
Updated 5 sec ago
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Crafting a future: Qatif’s artisans show off their skills

Crafting a future: Qatif’s artisans show off their skills
  • Woodworkers, tin shapers delight visitors to four-day event
  • Festival reflects Kingdom’s support for traditional crafts

DHAHRAN: Qatif buzzed with excitement as it hosted a celebration of handicrafts, showcasing the talents of local artisans.

Under the patronage of Qatif Gov. Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, the four-day festival, which ended on Sunday, was held at the Anak Event Hall.

More than 200 booths displayed all manner of handcrafts, from traditional tools and knitted hammocks to jewelry, artisanal perfumes and incense.

The festival featured a “Future Artisans” section designed to inspire young creators and help ensure these ancient skills are never lost. (AN photo)

The event emphasized the importance of preserving traditions and their role in the local economy, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Among the artisans was Mohammad Moghais, a 47-year-old woodworker who builds miniature versions of old-fashioned homes and shops painted in vibrant colors.

“I started woodworking at 16. Back then, there were no modern tools like today’s oscillating saws. All we had were basic hand saws,” he told Arab News.

The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s support for traditional crafts and their economic role. (AN photo)

Moghais’ first project was a small chair and from there he progressed to making tables, wardrobes and sofas.

“The focus at first was on traditional crafts. We would take discarded wood and repurpose it,” he said. “I always find ways to improve my craft.”

Moghais said he was motivated by the changes he saw to his neighborhood following a renovation project that threatened its character.

The festival featured a “Future Artisans” section designed to inspire young creators and help ensure these ancient skills are never lost. (AN photo)

“It really hurt me to see that,” he said. “So I started making wooden fixtures, decorative pieces and items that reflected our traditional artistry, just like our forefathers used to make. That’s how I’ve continued my work over the years.”

Mohammad Alosaif is another of Qatif’s artisans, who showcased his expertise in crafting tin into everyday items like kettles and pots, a skill he learned from his father.

“I feel that the Kingdom’s ongoing support for these traditional crafts is essential, as they form the foundation of many modern industries,” he said.

The festival featured a “Future Artisans” section designed to inspire young creators and help ensure these ancient skills are never lost. (AN photo)

“It may be an old craft, but it evolves alongside modern industries. For example, tin was once used for oil cans, butter containers and paint cans. Craftsmen would cut the tin into sheets, shape, press and refine it, then mold it into various forms, emboss it and polish it to create useful items.”

For visitors, the event provided a rich tapestry of craftsmanship that told stories of heritage and artistic expression. There were also workshops at which people engaged in a range of activities, like macrame and making incense holders and soap.

The festival also featured a “Future Artisans” section designed to inspire young creators and help ensure these ancient skills are never lost.

 


KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy

KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy
Updated 24 February 2025
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KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy

KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy
  • KSrelief’s worldwide aid efforts exceed $7.3 billion
  • King Salman always concerned with humanitarian work, says KSrelief chief

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief’s humanitarian efforts have reached 106 countries with an amount exceeding $7.3 billion, its Supervisor-General Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah noted at the Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum on Monday.

The agency has implemented 3,355 relief projects either directly or through its 211 international, national, and local partners.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the forum which is being held in partnership with the UN, Al-Rabeeah said: “This is a moment worthy of reflection, to draw lessons from the past that will help us to direct our actions towards the future.”

He noted that the forum, which is being attended by experts, officials from the UN and various international organization, is held under the theme “Navigating the Future of Humanitarian Response,” and coincides with the 10th anniversary of the establishment of KSrelief.

“King Salman has always been vitally concerned with humanitarian work, which he underscored 10 years ago with his establishment of the KSrelief to be a leading center in delivering Saudi humanitarian aid to those most in need around the world,” Al-Rabeeah said. “(It is) an approach that combines humanitarian giving, strategic planning, effective and rapid emergency interventions during crises of all kinds.”

He added that as a result of these efforts, the Kingdom’s total charitable contributions over the past five decades have surpassed $133.8 billion. “Additionally, KSrelief is one of the leading international organizations that implement extensive networks of global volunteer missions — 876 thus far across 52 countries,” he said.

KSrelief also actively participates with the UN in supporting a wide range of global humanitarian initiatives, including the Sustainable Development Goals, and contributes to the creation of innovative access mechanisms that achieve significant and comprehensive results.

He explained that the forum is being held within the context of collaborative efforts with the international community “as we share experience and knowledge to improve humanitarian crisis response.”

The event features 21 sessions and 132 speakers and will serve as a starting point for developing innovative initiatives that open new opportunities for humanitarian work.

These initiatives will incorporate creative models inspired by the most up-to-date technologies to improve the operational efficiency of humanitarian responses, ensure the optimal use of resources, and minimize duplication of efforts to better meet the lives of vulnerable groups worldwide.

The forum also provides an opportunity to call on the global donor community and partners from both the public and private sectors to provide the necessary financial support for humanitarian programs, to improve the speed and efficiency of crisis response, and to address urgent humanitarian appeals.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan thanked the diverse participation, saying: “We value the efforts and participation.”

He added: “This is a sign of standing firm and united in commitment to addressing the world's most pressing humanitarian challenges.”

Prince Faisal praised KSrelief for being at the forefront of humanitarian efforts for people in need everywhere including Palestine, Syria, Yemen, Sudan and all over the world.

He commended KSrelief’s extraordinary efforts with the Masam project removing landmines in war hit Yemen, as well as its efforts to champion humanitarian diplomacy in conflict areas.

Saudi moves to enhance dialogue and resolve conflicts have been acknowledged by the world, he said, noting that humanitarian diplomacy is very important in conflict areas, and that KSrelief has been playing a crucial role in preserving values.

Riyadh Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar read a message on behalf of King Salman that highlighted the commendable role the KSrelief played over the first decade of its run.

The opening ceremony saw the signing of four agreements: the first memorandum of financial contribution was signed between KSrelief and the World Health Organization with the amount of $300 million for the global polio eradication initiative; the second memorandum was signed between KSrelief and UNICEF with $200 million allocated for the initiative; the third between KSrelief and the Islamic Development Bank with a $100 million contribution to the lives and livelihood fund; and the fourth, a renewal of a joint cooperation program between KSrelief and the World Food Programme which has spanned several decades, during which the Kingdom has supported the dates program with more than 100,000 tonnes donated.

Speaking at the session on “Humanitarian diplomacy in conflicts,” Al-Rabeeah said humanitarian diplomacy is key in paving the way to resolve humanitarian catastrophe in conflict areas.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Saudi Arabia for its humanitarian diplomacy in conflict areas such as Sudan, Ukraine, Gaza, and Syria.

He underlined that impartiality and neutrality is important for humanitarian diplomacy in conflicts.

International Organization for Migration Director General Amy Pope stressed the importance of access to basic services such as healthcare, water, food and shelter in conflict areas. 

She thanked KSrelief for bringing the organization into this key discussion, saying ensuring the needs of the people on the move remain central to the humanitarian agenda. 

Maciej Popowski, director general of the Directorate General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, stressed the importance of the legal aspect of humanitarian diplomacy and called for humanitarian diplomacy according to international humanitarian law, without indulging in politics.

He also mentioned EU sanctions on Syria during the previous regime.

The EU Council, meanwhile, decided on Monday to suspend a number of restrictive measures in view of the improved situation in Syria Arab Republic. This decision is part of the EU’s efforts to support an inclusive political transition in Syria, and its swift economic recovery, reconstruction, and stabilization.

Pierre Krahenbuhl, director general of the International Committee of the Red Cross, praised Saudi Arabia for its important role in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Sudan, Ukraine for humanitarian diplomacy in these armed conflicts.

UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, in a video message, praised KSrelief’s key role in humanitarian diplomacy in conflict areas.


University graduates present AI-powered health systems at hackathon

University graduates present AI-powered health systems at hackathon
Updated 24 February 2025
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University graduates present AI-powered health systems at hackathon

University graduates present AI-powered health systems at hackathon
  • Event co-organized by Saudi aid agency KSrelief
  • Model could help fill gaps in Syria’s healthcare, education systems, inventor says

RIYADH: A team of university graduates presented a mock-up of an AI-powered education and healthcare system at the 4th Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum on Monday.

The project, named BenevolCare, was presented at a hackathon titled “Artificial Intelligence in Humanitarian Relief,” organized by Saudi aid agency KSrelief and Alfaisal University.

BenevolCare is designed to provide automated health assessments and mental health support for children affected by war in the Syrian Arab Republic.

Sham Osama, an engineering graduate of Prince Muqren University and one of the project’s designers, told Arab News that the inspiration for BenvolCare came after she witnessed the lack of healthcare and education services for Syrian children after years of fighting.

“Artificial intelligence will allow us to fill the gap in the healthcare and education system in Syria,” she said. “We wanted to create a device that uses AI that can be used in any school … (and help students) complete their learning experience in a healthy environment.”

Mayas Alnan, a pharmacy graduate of Alfaisal University who worked on the medical elements of the project, said the model would integrate Al-driven healthcare tools into daily school activities, ensuring continuous monitoring of students’ well-being.

“Data-driven insights allow for early intervention, personalized support and better long-term health outcomes,” she said.

“The schools also provide Al-enhanced vocational training, preparing students for sustainable careers.”

Also during the two-day event, KSrelief is expected to sign several agreements with UN and international organizations as part of Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian efforts, according to Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, its supervisor-general and adviser to the Royal Court.

Since 2015, the aid agency has implemented 2,670 projects worth more than $6.5 billion in 95 countries, in cooperation with 175 local, regional and international partners.

The bulk of the support has gone to Yemen ($4.3 billion), Syria ($391 million), Palestine ($370 million) and Somalia ($227 million).

KSrelief’s programs cover food security, health, sanitation, shelter, nutrition, education, telecommunications and logistics.a