How Saudi Arabia is tapping AI to monitor the environment and extreme weather

Special How Saudi Arabia is tapping AI to monitor the environment and extreme weather
With the help of AI tools for satellite imaging and Earth observation, scientists would be abled to monitor monitoring ecosystems more effectively. (Shutterstock image)
Short Url
Updated 25 January 2025
Follow

How Saudi Arabia is tapping AI to monitor the environment and extreme weather

How Saudi Arabia is tapping AI to monitor the environment and extreme weather
  • AI enhances weather predictions, improving forecasts for heatwaves and flash floods critical for Saudi Arabia’s climate adaptation efforts
  • KAUST’s Center of Excellence for Generative AI focuses on Earth observation technologies to address climate challenges like water scarcity

RIYADH: Since the launch of Vision 2030, technological innovation and sustainability have been central to Saudi Arabia’s transformative plan, with artificial intelligence emerging as a key tool to tackle a range of issues, including environmental challenges.

With nearly 90 percent of its territory covered by desert, the Kingdom is utilizing AI to combat land degradation, improve water resource management, and promote sustainable practices.

The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology has joined the global AI race by advancing generative AI research.

Its Center of Excellence for Generative AI adopts a multidisciplinary approach, focusing on technologies like multimodal foundation models and AI-assisted Earth observation systems to address challenges, including water scarcity and land degradation.

Prof. Matthew McCabe, director of KAUST’s Climate and Livability Initiative, told Arab News that AI has provided a pathway to revolutionize our understanding and interpretation of Earth systems, ushering in an era where data can be rapidly channeled to provide new knowledge and actionable insights.

“While GenAI has already impacted greatly on a number of domains, its application in the Earth and environmental sciences remains emerging,” McCabe said.




Prof. Matthew McCabe, director of KAUST’s Climate and Livability Initiative. (Photo courtesy of KAUST)

The center’s research focuses on developing AI tools for satellite imaging and Earth observation, enabling better monitoring of ecosystems. This includes using drones and satellite-based remote sensing technologies to track environmental changes in real-time.

Drones and satellite systems provide high-resolution data that is crucial for understanding ecological shifts in regions that were previously difficult to study. This allows for more effective land management, ecosystem restoration, and better predictions regarding weather patterns.

“We will be using remote sensing and other data sources to undertake ecosystem monitoring, helping to advance some of the goals and objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative,” McCabe said.

AI-driven solutions are already aiding the Saudi Green Initiative’s goals of planting 10 billion trees and rehabilitating 40 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, analyzing regional climate data, soil conditions, and water availability to identify optimal planting locations.

The Saudi Data and AI Authority, known as SDAIA, has partnered with several government entities to leverage AI solutions in support of the Saudi Green Initiative. These efforts aim to create innovative, data-driven strategies for combating climate change.

AI is also transforming climate forecasting in Saudi Arabia. Hylke Beck, assistant professor of climate analytics at KAUST, highlighted AI’s potential to predict extreme weather events like heatwaves and flash floods, which are expected to become more frequent and severe due to climate change.




Hylke Beck, assistant professor of climate analytics at KAUST. (Photo courtesy of KAUST)

Beck said AI models can uncover hidden relationships within weather data that traditional forecasting methods cannot, enabling more accurate and actionable forecasts.

He noted that these improved forecasts are critical for the Kingdom as it works to adapt to climate challenges, such as the severe heatwave that affected Makkah last June or the devastating floods in April across the UAE and Oman.

“With projections indicating that climate change will intensify and increase the frequency of heatwaves and flash floods, alongside an expected 32 percent population growth by 2050, the need to harness AI technology has never been more urgent,” Beck told Arab News.




Commuters make their way through a flooded road after heavy rains in Makkah on January 6, 2025. Scientists in Saudi Arabia are tapping AI to improve forecasts as the Kingdom works to adapt to climate challenges. (AFP)

Although there are currently few weather forecasting systems specifically designed for the region, and even fewer that incorporate AI models, Beck says these technologies have transformative potential.

However, Beck says building effective AI models requires access to extensive datasets.

“Government support in making this data accessible is essential for creating a more climate-resilient future,” he said.

DID YOUKNOW?

• KAUST’s Center of Excellence for Generative AI focuses on Earth observation technologies to address climate challenges like water scarcity.

• Drones and satellites provide real-time data, aiding land management, ecosystem restoration, and environmental monitoring for the Saudi Green Initiative.

• AI models can uncover hidden relationships within weather data that traditional forecasting methods cannot, enabling more accurate and actionable forecasts.

Traditional weather models depend on equations created by scientists, but these equations can be limited by gaps in knowledge about certain weather patterns.

“These equations are imperfect because even the best meteorologists don’t fully understand all weather processes,” Berk said.

On the other hand, AI models analyze large amounts of data to find patterns, making predictions faster and more accurate. These are especially useful in areas where traditional systems struggle, like predicting thunderstorms, which are often harder to forecast accurately.




KAUST's new Center of Excellence on Generative AI aims to be the premier research, development, and innovation hub for pioneering generative AI technology in the Kingdom. (KAUST photo)

While traditional systems rely on expensive supercomputers, AI models can run effectively on regular computers, making them more affordable and accessible.

“These AI models can — and I believe will, in the not-too-distant future — fully replace current traditional models. However, they can also be integrated into them,” Beck said.

The Center of Excellence for Generative AI’s initiatives align with Vision 2030’s sustainability and innovation goals, collaborating with leading national entities like NEOM and Aramco, as well as international organizations like Meta and Nvidia to drive progress.

The center also addresses the shortage of generative AI talent in Saudi Arabia through training and upskilling programs for KAUST researchers, partners, and the wider community.


Norway’s ambassador underlines need to scale up and find new ways of working together

Norway’s ambassador underlines need to scale up and find new ways of working together
Updated 37 sec ago
Follow

Norway’s ambassador underlines need to scale up and find new ways of working together

Norway’s ambassador underlines need to scale up and find new ways of working together
  • Envoy reaffirms commitment to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia at National Day celebration
  • The ambassador said: “Our two countries are committed to a rules-based international order”

RIYADH: Kjersti Tromsdal, Norwegian ambassador to the Kingdom, on Thursday night confirmed her country’s determination to further strengthen bilateral cooperation with Saudi Arabia by finding new ways of cooperation as Norway celebrated its National Day in Riyadh.

The mayor of Riyadh, Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, attended the National Day reception hosted at the Norwegian Embassy in the Diplomatic Quarter.

Speaking at the reception, Tromsdal said: “Today, we celebrate the signing of the Norwegian constitution on May 17th, 1814. In Norway, the National Day, or the Constitution Day, is huge — a day full of children parading with flags and happy cheers in the streets. It’s a day when we celebrate tradition, pride and unity.

“The bilateral relationship between Saudi Arabia and Norway goes back to 1961. The two kingdoms have proud histories and ambitious futures. For decades, we have had fruitful exchanges in the energy sector as major oil and gas producers. Saudi Arabia and Norway are also maritime nations with an interest in safeguarding the marine environment,” she said.

“Both our countries are committed to accelerating the green transition. There is a need to develop and scale up new technologies and find new ways of working. This is an area where we see an increased number of partnerships between Norwegian and Saudi companies,” she added.

Norwegian companies that contribute to the implementation of Vision 2030 are an important part of the solid bilateral relations between our two countries, Tromsdal said, adding that the small Norwegian community in the Kingdom is growing, and that she was happy to see an increasing number of Saudi citizens visiting Norway.

The ambassador said: “Our two countries are committed to a rules-based international order, and see the value of mediated solutions to conflict. Norway believes in dialogue and constructive engagement for conflict resolution and appreciates the important role Saudi Arabia is taking in the region, and beyond, today.

“We value very much the close cooperation with Saudi Arabia in the Global Alliance for the Implementation of a Two-State Solution and we commend the efforts of Saudi Arabia in finding a path to fulfilling the rights of the Palestinian people,” she added.

Norway is a country renowned for its crisp air, green mountains, deep blue fjords and clear water.

“Today, we invite you to have a taste of Norway. And we know Saudis love Norwegian salmon. Together with the Norwegian Seafood Council and our sponsors we have brought high-quality Norwegian seafood to Riyadh. Our renowned chef Daniel and his assistants have travelled all the way from Norway to prepare the dishes for us. Our history as a seafood nation stems back to long before the Viking era with fishing, catching and trading of seafood,” the ambassador said.

Norway today, she said, is the world’s largest exporter of seafood, despite being a small country with a smaller population than Riyadh city.

Norway’s natural resources combined with one of the world’s longest coastlines, are the reasons for its lengthy traditions and practices in the seafood industry.

Atlantic salmon farming was “invented” in Norway 60 years ago and is today the world leader in salmon farming and aquaculture technology, she added.

“I am also glad to see many Norwegian companies and their Saudi partners here. Jotun, who celebrate 40 years in the Kingdom this year; Hydro Technal; DNV; Interwell; Corporater; Bravo Seafood; Norsk Sjomat; Pelagia; Arabian Fisheries; Tine; and Eira Water; and not least, our partnership with the Norwegian Seafood Council.”

The ambassador thanked her colleagues at the embassy with the words: “This is my first national day as ambassador in Riyadh, and I am so grateful to be here and to be part of this fabulous team.”


Saudi students win nine Special Awards at ISEF 2025

Saudi students win nine Special Awards at ISEF 2025
Updated 16 May 2025
Follow

Saudi students win nine Special Awards at ISEF 2025

Saudi students win nine Special Awards at ISEF 2025
  • More than 1,700 students representing 70 countries participated in this year’s ISEF
  • The Saudi team this year consisted of 40 students

RIYADH: Students from Saudi Arabia have picked up nine Special Awards at this year’s Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), which was held in Colombus, Ohio, in the US from May 10 to 16. At the time of writing, winners of the Grand Awards had yet to be announced.

More than 1,700 students representing 70 countries participated in this year’s ISEF, which is billed as the largest global platform for research and innovation projects by school students. Entries are evaluated by more than 1,000 international science experts.

The Saudi students who won Special Awards were Fatima Al-Arfaj (chemistry), Areej Al-Qarni and Saleh Al-Anqari (environmental engineering), Abdulrahman Al-Ghannam (materials science), and Sama Bukhamseen (embedded systems). Imran Al-Turkistani (energy), and Lana Nouri (translational medical sciences) each won two awards.

Saudi Arabia, represented by The King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) and the Ministry of Education, has participated in the annual fair every year since 2007. It has now won 169 awards, including 110 Grand Prizes and 59 Special Prizes.

The Saudi team this year consisted of 40 students selected from among the Grand Prize winners of the National Olympiad for Scientific Creativity — the finals of which featured projects from 200 students. The Olympiad is one of the dozens of programs offered annually by Mawhiba for gifted students.


Center’s agreement aims at combating desertification

Center’s agreement aims at combating desertification
Updated 16 May 2025
Follow

Center’s agreement aims at combating desertification

Center’s agreement aims at combating desertification
  • Solutions contribute to sustainable environmental development
  • The signing followed a decision by the Council of Ministers in December 2024

JEDDAH: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has signed an agreement with the Gansu Desert Control Research Institute to enhance cooperation in combating desertification.

The deal was signed by Khaled bin Abdullah Al-Abdulkader, the CEO of the center, during the visit of Abdulrahman Al-Fadli, the Saudi minister of environment, water and agriculture, to China.

The signing followed a decision by the Council of Ministers in December 2024.

The agreement aims to foster collaboration in combating desertification, sand encroachment, drought, land degradation, and the impact of drought in arid areas, while promoting the sustainable management of drylands.

Al-Abdulkader also held strategic meetings with several prominent Chinese companies to explore potential collaborations with a view to attracting investment to Saudi Arabia.

Discussions took place on initiatives such as natural asset management, rangeland rehabilitation, desert resort development, and the transfer of greening and desertification control technologies, supporting Saudi Arabia’s vision for a green economy and sustainable land use.

Al-Abdulkader met BGI Group representatives in Beijing to explore cutting-edge technologies for mangrove cultivation, which plays a key role in coastal protection, vegetation expansion, and environmental sustainability.

He also held discussions at Shanghai Mengfu Environmental Protection Technology Company, focusing on innovative solutions for converting invasive plant species into marketable, eco-friendly products.

In the field of environmental design, Al-Abdulkader met representatives from LWK Engineering and Landscape to oversee the company’s portfolio of ecological design projects and examine opportunities for collaboration in the planning and development of national parks, botanical gardens, and wetland areas.

These engagements reflect the center’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships, promoting green investment, and adopting forward-looking solutions that contribute to sustainable environmental development, in line with Saudi Arabia’s strategic objectives.


Red-carpet launch in Riyadh: Gerard Butler kicks off ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ premiere

Red-carpet launch in Riyadh: Gerard Butler kicks off ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ premiere
Updated 48 min 1 sec ago
Follow

Red-carpet launch in Riyadh: Gerard Butler kicks off ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ premiere

Red-carpet launch in Riyadh: Gerard Butler kicks off ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ premiere
  • Reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, Butler’s visit marked a major moment for Saudi Arabia’s growing entertainment scene

RIYADH: Gerard Butler kicked off his international press tour for “How to Train Your Dragon” with a special red-carpet premiere at Vox Cinemas, Roshn Front in Riyadh. 

Reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, Butler’s visit marked a major moment for Saudi Arabia’s growing entertainment scene.

Fans filled the venue, eager to catch a glimpse of the Hollywood star. Butler took his time meeting attendees, posing for photos, and signing autographs, a gesture that was met with huge enthusiasm, especially from young fans.

In a press chat, Butler spoke about the significance of launching the film in Saudi Arabia, praising the Kingdom’s rising profile in the global entertainment industry. 

“It’s an honor to be here,” he said. “The energy of the crowd has been incredible, and I’m excited to share this story with everyone.”

He also recorded an exclusive interview with Arab News, set to be published soon.

“How to Train Your Dragon,” directed by three-time Oscar nominee Dean DeBlois, is a live-action remake of the beloved DreamWorks franchise. The film, releasing on June 12, follows the bond between Hiccup and Toothless, with Butler’s character playing a key role. The cast includes Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, and Bronwyn James.

The evening not only celebrated the film but also reflected Saudi Arabia’s efforts to position itself as a key player in the global film industry.


‘Slava’s Snowshow’ delights Riyadh audience

‘Slava’s Snowshow’ delights Riyadh audience
Updated 16 May 2025
Follow

‘Slava’s Snowshow’ delights Riyadh audience

‘Slava’s Snowshow’ delights Riyadh audience
  • Baker Al-Shedi Theater becomes a winter wonderland as ‘Snowshow’ enchants audience
  • Families and art lovers swept into a silent storm of creativity

RIYADH: “Slava's Snowshow” opened in Riyadh on Thursday before an audience of 200 people, mostly families with children, at the Baker Al-Shedi Theater.

The event, organized by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, is part of the commission’s efforts to enhance the city’s cultural scene in line with Vision 2030’s Quality of Life Program.

“Slava’s Snowshow runs” from May 15 to 24, presenting 13 performances. Double-show weekends have been added to accommodate increasing demand. 

The performance featured snowstorm effects, unique characters, and striking visuals in a non-verbal show that appealed to all ages.

Created by Russian artist Slava Polunin, “Slava’s Snowshow” has been seen by more than 12 million people in more than 30 countries, from Broadway in New York to the West End in London.

Architect Khalid Alhazani, vice president of the Riyadh Life Sector at the RCRC, said: “We are pleased to bring ‘Slava’s Snowshow’ to Riyadh as part of our commitment to introducing world-class cultural experiences to the Kingdom. Hosting internationally acclaimed performances creates valuable cultural moments for the community.

“This is a significant step toward Riyadh’s goal of becoming a vibrant and creative capital, aligned with the ambitions of Vision 2030,” he added.

Abdulaziz Awlia, a faculty member at the Department of Performing Arts, King Saud University, told Arab News: “Bringing ‘Slava’s Snowshow’ to Riyadh reflects a growing cultural awareness in Saudi Arabia and highlights the shift in the Kingdom’s theatre scene toward international openness.

“The show introduces local audiences to new theatrical forms that go beyond dialogue and traditional storytelling. It uses visual language, movement, and silence to engage the audience emotionally. This is especially effective in a society with a strong oral heritage,” Awlia added.

“Performances like this can encourage Saudi theatre to grow by embracing experimentation and focusing on visual and poetic elements,” Awliya said.

“Slava’s Snowshow” has received more than 25 international awards, including the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and a Tony Award nomination on Broadway. The production combines visual performance and physical comedy to take audiences through a theatrical experience rooted in imagination and nostalgia. It appeals to audiences of all ages with its focus on creativity and childlike wonder.

Since its debut in 1993, the show has been performed thousands of times in hundreds of cities and dozens of countries. 

The production, which blends visual performance with elements of tragicomedy, has carved out a unique place in contemporary theatre. It has received numerous international honors, with recognition stretching from London and New York to Australia, Mexico, Paris, and Moscow.