Saudi Arabia suspends seven Umrah companies for housing pilgrims in unlicensed accommodations
Saudi Arabia suspends seven Umrah companies for housing pilgrims in unlicensed accommodations/node/2608647/saudi-arabia
Saudi Arabia suspends seven Umrah companies for housing pilgrims in unlicensed accommodations
In this file photo, taken on June 18, 2024, police officers stand guard as pilgrims circle the Kaaba as they perform Tawaf at the Grand Mosque, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. (REUTERS/File)
ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended seven Umrah companies over violations of regulatory controls, including housing pilgrims in unlicensed accommodations, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported this week.
The violations were identified as part of the ministry’s ongoing oversight efforts to improve the quality of services provided to the ‘Guests of God,’ according to the SPA report.
“The Ministry explained that these violations constitute serious transgressions that affect the safety and comfort of pilgrims,” it said.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said it had immediately begun taking legal measures against the violating companies in preparation for the implementation of the penalties stipulated by the law, according to the report.
“The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirmed its keenness to ensure that pilgrims receive their full rights, in accordance with the highest standards of quality and efficiency, stressing that it will not be lenient with any party that fails to fulfill its contractual obligations or endangers the safety of pilgrims,” the report read further.
The ministry called on all Umrah companies and institutions to fully comply with the approved regulations and instructions, and to ensure the provision of agreed-upon services within the specified timetables to contribute to enhancing the experience of pilgrims and achieving their satisfaction during their stay in the Kingdom.
Operation to separate Syrian conjoined twins begins in Saudi hospital
The Saudi medical teams conducted extensive and accurate examinations of the twins ahead of the operation
Updated 58 min 1 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: A medical team from the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program on Sunday are carrying out an operation to separate Syrian conjoined twin girls in Riyadh.
The procedure to separate Celine and Eileen Abdulmunem Al-Shabli is taking place at King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital in King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, who heads the surgical team and is an advisor at the royal court and supervisor general of Saudi aid agency KSrelief, said the twins come from a Syrian family who sought refuge in Lebanon and had arrived in Saudi Arabia last December.
Al-Rabeeah said the mother was pregnant with triplets, two conjoined girls and one healthy, non-conjoined boy. On Feb. 28, 2024, the mother gave birth to the triplets in a caesarean section at Rafik Hariri Hospital in Beirut, he said.
The twins are now one year and five months old. Their combined weight is 14 kilograms.
He explained that the Syrian conjoined twins arrived from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia on Dec. 29, 2024, in cooperation with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense.
The Saudi medical teams conducted extensive and accurate examinations of the twins ahead of the operation.
The operation is expected take about nine hours, and is being carried out in six stages, with the participation of 24 consultants and specialist doctors.
First successful breeding is milestone in Kingdom’s rewilding efforts
Updated 27 July 2025
Nada Hameed
RIYADH: Two Nubian ibexes have been born at the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, marking the first successful breeding of the goat species as part of the reserve’s rewilding program, part of the ongoing restoration of 23 native species in Saudi Arabia, according to a report by the reserve’s development authority.
The Nubian ibex is listed as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with fewer than 5,000 mature individuals remaining worldwide.
Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of the reserve, told Arab News: “The reserve’s rewilding strategy follows scientific best practices. Historically native species are reintroduced and managed by vets and specialist rangers.”
The two new Ibex kids with herd, part of the reserve’s rewilding program. (Supplied)
He added: “This includes a controlled diet and constant monitoring to ensure optimal breeding conditions. Programs are underway to restore ibex ecosystems to support viable wild populations under ranger protection.”
The Nubian ibex is the smallest of five ibex species and is well adapted to Saudi Arabia’s arid mountains. Their concave hooves help them navigate steep cliffs, making the reserve’s terrain a suitable habitat for them. Ancient petroglyphs in the area document the ibex’s historical presence there.
Zaloumis said the births mean that four species have now been successfully bred in the program: the Nubian ibex, the Arabian oryx, the sand gazelle, and the mountain gazelle.
The reserve’s sandstone massif Jabal Qaraqir, currently on Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, provides refuge for a number of species, with its cliffs and Wadi Al-Disah Valley offering year-round water and natural protection.
The reserve’s Integrated Development Plan “ensures a science-based approach to habitat restoration,” according to a statement. So far, 11 of the 23 native species selected for reintroduction have returned to the wild, with populations growing through collaborative conservation efforts, including a partnership with the National Center for Wildlife.
The 24,500 sq. km reserve extends from the Harrat lava plains to the Red Sea, linking NEOM, Red Sea Global, and AlUla. It hosts the Public Investment Fund’s Wadi Al-Disah project and Red Sea Global’s Destination AMAALA.
The reserve covers 15 different ecosystems. And while it represents just one percent of the Kingdom’s land and 1.8 percent of its marine area, it contains more than half of the Kingdom’s species — making it among the most biodiverse protected areas in the Middle East.
The reserve is “focused on restoring and conserving natural and cultural environments, including reintroducing 23 historically native species such as the Arabian leopard, cheetah, Arabian oryx, and Lappet-faced vulture” as part of its rewilding program.
Young artist recreates memories with miniature homes
As cities transform, Shahd Al-Haq is helping Saudis reconnect to the past using art
Updated 27 July 2025
Nada Hameed
JEDDAH: As Saudi cities embrace rapid transformation and modernization, one young artist is lovingly recreating the homes, streets and stories of old neighborhoods in miniature form, to make sure their spirit is not lost in the process of change.
Shahd Nabil Jad Al-Haq, a 20-year-old artist with Palestinian roots and a Makkawi upbringing, is preserving the soul of disappearing communities through intricate models that celebrate memory, culture and identity.
Her project, “CYAN,” turns nostalgia into something you can see, hold and feel.
Jad Al-Haq’s passion for this kind of art began in childhood, but she developed it professionally in recent years. (Supplied)
“A house is not just walls … it’s moments and memories,” she told Arab News.
In recent years, entire neighborhoods in Makkah and Jeddah have been cleared to make way for smart, efficient and modern developments.
While these decisions are required from an urban planning perspective, the emotional toll has been heavy for some.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Shahd Jad Al-Haq, a 20-year-old artist with Palestinian roots and a Makkawi upbringing, is preserving the soul of disappearing communities through intricate models.
• One of her most touching projects was a model of a family house that was demolished in Jeddah’s old Hindawiyah district.
People — Saudis and non-Saudis alike — have lost more than just buildings; they have lost memories, neighbors, childhood alleyways and the homes that shaped their lives.
Young artist Shahd Jad Al-Haq’s childhood in Makkah deeply shaped her sense of place and visual style. (Supplied)
Amid this sense of loss, Jad Al-Haq found her calling.
“My dream was to study architecture. But through dioramas, I found my own way to connect that dream with art,” she said. “‘CYAN’ reflects who I am, how I feel and the places I miss.”
Jad Al-Haq’s childhood in Makkah deeply shaped her sense of place and visual style.
Jad Al-Haq’s passion for this kind of art began in childhood, but she developed it professionally in recent years. (Supplied)
“My love for old homes and everyday details comes from the world I grew up in. It’s something that shows clearly in my work,” she said.
The first model she created was of her family’s old home, which she gave to her father as a surprise.
“His reaction shocked me; his eyes filled with tears. He said I had taken him back in time. That’s when I realized this was more than just art; it was a responsibility,” she added.
My love for old homes and everyday details comes from the world I grew up in. It’s something that shows clearly in my work.
Shahd Jad Al-Haq, Artist
Al-Haq’s passion for this kind of art began in childhood, but she developed it professionally in recent years. That is when she launched “CYAN” as a cultural, artistic and business project.
Jad Al-Haq’s passion for this kind of art began in childhood, but she developed it professionally in recent years. (Supplied)
She works with materials like wood, cardboard, acrylic and foam, using fine sculpting tools and modern techniques like 3D printing.
“I don’t just work on how things look; I work on how this model will make people feel,” Al-Haq said. “The sound of a door, the sunlight through a window … I want to bring people back to their homes emotionally, not just visually.”
Her project has garnered considerable attention, both within and outside the Kingdom. She has received work requests from many countries and regions, including Kuwait, the UAE, Europe and even the US, from people who long for the homes they once lived in.
One of her most touching projects was a model of a family house that was demolished in Jeddah’s old Hindawiyah district.
“The reaction was unforgettable. There were tears and memories. It was a moment I’ll always carry with me,” Jad Al-Haq said.
Abdulaziz Al-Harbi, who received a miniature of his former Makkah home, said: “Honestly, I got goosebumps. I never thought a small model could move me this much.
“The tiny outdoor stairs reminded me of Eid, of my mom’s voice, of the fan shaking the ceiling. This is more than just a model; it’s a living memory. I told my family: ‘Look, this isn’t just a picture, it’s our actual house.’ Some of them cried, especially the older ones.”
Samia, known as Umm Suleiman from Jeddah, lived in her home for more than 50 years before it was demolished.
She said: “I was amazed, so happy and so thankful. This model brought back all my memories, my parents, my brothers, everything. The house was destroyed and turned into bare land, but this piece preserved the best part of my life.
“I even held a small party to unveil it like a treasure. Everyone cried, from the nostalgia, the love and the childhood we remembered. Shahd took us back 50 years. May she be as happy as she made us.”
Jad Al-Haq dreams of turning her project into a permanent exhibition that brings back the lost neighborhoods of Makkah and Jeddah.
“I want visitors to walk through the models and feel like they’re back in those streets. I want to preserve the memory and the sentimental value that these locations once had. We have to see the stories and the culture that’s still alive in our memories,” she said.
She hopes to integrate augmented reality to deepen the experience, and plans to launch workshops to share her techniques with others.
“A house is not just a place. It’s memory and identity. I hope my art tells everyone: ‘Your memories are worth preserving’,” she said.
Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ammariyah strawberry farms offer slice of rural bliss
Locations reconnect visitors with landscape
Updated 26 July 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: In the serene natural landscape of Al-Ammariyah, northwest of Riyadh, strawberry farms have emerged as ecotourism destinations that bring together nature, agriculture, and family-friendly entertainment.
These farms offer hands-on experiences that reconnect visitors with the land, transforming traditional agricultural work into interactive activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
Visitors can gain insight into sustainable farming while enjoying the beauty of the rural environment at Al-Ammariyah farms. (SPA)
From strawberry picking to learning about the crop’s cycle, visitors gain insight into sustainable farming while enjoying the beauty of the rural environment.
The geographical features of Al-Ammariyah, including fertile soil and moderate terrain, provide ideal conditions for strawberry cultivation.
FASTFACT
Al-Ammariyah, northwest of Riyadh, have evolved in recent years into vibrant destinations that host family events and field trips, including strawberry picking.
Modern technologies such as hydroponics and greenhouse farming enhance efficiency and demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Visitors can gain insight into sustainable farming while enjoying the beauty of the rural environment at Al-Ammariyah farms. (SPA)
The farms have evolved in recent years into vibrant destinations that host family events and field trips.
They also offer live workshops on organic farming, and cookery sessions on strawberry-based products like juices, jams, and dessert.
Rustic-style cafes and shaded rest areas overlook the orchards, creating a tranquil space where visitors can unwind and enjoy the scent of fresh strawberries and the surrounding serenity.
Designed with all age groups in mind, the farms promote learning through entertainment and reflect a growing trend in tourism that combines environmental awareness with leisure and education.
Milky Way stargazing event to explore AlUla’s wonders
The gathering will engage AlUla residents, visitors, astronomy enthusiasts and space researchers in an interactive experience, including field observation sessions and scientific discussions led by members of the AlUla Astronomy Club
Updated 26 July 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: The AlUla Manara team is organizing a stargazing event on Monday evening to explore AlUla’s wonders and observe the Milky Way during one of the best viewing periods of the month.
The iconic Arch Rock will host the event as part of a year-round series of activities aimed at enhancing community awareness of astronomy, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The gathering will engage AlUla residents, visitors, astronomy enthusiasts and space researchers in an interactive experience, including field observation sessions and scientific discussions led by members of the AlUla Astronomy Club.
Such initiatives help foster a scientific culture and encourage community interest in cosmic discoveries, the SPA added.
Participants will have the opportunity to witness the Milky Way firsthand, track various astronomical phenomena such as meteor showers and observe the North Star.
The event promises a captivating visual experience in a natural setting free from light pollution, blending contemplation with the joy of stargazing.
The initiative is part of the AlUla Manara team’s efforts to support educational pathways and scientific exploration, while promoting community events related to science and discovery, in line with Vision 2030 goals for innovation and the diversification of cultural and tourism experiences.
