Saudi Arabia launches public charity platforms, awareness drives to ensure transparency

An Iraqi girl begs in the street in front of a bicycle market in the Al-Sadreyh neighborhood, central Baghdad, May 24, 2019. (Photo by Ahmad AL-RUBAYE / AFP)
Short Url
Updated 07 April 2022
Follow

Saudi Arabia launches public charity platforms, awareness drives to ensure transparency

  • State-regulated online platforms have revolutionized the way public donations are collected and used
  • Awareness campaigns have aided efforts to make sure donations do not end up lining the pockets of criminals

JEDDAH: Charity is part and parcel of Ramadan for any Muslim who can afford to donate to the needy. In fact, zakat, as it is known, is one of the five pillars of Islam.

However, this spirit of generosity is all too often exploited by criminals who mobilize women, children, the elderly and the disabled to enrich themselves.

In Saudi Arabia, the government has responded to the problem by launching a number of state-regulated charity platforms as well as public-awareness drives whose objective is to prevent such exploitation and ensure that donations do not end up financing terrorism.




Well-meaning donors are discouraged from shelling out money that could end up financing terrorist activities. (Supplied)

The Kingdom’s Presidency of State Security recently launched a powerful social-media campaign featuring a video in which a woman coerces three children to beg in the streets.

When a passer-by hands the women money, she places it in her shirt pocket, exposing an assault rifle and a suicide vest hidden beneath her black garb.

The woman then removes her veil to reveal she is in fact a man in disguise. The message is simple: “Donating to unknown individuals increases the possibility of terrorist financing.”

 

 

Saudi Arabia introduced a new anti-beggary law in 2021. Under its provisions, anyone who engages in begging, incites begging or helps begging in any way can face up to six months in jail, a fine of SR50,000 ($13,329), or both.

Culprits within an organized group that engages in begging, meanwhile, can face up to a year in jail, a fine of $26,659, or both.

Under the anti-begging law, anyone who asks for money directly or indirectly, fakes injuries or disabilities, or uses children to influence others into giving them money is considered a beggar.

Non-Saudi offenders can be deported after serving their sentence and can be banned from re-entering the Kingdom. A newly revised statute also considered begging through social-media platforms to be equal to traditional begging.

While there are genuinely needy people in the relatively affluent Arab Gulf countries who beg during the holy month of Ramadan, criminal groups have been known to run elaborate syndicates, trafficking vulnerable people into Saudi Arabia to collect money on their behalf.




Non-Saudi offenders of the anti-begging law can be deported after serving their sentence. (SPA file photo)

Ali, a Yemeni boy who claims to be 12-years-old but looks much younger, spends his days with two other boys of a similar age begging and cleaning car windshields on one of Jeddah’s main bridges.

“I came less than a year ago,” Ali told Arab News, squeegee and soap bottle in hand on the busy roadside. “I just want to help my family. I can’t go home now without making any money. I have a family. Please help.”

On a nearby street corner, elderly men and women in wheelchairs wait for passing motorists to stop to give them food or money, clutching papers claiming they cannot afford their medical expenses.

At the traffic lights, disheveled children holding infants on their hips tap on the windows of passing vehicles, open palms upturned begging for loose change.

The sight is familiar throughout the Middle East. But even the most trusting of people can be left with the nagging doubt: Where does the money go? Could this scene, which never fails to tug at the heartstrings, have been staged by an unseen handler? Are the motorists only fueling the problem by handing out cash?




Well-meaning donors are discouraged from shelling out money that could end up financing terrorist activities. (Supplied)

The Kingdom’s countermeasures are not confined to street-level begging. Saudi authorities have for some time focused on combating criminal gangs and extremist groups fraudulently posing as legitimate charitable organizations.

In 2016, the Interior Ministry said that it was illegal for organizations to raise funds without first obtaining a permit from the relevant authorities.

Charitable organizations have also been called on to become more transparent about how they collect and use public donations. The government’s own digitalization drive has greatly improved transparency and increased efficiency in the delivery of e-services.

The digital transformation is expanding in the charitable sector with the creation of new regulated services, including Ehsan, Shefaa, KSrelief, and the National Donations Platform, developed and supervised by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority.

Ehsan, a platform launched in 2021, enables philanthropists and donors to choose from a selection of charitable causes that they deem close to their heart, from social and economic issues, to health, education and the environment.

By focusing on individual values and specific societal issues, Ehsan aims to encourage a greater sense of social responsibility among the general public and private-sector organizations, while also promoting a culture of transparency in charitable giving.

INNUMBERS

$1.4 billion - Donations made through the KSrelief platform.

$386.5 million - Donations through the Ehsan platform.

$25.9 million - Donations through the Shefaa platform.

One of Ehsan’s services, the Furijat initiative, is a debt-repayment scheme for people convicted of financial crimes who are released from prison once their debt is paid off. Another initiative called Tyassarat helps debt-burdened citizens to rearrange their finances and get back on track.

Donors using the Ehsan platform can choose how much they would like to give and can pay by debit or credit card or with Apple Pay.

Donations became even easier in early February this year through the Tawakkalna smartphone app, the official Saudi Contact Tracing service launched to trace the spread of COVID-19.

Last year, King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made multiple donations via Ehsan that pushed the platform’s total figure past the SR1 billion mark. Since its launch, Ehsan has received more than SR1.4 billion ($373.2 million) in donations and handed them out to more than 4.3 million beneficiaries.

On Wednesday King Salman approved the launch — for the second year in a row — of the National Campaign for Charitable Work through the Ehsan platform.

The National Donations Platform likewise provides easy solutions to connect donors with needy individuals across the Kingdom, while ensuring a reliable and secure digital donation process supervised by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

To date, more than 3.5 million people have benefited from money gifted through the National Donations Platform, including orphans, the sick, the elderly and people living in substandard housing.

Those wishing to contribute to overseas aid projects can do so through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, KSRelief, which works in 79 countries, supporting everything from the provision of specialist surgeries to landmine clearance.




Saudi Arabia's KSrelief distributed 1,800 Ramadan food baskets in the Sindh province of Pakistan, benefiting 12,600 individuals. (SPA)

As of February this year, $5.6 billion has been spent on the implementation of some 1,919 projects, many of them relating to food security and public health campaigns. Yemen, Palestine and Syria are its top three beneficiaries.

With many Arab countries struggling to overcome the economic turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic and the inflationary impact of the war in Ukraine on food and fuel prices, charitable donations are needed now more than ever to support those in need.

Fortunately, public outpourings of generosity, even before the holy month of Ramadan, have allowed aid agencies in the Kingdom and beyond to provide relief where it is needed most.

By regulating donations and ensuring transparency, Saudi authorities can now ensure this assistance does not end up lining the pockets of criminals or funding acts of terrorism but instead reaches those who are genuinely in need.


Reseda alba, an aromatic herb found across Saudi Arabia, plays vital role in fighting desertification 

Updated 8 sec ago
Follow

Reseda alba, an aromatic herb found across Saudi Arabia, plays vital role in fighting desertification 

  • In springtime, reseda alba blooms, attracting bees and other pollinators, thereby enhancing ecological balance

ARAR: Reseda alba, a flowering aromatic herb, is naturally found in several regions of Saudi Arabia and is a key component of the local vegetation in the Northern Borders region.

Known by its common names white mignonette or white upright mignonette, the plant has small, white, fragrant flowers and is also cultivated as an ornamental plant. In springtime, reseda alba blooms, attracting bees and other pollinators, thereby enhancing ecological balance and supporting biodiversity.
 
Thriving in both sandy and clayey soils, the plant is well-suited to the desert climate of the Kingdom's Northern Borders region due to its drought-resistant nature. It also plays a vital role in combating desertification by stabilizing the soil.

A perennial plant that grows up to a meter tall, reseda alba is also native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It can also be found in other parts of the world as an introduced species. 

Nasser Al-Mujlad, chair of the Aman Environmental Association, highlighted that the expansion of reseda alba is a key element of the region's natural botanical heritage, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

Al-Muilad pointed out that the plant's aesthetic appeal adds significant value to the region's tourism and environmental significance.

He further emphasized that many plants previously at risk of extinction have made a comeback, thanks to the establishment of reserves and the implementation of new regulations and laws aimed at protecting the environment and conserving its natural resources.
 


How Saudi Arabia is protecting users’ privacy and data from harmful AI

Updated 10 April 2025
Follow

How Saudi Arabia is protecting users’ privacy and data from harmful AI

  • AI technologies often collect sensitive personal data, raising concerns over consent, surveillance, and potential misuse
  • Saudi Arabia is leading AI regulation in the region with ethical principles and a personal data protection law

RIYADH: As artificial intelligence seeps deeper into everyday life — from smart assistants and facial recognition to online shopping and AI-generated selfies — so too do the threats to personal data and privacy.

The dazzling capabilities of AI come at a cost many users do not fully grasp: exposure to data collection, surveillance, and potential misuse. And in a world where convenience often trumps caution, experts are urging users and organizations alike to slow down and scrutinize the digital tools they engage with.

“AI systems often depend on vast amounts of data, including sensitive personal information, which raises significant privacy issues,” Osama El-Masry, who leads data protection and privacy practice delivery for the Middle East region at the IT consulting firm Cognizant, told Arab News.

“Many users are unaware of how their data is collected, stored, and utilized, leading to fears of unauthorized access or misuse. For example, technologies like facial recognition can infringe on individual privacy without consent, posing risks of surveillance and tracking.”

This warning comes amid growing concerns about how AI software processes user data — especially in apps and platforms that seem harmless at first glance.

While regulation and ethical oversight are often viewed as a government or corporate responsibility, El-Masry stresses that users must also play an active role.

“This means reading privacy policies and being aware of what personal information is collected and how it may be used or shared,” he said.

“A critical aspect of this responsibility is limiting the sharing of personal data when using AI tools. Users should strive to provide only the minimum necessary information required to achieve their desired outcomes, avoiding unnecessary disclosure of sensitive data.”

In short, treat AI tools like you would any new technology: with a mix of curiosity and caution. The onus is on users to learn how their data is handled and to be wary of oversharing. On the flip side, organizations must prioritize privacy from the very beginning of product design.

“This involves implementing strong data protection measures, ensuring transparency and explainability in data usage, and adhering to AI and privacy regulations/principles,” El-Masry said. “Organizations should also clearly communicate their data practices to users, fostering an environment of trust.

“Ultimately, a collaborative approach, where both parties understand their roles and responsibilities regarding privacy, is essential for protecting personal information in the age of AI.

“By working together, users and organizations can create a more secure digital landscape that respects privacy rights.”

Take the current obsession with AI art filters, for instance. Millions of users upload their photos to apps that transform them into anime characters or classic oil paintings. But what happens to those original images?

“Many users may not realize that while the effect is fun, their original images are still being processed and may be retained by the app,” said El-Masry.

“This underscores the importance of being mindful about which platforms and applications are trusted with personal images and data. By taking these steps, users can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding their personal information against misuse.”

It’s a simple but powerful reminder: Just because something looks like harmless fun, doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Every interaction with AI — no matter how trivial it seems — carries data implications.

As AI becomes more sophisticated and integrated into business, healthcare, finance, education, and government systems, the implications for misuse — whether accidental or malicious — become more severe. (Pexels illustration image)

Users are also advised to challenge the information they receive from AI platforms. While many tools promise personalization and convenience, they can just as easily perpetuate bias or inaccuracies.

“Continuous education about AI ethics and privacy implications empowers users to make informed choices about their interactions with these technologies,” said El-Masry. “Users should also advocate for ethical data practices within their communities, promoting accountability among developers and organizations.

“It’s important to recognize that AI applications vary widely, with some being non-privacy-related, such as telecom network enhancements and medical diagnostics, and others being privacy-sensitive, like marketing profiling and predictive analysis.

“Users should be particularly cautious when interacting with AI technologies in privacy-sensitive fields, as these applications often involve the handling of personal data that can impact privacy rights.”

There are ways to navigate the AI landscape safely. One approach is to seek out AI tools that prioritize user privacy through transparent practices and robust protection measures.

“By taking these steps, users can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding their personal information against misuse,” said El-Masry.

The stakes are higher than many realize. As AI becomes more sophisticated and integrated into business, healthcare, finance, education, and government systems, the implications for misuse — whether accidental or malicious — become more severe.

El-Masry lists several privacy threats tied to AI applications, including “unintended biased decisions, unethical AI use cases, data leaks, decisions ambiguity, and the use of AI with vulnerable data subjects.

“This is becoming a global concern and the driver for the issuance of the different ethical AI regulations/principles by many policymakers across different regions and countries to mitigate the above risks associated with the use of AI.

Osama El-Masry. (Supplied)

While much of the world is still struggling to keep pace with innovation, Saudi Arabia has moved to regulate and promote the ethical use of data and AI.

“The Kingdom introduced the Personal Data Protection Law, which establishes clear guidelines for data collection, processing, and sharing, ensuring that individuals’ privacy rights are protected,” said El-Masry.

“This framework aligns with international standards, signaling a commitment to responsible data management.”

The country’s National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence is another critical piece of its governance efforts. It aims to build a culture of innovation without compromising ethical boundaries.

“Notably, SDAIA has issued a set of ethical AI principles that emphasize fairness, accountability, transparency, and privacy,” said El-Masry. “These principles guide the development and deployment of AI technologies, ensuring they are used responsibly and ethically.”

Despite Saudi Arabia’s leadership, data privacy in the broader Middle East remains patchy. Many countries still lack comprehensive legal frameworks to protect users’ rights.

El-Masry believes that’s an area ripe for action. “Governments should establish comprehensive AI and data privacy laws and regulations that align with international standards, providing clear guidelines for data processing.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• Saudi Arabia has introduced the Personal Data Protection Law to safeguard user privacy and regulate data use responsibly.

• The Kingdom’s National Strategy for Data and AI promotes innovation while ensuring ethical, transparent, and accountable AI practices.

• SDAIA’s ethical AI principles emphasize fairness, privacy, and governance, guiding responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.

He also advocates for coordinated public-private collaboration to raise the bar for compliance and innovation across the region.

“Organizations must prioritize compliance and even go beyond compliance and acknowledge the value of investing in implementing data responsibility practices and technologies that ensure robust privacy compliance and AI governance in conducting business, which has a direct impact on their revenues and sustainability. There are clear examples of private organizations who adopted this approach and (have) proven to be competitive and successful.

“Organizations should communicate their data practices clearly to build public trust. Additionally, mandating that organizations document AI use cases involving personal data and ensuring periodic reviews of AI algorithms can help maintain compliance with privacy regulations.

“Governments can support this by providing resources, consultation, and training to enhance organizations’ privacy and AI governance capabilities.”

While legislation and corporate responsibility are critical, El-Masry says individuals must also be empowered to take charge of their own digital lives. He calls for greater awareness and education around data privacy.

“By adopting a proactive and unified approach, both organizations and governments can create a safer digital environment that prioritizes privacy for all,” he said.

As AI becomes increasingly entangled in the infrastructure of modern life, protecting privacy is no longer a niche concern — it’s a collective responsibility. From the laws that govern AI to the choices we make about which apps to trust, the future of digital safety depends on everyone playing their part.

As El-Masry puts it: “By working together, users and organizations can create a more secure digital landscape that respects privacy rights.”
 

 


Saudi and French experts explore opportunities for cooperation in sustainable agriculture

Updated 10 April 2025
Follow

Saudi and French experts explore opportunities for cooperation in sustainable agriculture

Saudi Arabia’s National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture, also known as Estidamah, welcomed a delegation from the French National Federation of Seed Potato Growers for an official visit during which they discussed opportunities for enhanced cooperation and exchanges of expertise.

The visitors learned about the center’s activities, including its research and technical programs and prominent projects that support the development of sustainable agricultural solutions in the Kingdom.

The center said the visit reflected its commitment to building strategic partnerships with leading international organizations, and the sharing of experience that can contribute to the development of the agricultural sector and improved food security.

The French federation, which specializes in support and development of potato seed production, oversees a number of research and technical institutions.


AlUla Skies Festival 2025 returns next week 

Updated 10 April 2025
Follow

AlUla Skies Festival 2025 returns next week 

  • The festival features a variety of additional activities, including illuminated hot air balloon shows, tethered-flight and free-flight balloon rides over AlUla’s iconic landmarks, and musical concerts blending culture, exploration and entertainment

RIYADH: AlUla Moments has announced the return of the “AlUla Skies Festival 2025” from April 18 to 27, featuring a variety of new experiences.

The festival highlights the area’s clear, light-pollution-free skies and AlUla’s deep, ancient connection to astronomy, as it is home to Gharameel and AlUla’s Beacon, the first designated Dark Sky locations in the Middle East, recognized by the International Dark-Sky Association, solidifying AlUla’s status as a global hub for astro-tourism.

The festival offers visitors a rare opportunity to stargaze in a pristine natural environment, showcasing IDA-certified locations such as Gharameel and AlUla’s Beacon.

These spots are among the first official Dark Sky Sites in the region, reinforcing AlUla’s role as a leading destination for stargazing tourism.

Visitors can head to the Gharameel Reserve to view the Milky Way in one of the clearest skies in the region. The experience also includes night walks, camping sessions and grilled dinners around campfires.

The festival features a variety of additional activities, including illuminated hot air balloon shows, tethered-flight and free-flight balloon rides over AlUla’s iconic landmarks, and musical concerts blending culture, exploration and entertainment.

For more information about the AlUla Skies Festival, visitors can check the official website: https://www.experiencealula.com/en.


SFDA CEO meets German food safety president 

Updated 10 April 2025
Follow

SFDA CEO meets German food safety president 

  • The meeting took place as part of the bilateral engagements on the sidelines of the sixth meeting of the International Heads of Food Agencies Forum, held in Chile from April 9-11

RIYADH: The chief executive officer of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, on Thursday met in Santiago with President of the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Dr. Andreas Hensel.

The meeting took place as part of the bilateral engagements on the sidelines of the sixth meeting of the International Heads of Food Agencies Forum, held in Chile from April 9-11. 

According to a press release from the SFDA, both sides underscored the crucial role of regulatory authorities in forging robust partnerships with the private sector.

This collaboration is vital for developing and improving product quality, driving progress, and enhancing operational efficiency within a unified system that prioritizes product safety.

Discussions also centered on the importance of establishing an integrated regulatory system underpinned by reliable reference data, accurate quality testing, and transparent regulatory frameworks.

This foundation will foster greater confidence in regulatory information, improve the capacity for proactive risk assessment and response, and ultimately enhance product reliability and food safety.

Officials from the SFDA delegation also conducted a series of bilateral meetings with several counterpart regulatory bodies, including the UK Food Standards Agency, the Chilean Food Safety and Quality Agency, the New Zealand Food Safety branch of the Ministry of Primary Industries, and the Portuguese Economic and Food Safety Authority.

These meetings were geared toward fostering cooperation frameworks and enhancing integrated work with international organizations to serve food quality and safety objectives.