JEDDAH: The Indian consul general has released an official statement reminding Indian nationals to follow customs rules, after a number of arrests for attempted gold smuggling were made in Indian airports recently.
“It is my advice to all nationals and visitors to India that there are some rules and regulations of the customs which should be followed by all the nationals and visitors of the country, and these rules and regulations are clearly mentioned on the Indian government customs department website and always displayed at the airports — how much and what are allowed from customs authorities, and what are needed to be declared in front of customs authorities. There are rules in the Kingdom and in India,” said Mohammed Noor Rahman Sheikh, who was appointed to the post last February.
On Friday, three passengers traveling from Dubai were arrested in Mumbai in separate incidents for trying to smuggle a total of 7.2 kg of gold worth Rs 20.14 million ($377, 227).
In the first case, a woman and her accomplice had shaped 4.2kg of gold into hooks for supporting old trousers and painted them silver. The second case saw the Indian Air Intelligence Unit stop a man with a steel roller inside which they discovered bars of gold weighing a total of 3 kg.
Indian expats in Saudi Arabia advised to follow customs rules
Indian expats in Saudi Arabia advised to follow customs rules
AlUla fuel stations redefine desert architecture
ALULA: Fuel stations in the AlUla governorate showcase a modern approach to urban planning, with designs inspired by the region’s natural landscape and desert palette.
They harmonize architecture with the environment, enhance the urban landscape, and redefine traditional fuel stations, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The designs use contemporary materials and lines that reflect AlUla’s identity, enriching aesthetics and user experience while preserving the desert setting.
Architect Salwa Samargandi of SAL Architects developed these innovative designs, balancing functionality and aesthetics with inspiration from AlUla’s cultural heritage.
One fuel station project won the World Architecture Award in the Realized Projects category, selected by an international jury.
These initiatives are part of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s efforts to enhance infrastructure, support national talent, and improve services for residents and visitors.
The commission also established the AlUla Design Studio to guide architects and the community in creating projects that harmonize with the natural environment.
The studio offers consultations on new constructions and restorations, ensuring compliance with urban planning and sustainability standards.
This participatory approach preserves AlUla’s architectural heritage while empowering the local community to choose development options that respect the region’s history and uphold safety and sustainability.
