WASHINGTON: The US Transportation Security Administration said on Monday it has lifted a ban on passengers on Saudi Arabian Airlines carrying large electronics like laptops onboard US-bound flights, the last carrier under the restrictions.
In March, US officials imposed restrictions on passengers carrying laptops and other large electronic gear in cabins on nine airlines, most of which were Middle Eastern carriers, to address the potential threat of hidden explosives.
Last month, US officials announced new security requirements for all airlines rather than an expansion of the laptop ban and have been dropping the restrictions from airlines as they boosted security.
A TSA spokesman said the US government had lifted the restrictions at Saudi Arabian Airlines’ main hub in Jeddah at King Abdulaziz International Airport on Monday. US government officials will visit Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport “later this week to confirm compliance there as well,” spokesman James Gregory said.
On Thursday, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a revised directive to airlines around the world in response to requests that it clarify aviation security measures scheduled to begin taking effect later this week.
An airline official briefed on the matter said the directive gave airlines more flexibility and additional time to obtain explosive trace detection equipment. The official was not authorized to discuss sensitive security issues with the media and requested anonymity.
The directive includes technical adjustments, agency officials said, declining to release the text. European airlines have been pushing for changes to meet the new requirements.
DHS has said that it could impose new restrictions on laptops if airlines do not make security upgrades.
European and US officials told Reuters that airlines have until July 19, to put in place increased explosive trace detection screening and other measures and 120 days to comply with other security measures, including enhanced screening of airline passengers.
The new requirements include enhanced passenger screening at foreign airports, increased security protocols around aircraft and in passenger areas and expanded canine screening. They affect 325,000 airline passengers on about 2,000 commercial flights arriving daily in the United States, on 180 airlines from 280 airports in 105 countries.
A group of airline groups, including the International Air Transport Association, criticized the new requirements in a July 14 letter to US officials saying it is a “fundamental shift away from the risk-based approach” and said it would be “extremely difficult” to “meet the deadlines because of the lack of availability of screening equipment technology and resources.” The letter was reported earlier by Politico.
US ends laptop ban on Saudi Arabian Airlines
US ends laptop ban on Saudi Arabian Airlines
Riyadh Ramadan tents illuminate festive traditions
- As the sun sets, Ramadan tents open for guests to enjoy sumptuous meals
Riyadh: The much-anticipated tradition of Ramadan tents in Riyadh draws hundreds of daily for lavish iftar and suhoor menus, surrounded by sophisticated and luxurious decor.
One of the largest Ramadan gatherings in the capital, Fawanees at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, has over the years become a benchmark for the seasonal experience.
Named after the traditional lantern used to decorate homes during the holy month, Fawanees immerses guests in a traditional Saudi iftar, attracting people from around the Kingdom and abroad.
“Like the glow of fawanees lighting the night, Ramadan is the time to share our blessings with others. This year’s Fawanees brings togetherness and generosity,” Andrew Abram, general manager of Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, told Arab News.
“May we carry this light in our hearts throughout the holy month and extend it to everyone around us.”
The buffet comprises a wide variety of dishes and beverages with lanterns decorating the venue and oud music echoing through the hall.
The Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh hosts a Ramadan tent and majlis celebrating “Hikayat Ramadan,” inspired by the timeless art of storytelling.
Cafe Boulud has a French-inspired iftar menu, with a signature Ramadan cake crafted by pastry chef Wael Elsherif Ahmed El-Sherif, and there is a special Ramadan high tea experience at Obaya Lounge.
Families and young guests are also welcome, with dedicated childrens’ activities ensuring a festive experience for all.
“Every detail is designed to create meaningful experiences that connect families, celebrate heritage and leave lasting memories year after year,” Shadi Suleman, regional vice president and general manager at Four Seasons Riyadh, told Arab News.
The Ramadan tent and majlis have been designed with oriental-inspired decor, blending tradition with contemporary touches.
Guests can enjoy live oud music in a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for families, friends and corporate gatherings.
“Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to surprise and delight our guests,” Suleman said.
At the heart of the culinary offerings is the signature Ramadan cake, inspired by the Arabian desert and made with Saudi dates, crisp kunafa, malt-infused white chocolate, pistachio cream and honey.
Fairmont Riyadh offers seasonal celebrations centered around the Al Thuraya Ramadan Tent with generous iftar buffets, intimate chef’s tables, and serene suhoor under the stars.
Set within the Al Thuraya Ballroom which extends into an outdoor tent, the inviting sanctuary captures the warmth of Ramadan and authentic Arabian hospitality.
In addition to hosting sophisticated iftars after sunset, the venue is home to a lively Ramadan bazaar, where guests can explore a selection of handcrafted jewelry, premium perfumes and traditional garments.
Younger guests can enjoy a dedicated children’s area, with engaging activities and a dedicated buffet.
With the holy month being a festive occasion, guests enjoy extensive menus at Ramadan tents catering to every preference in the nation’s capital.
