Saudi public prosecution bureau arrests and prosecutes coronavirus rumor monger

The person shared and produced content on social media about COVID-19 deemed by authorities to be rumors. (Reuters)
Short Url
Updated 18 March 2020
Follow

Saudi public prosecution bureau arrests and prosecutes coronavirus rumor monger

  • The public to seek information from official sources only

RIYADH: The Saudi Bureau of Investigation and Public Prosecution arrested a person who shared and produced content on social media, including rumors and news from unknown sources, about the novel coronavirus (COVID-9), affecting public order.

“By examining digital evidence and information identifiers, the suspect has been arrested, interrogated and charged with producing COVID-19 rumors and news from unknown sources that affect public order and undermine trust in the strength and immunity of the precautionary and preventive measures taken by the competent authorities,” a bureau source said.

The individual’s file has been referred to the relevant court, the source added, with the possibility of five years’ imprisonment and a fine of SR3 million ($800,000), in addition to confiscation of equipment used for the offense according to Article 6 of the Saudi Anti-Cyber Crimes Law.

The source highlighted that this penalty also affects everyone who participated in said crime by agreement, assistance or incitement, and all those who produced, prepared, sent or stored anything that might affect public order through the internet or a computer.

On the subject of the virus, the source urged the public to seek information from official sources only, to reference them, and fully cooperate with coronavirus-related decisions and instructions issued by the relevant authorities in order to avoid criminal liability.
 

 


Al-Baha’s Nawan Dunes draws nature lovers, adventure seekers

Al-Baha’s Nawan Dunes, a winter destination promising adventure and nature, is offering visitors distinctive tourism experience.
Updated 08 January 2026
Follow

Al-Baha’s Nawan Dunes draws nature lovers, adventure seekers

  • Winter destination witnesses growing influx of visitors

RIYADH: Al-Baha’s Nawan Dunes, a winter destination promising adventure and nature, is offering visitors a distinctive tourism experience that blends tranquility with beauty.

The site, in Al-Makhwah Governorate, is among the most prominent natural attractions in the Al-Baha region and is distinguished by unique sand formations that stretch across vast areas, offering visitors a distinctive tourism experience.

The dunes are witnessing a growing influx of visitors, outdoor enthusiasts, and photography lovers, due to the region’s mild winter weather, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The rolling golden sands provide an ideal destination for camping enthusiasts, desert adventures, and various outdoor recreational activities, particularly during twilight and sunset when the landscape takes on a striking aesthetic appeal.

The Nawan Dunes is now a breathtaking canvas of natural beauty. Recent rainfall has allowed wild plants to flourish spectacularly and this creates a stunning spectacle for all nature lovers.

As part of efforts to diversify tourism experiences, the Nawan Dunes has also hosted paragliding, attracting adventure seekers and aerial sports enthusiasts.

This has offered visitors a unique opportunity to view the desert landscape from the air and enjoy panoramic views of the dunes and surrounding nature, all within a well-organized framework that prioritizes safety and enhances the site’s appeal.

These events and initiatives form part of Al-Baha's winter program, which aims to diversify tourism options, invest in natural assets, and strengthen the area’s position as an attractive winter tourism destination in the Kingdom.

Fahd Muftah Al-Zahrani, the director general at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Al-Baha, said that two contracts had been signed to further ecotourism in the region.