The Diriyah Gate Development Authority recently marked Global Recycling Day with a series of week-long activities to raise awareness and encourage community involvement in creating a waste-free environment.
Aligned with the environmental and sustainability goals of the Vision 2030 reform plan, the authority has partnered with the Saudi Investment Recycling Co. and Tadweer to spread the message about the importance of recycling and the DGDA’s commitment to a sustainable environment in Diriyah.
Supporting its local community to adopt eco-friendly living practices, the DGDA has been encouraging the circular economy concept through the reduce, reuse, and recycle approach.
For the authority, preserving Diriyah’s environment and landscape is a significant component of protecting the rich heritage and culture of its historic lands. Through education, community initiatives, and partnerships, the DGDA is on track to reach its goal of a green and sustainable environment.
To celebrate Global Recycling Day, the DGDA shared a letter highlighting its significance across social media and encouraged the local community to use eco-friendly products by replacing plastic bags and bottles with sustainable cloth tote bags and reusable water bottles. The letter also spotlighted companies in Diriyah and Riyadh that collected or repurposed waste and provided special segregation recycling bins for households.
In addition, as part of the authority’s commitment to promoting a vibrant and healthy community in Diriyah, it invited members of the public to a special workshop, run by the Saudi Investment Recycling Co., showing how to incorporate recycling into daily life.
The workshop explained the value of recycling plastic, aluminum, and paper products, educated attendees on the multiple uses for recycled products, and demonstrated the community benefits of the recycling and repurposing process.
Ahlam Al-Thunayan, director of community engagement at the DGDA, was delighted by the level of participation from the local community.
She said: “The people of Diriyah have always put the well-being of our environment and unique land first, and we are so proud of their efforts on Global Recycling Day as well as every day.
“The residents of Diriyah are committed to a waste-free environment, and we are all working together to make Diriyah a green and sustainable place that is fitting of the title, Jewel of the Kingdom.
“Our duty goes beyond keeping our community clean to guiding the future generations of Diriyah toward adopting an eco-friendly and healthier lifestyle,” she added.
The Saudi Investment Recycling Co. and Tadweer are supporting partners in the DGDA’s Global Recycling Day celebration. Subsidiaries of the Public Investment Fund, both companies work to advance waste management in Saudi Arabia by promoting recycling, natural resource conservation, and the creation of a circular economy in the Kingdom.
Diriyah, Jewel of the Kingdom: Diriyah celebrates Global Recycling Day by encouraging waste-free environment
https://arab.news/cuxa7
Diriyah, Jewel of the Kingdom: Diriyah celebrates Global Recycling Day by encouraging waste-free environment
Where to buy the best Ramadan decorations in Saudi Arabia
RIYADH: As Ramadan approaches, families across Saudi Arabia prepare to welcome the holy month with enthusiasm as they decorate their homes with beautiful lanterns, vibrant table runners and twinkling lights that blend spirituality with hospitality.
In neighborhoods throughout Riyadh, eager shoppers are on the hunt for decorations that knit together tradition and modern style.
One of the standout spots to shop at in East Riyadh is Flaag, which offers a unique collection of Ramadan decorations.
For residents like Fatima Al-Hajj, decorating is a cherished ritual. “Living in East Riyadh, I thoroughly enjoy shopping at Flaag. With its spacious layout and unique items, it’s conveniently close to home.”
Al-Hajj emphasized the emotional aspect of the preparations: “When our homes reflect the spirit of the season, it fosters a sense of connection among family, guests, and even children experiencing it for the first time.”
Retailers are seeing an increase in demand for decorative items during this special month. Shatha Abdulhalim, a shop owner specializing in seasonal decor, said that Ramadan brings a surge in business.
“People are looking to create the right atmosphere,” she explained while gesturing toward shelves filled with brass lanterns, LED crescent lights, and embroidered table runners.
“Some customers favor traditional pieces that stir up nostalgia, while others lean toward contemporary styles that complement modern homes. We do our best to cater to both preferences.”
Shoppers in major Saudi cities are spoiled for choice. Traditional markets attract those seeking handmade goods, while malls and supermarkets provide convenient, ready-made decorations.
In Jeddah, artisan stalls in historic districts remain hotspots for those after distinctive designs.
Layla Bukhari recently acquired hand-painted lanterns and patterned table runners, describing her experience as both culturally enriching and practical.
“Wandering through these markets immerses you in the spirit of Ramadan even before it begins,” she said, adding that the decorations tell stories of tradition and craftsmanship.
Supermarkets across the Kingdom are also offering seasonal displays, showcasing lanterns, banners, tableware, and lighting.
People observing Ramadan in the Kingdom say that decorating homes carries deeper significance than mere aesthetics.
According to family matriarch Mawia Al-Hazmi, the practice is a way to prepare for a month filled with reflection, generosity, and unity.
“I like to mix it up,” she said. “Some decorations are from local stores, some I order online, you know, some pieces we reuse every year.
“For us, decorating is part of getting into the Ramadan mood. When the house feels ready and prepared, it just feels special.
“Guests feel welcomed, and the kids begin to understand why this month matters.
“It really brings everyone closer, and it builds that sense of excitement and togetherness as a family.”
In the Sharqiyah region, a shop called My Flowers Service provides unique entrance decor for Ramadan, featuring oversized beads, lanterns, and crescents.
They offer rental options, allowing clients to enjoy festive decorations without the hassle of storage year-round.
As homes throughout Saudi Arabia gleam with new lights and thoughtfully arranged decor, these preparations signify the arrival of a month woven with tradition, family bonds, and spiritual reflection.
Amira Amireh on TikTok shared her creative twist on Ramadan decorations: “I take lanterns and make them float in the air, creating a magical atmosphere that my child adores.”
Inspired by Halloween decorations, she repurposed mounting strips to hang mini lanterns easily.
“These battery-operated lanterns from Amazon look stunning in the morning but truly shine at night.
“With clear fishing wire, they become practically invisible, and the flickering light adds a lovely, realistic touch.”
In Saudi Arabia, the preparations for Ramadan represent a rich tapestry of creativity, tradition, and community spirit, imbuing both the process and the aesthetic result with meaning.
There is also a Saudi-based app called Mila that allows clients to order Ramadan decorations for their events with ease, making it a convenient alternative to visiting stores in person, especially for those with busy schedules.
The app offers a variety of categories, including a Ramadan decoration package titled Ramadan Reception Styling.
This option features fully curated reception corners, golden lanterns, elegant floral arrangements and warm ambient lighting, creating a refined and welcoming atmosphere for gatherings throughout the holy month.
