Multilingual support ensures seamless entry for Umrah pilgrims in Madinah
The General Directorate of Passports has reminded Umrah performers of the importance of adhering to arrival regulations and instructions
Updated 16 March 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The General Directorate of Passports at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Airport in Madinah is ensuring efficient entry for Umrah performers during Ramadan this year.
The directorate has launched a comprehensive strategy involving advanced technology and highly trained personnel to ease the entry of pilgrims into the Kingdom.
Biometric devices for streamlined identification have been deployed, as well as security documentation devices and mobile counters.
Translation devices can help pilgrims from countries around the world communicate with Saudi border personnel in 137 languages. Multilingual welcome teams at entry points are also offering support to pilgrims.
The General Directorate of Passports has reminded Umrah performers of the importance of adhering to arrival regulations and instructions. Passengers are encouraged to seek assistance from passport staff at entry points for any inquiries, or call the 24/7 unified call center (992).
Meanwhile, the directorate, under the Ministry of Interior, has also unveiled a special passport stamp for the Ramadan Season, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture. The stamp celebrates the rich cultural heritage, customs and traditions of the holy month.
Travelers passing through King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam can receive the stamp throughout Ramadan.
International brands turn to Riyadh to expand cooperation
Capital cements role as hub at World Defense Show
Updated 6 sec ago
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's capital is cementing its role as a rising hub in the global defense industry, and the World Defense Show has attracted international brands eager to showcase advanced technologies and expand partnerships in the Kingdom and beyond.
Held under the patronage of the Saudi leadership, the show — which runs until Feb. 12 — has brought together defense manufacturers, technology innovators and government representatives from around the world.
Arab News spoke to several international exhibitors who underscored the show’s growing importance as a gateway to pursue regional and global cooperation.
Among the returning participants is Passtech Machine Tools, represented by Syed Zahid, its sales manager.
Passtech Machine Tools is participating in the World Defense Show in Riyadh for the third time, says sales manager Syed Zahid. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The company collaborates with various international brands, providing tools, machines and gauges, including advanced CNC (computer numerical control) machinery from South Korea.
For Zahid, WDS has proved to be a strategic platform, and he said: “This is our third time. We see it as very, very useful.”
From China, Jihua Group Co. Ltd. showcases advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. Peter Wang, its senior product manager, expressed optimism about expanding cooperation.
At the company’s booth, Arab News was introduced to several technologies, including what Wang described as a “true-color navigation device.”
Highlighting a wearable system, Wang said it was designed to enhance mobility and operational efficiency.
Jihua Group Co. Ltd. of China, another participant ad WDS Riyadh, showcased advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
He emphasized the diversity of visitors and the potential for cross-border cooperation, and added: “I meet different countries’ customers here. I’m very happy and I want to get some opportunities for cooperation.”
Turkiye is also represented at the event. Masttech, which is attending WDS for the first time, is showcasing its products for visitors.
Deputy General Manager Sitki Tuzun said: “We are here to show all our products. We are producing electromechanical, mechanical and pneumatic mast systems here.”
While the company does not yet have Saudi clients, Tuzun made it clear that the show was a strategic leap toward entering the market.
“We are here for connection and new business cooperation,” he said.
First-time WDS participant Masttech hopes to capture a portion of the Saudi defense market soon. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The World Defense Show has demonstrated its increasing influence as a platform from which global brands meet regional opportunity.
Beyond static displays, the show serves as a dynamic networking arena, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and defense stakeholders under one roof.
As Saudi Arabia accelerates efforts to localize its defense industry and invest in advanced technologies, WDS continues to facilitate partnerships, technology transfer and international collaboration — reinforcing Riyadh’s emergence as a central node in the global defense ecosystem.
