AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia
AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia/node/2546546/saudi-arabia
AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia
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New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant. (SPA)
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New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant. (SPA)
AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia
The research, conducted under the auspices of the Royal Commission for AlUla, reveals a more sophisticated society than previously imagined
The research team has presented its latest conclusions and observations on archaeological investigations of structures known as standing stone circles
Updated 12 July 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant.
The research, conducted under the auspices of the Royal Commission for AlUla, reveals a more sophisticated society than previously imagined, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Jane McMahon from the University of Sydney, working with a research team as part of an RCU-supervised excavation project explained that they have uncovered a complex community that engaged in cattle herding, crafted jewelry, and participated in extensive trade networks. The strategic location of these settlements facilitated commerce with distant regions, including eastern Jordan and coastal areas along the Red Sea.
The research team has presented its latest conclusions and observations on archaeological investigations of structures known as standing stone circles. These dwellings consist of vertically placed stone slabs forming circles with diameters ranging from four to eight meters.
The study examined 431 standing stone circles at various sites in Harrat Uwayrid in AlUla, with 52 undergoing field surveys and 11 being excavated.
Researchers found that stone slabs, arranged in two concentric rows, likely served as foundations for wooden poles, possibly made of acacia. These poles would have supported the structure’s roof. At the center of each circular dwelling, a single stone slab appears to have anchored the main wooden column. This architectural feature suggests a sophisticated understanding of weight distribution and structural support among the ancient inhabitants. The discovery of various tools and animal remains at the site has led archaeologists to propose that dwelling roofs were fashioned from animal hides.
New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant. (SPA)
McMahon explained that “this research challenges hypotheses about how early northwest Arabian inhabitants lived.” She emphasized that these people were not merely simple pastoralists but had distinctive architecture, domesticated animals, jewelry, and diverse tools. Based on the number and size of stone circles, their population was likely substantial and much larger than previously thought.
Rebecca Foote, who heads archaeology and cultural heritage research at the RCU, has emphasized the significant impact of the commission’s archaeological initiatives. Under the RCU’s supervision, what is described as the world’s most comprehensive archaeological program has yielded crucial insights into the lives of Neolithic inhabitants in the region. Foote underscored the commission’s dedication to continued research efforts aimed at highlighting AlUla’s diverse cultural heritage and ongoing work towards establishing a globally recognized hub for archaeological studies.
Researchers examining animal bones from the Harrat Uwayrid site have uncovered evidence of a robust prehistoric economy. The findings indicate that the ancient inhabitants relied on a mix of domesticated animals like goats and sheep, and wild animals such as gazelles and birds for their livelihood. This diverse approach to animal exploitation likely provided the population with resilience in the face of environmental fluctuations.
Excavations have unearthed tools linked to animal husbandry, including implements for wool shearing and sheep slaughter.
Arrowheads discovered match types used in southern and eastern Jordan, indicating clear interaction between the regions.
Small perforated snail and seashells, likely used as decorative beads, were found at the sites. These shells correspond to those from the Red Sea, 120 km away, suggesting import from the coast during the Neolithic period.
Other artifacts include sandstone and limestone ornaments and bracelets, as well as a piece of red sandstone chalk, possibly used for drawing.
Researchers concluded that the study “greatly clarified the connected (yet distinct) nature of the Neolithic period in AlUla.”
The research team included experts from King Saud University, local AlUla residents like Youssef Al-Balawi who provided ethnographic and cultural insights, and students from the University of Hail.
Decoder
Standing stone circles of AlUla
A study that examined 431 standing stone circles at various sites in Harrat Uwayrid in AlUla concludes that people living in that part of Saudi Arabia’s northwest during the Neolithic era, or the later part of the Stone Age, were not merely simple pastoralists but had distinctive architecture, domesticated animals, jewelry, and diverse tools.
Saudi and Spanish foreign ministers meet in Madrid
Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Jose Manuel Albares spoke about global efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza
Updated 13 September 2024
Arab News
MADRID: The Saudi and Spanish foreign ministers met in Madrid on Friday to discuss the current situation in the Gaza Strip, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Jose Manuel Albares spoke about global efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza, SPA added.
The two met on the sidelines of a high-level meeting of ministers from Muslim and European countries along with the European Union’s foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell in Spain to discuss how to advance a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
During their meeting, they also discussed preparations for the high-level event on the same topic which will be held at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.
They also reviewed relations between the Kingdom and Spain and ways to enhance them in various fields.
Former Public Security chief jailed 20 years over forgery, bribery and embezzlement
Court issued irrevocable ruling and jailed Lt. Gen. Khalid bin Qarar Al-Harbi, fining him SR1m
Bribes he received will be confiscated, deposited in govt treasury
Updated 14 min 44 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: A Saudi court has sentenced the former director of Public Security to 20 years in jail and fined him SR1 million ($266,000) after he was convicted of bribery, forgery, authority misuse, embezzling public funds and other charges.
The court issued an irrevocable ruling and jailed Lt. Gen. Khalid bin Qarar Al-Harbi for an initial 10 years for forgery and bribery. His SR1 million fine and seized embezzled funds will be deposited in the government’s treasury.
Al-Harbi was also handed an additional 10 years’ imprisonment after the court convicted him of misusing authority for personal gains, exploiting government contracts and embezzling public funds.
On Friday, the Saudi Press Agency cited a Ministry of Interior official source saying that the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) had questioned Al-Harbi and referred him to the pertinent court in accordance with the Criminal Procedures Law.
The source added that in reference to a royal order, the defendant’s services were terminated. He was referred to retirement and placed under investigation by Nazaha.
According to the undated court judgment, the bribe amount of SR10.08 million which Al-Harbi received will be confiscated. He was also ordered to repay the SR2.82 million of public funds that he embezzled.
The court will confiscate the gifts (or the equivalence of their value) and financial payments provided to his relatives as bribes that amounted up to SR175,000. Two agricultural plots that he obtained as bribes will also be confiscated.
The court also ordered Al-Harbi to repay SR584,000 that he obtained illegally.
The Interior Ministry highlighted the Saudi government’s keenness to protect public funds and combat corruption in all its forms.
Saudi Fashion Commission to organize investment tour in London
The tour, which coincides with the conclusion of London Fashion Week, will offer opportunities for investors
Updated 13 September 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The Saudi Fashion Commission will launch an investment tour in London on Tuesday, in collaboration with the nation’s Cultural Development Fund and Ministry of Investment.
The tour, which coincides with the conclusion of London Fashion Week, will offer opportunities for investors seeking a stake in the nation’s burgeoning industry.
The venue is The Twenty Two located in the Mayfair area, which is close to the primary London Fashion Week activities, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.
The tour is a part of the commission’s ongoing endeavors to improve and simplify access to the fashion sector, particularly by the private sector.
It aligns with the objectives of the Cultural Development Fund, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global leader in arts and culture.
The event will feature discussions with representatives of international and local investors.
Saudi Arabia strongly condemns intrusion by Netanyahu into Palestinian Jordan Valley
Ministry of Foreign Affairs says such violations harm efforts to ease tensions in the region and to provide protection for Palestinian civilians
It also renews call for the international community to fully live up to its responsibility to do all it can to halt Israeli aggression
Updated 13 September 2024
Arab News
JEDDAH: The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned what it described as a blatant Israeli intrusion by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu into a Palestinian-controlled area of the Jordan Valley.
It said the incident was a provocative action carried out with the aim of expanding Israeli settlement activity that violates international law and resolutions designed to prevent such actions, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
On Wednesday, Netanyahu, accompanied by Israeli army commanders, visited part of the valley close to the border with Jordan and announced his intention to build a wall along the border to prevent what he described as attempts to smuggle weapons and fighters into the West Bank and Israel. It is a revival of a project initially proposed by Israeli authorities about 20 years ago.
The ministry said such violations harm efforts to ease tensions in the region and to provide protection for civilians in the Palestinian territories.
It reiterated the important need for an end to Israel’s aggression in Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from the territory, the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes, and increased flows of humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people.
The ministry also renewed its call for the international community to fully live up to its responsibility to do all it can to halt all Israeli aggression against Palestinians and their territories, and stressed the need for mechanisms to ensure accountability for actions in Gaza and to help end actions by Israeli authorities that threaten security and undermine peace efforts in the region.
From seamless travel to tailored experiences, AI is transforming Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry
The Kingdom has raised it ambition to attract 150 million tourists per year by 2030, with AI at the heart of its tourism strategy
From personalized excursions to interactive augmented reality tours, experts say AI is revolutionizing the sector
Updated 59 min 29 sec ago
Sulafa Alkhunaizi
RIYADH: As the tourism industry prospers in Saudi Arabia, local travel agents are turning to artificial intelligence to help their clients plan dream vacations, offer seamless journeys, and create highly personalized visitor experiences.
As part of its Vision 2030 economic reform agenda, Saudi Arabia has raised its ambition to attract 150 million tourists a year by the end of the decade. Thanks to an array of AI solutions, this new target could be well within grasp.
An artistic impression of the resort planned by the Saudi giga-project NEOM and hospitality firm Equinox Hotels on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba will feature 15 hotels and over 2,500 residences in 12 locations. (NEOM image)
NEOM, Saudi Arabia’s $500 billion mega-city taking shape on the Kingdom’s northwest coast, will feature a range of innovative tourism experiences, using AI for personalized services, transport and hospitality.
Meanwhile, at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of AlUla and Diriyah, AI-powered augmented reality technology will offer visitors a program of interactive tours through the Kingdom’s historical sites.
Diriyah, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, offers visitors a program of interactive tours. (DGDA photo)
“The Kingdom is making significant progress in building its local AI talent through ambitious initiatives, collaborating with global AI players, such as Artefact, to upskill its young talent on AI,” Rahul Arya, CEO of tech consultancy Artefact MENA, told Arab News.
“The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence’s major initiatives and events, such as the GAIN Summit, are also putting the Kingdom on the global AI map and positioning it as an AI pioneer in the region.”
The latest edition of the Global AI Summit, also known as GAIN, took place in Riyadh between Sept. 10 and 12, offering a platform for experts, academics, corporates and policymakers to advance the discussion on AI.
During the 3-day GAIN Summit in Riyadh, AI’s transformative potential for the tourism sector was among the main topics discussed by experts, academics, corporates and policymakers. (AN photo by Abdulrahman Bin Shalhoub)
Oussama Ahmad, Artefact’s global lead on travel and tourism, attended the summit, held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center.
“As an AI practitioner, I am both invigorated and captivated by Saudi Arabia’s pioneering role in AI, as evidenced by its global leadership in government AI strategy,” he told Arab News.
“It’s imperative for me to be at GAIN to witness the latest AI advancements and success stories in the Kingdom and to exchange insights with thought leaders and experts in the domain.”
During the event, Ahmad moderated a panel discussion on AI’s transformative potential for the tourism sector.
“This session was part of a ‘first-of-a-kind’ event on AI for Tourism — a collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Tourism Authority, SDAIA and Artefact,” he said.
“Additionally, I had the pleasure to sign a memorandum of understanding between Artefact and STA to drive the development of AI solutions to promote Saudi Arabia as a leading tourism destination and to elevate its visitors’ experience.”
Ahmad said that AI solutions can enhance the marketing of the Kingdom as a tourist destination by addressing specific perception barriers with targeted messages delivered through the right channels.
“Solutions created by artificial intelligence include monitoring visitors’ experiences, addressing pain points and capitalizing on moments of delight, as an outstanding visitor experience is crucial for encouraging repeat visits and referrals,” he said.
“Additionally, AI can help identify new global events and attractions to be hosted by the Kingdom, plan for participant capacity at these events, and measure their return on investment.”
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Ahmad highlighted that the Saudi Tourism Authority has developed AI-powered recommendation systems, predictive analytics for visitors and their spending in order to elevate visitor experience and optimize capacity planning.
“Riyadh Air has established its data and AI infrastructure on-cloud to develop AI applications aimed at differentiating its guest experience and enhancing its commercial and operational performance,” he said.
Ahmad highlighted the effectiveness and accuracy of many AI applications, especially those based on generative AI, which rely on a detailed understanding of language and its dialectical nuances.
“This deep understanding can make all the difference in the model’s analysis of text or speech input, extraction of insights, and the accuracy of the model’s responses to user queries,” he said, underscoring the need for such models to be trained in Arabic dialects.
“AI models, and more specifically large language models, should be trained on the native language (both text and speech) and fine-tuned with the various dialects present in the Kingdom and its priority source markets of visitors.
“Moreover, Saudi Arabia has specific cultural aspects related to social values, customs, education, and communication … Developing AI solutions and innovations in the Kingdom comes with challenges, but the Kingdom is working to bridge the gap.”
Abdullah bin Sharaf Al-Ghamdi, president of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, unveiling the “State of AI in Saudi Arabia” report outlining the Kingdom’s advancements from 2019 to 2023. (SPA)
For Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector and other emerging industries to reap the benefits AI has to offer, Ahmad said the Kingdom should focus on data collection, the entry of cloud providers, and on supporting local tech talent.
“First, AI applications require a vast amount of clean historical data, typically in the range of hundreds of thousands to millions of data rows,” he said.
“However, the emerging Saudi tourism sector currently faces limitations in data availability and quality. To address this, organizations in Saudi Arabia should focus on extensive data collection through first-party data strategies and partnerships for second and third-party data exchange.
“In the meantime, AI models can be developed as proof of concepts and later fine-tuned as data sources are enriched.”
“Second, many organizations in the Kingdom have legacy technology infrastructure that cannot support the deployment and productionalization of large-scale AI applications.
“However, the entry of cloud providers into the Kingdom through local data centers has begun to alleviate this challenge, particularly as cloud service providers make their most advanced AI services available in these data centers.
Cloud providers are part of a set of requirements needed for the tourism sector to reap the benefits AI has to offer. (AN photo by Abdulrahman Bin Shalhoub)
“The third challenge is the undersupply of AI talent in the Saudi market, which has led to limited AI innovation locally. To address this, local organizations are tapping into global AI talent pools.”
High-quality data and robust governance are key pillars for developing effective AI models that generate accurate results. That is why the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence has created the National Data Management Office and the National Data Index.
“To address this, SDAIA has devised the NDMO and NDI frameworks, which regulate and standardize data governance and management across the Kingdom, thus accelerating AI development and leading to value creation from data insights,” Ahmad said.
“Additionally, the Kingdom has set clear standards for residency of AI applications based on the classification of data sets required for those applications. This has fueled a healthy competition among cloud providers to build compliant data centers in the Kingdom, offering a comprehensive range of their AI applications and services.”
Rahul Arya (left), CEO of tech consultancy Artefact MENA, and Oussama Ahmad, Artefact’s global lead on travel and tourism. (Supplied)
Most recently, the Kingdom pioneered AI regulations by defining a set of “AI Ethics Principles” in collaboration with the EU and in line with its AI Act.
“This framework ensures that AI development is ethical, transparent, and compliant with personal data protection standards,” Ahmad said.
If the Kingdom is able to overcome challenges such as data availability, technological infrastructure, and talent scarcity, Ahmad believes Saudi Arabia will make significant strides in AI development and adoption.
“The successful implementation of AI solutions, tailored to local languages, cultural nuances, and compliant with regulatory frameworks, is crucial for unlocking the full potential of AI in driving the tourism sector.”
