No time to waste — Saudi masters art of watchmaking

Abdulrahman Al-Zahrani says his childhood dream of becoming an aviation engineer set the stage for his career in watchmaking. (Supplied)
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Updated 02 August 2024
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No time to waste — Saudi masters art of watchmaking

  • Abdulrahman Al-Zahrani set out to defy the odds and carve a niche for himself in the world of horology

JEDDAH: Saudi watchmaker Abdulrahman Al-Zahrani developed an interest in watches at a young age and is now among the very first Saudis to join the world of watch engineers, driven by his commitment to the craft.

His journey into watchmaking began while working at a company representing Longines. The lack of local skilled watchmakers sparked his interest in exploring this field.

Al-Zahrani, 29, told Arab News that his love for taking things apart and a childhood dream of becoming an aviation engineer set the stage for his career in watchmaking.




Abdulrahman Al-Zahrani says his childhood dream of becoming an aviation engineer set the stage for  his career in watchmaking. (Supplied)

“In a field predominantly occupied by other nationalities, I ventured into watch repair with a burning ambition to challenge conventions and pave the way for Saudi representation,” he said.

Inspired by the transformative Saudi Vision 2030, and the resolve of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to see Saudis excel, Al-Zahrani set out to defy the odds and carve a niche for himself in the world of horology.

His stint as a maintenance officer at Rolex proved to be a pivotal moment in his career. The experience garnered at Rolex, renowned for its unparalleled craftsmanship, honed his skills and positioned him as not only the first Saudi watch engineer but also the first from the Middle East.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The experience garnered at Rolex honed Al-Zahrani’s skills and positioned him as not only the first Saudi watch engineer but also the first from the Middle East.

• His training under seasoned engineers and courses in Switzerland marked a transformative phase in his career, enhancing his technical acumen and refining his craftsmanship.

“I am so grateful for what I have become now, as the precision and artistry which I learned at Rolex became the foundation for my future work,” he said.

Al-Zahrani faced many challenges in his career, including fighting misconceptions about the skilled work involved in watchmaking. However, his strong spirit and thirst for knowledge pushed him forward. “My determination and passion helped me to master the craft,” he said.

His training under seasoned engineers and courses in Switzerland marked a transformative phase in his career, enhancing his technical acumen and refining his craftsmanship. The acquisition of two coveted certificates in watch engineering from Switzerland launched a new chapter in his illustrious career.

“When I started in the field, I only had a high school diploma and had taken courses in English language and computer skills. In my search, I discovered that there were no Saudis in the watchmaking field, so I decided to learn and become the first Saudi watchmaker,” he said.

Al-Zahrani said watch maintenance as a profession is passed down through generations of watchmakers, rather than being taught at university.

“I was lucky that major watch brands, such as Longines, Rolex and Patek Philippe, offer training courses,” he said. “It was a bold step for me to take such training, especially since I had not completed my studies, but it was a valuable experience from a young age.”

Al-Zahrani is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in management from Midocean University in the UAE.

Al-Zahrani’s hope is to establish a Saudi watch brand that rivals international counterparts, reflecting his visionary outlook.

“In addition to the many distinctive industries and events currently happening in the Kingdom, my main aim is to provide the best international products and services,” he explained. “These offerings can significantly enhance accuracy, quality and efficiency, surpassing any other brand. I invite government and private agencies, as well as businessmen interested in supporting or joining this project, to get in touch with me.”

By championing innovation, education and professional design, he envisions a future where Saudi Arabia emerges as “a powerhouse in luxury watchmaking.”

“My dream is to showcase its rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship on a global stage,” he said.

To perfect watchmaking and maintenance, several factors come into play, Al=Zahrani said. “Psychological, physical, and mental well-being are crucial. Ensuring adequate rest, sleep, and exercise can significantly enhance focus and precision,” he said. “Mastery in watchmaking demands meticulous attention to detail, patience, and a steady hand.”

When the maintenance manager from a prestigious global watch brand observed his passion for the work, he enrolled Al-Zahrani in a special training course: “Julien Bochent, the global director of maintenance at Longines, was the one conducting the training course.

“I expressed my interest in the field and asked for the opportunity to prove myself. He agreed, gave me a chance, and I completed the course.”

After he completed the course, Al-Zahrani was given a gift, a toolbox and set of premium tools designed for managers. “It was one of the happiest moments of my life. He welcomed me with warmth, respect, and appreciation, and gave me the chance to shine in the world of watches.”

Al-Zahrani, noting the importance of being passionate about work, said: “When you love what you do, creativity flows naturally, and boredom becomes a distant memory. Each day brings new discoveries and continuous learning.

“Every hour holds its own story, and every challenge presents an opportunity for growth. The key is to do what you love, as passion fuels creativity and innovation.”

Thinking ahead, he said he would like to establish maintenance centers for luxury watches in Saudi Arabia.

His message to the youth echoes the sentiment that the pursuit of one’s dreams, no matter how unconventional, can lead to unparalleled success and fulfillment: “My passion and love for this profession are limitless.”

 


Archaeologists discuss latest findings from Al-Faw, Saudi Arabia’s newest World Heritage Site

Updated 8 sec ago
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Archaeologists discuss latest findings from Al-Faw, Saudi Arabia’s newest World Heritage Site

  • Delegates at international conference in Riyadh are told recent discoveries at the site have changed our understanding of ancient civilizations in the region
  • Addition in July of Al-Faw to UNESCO’s World Heritage List ‘confirms the importance of the site to the world,’ expert says

RIYADH: Experts gathered at an international conference in Riyadh on Tuesday to discuss the latest historical secrets unearthed at Al-Faw archaeological site in Saudi Arabia, including information about the complex network of trade routes that intersected there and the cultural exchanges that took place.

The event, organized by the Saudi Heritage Commission, follows the addition in July of Al-Faw to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. It is the eighth location in the Kingdom to achieve this recognition.

Ajab Al-Otaibi, director of the commission’s Archaeological Documentation and Research department talked about the ways in which recent discoveries have changed our understanding of ancient civilizations in the region.

“The most recent excavations have revealed a complex network of trade routes and cultural exchanges that connected Al-Faw with other kingdoms in the Arabian Peninsula and beyond,” he said. 

“These findings have significantly reshaped our understanding of the social and economic dynamics in the region during ancient times.”

The discoveries offer fresh insights into trade and communication networks in the region at the time, and help to create a more comprehensive understanding of the communities that lived there, he added.

Noura Al-Khamees, general manager of the World Heritage Sector at the commission, welcomed the recognition of the site by UNESCO. 

“Having Al-Faw on UNESCO’s World Heritage List confirms the importance of the site to the world,” she said.

“Not only is it a testament to the great history and significance of the site but it’s a global recognition of the strong, Saudi-led management, conservation, protection, research and presentation of Al-Faw.”

One of the specific topics discussed during the conference was the rock art and inscriptions discovered at the site, which the experts said provide valuable insights into the lives of ancient inhabitants of Al-Faw. 

The attendees were invited to participate in field visits to the site to see for themselves the ongoing preservation efforts and experience the history it reveals.

Organizers said Al-Faw is more than simply an archaeological site, it is a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving and sharing its cultural heritage with the world.

Al-Faw is in Wadi Ad-Dawasir, about 700 kilometers southwest of Riyadh, at the intersection of the Empty Quarter desert and the Tuwaiq mountain range. It contains about 12,000 archaeological artifacts and has a history of human habitation stretching back more than 6,000 years.


15 years in jail for 2 expatriates guilty of SR22m financial fraud in Saudi Arabia

Updated 08 October 2024
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15 years in jail for 2 expatriates guilty of SR22m financial fraud in Saudi Arabia

  • The pair, who set up call centers from which they contacted victims while pretending to be government officials, were also fined a total of SR1.5m

RIYADH: Two expatriates convicted of financial fraud have each been jailed for 15 years in Saudi Arabia and fined a total of SR1.5 million ($400,000). They were found guilty of 177 crimes from which they amassed more than SR22 million.

Investigations revealed the pair organized a fraud operation that targeted victims inside and outside the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday. They established call centers in several regions across the country, from which they contacted victims while pretending to be government officials.

A search of their residence revealed tablets, SIM cards, two high-tech telecoms devices for making fraudulent calls, and a control device that managed the entire operation.

One of the individuals was fined SR1 million and the other SR500,000. The court also ordered that their ill-gotten gains be seized, and they be deported after completing their sentences. Officials from the Public Prosecution worked to trace the illicit funds and froze them so that the money can be returned to the victims.

The Public Prosecution said it remains committed to investigating such crimes and taking action against anyone found to be involved in them, as efforts to combat financial fraud are a top priority to help protect the assets of citizens and residents.


Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission vows to protect archeological sites against violators

Updated 08 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission vows to protect archeological sites against violators

  • Penalties for violations, including sticking advertisements, include hefty fines and imprisonment

MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission stressed that it will stand firmly against people who tamper with archeological sites, taking legal measures against them and preventing any transgressions that pose a threat to the safety of the Kingdom’s heritage.

In the past week, the commission observed several violations of the antiquities and urban heritage regulations in Al-Wajh governorate in the Tabuk region and referred 23 expatriates to the relevant authorities.

The commission seeks to raise public awareness about Saudi Arabia’s archeological heritage. (SPA)

The Heritage Commission explained that the encroachments were observed on the Umm Qurayyat and Al-Arja sites in Al-Wajh, Tabuk.

The violators moved stones and soil from an archeological site, it noted, adding that authorities will take legal measures against them.

HIGHLIGHT

The Heritage Commission outlined the penalties for vandalism and attacks on heritage sites, as stipulated in Articles 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76 and 77 of the Antiquities and Urban Heritage Law.

The commission noted that it arrested numerous individuals who were involved in similar violations and investigations are underway in accordance with the applicable legal procedures.

The commission seeks to raise public awareness about Saudi Arabia’s archeological heritage. (SPA)

In its statement to Arab News, it emphasized that its mission is to protect and effectively manage the Kingdom’s cultural wealth and archaeological sites, by enforcing laws and regulations that ensure the protection of these sites.

The commission also seeks to raise local communities’ awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage as an integral part of the nation’s historical identity.

The commission seeks to raise local communities’ awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage as an integral part of the nation’s historical identity. (SPA)

The Heritage Commission outlined the penalties for vandalism and attacks on heritage sites, as stipulated in Articles 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76 and 77 of the Antiquities and Urban Heritage Law.

According to these regulations, anyone who illegally appropriates an antiquity belonging to the state faces imprisonment for a period ranging from six months to seven years, and fines of between SR50,000 ($13,300) and SR500,000.

The commission seeks to raise public awareness about Saudi Arabia’s archeological heritage. (SPA)

In addition, the articles stipulate that anyone who violates a monument, archeological site or urban heritage site by destroying, altering, removing, excavating, damaging and changing its features, can be punished with imprisonment for a period ranging from three months to three years, and a fine between SR20,000 and SR300,0000.

The commission added in its statement: “Anyone who surveys or excavates antiquities without a license faces imprisonment for a period of not more than two years and a fine of not more than SR200,000 or with one of these two punishments.

The commission seeks to raise public awareness about Saudi Arabia’s archeological heritage. (SPA)

“Similar penalties apply to anyone who imitates or falsifies antiquity or performs any of the total or partial demolition works within the boundaries of antiquities and urban heritage sites, or builds on them, without obtaining approval from the ministry.”

It indicated that anyone who modifies a building or an urban heritage site, makes a modification in the surrounding environment that damages it without taking the ministry's approval or moves rubble, stones, or soil from monuments and urban heritage sites without the ministry’s approval, faces imprisonment for not more than a year and a fine not exceeding SR100,000 or one of these two penalties.

Similar sanctions apply to anyone who throws rubble or waste, defaces a monument or urban heritage by writing, painting, engraving, sticking advertisements on it, or committing arson in monuments and urban heritage sites.

 

 


World Dyslexia Day sees launch of initiative to empower Saudis with learning difficulties

Dyslexia is initially diagnosed by a neurologist or psychiatrist. (SPA)
Updated 08 October 2024
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World Dyslexia Day sees launch of initiative to empower Saudis with learning difficulties

  • Magnetic resonance imaging studies by scientists at the University of Bonn in Germany have identified abnormal brain activity in individuals with dyslexia, particularly in left brain regions that process language and visual neural signals

RIYADH: A project aiming to support and empower people with learning disabilities was launched in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, coinciding with World Dyslexia Day.

The initiative will address the challenges faced by those with dyslexia, and plans to equip their families, educators and healthcare professionals with additional tools to provide support.

Bahareth said people with dyslexia often encountered difficulties due to the impact on their reading, writing and overall learning capabilities. (SPA)

“It is crucial to remember that 70 percent of history’s most groundbreaking inventions came from minds shaped by dyslexia,” said Mohammad Bahareth, the scheme’s supervisor, citing Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates and Nikola Tesla.

Dyslexia is initially diagnosed by a neurologist or psychiatrist. To receive additional support in the Kingdom, people need a medical report and disability certificate from authorities accredited by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

Dyslexia is initially diagnosed by a neurologist or psychiatrist. (SPA)

People with dyslexia often have normal or above-average intelligence, and many are capable of performing well in school. One of the aims of the new program is to create a more inclusive and understanding environment.

Emotional support is believed to be crucial, with early assessment and intervention leading to the best outcomes. However, dyslexia is often not diagnosed until adulthood and there is also an overlap between dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder which can cause difficulties with focus and impulsivity.

Dyslexia is initially diagnosed by a neurologist or psychiatrist. (SPA)

Bahareth said people with dyslexia often encountered difficulties due to the impact on their reading, writing and overall learning capabilities. He spoke about the magnocellular theory of dyslexia, which says the condition is caused by an abnormality in the cells responsible for transmitting information between the eye and the brain.

Studies have shown these cells are smaller in those with dyslexia than in people who are neurotypical. This causes incorrect transmission and frequency of read information, resulting in messages from the eye being misinterpreted by the brain.

Magnetic resonance imaging studies by scientists at the University of Bonn in Germany have identified abnormal brain activity in individuals with dyslexia, particularly in left brain regions that process language and visual neural signals.

Those with dyslexia can also experience associated difficulties, including physical balance issues. Another common challenge is distortion in the perception of time, while spatial disorientation can be another associated symptom.

People with dyslexia might struggle to recognize directions and have difficulty finding locations with using a map, while others face mathematical and numerical challenges.

 


Saudi defense minister discusses efforts to de-escalate regional tensions with US counterpart

Saudi Arabia’s Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. (File/SPA/AFP)
Updated 08 October 2024
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Saudi defense minister discusses efforts to de-escalate regional tensions with US counterpart

  • Two officials reviewed the strategic partnership between the Kingdom and the US and ways to bolster defense cooperation

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed efforts to de-escalate regional tensions in a phone call on Tuesday.

During the call, the two officials also reviewed the strategic partnership between the Kingdom and the US and ways to bolster defense cooperation.

The latest regional and international developments and efforts to promote security and stability in the region were also discussed.