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.”

 


Saudi Arabia hosts first Qur’an and Sunnah contest in Mauritania

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Saudi Arabia hosts first Qur’an and Sunnah contest in Mauritania

  • Saudi envoy inaugurates Jusoor Exhibition showcasing Kingdom’s cultural and religious contributions

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia inaugurated the first King Salman Competition for Memorizing the Qur’an and Sunnah of the Prophet on Tuesday in Nouakchott, Mauritania.

Organized by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs in cooperation with Mauritania’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Original Education, the event runs from Oct. 15-19.

A total of 136 contestants from 16 West African nations are competing, judged by a panel of 10 experts. The prize pool is SR1,218,000 ($324,000).

Mauritania’s Minister of Islamic Affairs Sidi Yahya Ould Cheikhna Ould Lemrabet expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for hosting the competition in Mauritania, reflecting the country’s care for the Qur’an and Sunnah.

The competition’s preliminary rounds run until Oct. 17, with the final ceremony on Oct. 19, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Alongside the competition, Saudi Ambassador to Mauritania Abdulaziz Al-Raqqabi inaugurated the Jusoor Exhibition on Sunday.

The exhibition features more than 12 interactive sections, including areas focused on the Qur’an, photography, Saudi attire, the Two Holy Mosques, Arabic calligraphy, technology, hospitality, and children’s activities.

A large screen showcases Saudi Arabia’s efforts in serving Islam and Muslims globally. The sections highlight the Kingdom’s cultural, scientific, Shariah and linguistic contributions, as well as its initiatives in supporting the Qur’an, Sunnah, and holy sites.

The exhibition aims to strengthen ties between Africa and Saudi Arabia, allowing African nations to benefit from the services of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. It also promotes the Kingdom’s message of moderation and rejection of extremism.

“We in Mauritania are proud of this choice, which reflects our identity,” Lemrabott said, pledging full efforts to ensure the competition’s success and its future growth.

The competition encourages Muslim youth to engage with the Qur’an through memorization, understanding and reflection. It also promotes healthy competition among participants and underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to teaching the Qur’an and spreading the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

The Mauritanian minister highlighted the competition’s positive impact on participants, allowing them to compete honorably in Qur’an memorization and recitation, with the prizes serving as a valuable incentive. 

He said that Mauritanian contestants has prepared diligently for the competition, expecting them to impress others with their Qur’anic memorization and recitation skills.

Lemrabott expressed gratitude to King Salman for sponsoring the competition and thanked President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani for his support of Qur’an memorization and recitation.

The minister emphasized the important role of the Jusoor Exhibition in offering visitors insights into Saudi Arabia’s history and its efforts in preserving the Qur’an and Sunnah.

“This exhibition is a great opportunity to educate the Mauritanian people about this history,” he said.


Saudi crater holds secrets to life on Saturn moon, study finds

Updated 2 min 12 sec ago
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Saudi crater holds secrets to life on Saturn moon, study finds

JEDDAH: A crater in Saudi Arabia holds clues for possible life on one of Saturn’s moons, more than 1 billion km from Earth, a study has found.

Scientists from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology sampled the extreme environment of Al-Wahbah Crater near Taif, comparing it to Enceladus, Saturn’s sixth-largest moon.

They discovered extremophiles in the crater that suggest the existence of biosignatures on the celestial body, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Enceladus has become a curiosity to astrobiologists due to the large ocean below its icy crust. The water is highly alkaline and saline, and includes complex molecules, such as methane and oxygen, consistent with signs of life. Al-Wahbah Crater contains a similar environment.

“Al-Wahbah Crater serves as an Earth analog for Enceladus’ ocean, where similar conditions might support life,” said Alexandre Rosado, the KAUST professor who led the study, told the SPA.

To identify the unique characteristics of life in the crater, scientists isolated 48 bacterial strains, finding two that had a composition indicating an adaptability suitable for the extreme environment of Enceladus.

Based on their genetic, metabolic and chemical profiles, the two strains showed an effective survival strategy for the extreme environment of the crater.

“The strains are thermohaloalkaliphilic bacteria, thriving in high temperatures, salinity and alkaline pH. These conditions mimic the environments on Enceladus, making them ideal candidates for studying life in such extreme conditions,” Junia Schultz, a postdoctoral researcher involved in the project, told SPA.

Along with a high tolerance for alkalinity and extreme temperatures, the two strains possess other advantageous features inferred from their genomic capabilities, such as potential resistance to high pressures and ionizing radiation, which minimizes DNA mutations.

Al-Wahbah is not the only analog of Enceladus’ environment on Earth, but scientists researching extraterrestrial life prefer the site to other locations.

“Environments with conditions similar to Enceladus are rare on Earth. Other places have been studied for resembling Enceladus’ ocean. However, they are not as accessible or well suited for the type of microbial studies we conducted at Al-Wahbah,” said Alef dos Santos, a Ph.D. student who contributed to the study.

Rosado and his colleagues said that their study is the first to demonstrate the utility of Saudi Arabia’s extreme environments as a model for detecting extraterrestrial life.

Other locations in the Kingdom, on land and in the Red Sea, may prove valuable in seeking biosignatures on planets such as Mars, they added.

Having sent its first female astronaut to space in 2023 and with plans to launch its first space tourists in 2026, Saudi Arabia aims to build a major presence in the space industry in the near future.

The findings at Al-Wahbah could position Saudi Arabia as an invaluable partner for several space agencies, including NASA.

The US agency’s Europa Clipper project plans to launch missions for the exploration of Enceladus in the coming years, the SPA said.

“In addition to advancing our understanding of how bacteria might adapt to hostile environments, this research aids in guiding the continued astrobiology quest for extraterrestrial life” said Dr. Kasthuri Venkateswaran, a retired scientist from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab and adjunct professor in the department of space studies at the University of North Dakota.


Saudi hospital has become a global leader in organ transplants

Updated 16 min 35 sec ago
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Saudi hospital has become a global leader in organ transplants

  • Over 9,000 organ transplants since 1981 and 1,092 in 2023
  • World’s first fully robotic liver, heart replacement surgeries

RIYADH: has become a world-leading facility for organ transplantation.

KFSHRC’s Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence has garnered international acclaim for its expertise in solid-organ transplants, including liver, kidney and lung procedures, said the hospital in a statement on Monday.

In the past year, the hospital successfully conducted 1,092 transplants.

KFSHRC has performed a series of groundbreaking surgeries, most notably the world’s first liver transplant from a living donor using robotic technology in both organ retrieval and implantation.

Building on this success, the surgical team recently completed the world’s first fully robotic heart transplant, further solidifying Saudi Arabia’s position as a global leader in healthcare innovation.

Since the program’s inception in 1981, the hospital has performed 9,000 successful transplants.

Recognizing the critical challenge of donor-patient compatibility, particularly in kidney transplants, KFSHRC established the pioneering Kidney Paired Donation program.

This program facilitates the exchange of living donors with incompatible blood types and tissues between multiple patients, significantly increasing the pool of available organs and reducing waiting times.

The KPD program has enabled KFSHRC to perform over 5,000 kidney transplants.

KFSHRC’s commitment extends beyond the transplant surgery itself. Understanding prevention’s crucial role in patient well-being, the hospital established a specialized vaccination clinic for solid-organ transplant recipients in 2023.

This clinically tailored vaccination plans for each patient’s unique immune status and type of transplant, minimizes the risk of infections that could compromise outcomes.

The clinic has already served over 150 patients, achieving a high compliance rate for the Shingrix vaccine.

For the second consecutive year, KFSHRC has secured the top spot in the Middle East and Africa, and ranks 20th among the world’s top 250 academic medical centers.

Brand Finance recognized the facility as the most valuable healthcare brand in the Middle East for 2024.

Newsweek magazine also included the facility among the world’s best 250 hospitals and in the World’s Best Smart Hospitals list for 2025.


Saudi crown prince departs for Egypt to meet President Sisi

Updated 18 min 59 sec ago
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Saudi crown prince departs for Egypt to meet President Sisi

RIYADH: The Saudi Royal Court announced on Tuesday that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had departed for Egypt. 
During his visit, the Crown Prince will hold talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.
The discussions will center on enhancing bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as well as addressing key issues of mutual concern.


Saudi art exhibition set for global debut

Updated 15 October 2024
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Saudi art exhibition set for global debut

RIYADH: The Museums Commission has announced plans to launch a landmark exhibition on the art of the Kingdom to bring Saudi contemporary work to the global stage.

The exhibition will tour several countries, introducing international audiences to the vibrant art scene in Saudi Arabia and showcasing the nation’s most prominent contemporary artistic endeavors.

The exhibition is set to debut in Brazil this November to coincide with the G20 Summit. This will ensure that Saudi art is showcased to a global audience during one of the world’s most significant international events.

Following its inauguration in Brazil, the exhibition will return to Riyadh, where it will be hosted at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art in the Jax district in early 2025.

The exhibition will then travel to Beijing, where it will be presented at the National Museum of China toward the end of 2025.

The exhibition’s inaugural event in Brazil will feature works by about 15 Saudi artists, representing diverse genres and generations.

The artists will contribute installations, sculptures, oil paintings and drawings that reflect the richness and diversity of Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene.

By organizing the exhibition, the Museums Commission aims to empower and promote Saudi artists by providing them with an international platform to display their creativity.

The initiative also seeks to elevate the Kingdom’s cultural profile on the world stage and highlight its growing influence in the global arts and culture arena.