New campaign highlights Red Sea tourism, investment

The More Than a Sea campaign highlights the Saudi Red Sea Authority’s contributions to tourism. (X/@RedSeaSaudi)
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Updated 04 September 2024
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New campaign highlights Red Sea tourism, investment

  • More Than a Sea highlights the investment potential of the Red Sea, showcasing its 1,800 km coastline, 7 million residents, diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage
  • Campaign promotes activities such as cruises, yachts, diving, snorkeling and beach outings

RIYADH: The Saudi Red Sea Authority has launched a campaign to support coastal tourism.

The “More Than a Sea” campaign highlights the authority’s contributions to tourism through four key pillars: Regulation, sustainability, attracting investment and promoting tourism in the Red Sea.

It highlights the authority’s regulatory role, including setting policies, issuing licenses and preparing infrastructure for marine tourism activities, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The authority has issued seven new regulations in partnership with relevant entities to oversee coastal tourism in Saudi Arabia.

“More Than a Sea” highlights the investment potential of the Red Sea, showcasing its 1,800 km coastline, 7 million residents, diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

The campaign promotes activities such as cruises, yachts, diving, snorkeling and beach outings.

It also highlights efforts to protect the marine environment by collaborating with public and private bodies to develop mechanisms for environmental protection, enhance the blue economy, preserve natural resources and manage marine waste.

The Red Sea coast features more than 150 beaches, 1,000 islands, and 130 cultural and natural sites. It boasts more than 20 blue holes, 500 diving sites, and diverse cultural traditions and cuisine.

Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the authority aims to contribute SR85 billion ($22.6 billion) to gross domestic product, increase spending to SR123 billion, and create 210,000 jobs by 2030, diversifying Saudi Arabia’s non-oil income sources.


Saudi Arabia expands cloud seeding for water security

Updated 55 min 22 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia expands cloud seeding for water security

  • New aircraft and tech aim to enhance rainfall, sustainability, combat drought

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli launched new programs in Dammam on Saturday, focusing on localizing knowledge, aircraft, and advanced technologies for the Regional Cloud Seeding Program.

The event highlighted the program’s achievements since its first phase in 2022 and introduced new aircraft and technologies for rain enhancement, soon to be operational.

These advancements aim to strengthen technical and human capacities, in line with the Saudi and Middle East Green initiatives for sustainability.

Al-Fadhli, chairman of the National Center of Meteorology, emphasized that the program aims to develop local expertise, ensure sustainability, expand coverage, and enhance cloud seeding efficiency.

The program also focuses on reducing aircraft operating costs and increasing the effectiveness of cloud seeding operations.

Ayman Ghulam, CEO of the National Center of Meteorology and general supervisor of the program, stressed that the program is crucial for water security and natural resource sustainability by utilizing global technologies to improve climate conditions and rainfall.

Ghulam noted significant milestones, including the first rain-seeking flight in April 2022, and ongoing research to optimize weather elements in Saudi Arabia, complementing the Saudi and Middle East Green initiatives.

Ayman Al-Bar, executive director of the program, reviewed its objectives, progress, and research, highlighting the impact on water content and vegetation cover.

The program has completed six phases, with 444 flights and over 1,400 flight hours, deploying 8,753 rain-seeding flares to generate 5 billion cubic millimeters of rainfall.

Launched as an outcome of the Middle East Green Initiative Summit, the program aims to increase rainfall, expand vegetation cover, and address climate challenges, desertification, and drought. Initial operations began in Riyadh, Hail and Qassim.


King Salman, crown prince congratulate Spanish monarch on national day

Updated 12 October 2024
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King Salman, crown prince congratulate Spanish monarch on national day

  • Oct. 12 is also commonly referred to as the Dia de la Hispanidad

RIYADH: King Salman sent a cable of congratulations on Saturday to King Felipe VI of Spain on his country's National Day, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The king wished the Spanish monarch continued good health and happiness, and the government and people of Spain steady progress and prosperity, SPA added.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent a similar cable to King Felipe.

The National Day of Spain is a national holiday held annually on Oct. 12 and is also commonly referred to as the Dia de la Hispanidad, commemorating Spanish legacy worldwide, especially in Hispanic America.

On Friday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez urged the international community to stop selling weapons to Israel as he condemned attacks by Israeli armed forces against the United Nations’ peacekeeping force in Lebanon.


Early breast cancer detection crucial for high recovery rates, says Health Ministry

Updated 12 October 2024
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Early breast cancer detection crucial for high recovery rates, says Health Ministry

  • Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly improve patient quality of life

RIYADH: Early detection of breast cancer is vital for achieving a recovery rate exceeding 95 percent, the Saudi Ministry of Health said.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly improve patient quality of life and reduce mortality, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministry highlighted the importance of regular breast health screenings, noting that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women both globally and locally.

According to the ministry, 55 percent of breast cancer cases in the Kingdom are discovered in advanced stages, which reduces the chances of recovery.

Early screening is crucial for prevention, as 80 percent of breast tumors are benign, the ministry said.

The ministry recommends a healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, breastfeeding, avoiding long-term use of birth control pills without medical consultation, abstaining from all tobacco products, and adhering to hormone therapy under medical supervision to help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

A global health campaign, held every October and known as Pinktober, aims to promote screening and prevention of the disease, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide.

Pinktober, also known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, was launched in 2006 to provide a platform for advocacy organizations, health departments, retailers, and community groups to raise awareness of the disease, and support those affected by it.


Shalayel Museum unveiled at Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition

Updated 12 October 2024
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Shalayel Museum unveiled at Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition

Riyadh: Women have played a significant role in the art of falconry throughout history, often intertwining their passion for the sport with their positions of power and influence.

Shalayel Museum, dedicated to unraveling the world of falconry, is one of the main attractions at the Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition, organized by the Saudi Falcons Club at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham. 

Notable figures highlighted in the “Women in Falconry” section include Sultana Chand Bibi of India, who not only defended her kingdom against Mughal forces but also revealed a love for falcons, often depicted in paintings of her era. 

Similarly, Queen Christina of Sweden, an intellectual and patron of the arts, was known for her hunting expeditions accompanied by falcons, while Eleanor of Arborea introduced legislation to protect falcons, reflecting her dedication to the study of birds.

Other royal figures, such as Mary of Burgundy and Catherine the Great, embraced falconry as both a pastime and a status symbol, demonstrating their prowess in a sport historically reserved for the elite. 

In contemporary times, falconry is a space where women such as Saudi Adhari Al-Khaldi continue to challenge stereotypes, continuing the legacy of female falconers who have shaped this noble pursuit across centuries and cultures. 

The Peregrine is known as the fastest animal and bird on the planet, diving at speeds exceeding 240 km/h (AN/Basheer Saleh)

The sections in the museum focus on falcons, falconers and falconry in the Arab world and globally. 

A museum spokesperson highlighted the four main types of falcons found in the Arabian Peninsula: the gyrfalcon, peregrine falcon, lanner falcon, and saker falcon.

“Each of these majestic birds has unique characteristics, ecological significance, and historical relevance, particularly in the rich falconry traditions of the region,” they told Arab News. 

The gyrfalcon is the largest species of falcon, primarily inhabiting polar and subpolar regions across North America, Greenland, Europe and Asia. 

“They are distinguished by their broad chests, powerful wings and relatively short tails. A prominent brow above their eyes and long, sharp talons further enhance their formidable appearance,” the spokesperson said.

The saker falcon is renowned for its historical significance and resilience, breeding across northeast Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of South Asia.

A gauntlet is a protective hand cover, typically made of leather and fabric, used to carry the falcon safely. (AN/Basheer Saleh)

“Historically, Arabs were the first to recognize and hunt with saker falcons, establishing a deep-rooted connection with this species,” the spokesperson added. 

Known for its remarkable endurance, the saker can withstand hunger and is resistant to various diseases. 

“This falcon is capable of reaching speeds up to 300 kph (186 mph), making it one of the fastest birds of prey.”

The lanner falcon, is a medium-sized bird found primarily in Africa and Southeast Asia, with limited migration patterns. 

The spokesperson said: “While they primarily inhabit Africa and southeast Europe, their presence extends just into Asia. Their adaptability to various environments and their striking appearance contribute to their status among bird enthusiasts.” 

For Al-Enezi, Sadu weaving embodies the stories and traditions of her ancestors, serving as a bridge between generations.(AN/Basheer Saleh)

The peregrine falcon deserves mention as one of the most well-known falcons globally, renowned for its incredible speed and hunting prowess. 

“The peregrine is known as the fastest animal and bird on the planet, diving at speeds exceeding 240 kph (149 mph).” 

They described how, as we continue to explore and preserve these remarkable birds, we celebrate their role in the ecosystem and their significance in our cultural history.

The museum also has a dedicated section for falconry equipment essential for the successful training and handling of these magnificent birds.

The gauntlet, a protective hand cover typically made of leather and fabric, is used to carry the falcon safely.

To keep track of the bird during flight, a transmitter is used, allowing falconers to monitor their falcon’s location wirelessly.

When not in flight, the falcon rests on a block perch, a cone-shaped stand made of wood or iron, featuring a flat base covered with artificial grass or fabric, and a sharp-tipped metal piece to secure it to the ground.

For observing falcons in action, a hunting scope, a high-quality binocular, is indispensable. 

The swing, made from the wings of a bustard, is used to attract the falcon’s attention. To ensure the bird’s health, falconers regularly measure its weight.

A hood — a leather head covering —keeps the falcon calm by blocking its vision, while the mangalah is a fabric tool used to carry the bird, often lined with artificial grass. 

Finally, jesses, the strings tied to the falcon’s legs, connect to a leash, allowing for secure handling and control. Together, these tools enhance the bond between falconer and falcon, ensuring a successful hunting experience. 

The Weaving Heritage section, much enjoyed by visitors, displays local traditional crafts that represent the country’s heritage and national identity, including weaving traditional textiles. 

Haila Al-Enezi, a passionate advocate for the preservation of traditional crafts, told Arab News that Sadu weaving is not just an art form but a vital expression of Saudi Arabian heritage. 

“This intricate craft, characterized by its geometric patterns and vibrant colors, reflects the Bedouin lifestyle and their deep connection to the desert environment.”

For Al-Enezi, Sadu weaving embodies the stories and traditions of her ancestors, creating a bridge between generations.

She said: “Each piece carries cultural significance representing unity, identity, and the resilience of Saudi women who have historically played a crucial role in sustaining these practices.”

Through her work, Al-Enezi hopes to inspire a new appreciation for Sadu weaving, ensuring that this cultural treasure continues to thrive in modern society. 


Taif’s stone villages: a gateway to the region’s heritage

Updated 12 October 2024
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Taif’s stone villages: a gateway to the region’s heritage

JEDDAH: Nestled amid the rugged granite mountains of Maysan governorate in Taif, the villages of Bani Malik, Bani Saad, and Thaqif boast a unique architectural heritage.

Houses in these villages are skillfully constructed from the very stone that forms the towering peaks around them, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of generations past, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Visitors to Maysan are captivated by local people’s stories, and by the striking resemblance between the colors of their houses and the mountains.

Many locals are eager to share their rich cultural heritage, including traditional crafts, arts, chants, and ancient tools used in construction, such as the pickaxe and chisel.

The villages of Maysan offer a distinctive architectural experience. Visitors can explore houses carved into the mountaintops and villages built on rocks adorned with grapevine, apricot, peach, and almond branches.

Ancient dams in these villages are renowned for their suitability to the rocky terrain and their ability to withstand the elements, SPA said. Constructed from granite stones and covered with clay, the structures stand as enduring symbols of the past.

Adding to the allure, Wadi Qarn, west of Taif governorate, boasts a diverse landscape of sandy deserts, rugged mountains, and lush greenery, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor adventure.

The valley is home to aromatic wild plants, and a variety of rare migratory animals and birds. Adorned with rock carvings depicting camels, Wadi Qarn entices visitors to explore its natural wonders.

Wadi Qarn extends toward the west to Wadi Al-Sayl Al-Kabeer, supporting villages, farms, and leopard habitats in Wadi Mahram.

It gives rise to eastern and western tributaries, with villages such as Mallah, Al-Multawi, and Al-Dar nestled along wadis that share their names.

Visitors can enjoy the valley’s natural beauty, flowing waters, and rich biodiversity.

The area is known for its diverse wildlife and striking geological formations, such as rocky slopes and hills of varying sizes, that set it apart from other landscapes.