How Saudi Arabia is weaving sustainable practices into its fashion industry

Left to right: A stunning design by Khoja, adorned with intricate, abstract patterns that pay homage to cultural storytelling while exuding modern elegance; a bold and artistic creation by Nasibah Hafiz, showcasing sustainable fashion through a recycled shirt made from various textiles; and Chaldene’s soft yellow two-piece set embodies effortless charm, featuring delicate details like natural buttons and airy fabrics. (Instagram: moekhoja, nasibahafiz and chaldene)
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Updated 18 January 2025
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How Saudi Arabia is weaving sustainable practices into its fashion industry

  • Saudi Vision 2030 champions reducing, reusing, recycling, and upcycling clothing, with local designers leading the way
  • Initiatives like Riyadh’s GFX Fashion Swap promote exchanging quality garments to extend wardrobe life and cut waste

RIYADH: Thanks to the mass production and export of cheaply made clothing — a phenomenon of globalization known as “fast fashion” — consumers the world over have gained access to an almost limitless range of affordable outfits.

While this manufacturing and retail boom has stimulated growth, created jobs, and catered to consumer demand, it has also placed an immense strain on the workforces making these garments and on the environment.

In line with the sustainability goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform agenda and its circular economy approach, the Kingdom is encouraging consumers and manufacturers to reduce, reuse, recycle, and upcycle clothing to help ease the environmental burden.

With more than 80 billion garments produced worldwide every year, the industry has contributed to the pollution of the environment, the excessive use of resources, and a throwaway culture that has resulted in towering heaps of waste.

Globally, one garbage truck’s worth of textiles is sent to landfill or incinerated every second, depleting natural resources and increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Experts warn the industry could account for a quarter of the world’s carbon emissions by 2050.




Textile waste account for 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, according to UN figures. (AFP)

One of the most polluting industries globally, fast fashion is responsible for 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, according to UN figures — surpassing the combined emissions from international flights and maritime shipping.

Compounding the problem, a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation reveals that less than 1 percent of used clothing is recycled into new garments, perpetuating a destructive cycle of resource depletion and waste.




A striking design by Khoja, highlighting modern Saudi fashion with a blend of tradition and futurism. (Instagram: moekhoja)

“Sustainability in fashion isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity,” Mohammed Khoja, founder of Saudi clothing brand Hindamme, told Arab News.

“We focus on creating high-quality, timeless pieces designed to transcend trends. This avoids overproduction and ensures that our garments can become cherished vintage finds for future generations.”

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Khoja’s emphasis on “timeless design” aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of reducing waste and promoting sustainable consumption.

To address the issue of waste, Saudi Arabia is investing in circular fashion — a model focused on reusing, recycling, and upcycling clothing to extend its life cycle.

The Fashion Commission, which is part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture, has launched initiatives like the GFX Fashion Swap in Riyadh, which encourages the exchange of high-quality garments while educating participants on the environmental benefits of prolonging wardrobe use.

“We don’t need to keep buying new items,” said Nasiba Hafiz, a Saudi fashion designer. “Why not use the things we already have and repurpose them? This way, we can reduce waste and become more conscious consumers.”




(Instagram: globalfashionexchange)

Hafiz collaborates with Al-Oula Women’s Charitable Society to transform surplus fabrics into new garments, reducing waste while empowering women from underprivileged backgrounds in south Jeddah.

Another significant initiative is the Sustainable Materials Research Center. Established in partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, the facility develops eco-friendly textiles for traditional garments like abayas and thobes.

By blending innovation with cultural heritage, the Kingdom advances sustainable design solutions.

Fast fashion’s impact extends beyond consumer waste, with a significant yet often overlooked toll on water resources. Factories in developing countries, where most clothing is produced, consume vast amounts of water and energy.




Efforts are being made to develop sustainable textile materials in the Kingdom. (AFP)

For instance, producing a single pair of jeans requires about 3,781 liters of water, according to the UN Environment Programme — enough to meet one person’s hydration needs for more than five years.

Textile factories also release hazardous waste that pollutes rivers and groundwater, with dyeing and treatment processes contributing heavily to water contamination.

The World Bank estimates the fashion industry generates 20 percent of global wastewater, which is often laced with toxic chemicals.




Waste from textile's factories is released to Dravyavati river in Rajasthan, India. Dyeing and treatment processes in textile factories contribute heavily to water contamination. (AFP)

In Saudi Arabia, where water is scarce, designers like Chaldene are championing sustainability. The brand incorporates eco-friendly materials, such as coconut-shell buttons, to reduce reliance on resource-heavy alternatives.

“Every detail in our collection reflects our commitment to minimizing waste and honoring nature,” Asma Al-Othaimeen and Ghada Al-Majed, the co-founders of Chaldene, told Arab News in a joint statement.

Indeed, Saudi designers are leading the Kingdom’s sustainable fashion movement, pioneering innovative approaches to reduce the industry’s environmental impact.

One such designer, Ghaydaa Majdaly, uses 3D technology to transform recycled plastic bottles into fabric, ensuring a zero-waste approach.




With 3D software programs simplifying the design process and improving product quality while reducing the environmental footprint, fashion designers are changing the way they approach their products, as well as pattern making and fittings. (Supplied)

“Technology allows us to reimagine what’s possible in fashion while addressing the environmental challenges of fast fashion,” said Majdaly.

To the same end, Nasiba Hafiz, in collaboration with Al-Oula, repurposes discarded fabrics into new garments. This partnership not only reduces waste but also provides economic support to women in south Jeddah.

“By reusing and repurposing, we can extend the life of materials and create something beautiful and meaningful,” said Hafiz.

DID YOUKNOW?

Sustainable fashion reduces waste and supports Vision 2030’s circular economy goals.

Brands like Yasmina Q and Al-Oula turn discarded materials into new garments.

Hajj ihrams are recycled into reusable garments through sterilization and repair.

Meanwhile, Hindamme creator Khoja, who focuses on timeless designs over seasonal trends, believes in creating heirloom-quality pieces meant to last generations.

“Sustainability isn’t just about the environment — it’s about preserving our cultural identity while reducing waste,” he said.

However, the shift to sustainable fashion is not just up to brands and designers. Consumers also play a key role in driving demand for eco-conscious products.

Fast fashion thrives on overconsumption, with surveys showing many garments are worn only seven times before being discarded.

Reyouf Madkhali, a Saudi model and sustainable fashion advocate, emphasized the role of consumer behavior. “Sustainable fashion is reshaping the industry by encouraging innovation and responsibility,” she said.

“As a model, I prioritize working with brands that align with these values to promote conscious consumerism to my audience.”




Saudi model and sustainable fashion advocate Reyouf Madkhali. (Supplied)

She also noted the growing interest in sustainable practices among younger generations.

“People are starting to ask questions and take ownership of their choices,” she said. “Supporting local brands is a passion of mine, and I’ve been gradually replacing pieces in my wardrobe with designs from Saudi designers.”

Saudi Arabia is proving that sustainability and cultural preservation can go hand in hand. By tackling the environmental impact of fast fashion and promoting innovative solutions, the Kingdom is forging a new path.


 


KSrelief distributes food, dates in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mali and Malaysia

Updated 08 February 2025
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KSrelief distributes food, dates in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mali and Malaysia

RIYADH: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) recently distributed food and dates for residents in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mali and Malaysia, state news agency SPA reported.

In Bangladesh, KSrelief handed out 595 food parcels in several regions to residents affected by floods and cyclones. The recent initiative benefited 2,975 individuals.

In the Upper Chitral District of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Saudi aid agency gave out 492 food boxes, which benefited 3,546 individuals mostly affected by recent floods.

KSrelief also gifted 25 tonnes of dates to Malaysia and another 50 tonnes to Mali as part of the Kingdom’s support to ‘brotherly and friendly nations in various fields.’

In the southern Gaza Strip, KSrelief delivered 25 truckloads medical supplies to hospitals and health centers to enhance their capacities amid the difficult humanitarian conditions facing the sector.

The Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage, KSrelief's executive partner in Gaza, received the supplies and has begun distributing them.


Seasonal rains transform Saudi Arabia’s Rafha and Hanakiyah governorates into verdant pastures

Updated 08 February 2025
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Seasonal rains transform Saudi Arabia’s Rafha and Hanakiyah governorates into verdant pastures

  • Scenes of camel herds grazing provide a picturesque natural spectacle, showcasing the region's serene beauty

RIYADH: Seasonal rains have turned some of Saudi Arabia’s otherwise dry lands into lush green expanses, providing breeders with forage for their livestock and attracting tourists seeking a scenic escape.

Among these places is Al-Hanakiyah governorate in the western region of Madinah, where the mountains and plains have blossomed into vibrant green scenery, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Scenes of camel herds grazing provide a picturesque natural spectacle. (SPA)

“These rejuvenated landscapes provide perfect spots for visitors to unwind and engage in a variety of outdoor activities and hobbies,” the SPA said in one report.

Scenes of camel herds grazing provide a picturesque natural spectacle in a show of the region’s serene beauty.

Another such site is Zubala, south of Rafha governorate in the Northern Borders region, which is currently teeming with sheep grazing against the backdrop of the town’s historical landmarks.

A view of the grazing grounds of Zubala. (SPA)

Zubala, an important stop on the ancient Zubaydah Trail, has features of historical significance and natural beauty. 

Aside from providing grazing grounds for sheep farmers, the flourishing pastures also attract families and hikers seeking to enjoy the rural scenery. 

The village itself, with its preserved monuments, offers a glimpse into its past as a vital station on the Zubaydah pilgrimage trail. 


How Saudi Arabia is advancing clean combustion while meeting global energy demand

Updated 08 February 2025
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How Saudi Arabia is advancing clean combustion while meeting global energy demand

  • Kingdom’s carbon capture initiatives are cutting emissions and boosting oil recovery, paving the way for a sustainable energy future
  • KAUST has partnered with major stakeholders like SEC, the Ministry of Energy, and NEOM to develop innovative carbon capture solutions

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas industry is increasingly adopting carbon capture technologies to reduce industrial emissions while enhancing oil recovery. This approach addresses environmental concerns while supporting global demand for cleaner, more reliable energy.

Carbon capture technologies are methods to trap and store carbon dioxide — or CO2 — emissions before they reach the atmosphere, helping to reduce greenhouse gases from industrial processes, power plants and other sources.

As a leading oil producer, Saudi Arabia acknowledges its responsibility to combat climate change while maintaining energy security. Its efforts align with Vision 2030, which prioritizes economic diversification and reducing reliance on oil, paving the way to net-zero emissions by 2060.

And in line with this target, the Kingdom aims to reach 44 million tonnes per annum of carbon capture, use and storage capacity by 2035.

To this end, institutions such as the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology are making significant advancs in carbon capture and storage, driving innovation in sustainable energy solutions.

“Saudi Arabia’s investment in carbon capture technologies is driven by its Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil,” William L. Roberts, a professor of mechanical engineering at KAUST and director of the Clean Combustion Research Center, told Arab News.

“Carbon capture enables Saudi Arabia to reduce emissions from its hydrocarbon sector while supporting global demand for cleaner, affordable, reliable energy.”

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KAUST has partnered with major industry stakeholders, including the Saudi Electricity Company, the Ministry of Energy and NEOM, to develop innovative carbon capture solutions, including a 30-tonne-per-day CO2 capture initiative at the Duba power plant.

The pilot project, launched in 2022, aims to capture 30 tonnes of CO2 daily from SEC’s Green Duba Integrated Solar Combined Cycle power plant at NEOM.

The integration of captured CO2 for enhanced oil recovery offers an important opportunity for the oil and gas sector. In this process, supercritical CO2 is injected into reservoirs, changing the physical properties of residual oil and making extraction easier.

This not only boosts production efficiency but also supports a more sustainable approach to energy extraction.

The Carbon Dioxide Enhanced Oil Recovery Demonstration Project at the Uthmaniyah oil field is a prime example of this technique. Located in the Eastern Province, the large-scale project captures and stores about 800,000 tonnes of CO2 annually from a natural gas production facility, with CO2 transported via a 85-km pipeline to the injection site.

Saudi Aramco's project at the Uthmaniyah oil field in Al-Ahsa captures and stores about 800,000 tonnes of CO2 annually from a natural gas production facility. (Aramco photo)

Roberts of KAUST stressed the importance of careful management in these projects. “Monitoring CO2 injection to prevent leakage and optimizing injection rates is crucial for balancing production efficiency with environmental safety,” he said.

And although the potential benefits of carbon capture are clear, the industry faces significant challenges, including high costs and scalability.

A 2025 study published in the Carbon Capture Science and Technology journal shows that the average CO2 capture cost is $69 per tonne, with significant variability across industries. Ammonia production is the most cost-efficient, at $11 per tonne, due to its high CO2 concentration, while smaller-scale operations can face costs as high as $189 per tonne.

Emphasizing the need for a collective effort to overcome challenges, Roberts said that “collaborative research and pilot projects help to drive innovation and enable scalable, economically viable solutions for industrial carbon capture applications.”

Looking ahead, further advances in carbon capture technologies are on the horizon.

KAUST’s cryogenic carbon capture project is a promising technology that removes CO2 at low temperatures, offering high efficiency and scalability. (KAUST photos)

KAUST’s research group is actively exploring cryogenic carbon capture, a promising technology that removes CO2 at low temperatures, offering high efficiency and scalability.

Roberts said that relying on a single technology would not be enough to meet ambitious environmental goals.

“A diverse portfolio of solutions — including cryogenic capture, direct air capture, advanced membranes and chemical absorption — will be necessary to address emissions across various sectors,” he said.

This approach will lead to more flexible, cost-effective and sustainable carbon capture solutions, significantly reducing CO2 emissions.

KAUST plays a crucial role in educating the next generation of engineers and scientists to advance carbon capture technologies. The university offers specialized programs in sustainability and carbon capture, equipping students with the skills needed to address key challenges in CO2 capture, storage and use.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Industrial sources are responsible for nearly 30 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

• Carbon capture can reduce up to 90 percent of CO2 emissions from industrial sources.

•. Saudi Arabia aims for 44 million tonnes of carbon capture, use and storage capacity a year by 2035.

Roberts said that a holistic approach was key to fostering innovation and ensuring the successful implementation of carbon capture solutions.

“While carbon capture is essential for reducing industrial emissions, it must be part of a broader, multi-technology strategy to meet global emissions reduction targets,” he said.

Roberts advises policymakers and industry leaders to “focus on a technology-driven approach that prioritizes scalability, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.”

As a leading oil producer, Saudi Arabia acknowledges its responsibility to combat climate change while maintaining energy security. (Aramco photo)

He also emphasized the need for investment in experimentation and predictive modeling to avoid potential pitfalls at large scale and called for continued support for research into innovative CO2 capture methods.

“There isn’t one answer, and we need to identify as many solutions as possible,” he said.

Roberts advocates using pilot projects as platforms to optimize technologies before large-scale implementation.

He stressed the need for collaboration between research institutions, industry and government to align policies with technological advancements.

In addition, he said that establishing clear regulatory frameworks that incentivized carbon capture deployment was crucial to making these technologies economically viable and integrating them into industrial practices.


 

 


Indian diaspora provides key link between India and Saudi Arabia, says former foreign minister

Updated 08 February 2025
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Indian diaspora provides key link between India and Saudi Arabia, says former foreign minister

  • Salman Khurshid, president of the India Islamic Cultural Center, visits Riyadh to discuss with Indian expatriates their experiences of living and working in the Kingdom
  • Akhtarul Iman, of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, says authorities in India have failed to address the concerns of Indian Muslims in an appropriate manner

RIYADH: Salman Khurshid, president of the India Islamic Cultural Center and his country’s former foreign minister, said Indians living and working in Saudi Arabia play a key role in relations between the two countries.

He added that he and his team are working on implementing changes and reforms at the cultural center to improve the support and services it provides for all Indians, not only in India but in other countries.

Khurshid, who was elected president of the center in August last year, was visiting Riyadh for an event on Friday during which he discussed with Indian expatriates their experiences of living and working in the Kingdom.

Former Indian Foreign Minister and president of the India Islamic Cultural Center Salman Khurshid during media interaction in Riyadh on Friday. (Supplied)

“I am in here to interact with the Indian community and discuss the ground realities,” he said. “They are keen to know about the developments in India.

“I am very pleased that the IICC is in focus, people are looking at what possibilities there are, and how much we can develop the organization as a hub that links different parts in the world and connects with how important it is for that dimension of the Indian culture and the Indian society to be understood in the world.

“The Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia can provide an important bridge between the people of India and the people of Saudi Arabia, and this has been an important aspect for successive governments in India.

“We will brainstorm on key issues and ground realities, we will talk about those issues and what positive contribution can be made by people who have left their homes and families to come out into the world and make a mark with their presence here in the Kingdom.”

Prime Minister Indira Gandhi laid the foundation stone of the center’s headquarters in New Delhi on Aug. 24, 1984. The aim of the organization was to promote understanding among people of different religions and aid the cause of national integration. It was inaugurated by Congress party president Sonia Gandhi on June 12, 2006.

Regarding possible changes and development of the organization, Khurshid said there are plans to establish branches in states across India, and beyond, to support the decentralization and democratization of the center.

“It’s not just about chapters in different parts of India but also in other countries, as IICC overseas chapters, (for example) in Saudi Arabia,” he added.

“My view is that there should be chapters and we should support those chapters, but if people want fully fledged centers to be set up in states, I would say they should be affiliated centers supported by local members. Members from Delhi cannot control centers in the states, it must be truly democratic.”

Former Indian Foreign Minister and president of the India Islamic Cultural Center Salman Khurshid, AIMIM Bihar president Akhtarul Iman in Riyadh for an interaction with the Indian diaspora. (Supplied)

Khurshid was joined at Friday’s event by Akhtarul Iman, president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen party, who represents the constituency of Amour in the Bihar Legislative Assembly. He said it is the responsibility of the government and state authorities to protect the lives, property, honor and safety of all Indian citizens, yet Muslims have increasingly been targeted by those who wish to spread fear among them.

In the past decade, he added, there has been an increase in cases of injustice and atrocities committed against Muslims under the rule of Bharatiya Janata Party-led central and state governments, and the leaderships of both the Rashtriya Janata Dal and the Janata Dal (United) parties have also failed to address these issues in an appropriate manner.

“They ask Muslims for support but fail to address their concerns,” Iman said, adding that his party is committed to ensuring that the grievances of all Indian Muslims who have faced problems since 2014 are addressed.
 


Renowned Ramsi tomatoes still a staple on Saudi tables

Farmer Saeed Sulail is pictured here at a Ramsi tomato farm in Qatif. (AN photo by Hind Alkhunaizi)
Updated 07 February 2025
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Renowned Ramsi tomatoes still a staple on Saudi tables

  • Local farmers have been growing the crop for centuries
  • Used in salads, stews, sauces, and the famous Kabsa dish

DHAHRAN: Nestled in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom, Qatif is celebrated for its fertile soil, inviting climate, and rich agricultural heritage.

One of the region’s most prized crops is the Ramsi tomato, which is native to Saudi Arabia.

It is also the main product of Mohammad Al-Ghawy’s Ramsi Tomato Farm, which spans 45,000 sq. meters in Al-Awamiyah and produces other seasonal delights including local watermelon and cantaloupe.

Ramsi tomatoes have been a staple in Qatif for centuries due to the region’s significant role as a major agricultural producer. (AN photo by Hind Alkhunaizi)

The succulent tomatoes are celebrated nationwide for their vibrant color, firm texture, and sweet-tangy flavor.

They are grown using traditional farming methods, which involve careful nurturing and attention to detail.

Saeed Sulail, a farmer from Qatif, told Arab News: “In terms of the harvest, the growing season lasts for more than three months, from December to the beginning of April.”

FASTFACTS

• The succulent tomatoes are celebrated nationwide for their vibrant color, firm texture, and sweet-tangy flavor.

• Despite their popularity, production faces challenges, including climate change, desertification, water scarcity, and soil degradation.

He added: “If we add the duration of planting seeds and nurseries (the greenhouses), it is approximately eight months. The soil in Qatif is enriched with nutrients and minerals that foster robust growth.”

He highlighted the importance of proper fertilization. “These are the industrial fertilizers that trees and plants need to grow well, but they must be in specific ratios for each stage of the plant’s life.”

The result of this labor of love is a delicious product packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

Ramsi tomatoes have been a staple in Qatif for centuries due to the region’s significant role as a major agricultural producer. Their popularity has spread throughout the Kingdom, making them a staple in many Saudi households.

Today, Qatif remains the primary producer of Ramsi tomatoes, with many local farms dedicating their land to their cultivation. Ramsi tomatoes hold a special place in Saudi culture, particularly during the summer months when they are in season.

They are often served as a refreshing side dish, sliced and dressed with olive oil, salt and pepper.

In many households, Ramsi tomatoes are used in traditional dishes including salads, stews and sauces, as well as the famous Saudi Arabia dish, Kabsa, which consists of meat, spices and vegetables.

Despite their popularity, production faces challenges, including climate change, desertification, water scarcity, and soil degradation.

Local farmers and authorities are working together to implement sustainable farming practices, such as drip irrigation and crop rotation.