JEDDAH: The Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association is participating in the 16th World Scout Moot, taking place in Portugal from July 25 to Aug. 3.
The global event has drawn more than 6,000 Rover Scouts from around the world, and officially opened in the capital, Lisbon. It marks Saudi Arabia’s continued engagement in international scouting initiatives aimed at fostering global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding.
As part of the program, participants embark on an exploratory journey across various regions of Portugal under the “Paths” initiative, designed to immerse young scouts in the country’s diverse landscapes and heritage.
The delegation then proceeds to the main camp in Bucaco, near Porto, where they will spend five days engaged in activities focused on cultural exchange, environmental awareness, and traditional Portuguese practices.
Mubarak bin Awad Al-Dosari, the Saudi Scouts media officer, told Arab News: “A total of 93 Saudi participants are taking part in the event, including 72 rovers, both male and female from various sectors of the association, 17 members of the International Service Team, and an administrative team composed of 4 individuals.”
He added: “Activities include workshops, exploratory hiking trips, visits to landmarks in several Portuguese cities, and programs designed to foster networking and friendship-building.
“The Saudi delegation will also take part in the International Day for Cultural Exchange, showcasing traditional foods, clothing, jewelry, and serving Saudi coffee.”
Al-Dosari emphasized the significance of the moot: “This event is an opportunity to gain more scouting experience, build new friendships and relationships with scouts from around the world, and to promote and introduce Saudi culture to others.
“It also allows participants to learn about other cultures and benefit from workshops focused on skill development and personal growth,” he said.
The main camp features skill-building workshops, intercultural dialogue sessions, and an International Day, where each participating delegation showcases its national identity and customs. The event will conclude with a closing ceremony in the city of Porto.
SABSA said its participation is part of broader efforts to enhance leadership skills among Saudi youth, while promoting dialogue, understanding, and international cooperation.
The World Scout Moot is organized every four years and is open to young people aged 18 to 25. Individuals over the age of 26 are eligible to participate as members of the International Service Team.
The association emphasized that international engagement is a key pillar in its mission to equip young Saudis with the tools needed to thrive as active, globally minded citizens.
