Nobel laureate Omar Yaghi thanks Crown Prince for backing science

Omar Yaghi holds a press conference after winning the 2025 Nobel Prize for Chemistry, in Brussels on October 8, 2025. (FILE/AFP)
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Updated 12 October 2025
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Nobel laureate Omar Yaghi thanks Crown Prince for backing science

RIYADH: Saudi/Palestinian scientist Professor Omar Yaghi, winner of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, expressed deep gratitude to the Kingdom’s leadership for its unwavering support of scientific research and innovation.
In remarks published by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Yaghi thanked Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his continuous encouragement of his scientific journey – support that Yaghi said played a “pivotal role” in achieving this historic milestone.
Yaghi also acknowledged the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) for its long-term backing through the KACST–UC Berkeley Center of Excellence, describing it as instrumental to his success.
“Receiving this award is a great honor for me and for all Saudi and Arab scientists around the world,” Yaghi said, according to SPA. 
“I hope this achievement will inspire the next generation of Saudi and Arab youth to pursue excellence in research and innovation.”
Professor Yaghi, a pioneer in reticular chemistry – a groundbreaking field that designs crystalline frameworks with applications in energy, the environment, water desalination, and carbon capture – became the first Saudi national to win a Nobel Prize.


Saudi arts panel explores heritage at Damascus fair

Updated 6 sec ago
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Saudi arts panel explores heritage at Damascus fair

RIYADH: The Theater and Performing Arts Commission hosted a panel discussion on symbolism and heritage in traditional Saudi performing arts at the Kingdom’s pavilion during the Damascus International Book Fair.

Participants examined the symbolic meanings of folk arts such as Ardah, Samri, and Al-Khatwa, highlighting their role in expressing Saudi values, history, and national identity.

Key topics included the significance of collective movements and rhythms in conveying unity and social solidarity, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The panel also explored the symbolism of costumes, performance tools, and lyrics, and discussed strategies for preserving authenticity in contemporary cultural contexts.

Saudi Arabia was guest of honor at the fair, which concluded on Feb. 16. The Kingdom’s pavilion highlighted creativity and cultural exchange, supporting Vision 2030’s goals of knowledge sharing and cultural leadership.

The seminar was part of the commission's efforts to promote Saudi culture at regional and international forums, highlighting the rich heritage of traditional performing arts and fostering cultural dialogue with diverse audiences.