Sustainability in focus as Madinah marks World Soil Day
Updated 06 December 2025
SPA
MADINAH: Madinah joined the world in celebrating World Soil Day on Dec. 5, highlighting the importance of soil conservation for food security and ecosystems, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The day holds added significance in Madinah due to its rich agricultural history, diverse soil types — from clay to sand and volcanic Harrat — and its longstanding connection to date production.
The region’s soil faces challenges, notably salinization from imbalanced irrigation and climate change, the SPA added.
Authorities are addressing this through soil protection programs, improved irrigation techniques and sustainable agricultural practices.
Soil plays a vital role in water purification, acting as a natural filter. As winter begins, it is an opportune time to prepare soil for spring, expanding crop cultivation and harvest, the SPA reported.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Madinah is implementing initiatives to enhance resource efficiency, raise farmer awarenes and combat desertification. Farmers contribute by using organic fertilization and recycling agricultural waste.
World Soil Day highlights the need for collaboration between government agencies, farmers and stakeholders to ensure soil sustainability, preserve agricultural heritage and support Vision 2030’s sustainable development goals.
Approved by the Food and Agriculture Organization in 2013, World Soil Day aims to raise awareness of soil’s critical role in healthy ecosystems and human well-being.
International brands turn to Riyadh to expand cooperation
Capital cements role as hub at World Defense Show
Updated 49 min 27 sec ago
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's capital is cementing its role as a rising hub in the global defense industry, and the World Defense Show has attracted international brands eager to showcase advanced technologies and expand partnerships in the Kingdom and beyond.
Held under the patronage of the Saudi leadership, the show — which runs until Feb. 12 — has brought together defense manufacturers, technology innovators and government representatives from around the world.
Arab News spoke to several international exhibitors who underscored the show’s growing importance as a gateway to pursue regional and global cooperation.
Among the returning participants is Passtech Machine Tools, represented by Syed Zahid, its sales manager.
Passtech Machine Tools is participating in the World Defense Show in Riyadh for the third time, says sales manager Syed Zahid. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The company collaborates with various international brands, providing tools, machines and gauges, including advanced CNC (computer numerical control) machinery from South Korea.
For Zahid, WDS has proved to be a strategic platform, and he said: “This is our third time. We see it as very, very useful.”
From China, Jihua Group Co. Ltd. showcases advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. Peter Wang, its senior product manager, expressed optimism about expanding cooperation.
At the company’s booth, Arab News was introduced to several technologies, including what Wang described as a “true-color navigation device.”
Highlighting a wearable system, Wang said it was designed to enhance mobility and operational efficiency.
Jihua Group Co. Ltd. of China, another participant in WDS Riyadh, showcased advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
He emphasized the diversity of visitors and the potential for cross-border cooperation, and added: “I meet different countries’ customers here. I’m very happy and I want to get some opportunities for cooperation.”
Turkiye is also represented at the event. Masttech, which is attending WDS for the first time, is showcasing its products for visitors.
Deputy General Manager Sitki Tuzun said: “We are here to show all our products. We are producing electromechanical, mechanical and pneumatic mast systems here.”
While the company does not yet have Saudi clients, Tuzun made it clear that the show was a strategic leap toward entering the market.
“We are here for connection and new business cooperation,” he said.
First-time WDS participant Masttech hopes to capture a portion of the Saudi defense market soon. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)
The World Defense Show has demonstrated its increasing influence as a platform from which global brands meet regional opportunity.
Beyond static displays, the show serves as a dynamic networking arena, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and defense stakeholders under one roof.
As Saudi Arabia accelerates efforts to localize its defense industry and invest in advanced technologies, WDS continues to facilitate partnerships, technology transfer and international collaboration — reinforcing Riyadh’s emergence as a central node in the global defense ecosystem.
