DAMMAM: Municipalities in the Eastern Province plan to install high-tech self-cleaning toilets in several busy public locations in the region.
Eastern Province Mayor Fahad Al-Jubeir, accompanied by Alkhobar Mayor Essam Al-Mulla, viewed a model of these toilets at the Alkhobar Corniche recently.
Al-Jubeir said the toilets would not require workers to maintain and clean them. They have automatic drainage of waste, cleaning and disinfection around the clock, with automatic sensors on doors in place of keys, he said.
Al-Jubeir said the smart toilets do not have water taps or light switches because electronic sensors regulate consumption of water and power. They are used in many European countries, he said.
In addition, the toilets have sensors to detect and repair technical problems including air conditioning. They are also equipped for people with special needs. Users would only be allowed to use these toilets for a maximum of 15 minutes.
“The mayoralty is always on the lookout for modern technology that can help protect the environment and provide excellent services for citizens and residents,” he said.
Self-cleaning public toilets planned for eastern region
Self-cleaning public toilets planned for eastern region
Saudi Arabia decorates former Centcom commander with King Abdulaziz Medal
- The King Abdulaziz Medal is one of the highest and most prestigious civilian and military honors in Saudi Arabia
- As CENTCOM chief, Kurilla was instrumental in deepening the eight-decade military partnership between the US and Saudi Arabia
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has bestowed the King Abdulaziz Medal of Excellent Class upon the former commander of the US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM), retired General Michael Kurilla.
Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman conferred the award upon the directives of King Salman, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The ceremony took place at the defense minister’s office in Riyadh on Thursday.
The King Abdulaziz Medal, often referred to as the Order of King Abdulaziz, is one of the highest and most prestigious civilian and military honors in Saudi Arabia. Named after the Kingdom’s founder, King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the order was officially inaugurated by King Faisal on March 20, 1971.
General Kurilla, who retired from active duty in August 2025, served as the 15th commander of CENTCOM, overseeing US military operations across 21 countries in the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia.
During his tenure at CENTCOM from April 2022 to August 2025, Kurilla was instrumental in deepening the eight-decade military partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia. He made numerous strategic visits to the Kingdom, working closely with top defense leaders, including Chief of General Staff Gen. Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili.
Their frequent engagements focused on advancing joint military readiness, expanding regional security integration, and addressing evolving threats, such as Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
