LONDON: The Saudi Embassy in London has warned nationals and residents of the Kingdom to be careful in the city after a huge rise in the number of acid attacks, with the mayor saying he is “deeply concerned” by the increase.
The embassy’s advice comes as crimes using corrosive substances in the UK capital jumped in 2016 to 431 from 261 in 2015, a rise of 74 percent, Metropolitan Police figures show. So far this year, there have been 282 attacks.
That has resulted in increased public awareness and fear of the new scourge on London’s streets.
The latest attack came on Monday evening in the upmarket Knightsbridge area, popular with Gulf tourists when they visit London. The Metropolitan Police said a 47-year-old man was attacked by two men on a moped, who attempted to steal the man’s watch.
With the rapid rise in attacks, the Saudi Embassy has now urged its citizens to watch out while in the UK capital.
A statement issued by the embassy noted the increasing number of attacks using corrosive liquids by “professional thieves” in London’s tourist hotspots.
“We call upon visiting citizens and residents to exercise caution and avoid walking in alleys and dark places,” the embassy said.
The embassy reiterated the importance of avoiding carrying valuable items, and to tell the police and embassy in the event of an attack.
But while undoubtedly concerned, the mayor of London’s office insisted the capital remained “one of the safest cities in the world,” and as welcoming to visitors as ever.
A spokesperson for Mayor Sadiq Khan told Arab News: “London is the most open, welcoming and cosmopolitan city in the world. Last year, the capital attracted a record 19.1 million overseas visitors who come here to enjoy our unbeatable array of museums, restaurants, shop and theaters.
“London is also one of the safest cities in the world, and acid attacks are rare. The mayor is deeply concerned about the recent increase in these crimes and has been clear that they will not be tolerated.”
The mayor’s office went on to say that the Metropolitan Police is working hard to make the streets hostile territory for the criminals who use mopeds, motorbikes and bicycle. This includes dedicated operations, building intelligence about offenders and ongoing prevention work.
The recent spate of acid attacks has resulted in Deliveroo riders refusing to work in certain areas or past a certain time.
On July 13, a moped rider sprayed acid at six people during a 90-minute rampage. One of the victims was seriously injured, and two were Deliveroo riders.
The food-delivery company has said it will hire 50 staff dedicated to ensure the safety of its riders, as well as fit GoPro cameras on their drivers’ helmets as protection against attacks.
These moves come on the back of medics calling for the public to be educated on what to do in the aftermath of an attack.
Intervention by bystanders could “substantially improve the outcome” of acid attacks, senior figures from the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) and Barts Health NHS Trust said.
Saudi Embassy issues warning over London acid attacks
Saudi Embassy issues warning over London acid attacks
Al-Ahsa’s bishts are exquisitely tailored, rich cultural symbols
- Known across the Arab world for their elegance, quality and intricate embroidery
RIYADH: Al-Ahsa is known for its diverse industries and handicrafts, particularly the Hasawi bishts, which are sought-after across the Arab world for their exquisite tailoring, quality and intricate embroidery.
The Hasawi bisht is favored by dignitaries, officials and businesspeople for its aesthetics as well as the rich culture it represents, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
They come in dark or light fabrics depending on taste, the occasion and season.
These garments are often adorned with silk thread, as well as golden and silver zari embroidery in shades of yellow, reddish hues, and white, the SPA reported.
Handmade bishts continue to be in demand despite machine-made options.
Certain families in Al-Ahsa and elsewhere in the Kingdom are renowned for their expertise in crafting handmade and artisanal bishts, with meticulous attention to design, shape and embroidery.
Prices vary based on craftsmanship, fabric quality, and the type of zari used. Fabrics from Japan or Kashmir, along with German zari, are factors in determining cost.
Winter bishts, woven from camel hair, come in varying quality and are distinguished by their thickness and weight compared to those made for summer.
Bisht fabrics are woven in Saudi Arabia, Syria and Jordan, with China and India offering similar manufactured options, the SPA added.
The embellishment of the winter Hasawi bisht initially had silk thread, and later incorporated golden and silver.
Stitching the karmuk, the wide section adorned with zari, can take 14 days by hand, while a machine can complete the task in two hours.
Riyadh to host Saudi orchestra concert
- Starting on Jan. 16 at the King Fahd Cultural Center, the three-day event is part of efforts to promote Saudi music to local audiences
- Concert marks the sixth stop on the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir’s global tour
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Music Commission is to host the “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” concert in Riyadh for the first time.
Starting on Jan. 16 at the King Fahd Cultural Center, the three-day event is part of efforts to promote Saudi music to local audiences.
It will be held under the patronage of Culture Minister and Music Commission Chairman Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan.
The concert marks the sixth stop on the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir’s global tour, reports the Saudi Press Agency.
The orchestra and choir have brought Saudi heritage to prestigious stages worldwide, beginning in Paris at the Theatre du Chatelet and followed by performances at the National Theatre in Mexico, New York’s Metropolitan Opera House, Central Hall Westminster in London, and Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall.
The Riyadh concert promises a captivating musical experience, with timeless melodies that guide the audience through the Kingdom’s heritage and highlight its cultural legacy and artistic depth.
Historic exhibit in Makkah spotlights Prophet Muhammad’s journey
- At the heart of these events is the Revelation Exhibition, which tells the powerful story of the honorable prophets, from Adam to Prophet Muhammad
RIYADH: The Hira Cultural District in Makkah is alive with activities as part of the Hira Winter events, coinciding with the mid-year vacation.
A variety of attractions and services are being offered to visitors until Jan. 10, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
At the heart of these events is the Revelation Exhibition, which tells the powerful story of the honorable prophets, from Adam to Prophet Muhammad.
The exhibition focuses on the first revelation to Prophet Muhammad, immersing visitors in the pivotal moment of his life, the SPA added.
Guests can explore the revelation story, the Cave of Hira and learn about Khadija bint Khuwaylid, the Mother of Believers, and the angel Gabriel through interactive museum displays.
Using cutting-edge technology like interactive screens and realistic simulations, the exhibition offers an immersive experience for visitors.
Historical artifacts are also on display, including a photocopy of the Qur’an attributed to Uthman bin Affan, one of the oldest surviving mushafs, highlighting Muslims’ dedication to preserving the holy book.
The exhibition also showcases ancient stone inscriptions with Qur’anic verses, reflecting Muslim efforts to safeguard sacred texts.
The district also offers a unique shopping experience, with handicrafts and traditional products. It is located near the Cave of Hira and the iconic Jabal Al-Nour.
Oud, sandalwood planting initiative launched in Madinah
- Project aims to cultivate environmentally and economically valuable tree species like coffee and sandalwood
RIYADH: Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan has launched a project to cultivate agarwood and sandalwood trees across the region, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The event was attended by Dhafer Al-Fahad, CEO of the Jazan Mountainous Development Authority, and featured a presentation highlighting the authority’s work, achievements, and partnerships.
Prince Salman emphasized the initiative’s strategic role in promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing the region’s vegetation.
The project aims to cultivate environmentally and economically valuable tree species like coffee and sandalwood, support the local economy, and raise awareness about biodiversity conservation in the Madinah region, aligning with the environmental goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.
The green initiative, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in March 2021, plans to plant 450 million trees by 2030 and rehabilitate 8 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, which would cut about 200 million tonnes of carbon emissions per year.
Saudi cabinet praises results of Syrian delegation talks in Riyadh
The Saudi Cabinet, chaired by King Salman, praised on Tuesday the outcomes of recent talks held between senior Saudi officials and a high-ranking delegation from Syria's new administration.
The cabinet reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting Syria's security and stability, as well as continuing its humanitarian and relief assistance to the Syrian people.
In a statement following the session, Minister of Media Salman bin Yousef Al-Dosari highlighted the Kingdom's rejection and condemnation of Israeli crimes against Palestinians in Gaza, emphasizing Saudi Arabia's stance on international law and humanitarian principles.
Domestically, the cabinet reviewed the progress of development programs aimed at enhancing services for citizens and diversifying the economy, alongside updates on various agenda topics, including those coordinated with the Shura Council and other government bodies.
