GENEVA: The fight against the deadly Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), which has killed at least 722 people over the past five years, is honing in on its target: camels.
MERS coronavirus (MERS-CoV), a member of a virus family ranging from the common cold to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, appears to have emerged in humans in Saudi Arabia in 2012, but has now been traced back in camels to at least 1983.
Almost all the outbreaks so far originated in the Arabian Gulf, but MERS-CoV could infect humans wherever there are one-humped dromedary camels — two-humped bactrians are not affected.
That means people across a swathe of Africa, the Middle East, Pakistan and South Asia are potentially at risk. So the hunt is on for vaccinations — both for humans, and camels.
“The virus is in camels everywhere. The virus is in Qatar, it’s in United Arab Emirates, it’s wherever we look,” said Maria Van Kerkhove, a disease outbreak expert at the World Health Organization (WHO), where 130 experts gathered last week to collaborate for the first time on tackling the disease.
“I know so much more about camels than I ever thought I would,” she said.
People have probably caught MERS in Africa but the absence of outbreaks recorded there may be due to poor disease surveillance, less contact with camels, or lower rates of underlying conditions like obesity and heart problems that make MERS more severe.
Saudi Arabia has been heavily criticized for not being transparent about MERS, but Van Kerkhove said that had totally changed. It is now testing 70,000 human samples a year and generating a vast amount of research.
DRIVE-THRU
MERS is hard to spot, and far more deadly than other acute respiratory infections, killing one in three sufferers.
It has a habit of infiltrating Saudi hospitals via patients visiting for regular dialysis or cardiac appointments, causing outbreaks that have killed patients and health workers alike.
Hospitals are raising their game.
“One hospital even has a drive-thru. Literally a drive-thru in their emergency department,” said Van Kerkhove, explaining how patients are vetted before being allowed in.
“You drive up in the car to the person in the booth and they ask you three questions. It takes less than 13 seconds.”
A dozen human vaccines are in development, with vaccine coalition CEPI expected to announce soon which it will fund.
But the key to stopping human deaths is controlling MERS in camels. Two camel vaccines have been developed, but only one, developed by the Jenner Institute, is in field trials.
The other, developed at the Erasmus Medical Center, is still seeking funding. The WHO MERS program is also under-funded, Van Kerkhove said.
At last week’s meeting, hosted by the WHO, animal health body OIE and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, Saudi and Qatari experts were “happy to talk to each other” despite their governments’ diplomatic friction, she said.
Collaboration is vital, because camels must be diagnosed, quarantined and vaccinated as they enter the Gulf from the Horn of Africa. The virus must be tracked like bird flu is in birds, Van Kerkhove said.
But there is a long road ahead.
“I’ve never seen a really good map showing where camels move,” she said.
Health experts zero in on camels to fight deadly MERS virus
Health experts zero in on camels to fight deadly MERS virus
Where We Are Going Today: Patisserie Mo Mashat in Jeddah
- Cheesecake enthusiasts will find something to love with options including strawberry, blueberry, mango, and even coffee-flavored varieties
If you are searching for a charming cafe that blends French elegance with a modern twist, Patisserie Mo Mashat on Prince Sultan Road, Al-Basateen district, is the place to go.
This newly-opened spot in Jeddah offers an array of artisanal French pastries, cakes and beverages, creating a haven for dessert enthusiasts, whether dining in or taking the treats to-go.
As you step in, the cafe’s welcoming ambiance instantly catches the eye. Large windows fill the space with natural light, while the blend of industrial and other elements — including gold chandeliers and exposed piping — adds a contemporary touch.
Cozy seating with patterned cushions invites one to sit back and enjoy the treats, making it an ideal spot for a casual, comfortable visit.
The star is, of course, the baked goods. The croissants, particularly the crispy pesto mozzarella and almond varieties, are a standout — delicate, flaky, and packed with flavor.
These freshly baked delights embody the essence of French baking, making them a must-try. Alongside the croissants, the mixed-berry Danish and pecan tarts offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
Their cake selection ranges from the rich chocolate hazelnut to the bestselling raspberry mille-feuille. Each cake is carefully crafted with fresh ingredients, offering unique flavors including the refreshing mango tres leches and the indulgent caramel pecan offering.
Cheesecake enthusiasts will find something to love with options including strawberry, blueberry, mango, and even coffee-flavored varieties.
The venue has an impressive drinks menu, with a selection of hot and cold coffees as well as refreshing mojitos. Whether you prefer a simple latte to pair with your pastry or something a little more adventurous like a flavored mojito, there is something for everyone.
What truly distinguishes Patisserie Mo Mashat is not only the high quality of its pastries but also the surprisingly affordable pricing.
Check @patisserie_mo on Instagram for more details.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Operation Seafood’ in Jeddah
Located in Jeddah’s Al-Zahra district, Operation Seafood provides a memorable dining experience for lovers of this type of cuisine. With mouth-watering appetizers and expertly prepared main courses, there is something for everyone in this intimate, casual setting.
The menu boasts an impressive variety, from dynamite fish to shrimp and oysters, ensuring flavorful dishes that impress.
Appetizers include standout cream soups, along with refreshing Rocca salad with shrimp, and celery salad with squid. Hot options to warm the palate include fish kofta and decadent crab with cream and cheese.
Operation Seafood excels in main courses, offering bags filled with shrimp, crabs, mussels and lobsters, customizable with three spice levels of hot, medium or light. Rich sauces to enhance each dish include cajun, lemon garlic, or creamy lemon.
Noteworthy tajin dishes include shrimp pasta and fish fillet with tahina, blending traditional preparation with contemporary techniques.
For sharing, generous medium and large platters feature fried fish, calamari, shrimp, and crabs over Sayadia or white rice — perfect for family or group dining. Grilled options to enhance flavors include salmon and shrimp.
Fried shrimp and calamari baskets offer a satisfying crunch, while Thai-inspired shrimp noodles and tajin shrimp with curry provide exciting flavors for adventurous eaters.
Check @operation_seafood on Instagram for more details.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Lumiere’ Restaurant in Dammam
- For the main course, the butter chicken was a highlight, with tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with flavor, a must-try dish
Lumiere, located in Dammam’s Al-Shatie district, blends spaciousness and elegance in a welcoming atmosphere.
The restaurant is bathed in natural sunlight, creating a warm and inviting setting with a mix of classic and modern decor in soothing colors, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
The menu offers a wide variety of choices, from breakfast and salads to appetizers, pasta, and sweets. I started with the standout corn and sour cream appetizer — sweet, crunchy corn paired with tangy sour cream, a simple yet delightful dish.
For the main course, the butter chicken was a highlight, with tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with flavor, a must-try dish.
To end the meal, the San Sebastian cheesecake delivered a creamy texture and balanced sweetness, a perfect conclusion.
The Arabic coffee, infused with cardamom and saffron, was also a standout — rich, aromatic, and hard to resist.
With ample parking and a prime location, Lumiere offers a dining experience with delicious food, beautiful decor, and a warm atmosphere.
Check @lumiereksa on Instagram for more details.
Where We Are Going Today: Cleaver Burger in Riyadh
- The brisket croquette and meat cheese finger are great side dishes, each offering a burst of savory meaty richness
Cleaver Burger has become a popular destination in Riyadh’s fast-growing burger scene, for both casual diners and enthusiasts alike.
With three branches across the city, the restaurant delivers reasonably priced high-quality meals, making it an accessible option for anyone craving a satisfying bite.
My visit to Cleaver Burger left me thoroughly impressed — particularly with its eponymous signature dish, which features a juicy, tender wagyu beef patty that stands out for its rich, full flavor. The perfectly toasted bun, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and special house sauce create an ideal balance of flavors, making every bite an indulgence in savory goodness.
In addition to the Cleaver Burger, I tried the steak sandwich, chicken burger, and truffle burger. While the steak sandwich and chicken burger were solid, the truffle burger offered a more adventurous option — perfect for those who enjoy bold, earthy flavors.
The brisket croquette and meat cheese finger are great side dishes, each offering a burst of savory meaty richness.
The real surprise, however, came in the form of Cleaver Burger’s fries. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside and perfectly seasoned, they easily rank among the best fries I’ve had in Riyadh. Whether you enjoy them alongside your burger or as a standalone snack, they are a must-try.
With its consistent quality, flavorful dishes, and affordable prices, Cleaver Burger is a top pick for anyone looking for a great burger in the Kingdom’s capital.
A deliciously artistic trend sweeps Saudi Arabia’s X breakfast community
- Arab News looks at the evolution of an online community taking breakfast to new levels
- The evolution of a vibrant online group
RIYADH: In the age of social media, where trends are born in an instant and entire communities form around shared passions, one unique and wholesome movement has emerged on X to celebrate the most important meal of the day: breakfast.
What began as a simple space for users in Saudi Arabia to share their daily meals has quickly evolved into a vibrant online community where creativity, health, and aesthetic presentation come together.
People from all over the Kingdom contribute their carefully crafted breakfast plates with artistic flair, making breakfast a celebrated moment every day.
Khaled Saud, the creator of the community, has reflected on how far it has come, saying: “Watching the community grow from fun and lighthearted posts to a space where people take pride in their breakfast creations has been incredibly rewarding.
HIGHLIGHTS
• For some participants the online community has sparked a new motivation to take breakfast more seriously.
• In addition to creativity, health is also a significant focus within the community.
“I’m happy to see how much participation has increased and how creative the presentations have become.”
For some participants the community has sparked a new motivation to take breakfast more seriously.
Wafa Al-Qahtani shared how the group helped her stay consistent with her meals, saying: “The reason I love this community is the interaction from the people. Honestly, it has motivated me to maintain a daily breakfast routine, and I try to get creative so I can post it in the community.”
This sentiment is echoed by Ameera Al-Dossari, who has embraced the idea of breakfast as a shared experience and said: “This is such a beautiful concept; it motivates me to wake up early and participate.
Seeing everyone’s posts encourages me to be more thoughtful with my breakfast choices. Honestly, I’ve started taking more care of my meals.
Ameera Al-Dossari, Community member
“Seeing everyone’s posts encourages me to be more thoughtful with my breakfast choices. Honestly, I’ve started taking more care of my meals.”
The community, for many, is not only about the food but about the relationships and connections formed through a shared love for breakfast.
It has also had an unexpected effect on some members’ sleep schedules. One user joked that they had been trying and failing to wake up at 7 a.m. for two months but after joining the community were happy to wake up at 5:30 a.m.
“For me, breakfast is one of the best moments of the day. I don’t just see it as a meal; it’s more like a ritual where we begin a new day,” said Rahaf Tareq, for whom breakfast has become a cherished time.
That sentiment captures the essence of why so many in Saudi Arabia are drawn to the movement — it provides a moment of mindfulness and self-care at the start of each day.
In addition to creativity, health is also a significant focus within the community.
Ram Wael highlighted the importance of breakfast as a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle, saying: “The reason I participate is that breakfast is an essential and necessary meal that needs to be healthy.
“However, many people have neglected its importance, and I love how this community has sparked a sense of competition and enthusiasm for creating and sharing breakfast.”
Wael’s participation is driven by a desire to bring attention to the value of a nutritious breakfast, encouraging others in the Kingdom to see it as more than just a quick meal.
Sahar Khojah, who believes the breakfast community has ignited a love for cooking and sharing with others, said: “I’ve always loved cooking and I constantly take pictures of my breakfast.
“I was really happy when I found this breakfast community because now I can share my meals, not just for myself but for people who appreciate them and can see my work.”
This sense of shared appreciation has turned a solitary activity into one that brings joy to others, showcasing how food can be a powerful tool for connection.
Khansa Al-Omari shared her excitement over the group’s influence on her creativity, saying: “It’s really nice when someone gets excited, prepares breakfast, and gets creative.
“Even though I don’t post often, when I see the shared posts I get inspired to make myself a neat breakfast. The community encourages even those who don’t often participate to step up their game and bring a sense of artistry into their everyday routines.”
Shoroog Al-Ghamdi, a software engineer, uses an analogy from her field to describe how breakfast fits into her life. She said: “In software we have something called eager loading, which loads all the data we need in advance.
“Breakfast is my way of loading my energy and booting up my brain cells!”
For Al-Ghamdi, breakfast is not just fuel for the body but also a mental preparation for the day ahead, tying it to productivity and well-being.
Layan Sultan reflected on how breakfast helps her start her day. She said: “The reason I show my breakfast specifically is that it’s one of the reasons I wake up excited every morning.
“There’s something good in every day, even if it’s just a meal. This meal makes my body, mind, and soul awake and ready to face every single thing that day brings.”
This collective enthusiasm across Saudi Arabia ensures that the community continues to grow, inspiring others to prioritize breakfast and add a personal, artistic touch to their meals.
Mashael Omar summed it all up, saying: “Breakfast gives energy for the rest of the day, improves the mood, and is part of practicing the hobby of cooking.”
