RIYADH: In a major academic breakthrough for scientists from the King Saud University (KSU), their information security invention based on iris and fingerprint recognition has won the prestigious US patent.
“The United States Patent and Trademark Office has approved and issued a patent entitled ‘Systems and Methods Improving Cryptosystems with Biometrics’ under the US patent number 9,825,761 to the KSU,” Professor Muhammad Khurram Khan, one of the co-inventors, told Arab News on Monday. Other inventors from the KSU include Professor K. Alghathbar and Dr. Maqsood Mahmud, Khan said.
He added that owing to the large-scale proliferation of information and communication systems, security of data is of paramount concern for individuals, corporations and governments alike.
He said: “Conventional cryptosystems do not need any complex image processing and pattern recognition procedures as used in biometrics-based identification systems.”
Biometrics, which refers to methods for recognizing humans based on traits such as iris and fingerprints, represents the future of information security systems around the world.
“Biometrics can play an instrumental role and add an intricate layer in developing more secure and robust cryptosystems with increased confusion and diffusion properties,” Khan said.
“This invention is an innovative step toward building a resilient and secure cryptosystem while maintaining security and usability requirements.
“Biometrics is a great alternative and has a huge potential to substitute passwords, which are hard to remember and easy to be hacked or guessed,” he said, adding: “It also offers a new mechanism for securing the cryptographic keys.
“Thus, cryptographic keys can be protected by biometric authentication and it can also be used to encrypt or decrypt any kind of data. Our invention achieves it with high accuracy and security.”
Cryptography is a widely accepted solution to modern security systems and researchers are always looking to develop more secure, robust and resilient algorithms to protect critical data and systems from intruders and hackers.
Biometrics, when combined with classical and modern cryptographic algorithms, can achieve more robust security without compromising the performance of cryptosystems.
“This unique invention is an innovative contribution in the field of biometrics-based cryptosystems and very useful to enhance the secure storage and communication of data,” Khan said, adding that the invention meets with the new goals and aims of Saudi Vision 2030 to transform Saudi Arabia into a knowledge-based economy.
US patent for King Saud University invention in information security
US patent for King Saud University invention in information security
Ramadan nights: A tapestry of tradition, community, modern elegance
- Ramadan transforms nights into vibrant spectacles of commerce and community
- You can immerse yourself in the bustling night markets and seasonal stalls that come alive throughout the month
RIYADH/JEDDAH: As the sun dips below the horizon, signaling the end of a day of fasting and reflection, cities across the Muslim world awaken to a nocturnal pulse.
The holy month of Ramadan transforms nights into vibrant spectacles of commerce and community, with bazaars and night markets emerging as electrifying hubs of activity.
You can immerse yourself in the bustling night markets and seasonal stalls that come alive throughout the month, in which Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions take center stage.
Visitors weave through vibrant hubs adorned with handcrafted souvenirs, traditional attire, and unique local goods, pausing to savor flavorful iftar and sahoor specialties served at the stalls.
The air hums with laughter, the clatter of coffee cups, and the warmth of shared stories, embodying the essence of Ramadan in the city.
Among Riyadh’s after-dark attractions, the Ramadan Caravan by Harvey Nichols stands out as a beacon of cultural celebration and modern luxury.
Returning this year for its 10th anniversary, this annual pop-up event runs until April 4 at Al-Faisaliah Center in Olaya, with extended hours tailored to Ramadan rhythms.
Inspired by Najdi architecture, the caravan’s design pays homage to Saudi heritage, blending earthy geometric patterns and arched motifs with sleek, contemporary aesthetics.
“Ramadan Reflections with HN,” which is this year’s theme, invites visitors to embrace and celebrate the season.
A Harvey Nichols spokesperson told Arab News: “By curating such a diverse collection, Harvey Nichols Riyadh ensures that customers can find items that resonate with their cultural backgrounds and traditions.”
To honor Ramadan’s spirit, the caravan introduces immersive experiences, and the spokesperson added: “We focus on activities that foster connection — like scent workshops with local artisans and bespoke gifting corners.”
These elements, and collections spanning abayas, kaftans, and home decor, reflect the rituals of gathering and generosity that are central to the month.
Adding to Riyadh’s after-dark allure, Beast House has announced its Ramadan 2025 experience: a vibrant fusion of tradition, artistry, and family-centric celebration.
Guests can explore hands-on activities such as floral arrangement and candle-making, or unwind in the elegant Ramadan Majlis — a luxuriously appointed space with plush seating and soft lighting, ideal for sahoor gatherings.
Culinary excellence takes center stage with a bespoke sahoor menu crafted by chef Rawan Al-Muslimani, blending timeless Ramadan flavors with contemporary flair.
The JAX Ramadan Market is also poised to join Riyadh’s roster of seasonal highlights.
As Ramadan is a time of togetherness, reflection, and celebration, and one of the most cherished traditions is visiting bazaars and night events, Ramadan Season is taking place in Al-Balad, the historic district of Jeddah.
Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Ramadan Season is being celebrated across cities nationwide, highlighting Saudi traditions through cultural and community events.
Under the slogan “Our Nights Have Returned,” the streets and public spaces have been adorned with decorative lights and installations, creating a magical atmosphere.
In key locations such as Al-Ghadeer Walkway, Olaya Street, and Jeddah Corniche, areas shine with Ramadan-themed displays throughout the holy month.
In Jeddah’s historic district, visitors can experience traditional Ramadan nights, enjoy iftar and sahoor at restaurants and cafes, and explore the “Balad stalls,” at which food vendors and seating areas offer a warm and welcoming space.
For a grand Ramadan experience, the Ramadaniyat Promenade is open until the end of Ramadan and entry is free.
Fawanees Nights at the Galleria Hotel on Tahlia Street runs throughout the month and offers a luxurious setting.
The Jibna Al-Eid Bazaar features a variety of local brands and delicious food, while the Balqees Exhibition is a key destination at Ana Ghair Mall.
For those looking for a lively Ramadan carnival, the Lammat Ramadan Festival will be held at the Hilton Hotel from March 13-17.
Another must-visit is the Samra Bazaar which is being held until March 15 at Emaar Square. This features a Ramadan tent, traditional folklore, a gaming championship, physical and electronic games, a children’s area, and an array of arts, culture, and food stalls.
Hajar Bin Rafe’a, the founder of Rafe’a Abayas and Rafe’a Concept Store, told Arab News about her deep appreciation of Ramadan bazaars, particularly Jibna Al-Eid and Qamra, which are known for their high attendance, excellent organization, and exceptional shopping experience.
Rafe’a said: “These two events receive an overwhelming turnout and stand out for their organization, revenue, and unmatched customer engagement. They have become an integral part of Jeddah’s identity during Ramadan.”
Rafe’a stressed that her participation in the bazaars is not solely for financial reasons but also to remind customers of the presence and evolution of local Saudi brands.
In addition, the Ahl Awal Exhibition, which runs until March 26 at Basateen Center, welcomes visitors daily from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Meanwhile, Ramadan with MC Bazaar, which was organized by Monochrome Community, was a two-day event on March 6-7 at Diwan Al-Hijaz on the Corniche. The event provided an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Saudi culture at Ramadan and enjoy the company of loved ones in an unforgettable setting.
Saudi Arabia’s Masam project clears 1,058 bombs from Yemen
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Project for Landmine Clearance, or Masam, removed 1,058 explosive devices from several parts of Yemen during the first week of March.
The KSrelief-led project cleared 1,034 unexploded ordnances and 24 anti-tank mines, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
Since its launch, the Masam project has removed 484,401 explosive devices across the country.
Thousands benefit from KSrelief food aid
- The aid is a part of Saudi Arabia’s Etaam Ramadan food distribution project
RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief recently distributed more than 1,900 food aid parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
In Mauritania’s Tiaret district of Nouakchott, 3,390 people benefitted from 565 food parcels.
Also, 751 packages were handed out in the Karaan district of Somalia’s Banadir governorate, benefiting 4,506 people.
In addition, 590 parcels were distributed in the Romania cities of Bucharest and Constanta, benefiting 2,950 people.
The aid is a part of Saudi Arabia’s Etaam Ramadan food distribution project.
Saudi Arabia condemns Israel’s Gaza electricity cut
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has condemned Israel’s move to cut electricity to the Gaza Strip in what the Kingdom described as a practice of “collective punishment” against Palestinians in Gaza.
The Kingdom stressed its categorical rejection of Israeli violations of international humanitarian law, a foreign ministry statement said.
It reiterated its call on the international community to take urgent measures to restore electricity and the flow of aid to the Gaza Strip immediately without conditions or restrictions.
The Kingdom “renewed its call to activate international accountability mechanisms for these serious violations,” the statement concluded.
Israel cut off the electricity supply to Gaza, officials said Sunday, affecting a desalination plant producing drinking water for part of the arid territory.
It also suspended last week supplies of goods to the territory of more than 2 million Palestinians, an echo of the siege it imposed in the earliest days of the war.
Saudi Arabia welcomes Syrian agreement in northeast
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia welcomed an agreement between the interim Syrian government and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces that controls the country’s northeast.
The Kingdom praised the measures taken by the Syrian leadership to safeguard domestic peace in Syria and efforts made to complete the path of building state institutions, a Saudi foreign ministry statement said on Monday.
The deal includes a ceasefire and the merging of the main US-backed force there into the Syrian army.
The deal was signed by interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa and Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the US-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces.
The deal to be implemented by the end of the year would bring all border crossings with Iraq and Turkiye, airports and oil fields in the northeast under the central government’s control. Prisons where about 9,000 suspected members of the Daesh group are also expected to come under government control.
— With input from AP
