JEDDAH: The first tablet in the Kingdom with the Saudi hardware “KTAB” is soon to appear after seven years of research. It is made in blue and produced by King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology (KACST).
KTAB was produced in partnership between KACST and Mesbah Saudi Technology Company, a large team of engineers and developers. The team who helped to make this innovation a success is headed by Yasser Al-Usaifir, CEO of Mesbah Tech.
The specifications and details of the first Saudi tablet “KTAB” (Kitab is Arabic for “book”) were revealed to Arab News in a special interview with Al-Usaifir.
The idea behind KTAB arose from the passion of creating a platform for smart devices in the Kingdom to be a research and development base for future technology projects.
First, many analyses and surveys were carried out regarding students’ problems and needs regarding carrying heavy devices that did not support all educational aids.
The product also aims to reduce the consumption of paper used in printing. “KTAB is an educational channel, not a substitute for the teacher or the books, but a complementary and supportive educational tool, especially for young students as it aims to encourage them to use technology in a useful way,” said Al-Usaifir.
KTAB includes all the tools that the student needs before, during and after class, at home and at school, including assignments, tests, e-books, daily lessons, visual and audio libraries. It includes applications for parents to follow up their children’s activities both inside and outside the school.
It includes an educational encyclopedia, educational browser and contains dozens of educational sites and application videos with tutorials and explanations. “Note that these applications and their content can be customized according to the needs of the user,” Al-Usaifir said.
“It is a Saudi tablet, but there are partnerships with foreign international companies to build the tablets in a suitable way until the technology is properly settled and localized.”
KTAB supports 4G and quad-core processor, 2G RAM, 16 GB internal storage capacity, 128 GB capacity, 6000mAh battery, 10x 1920x1080 high-resolution display, 8MP front camera and 2GB front end.
“Currently, it is sold to government and private agencies and is not available to the public,” Al-Usaifir said.
The technology is wide and can be re-used as needed. The device can be re-allocated for use in many areas, including civil defense, traffic, passports and many government departments. “We are ready to work and develop any hardware or software specialized in a particular area with high security and quality,” said Al-Usaifir.
First Saudi tablet with 100% local OS to be launched soon
First Saudi tablet with 100% local OS to be launched soon
Saudi Arabia leads Arab nations in condemning Israel’s Gaza electricity cut
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia led other Arab nations Qatar and Jordan in condemning Israel’s decision to cut electricity supply to the war-battered Gaza Strip, calling in separate statements for the international community to take action.
Israel announced on Sunday it was disconnecting the only power line to a water desalination plant in Gaza, in an effort to pressure Palestinian militant group Hamas into releasing hostages amid an apparent impasse in truce talks.
Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry expressed “condemnation in the strongest terms of the Israeli occupation authorities’ use of collective punishment against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip by cutting off electricity to the area.”
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.
A Qatari foreign ministry statement said the Gulf state “strongly condemns the Israeli occupation’s act of cutting electricity to the Gaza Strip, considering it a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.”
Jordanian foreign ministry spokesman Sufyan Qudah called the electricity cut “a clear continuation of the policy of starvation and siege imposed by Israel,” about a week after Israeli authorities blocked the entry of aid into Gaza.
The United Nations has warned of “dire consequences” for Gaza’s population, while Britain said it was “deeply concerned” by the Israeli move.
Saudi Arabia called on the international community to “take urgent actions immediately,” while Qatar also urged “immediate action to provide the necessary protection for the Palestinian people.”
Jordan’s Qudah called on the world “to assume its legal and moral responsibilities, and oblige Israel to continue with the ceasefire agreement... restore electricity to Gaza” and reopen border crossings for aid deliveries.
Israeli negotiators were expected to hold talks with mediators in Qatar, part of efforts to extend a fragile truce since January that has largely halted the war in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
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 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
