JEDDAH: Saudi photographer Najla Al-Khalifa is known for her striking landscape images, but the award-winning artist’s latest collection was inspired by a subject much closer to home — her mother.
Al-Khalifa showcased a series of images based on her family at the Sikka Art Fair in Dubai’s historic Al-Fahidi district.
The 10-day fair offered artists from the UAE and Gulf region the chance to exhibit works in the district’s heritage homes.
The internationally recognized Al-Khalifa said her mother had been a major influence on her photography career and was the inspiration for her latest collection.
“I was once out with my mother in the car and I noticed her hands. She always holds her hands in a specific way. I took a photograph of her without her realizing, and from then I got the inspiration to take pictures of my parents and family.
“Every person’s hand is unique, and along with different personalities, people have specific gestures that set them apart. I find that fascinating,” Al-Khalifa said.
The photographer’s mother helps guide her and is happy to offer opinions on her work. “The ‘heart hand’ picture is her favorite,” Al-Khalifa said.
“Perhaps she considered this particular photograph as a reflection of her, that she is a thriving heart for all her family. She asked for a united picture where we are all together. When we are united we are stronger.”
Al-Khalifa said she was surprised by visitors’ responses to her work.
“Many people at the exhibition related to the family aspect because everyone has a mother, either alive or dead. I would stand outside the room and see people’s astonishment.”
Some images in the collection featured transcriptions of Islamic verses.
“Every religion instructs people to take care of their loved ones. Our religion asks us to be close to our families, and be kind and gracious to them.”
Speaking on her nature collection, which highlights Saudi Arabia’s vast landscapes, Al-Khalifa said: “Many people think that Saudi Arabia is all desert, but I try to show the greenery we have and the mountains. When people see the different kinds of nature we have, they are astonished.
“It’s a joy to produce images that reflect our country. I try to show things that others don’t know about.”
The photographer also examines aspects of Saudi culture in her work.
“When I was young, we used to travel a lot. People who were told my nationality would remark that we were wealthy from oil. But I wanted people to reflect on the beauty of my country and to underline its diversity and beautiful heritage.”
Al-Khalifa said photography will always be important to her: “It’s my voice and a way to express myself. Photos are my wings — they help me take flight.”
Al-Khalifa has won 38 international and regional awards, including the International Photography Awards (New York), London’s Sony and the European Arab Photography Festival (Hamburg). In August 2015, she was the first Saudi woman to win the French Prix de la Photographie competition.
‘The heart of my family’: Saudi artist focuses on mother’s love
‘The heart of my family’: Saudi artist focuses on mother’s love
Saudi Arabia sees private sector surge, record-low unemployment, says Finance Minister
- Al-Jadaan said there had been major structural change in women’s empowerment
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan said on Tuesday the Kingdom had tackled difficult structural changes at an incredible pace over the past 7 years.
Speaking at the US-Saudi Investment forum in Riyadh, Al-Jadaan said private investment as a percentage of GDP could take decades but Saudi Arabia had more than 50 percent growth in the private sector growing from 16 to 23 percent.
“Saudi Arabia currently has the lowest unemployment rate in the country’s history with about 3.5 percent and among the nationals the kingdom achieved its target for Vision 2030 with the rate being 7 percent,” he added.
Al-Jadaan also said there had been major structural change in women’s empowerment.
“Bringing half of your society to the productive part of the economy is significant and that drives a serious change. Moving from 17 percent of women participation in the workforce to 36 percent is a serious structural change,” said AlJaddan.
The minister said the Kingdom had a target of 100 million tourists by 2030 and it was achieved two years ago.
“When you have a leadership that sets a clear vision and mobilizes the nation behind it, the people of Saudi Arabia then own it and see that this is their vision, their country and their transformation,” he said.
US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent said the US prioritized its relationship with Saudi Arabia.
“President Trump’s economic agenda focuses on three parts; trade, tax bills and deregulation,” said Bessent.
Bessent also said the US was working to rebalance their economy back to a manufacturing economy and hopes China will shift to a consumer economy.
During the opening ceremony of the Saudi - US Investment forum, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih
Trump’s Saudi visit pivotal for ‘global peace, security’: Princess Reema
- Partnership ‘critical’ amid global challenges, says ambassador
- Greater Saudi-US investments will be key outcome of the trip
RIYADH: US President Donald Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia this week is key to global stability and prosperity, the Kingdom’s ambassador to the US has said.
Princess Reema bint Bandar highlighted the enduring relationship between Saudi Arabia and the US as the president arrives in the Kingdom on Tuesday, his first state visit during his second stint in the White House.
“It is a moment pivotal for global peace, security and prosperity,” Princess Reema wrote in the Washington Times on May 12. “Today, as the world navigates new challenges and conflicts, that partnership is more critical than ever.”
Princess Reema, who presented her credentials to Trump in 2019 when assuming her role as ambassador, said the two nations’ alliance was “not just history; it is a reimagined future.”
Just before his last visit, Saudi Arabia had embarked on major national reforms, under Saudi Vision 2030, which included widespread economic, cultural and social changes, Princess Reema stated.
She added that nearly eight years after he made the Kingdom his first state visit, Trump would “step off Air Force One to find the Vision becoming a reality.”
“As we proudly open our doors to Mr. Trump and his delegation, we look to highlight the tremendous journey our nation has undertaken and the new heights our relationship with the U.S. has reached, now including sectors such as manufacturing, technology, cybersecurity and even space exploration.”
She highlighted the progress the Kingdom has made including the non-oil economy now contributing 50 percent to the country’s real gross domestic product, “marking a historic milestone.”
In addition, Saudi women make up nearly 40 percent of the nation’s workforce, “with many in leadership positions, enjoying the same rights as men, including equal pay.
“Young Saudis are experiencing a renaissance in arts, entertainment, sports and science, all while preserving our proud cultural heritage. This is a new Saudi Arabia, open to the world, and we invite Americans to look more closely.”
A key gathering on Tuesday is the Saudi-US Investment Forum, an invitation-only event at Riyadh’s Ritz-Carlton hotel.
It has been reported that business leaders including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Larry Fink will attend.
Arab News’ sources reveal that about 15 Saudi ministers and top-level officials will be present, as well as the CEOs of some of the Kingdom’s biggest companies and giga-projects, in addition to hundreds of business leaders from both countries.
Princess Reema stated: “The Saudi Arabia that Mr. Trump will visit is investing billions of dollars in fostering new economic sectors such as tourism, artificial intelligence, clean energy, culture and sports.
“It is a dynamic society where youths are pioneering the future and women are at the forefront of the Vision,” the ambassador stated.
Princess Reema added that sustainable partnership begins with reciprocity, as outlined by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
“The crown prince’s pledge of investing $600 billion in the United States over the next four years promises mutual prosperity that aligns with our diversification goals under Vision 2030 and Mr. Trump’s goals for economic growth.”
At the World Economic Forum in Davos in January, Trump hinted at even greater ambitions. He said he would ask the crown prince to raise the investment target to $1 trillion, describing it as a natural extension of a robust and trusted partnership.
Saudi Arabia’s Economy Minister Faisal Alibrahim confirmed at the forum that the $600 billion pledge encompassed both government-led procurement and private-sector investment in key areas including defense, energy, infrastructure and technology.
In 2017, the countries signed several investment agreements worth about $400 billion.
The crown prince said in 2018 that part of the “armaments will be manufactured in Saudi Arabia, so it will create jobs in America and Saudi Arabia, good trade, good benefits for both countries and also good economic growth. Plus, it will help our security”.
Princess Reema stated that the two nations’ collaboration has been important for dealing with global crises.
Amid an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape, leadership and alliances are more vital than ever, she wrote.
“Almost every major global challenge is being addressed with urgency through collaboration and a strong Saudi-U.S. alliance.
“From conflicts in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip to stability in Syria and Sudan, Saudi Arabia is playing a critical role in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.
“Partnership with the United States is essential to success.”
Riyadh governor receives Cuban ambassador in Riyadh
Riyadh Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar held a cordial discussion with the Ambassador of Cuba to the Kingdom Miguel Porto Parga in Riyadh on Monday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Meanwhile, the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki met Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ishaq Dar in Islamabad on Monday, the Saudi ambassador wrote in a post on X.
The parties held friendly talks and discussed issues of common interest.
Americans living in Saudi Arabia reflect on their ‘home away from home’
- Expats laud high living standards, safety, opportunities and strong moral fabric as President Trump visits the Kingdom
- Job opportunities being created for foreigners and locals alike as Kingdom opens up to business and overseas investment
RIYADH: Americans living in Saudi Arabia have found a home away from home, as people-to-people ties reflect the enduring relationship between the two countries.
Ahead of US President Donald Trump’s visit to the region, four expats spoke to Arab News about their experiences of living in the Kingdom.
Maria Cometti, who is the cofounder of DQ Living magazine and lives in Riyadh, said: “For me, the safety, economic opportunity and strong moral fabric of society are among the greatest benefits of living in Saudi Arabia.
“As a parent, our top priority is our family’s health and safety … it’s foundational. Healthcare here is also affordable, which makes a big difference.
“As an American married to a Saudi, I am especially grateful for the strong ties between our two countries.”
Hana Nemec, an executive who moved to the Kingdom in 2015 at the age of 24, said that when she arrived the female employment rate was under 20 percent, which “often made me the only woman in meetings and led to some seating arrangement questions and cultural blunders on my part.”
At the end of last year, the figure had risen to more than 36 percent, surpassing the Vision 2030 goal of 30 percent 10 years ahead of schedule.
“I’m pleasantly surprised every single day since I came to Saudi Arabia by the people, their infectious hospitality and their dedication to working hand in hand to achieve Vision 2030 goals,” Nemec said.
“Personally, it has been emotional to witness the incredible changes in Saudi Arabia since Vision 2030 was announced due to the profound impact it’s made on my life.”
As the Kingdom continues to open up to business and overseas investment, it is creating new job opportunities for foreigners and locals alike.
American Sameer Shams said: “I have lived in Riyadh for more than 15 years and enjoyed the rich culture, safety, modern infrastructure and affordable living with unique experiences. Saudi Arabia (offers) excellent career opportunities, particularly in growing sectors.”
He said he had seen how the US-Saudi relationship, historically rooted in oil and defense, had evolved toward technology, AI and renewable energy, a development that could be seen through events like the Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh.
“Such events have attracted top business leaders and strengthened people-to-people ties through collaborative initiatives in sustainable development, finance and innovation,” he said.
“The transformation in Saudi Arabia is tangible and impactful, offering new opportunities for both citizens and expatriates. The Kingdom’s trajectory toward modernization is evident. Having witnessed these shifts firsthand, I see the current era in Saudi Arabia as a time of great promise and positive change.”
Daniel Talbot, who is studying applied technology in water desalination at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, said: “I began pursuing my degree in 2024 but already view it (Saudi Arabia) as home.
“It’s where my family and I have chosen to plant roots over the next four to five years while I pursue my master’s and Ph.D.”
Being part of a community of colleagues, many of whom he now calls friends, has made Talbot feel at home and he praised the compassion and generosity of the Saudi people.
“I believe the Saudi people represent the future of the Middle East and I feel honored to play even a small role in that journey.
“With clear vision and ambitious goals, I see the Kingdom not only reshaping its own future but also positioning itself as a global leader in several industries.”
Talbot attributed much of the country’s success to Vision 2030, calling it “one of the most ambitious national strategies of our time.”
Talbot said that one of the best things about moving to Saudi Arabia was the proximity to the Red Sea.
“The stillness and natural scenery have brought tranquil and restful moments for my family, whether it’s a picnic at sunset or simply enjoying a quiet evening under the stars near our home. The Red Sea, with its clear waters and vibrant marine life, has been refreshing.”
Saudi Cabinet welcomes upcoming visit by US President Trump
- Ministers expressed optimism visit would serve to deepen strategic partnership between Riyadh and Washington
RIYADH: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chaired the weekly Cabinet session in Riyadh on Monday, where ministers welcomed the upcoming official visit of US President Donald Trump to the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The Cabinet expressed optimism that the visit would serve to deepen the strategic partnership between Riyadh and Washington across various sectors in line with shared interests and long-term visions, SPA added.
In a statement to SPA, Minister of State, Cabinet Member for Shura Council Affairs, and Acting Minister of Media Essam bin Saad bin Saeed said the Cabinet reiterated its strong condemnation of the Israeli occupation authorities’ incursion into the Gaza Strip and Palestinian territories.
It also denounced ongoing violations of international humanitarian law by Israeli forces, and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
Ministers also welcomed the ceasefire agreement reached between Pakistan and India last week, affirming the Kingdom’s continued commitment to working with international partners to support efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace between the two South Asian neighbors.
The Cabinet said that Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the Munich Security Conference Leaders’ Meeting in the fourth quarter of 2025 reflects its commitment to multilateralism and to advancing global peace, security, and stability.
The Cabinet also hailed Saudi Arabia’s election as the Arab Group’s representative to the International Civil Aviation Organization Council.
During the session, the Cabinet approved a memorandum of understanding between the Saudi Ministry of Energy and the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security for cooperation in the energy sector.
The Cabinet further authorized the Minister of Education, or a deputy, to negotiate and sign an MoU with the US focused on cooperation in the field of education and training.
In the field of health regulation, the Cabinet approved an MoU between the Saudi Food and Drug Authority and the Chinese National Medical Products Administration to enhance cooperation in the regulation of drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics.
It also approved an MoU between the Saudi Presidency of State Security and Oman’s General Secretariat for Communications and Coordination concerning the combatting of terrorism and its financing.
