The Saudi Crown Prince Camel Festival celebrates the region’s most popular export
The Saudi Crown Prince Camel Festival celebrates the region’s most popular export/node/1364946/saudi-arabia
The Saudi Crown Prince Camel Festival celebrates the region’s most popular export
1 / 10
The festival will feature sports, cultural and entertainment activities alongside educational workshops for camel owners and visitors interested in camel sports. (SPA)
2 / 10
The festival will feature sports, cultural and entertainment activities alongside educational workshops for camel owners and visitors interested in camel sports. (SPA)
3 / 10
King Abdulaziz Camel Festival Saudi Arabia. Launched in 2000, this contest attracts not only direct participants, including those who make a living from the events, but also those who enjoy the increasing number of activities associated with the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival. More than 2,000 prizes that could reach SR100 million ($26.5 million) are usually distributed to winners of various beauty and racing contests each year. Also the King Abdulaziz Festival awards prizes for best camel photo, best obedient camel, and a popular folk literature competition. (Supplied)
4 / 10
The festival will feature sports, cultural and entertainment activities alongside educational workshops for camel owners and visitors interested in camel sports. (SPA)
5 / 10
The festival will feature sports, cultural and entertainment activities alongside educational workshops for camel owners and visitors interested in camel sports. (SPA)
6 / 10
Al Dhafra Camel Festival in Abu Dhabi/UAE. This festival embodies the heritage of the UAE and wider Gulf region. Since its inception in its modern setting in 2005, Al-Dhafra has become the place for lovers of traditional nomadic life and culture. The festival includes the famous “Mazayna,” or beauty contest. In addition to contests and racing with more than AED 50 million ($13.6 million) up for grabs, the festival also includes a photography competition, a bazaar, Saluki dog races and falconry shows — as well as multimillion-dollar camel purchases. (Supplied)
7 / 10
Mongolia Camel Festival Gobi desert, Mongolia. This festival celebrates the traditional nomadic life as well as the Bactrian camel itself, a beast of burden that normally carries everything a Mongolian needs to build and live in a traditional Mongolian tent. The Bactrian is a woolly, two-humped camel that sports a flowing beard of hair. Guinness World Records classes the Mongolian festival racing contest as the largest camel race in the world, drawing 1,108 participants from across Mongolia to the site outside Dalanzadgad in Umnugovi province, in the Gobi desert. This is the Mongols’ Olympic games, and nomadic culture is always celebrated. Archery, wrestling and horse racing are played out over two days but it is also a good time to see the Mongolian people and soak up their culture. Camel riding is often included. (Supplied)
8 / 10
Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan, India. This fair is held annually in November at the time of the Kartik Purnima full moon festivities. Pushkar Camel Fair is one of India’s most highly rated spectacles, attracting thousands of camels, horses and cattle and visited by more than 400,000 people over a period of 14 days. A camel race starts off the festival, with music, songs and exhibitions to follow. Pushkar is in the central eastern part of Rajasthan. (Supplied)
9 / 10
Outback Camel Festival Trail in Queensland, Australia. The festival hands out the biggest prize money of any camel-racing contest at the Sheikh Zayed International Camel Endurance Race and the Boulia Desert Sands race. Also in Australia, the Camel Cup in Alice Springs has been held in the heart of the outback every year since 1979. Camels and their drivers, seen left in this image from 1900, were key in opening up the centre of the vast dry country. (Supplied)
10 / 10
The festival will feature sports, cultural and entertainment activities alongside educational workshops for camel owners and visitors interested in camel sports. (SPA)
The Saudi Crown Prince Camel Festival celebrates the region’s most popular export
More than 2,000 prizes worth up to SR100 million ($26.5 million) are distributed to winners of various beauty and racing contests each year
The key races take place on weekends and include two sets of warm-up rounds, with 308 rounds of racing in part one and 178 in part two
Updated 01 September 2018
Mohammed Al-Sulami
JEDDAH: The camel, or “ship of the desert,” is known for its strength, endurance and ability to cross more than 100 miles of desert without water. Camels have traditionally been an important feature of life in the Arabian Gulf countries.
Now Saudi Arabia has added a new camel festival to its diary, the Crown Prince Camel Festival in Taif, under the patronage of Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where thousands of camels will compete in the hope of winning millions in prize money for special breeds, good looks and speed.
For more than 30 days in August and September, business leaders, politicians and camel enthusiasts flock to one of the Middle East’s largest displays of the finest camels in Saudi Arabia and the world. They compete in more than 700 racing rounds and beauty competitions, putting the festival firmly on top of the annual fixtures to celebrate Saudi culture, sport and the value of the camel. Early inhabitants of the Arabian desert relied on camels for milk, meat, leather, transport and also during battle due to their
agility and speed: Camels can reach up to 40 miles an hour in short sprints. A camel can also run at 20 miles an hour for more than an hour without rest.
Camels today are still celebrated in Saudi Arabia for their beauty, grace and speed. Even as the country rapidly modernizes, the animals remain a central part of Saudi culture, and a lucrative one, with camel prices reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars and even breaking the $1 million mark.
At the Crown Prince Camel Festival 2018, racing began on Aug. 11, with the camel categories Mafarid, Haqqa, Laqaya, Jatha’a, Thanaya, Heil, Zamoul and Soudaniyat all classifying camels according to age, sex, and range of distances covered.
Photogallery:The Saudi Crown Prince Camel Festival celebrates the region’s most popular export
The festival has three phases. The first phase ended on Aug. 27 and the second phase starts today and continues until Sept. 7. The festival then pauses until Sept. 15, when the final stages begin and continue until Sept. 27. The key races take place on weekends and include two sets of warm-up rounds, with 308 rounds of racing in part one and 178 in part two. In addition there will be two marathon rounds, 20 production rounds and 178 closing-in rounds. Local and international camel owners compete for total prize money of SR45 million ($12 million) at the event. The festival will also feature sports, cultural and entertainment activities alongside educational workshops for camel owners and visitors interested in camel sports.
4th Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicks off in Jeddah
Three-day conference aims to enhance international efforts to confront challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance
Updated 15 November 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The fourth high-level Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicked off in Jeddah on Thursday under the theme “From declaration to implementation – accelerating actions through multi-sectoral partnerships for the containment of AMR.”
The three-day conference, being held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health, includes ministers of health, environment and agriculture from various countries, besides the participation of a number of heads of international organizations such as the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Organization for Animal Health, and non-governmental organizations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, in a move to enhance international efforts to confront the escalating challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance, which has become a threat to global health.
Saudi Minister of Health Fahd Al-Jalajel stressed that the conference is an opportunity for the international community to commit to a unified roadmap and set clear guidelines that will help address the increasing drug resistance in humans and animals.
Antimicrobial resistance poses a threat to all age groups, as it affects human, animal and plant health, as well as the environment and food security.
To curb the spread of antimicrobial resistance, the minister explained that we must adopt a comprehensive approach that systematically addresses the challenges that hinder progress, including sharing best practices, innovative financing initiatives, and developing new tools to combat antimicrobial resistance, stressing that the meeting is a vital opportunity to strengthen our collective global response to the risks of this growing “silent epidemic.”
Director General of the World Health Organization Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that antimicrobial resistance is not a future threat but a present one, making many of the antibiotics and other medicines we rely on less effective, and routine infections more difficult to treat.
He praised Saudi leadership in hosting the conference, stressing that the world must work together across a range of sectors, health, environment and agriculture, to stop the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
He pointed out that the Jeddah meeting will help coordinate global efforts across diverse ecosystems, including human, animal and agricultural health, in addition to protecting the environment.
A number of countries have already resorted to imposing laws that prevent the dispensing of antibiotics in pharmacies without a prescription, and the use of antibiotics in animal farms such as poultry and livestock has been regulated in a bid to slow resistance.
Saudi and British defense ministers hold talks on cooperation and Middle East security
Prince Khalid bin Salman and John Healey discuss ‘joint efforts to address regional challenges’ and ‘shared vision’ for regional and international security and stability
Updated 15 November 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The defense ministers of Saudi Arabia and the UK held talks on Thursday on cooperation between their nations and efforts to bring stability to the Middle East.
During their meeting in Riyadh, Prince Khalid bin Salman and John Healey discussed the “Saudi-British strategic partnership and explored avenues to enhance defense cooperation,” the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Prince Khalid said: “We also discussed our joint efforts to address regional challenges, as well as our shared vision to promote regional and international security and stability.”
Ahead of the talks, the British Defense Ministry said Healey would “reaffirm the UK’s commitment to a future-facing defense relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The defense secretary will build on the decades-long defense relationship between the (countries) to enhance cooperation on shared security priorities.”
Healey, making his first visit to Riyadh since becoming defense minister following the Labour Party’s election victory in July, was also expected to discuss with Prince Khalid the ongoing efforts to secure ceasefire agreements in Gaza and Lebanon.
Earlier on Thursday, Healey met in Ankara with Yasar Guler, his counterpart in Turkiye, a NATO ally.
Ancient organic farming practices in Taif feed growing industry
Closed-loop farming supports environment
Rising Saudi demand for organic products
Updated 15 November 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Organic farming in Taif province’s villages and its serene mountain and valley farms represents a continuation of an ancient tradition.
This approach avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, ensuring that farms do not damage their surrounding environment, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Inherited organic farming wisdom from previous generations boosts the health of consumers and the vitality of soil, water, plants, and wildlife.
The farming methods practiced in Taif involve a closed-loop system in which animal and plant waste is recycled into natural fertilizers.
Abdullah Saed Al-Talhi, an 80-year-old Saudi farmer, has been farming in terraced fields in Taif's in the Al-Shafa mountains since he was young. (SPA)
This approach supports crop cultivation and animal husbandry, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030’s food security and sustainability objectives.
Drawing upon his years of experience tending terraced fields in the Al-Shafa mountains, 80-year-old farmer Abdullah Saed Al-Talhi told the SPA that organic agriculture is a fast-growing industry.
“Consumer demand for nutritious organic products is reshaping our industry,” he explained.
“Working these mountain terraces has taught me that organic farming is more than a cultivation method — it is our legacy to future generations, ensuring sustainable food production for years to come.”
“Organic farming operates through two distinct approaches,” Al-Talhi said. “We have protected greenhouse cultivation and open-field farming, but both share the same fundamental principle: producing pure food without chemical interventions.”
He emphasized that this natural approach encompasses every aspect of farming — from soil enhancement and seed selection to pest control methods.
“The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has spearheaded remarkable efforts to advance organic farming in Taif,” he added.
The ministry offers instructional programs to budding organic farmers, supporting the establishment of new farms, increased production from existing farms, and the import and export of organic products.
Other support from the ministry includes securing certification to ensure the credibility of products in Saudi and international markets.
Speaking at a recent organic market event in Taif, Al-Talhi said: “The market for organic products is experiencing remarkable growth.”
Light fantastic: Countdown begins to Noor Riyadh 2024
Event ‘embodies the essence of striving toward new horizons,’ curator says
World’s largest light art festival gets underway on Nov. 28
Updated 14 November 2024
Hebshi Alshammari
RIYADH: The start of this year’s Noor Riyadh Festival is now just two weeks away and preparations for the annual event are well underway.
Launched in 2021, the festival is a celebration of light and the arts and includes contributions from leading Saudi and international artists. It also features community activities, workshops, discussions and shows.
Billed as the largest light art festival in the world, Noor Riyadh is part of the broader Riyadh Art initiative and aims to support and inspire young artists to drive the Kingdom’s creative economy.
This year’s theme is “Light Years Away” and a host of activities are planned at three key locations — King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifa and Diriyah’s JAX District — between Nov. 28 and Dec. 14.
The title is inspired by the Thuraya star cluster, which has long been a guiding light and symbol of aspiration, according to Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag, the curator of Noor Riyadh 2024 and board member of the Visual Arts Commission.
“This year’s theme explores our journey from Althara, or Earth, toward Althuraya, or the stars, celebrating how art can bridge the physical and metaphysical,” she told Arab News.
“‘Light Years Away’ is a theme that embodies the essence of striving toward new horizons, where light is used as a metaphor for hope, creativity and resilience.
“We want the audience to feel connected to the stars above and the Earth below, experiencing how art can unite diverse elements such as science, technology, philosophy and spirituality, fostering a shared sense of inspiration and identity.”
Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag, an artist and artistic curator, is a member of the Board of Directors of the Visual Arts Commission. (Supplied)
Among the 60 artworks on offer this year are sculptural light installations and laser shows from artists like Ali Alruzaiza and Javier Riera, who use light to reimagine iconic sites like Murabba Palace.
“The works of artists like Saad Al Howede, Kimchi and Chips explore our relationship with the environment, challenging us to reflect on our impact on the Earth,” Fadag said.
“The landscapes of Wadi Hanifa serve as a living canvas, inviting the audience to consider how we can preserve the environment and the beauty of our natural heritage.
“The JAX District is a hub for innovation, experimentation and digital creativity. Originally an industrial area, it has now transformed into a space that bridges art and technology. Here, traditional and modern techniques converge in an environment that supports the creative economy.”
Fadag said she hoped visitors would leave the festival with a renewed sense of curiosity and wonder.
“The Noor exhibition reminds us that, as individuals, we aspire to connect and engage. Art and light have the power to bring us together, inspire us and illuminate new paths forward.
“I believe these experiences will remain alive long after the festival ends, encouraging visitors to carry the festival’s light with them and continue exploring their own journeys, connecting the Earth to the sky in their unique ways.”
How a Saudi software developer is revolutionizing road safety with his AI driver-assist system
Nasser Al-Khaldi is the mastermind behind a driver-assist system that performs well in congestion and makes roads safer
Developed by Comma.ai, the system incorporates AI-driven real-time analysis, using cameras and radar to prevent collisions
Updated 14 November 2024
SALEH FAREED
JEDDAH: Nasser Mansour Al-Khaldi is the researcher and automotive expert behind the Saudi-made version of an innovative artificial intelligence self-driving system that can be fitted to regular cars.
A native of Taif province, his passion for technology started at a young age through attempts to customize video games — including hacking his Xbox 360.
Since 2015, he has been focusing on autonomous driving technology — self-driving systems powered by AI. In 2023, the results of his efforts became apparent when he launched the first autopilot system in the Kingdom.
Al-Khaldi and his team — in cooperation with their partner, California-based startup Comma.ai — have developed an open-source software that runs the system, allowing motorists to install a driver-assist feature. The software enables the car to drive itself on motorways, staying in one lane and keeping a safe distance from the car in front, and to follow the vehicle immediately in front in traffic without human assistance.
“It took me around five years to develop a device that records vehicle data in order to analyze it and add more advanced safety and smart driving systems to existing vehicles on the market,” Al-Khaldi told Arab News.
“Yes, it is made in collaboration with our partner in the US, but we upgraded our own version and it has more features. So, you can say it is ‘made in Saudi Arabia’ by a very intelligent Saudi team,” he added.
DID YOUKNOW?
• The Saudi-made AI driver-assistance system was trained on over 100 million miles.
• It incorporates AI-driven real-time analysis, using cameras and radar to prevent collisions.
• It is compatible with more than 64 car models not supported by Comma.ai’s original tech.
• The Saudi-made device has been exported to the US, Europe, Africa, and the Arab world.
Although the base technology, Open Pilot, was developed by Comma.ai, Al-Khaldi explained that his version has been significantly developed to align with local needs, expanding compatibility to work with more than 64 car models not supported by the original.
The Saudi programmer also developed the autonomous driver technology to function at low speeds, improving its effectiveness in the stop-start traffic that is common in the Gulf region.
He explained that the self-driving device “leverages AI and remote sensing technology to continuously analyze and understand the vehicle’s surroundings.”
Aside from developing Saudi Arabia's first autopilot system, Nasser Mansour Al-Khaldi is the researcher also developed the autonomous driver technology to function at low speeds, improving its effectiveness in the stop-start traffic. (Supplied)
The unit has been on the Saudi market for about a year and a half, and approximately 500 have been sold, according to Al-Khaldi.
“In addition to our presence in the Saudi market, we have also exported our device — which can be adapted to almost any modern car — to the US, Europe, Africa and other parts of the Arab world,” he added.
Arab News joined 29-year-old Al-Khaldi to experience the driver-assistance system, which is installed in his Toyota Highlander. We began the ride on the highway north of Jeddah.
The results were impressive. From the driver’s seat, with his hands removed from the steering wheel, Al-Khaldi said: “At this point our (system) can handle all types of curves. On the highway, you can drive for hours without any user intervention. I just drove from Taif to Jeddah on curvy, hilly roads without any user intervention.”
Opinion
This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field)
Al-Khaldi said that the system integrates multiple components to provide “a safe and efficient autonomous driving experience,” controlling steering, acceleration, and braking. It uses open-source AI technology, trained on over 100 million miles and able to adapt to a variety of driving conditions.
“The system relies on high-resolution cameras and radar sensors to detect lanes, track nearby vehicles, and analyze data in real time. This analysis helps prevent collisions and ensures the vehicle stays in its lane,” he explained.
“One of our customers who lives in the US installed our device in his car and recently, while driving down a long stretch of highway heading to another state, he lost consciousness and the car drove itself for two hours until he woke up. He later messaged us and expressed his thanks for our device’s reliability,” he added. “Following this event, the system received an enhanced safety update. Now, if the driver’s eyes remain fixed and unresponsive, signaling potential loss of consciousness, the system prompts the driver to touch the steering wheel, providing an additional layer of safety during medical emergencies like seizures or sudden loss of consciousness.”
Inspired by his team's successes, Nasser Mansour Al-Khaldi now envisions a future where AI powers self-driving cars across the Kingdom. (SPA photo)
According to the US website Consumer Reports, Open Pilot is currently the most advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) on the market.
Al-Khaldi and his team are now exploring ways to tailor the system to various levels of driving experience. “I think we’ll find better ways of doing it that will be simpler and allow more users access to the technology,” he said.
Al-Khaldi envisions a future where AI powers self-driving cars across the Kingdom. He said: “Saudi Arabia has an ambitious vision that embraces artificial intelligence technologies. Self-driving has become one of the most important AI tools.”
Camels today are still celebrated in Saudi Arabia for their beauty, grace and speed. Even as the country rapidly modernizes, the animals remain a central part of Saudi culture, and a lucrative one, with camel prices reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars and even breaking the $1 million mark.
