TheFace: Al-Bandari Waeel Al-Ajlan, Saudi visual artist and dentist

Al-Bandari Waeel Al-Ajlan. (AN photo by Ziyad Alarfaj)
Updated 25 October 2019
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TheFace: Al-Bandari Waeel Al-Ajlan, Saudi visual artist and dentist

Al-Bandari Waeel Al-Ajlan I am a visual artist, and a dentist, a member of “digital smile design & emotional dentistry.”

With a bachelor’s degree in dental surgery, I have been an experienced health care administrator and dentist since 2012. Emotional intelligence, emotional painting and art therapy are my areas of focus.

As a dental photography trainer, I still love making smiles in my clinic and I am a happy owner of a gallery called Phoenix_galeria, where I produce acrylic paintings.

I think they both blend beautifully together. After all, dentistry is a medical and scientific art.

I moved to the US when I was three-year-old with my mother, Dr. Hala Alkhalidi. She was the first Saudi female candidate taken for a PharmD — a clinical pharmacy scholarship — at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center.

During this time, I bounced back and forth between the US and Saudi Arabia, and as any adventure in a Disney story goes, being my father’s princess and believing in pixie dust and magic, I knew I would become the adaptive character that I am today.

Once high school came, the tools I picked up in the young walk of life would prove useful. I moved back to Riyadh to live with my grandparents while my mother stayed in the US to finish a higher degree.

Like any normal teen, the struggles were real and it was tough being different than others. Adapting to the change of language from an English-speaking country to an Arabic-speaking one was just a small feat compared to the future endeavors I later took on.

Fast forward through to the last year of high school, I was hit with bad news about my grandmother, the lady who had been taking care of and raising me, had been diagnosed with cancer.

Even though my grandmother was under treatment with a life-threatening disease, she, a strong lady herself, was adamant that I received a proper education. After not being accepted into the college of dentistry in Saudi Arabia, and with full support from my grandmother, I traveled to Egypt where I gained not only an education from October 6 University, but also some lifelong friends who became my sisters.

Unfortunately, during my second year of school, my grandmother lost her battle with cancer. The strongest woman I knew had lost but I had to keep on, knowing my education was important to her and myself. Mom then picked up the strength torch and kept me pushing on.

During my last year of school and my internship, the Jan. 25 revolution of Egypt took place, where I had to prove I had what it took to display flexibility and tenacity dealing with the trauma and surgical cases resulting from the uprising. For that, I was nominated by the head of the maxillofacial department to handle surgical cases as an intern without supervision, solely based on how I fared during that time.

I moved back to Riyadh and as a dentist the job market is a tough one. But I wasn’t discouraged. I found a job at Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Medical Group and quickly grew in administrative positions throughout my five years of service in five different titles while maintaining emergency and Friday clinics across all branches.

After a need for change, I looked for new opportunities abroad, but I still felt like my purpose in Riyadh was not yet finished. 

In turn, I began at Dallah Hospitals. 

Living a nomadic life up to this point, change in life became the norm. So, it seemed the time had come for pursuing a friendly passion: Painting.

A previous hobby from childhood that with all the adventure never left my side and always dreamt of it being a business one day. But more importantly, it allowed an emotional expression and release during the speed bumps throughout my life. 

The relationship with emotional painting empowered by emotional intelligence and art sprouted into a new life and a new beginning ... Phoenix Galeria

The story of my future is a limitless canvas. I go on painting day by day, one color blending through another. I hope my work has a revolutionary impact on others as it did for me on both a personal and professional level. 

 

 


UNESCO delegation visits North Riyadh Geopark after global network listing

Updated 05 May 2025
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UNESCO delegation visits North Riyadh Geopark after global network listing

  • Destination showcases Kingdom’s natural and cultural diversity, UNESCO official says
  • In April, UNESCO listed North Riyadh Geopark and Salma as part of its Global Geoparks Network

RIYADH: UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, Lidia Brito, visited North Riyadh Geopark on Sunday, praising the destination for preserving both nature and history.

The UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization designated North Riyadh Geopark in April as part of its Global Geoparks Network, which aims to protect geological heritage sites and promote sustainable development.

Hussam Zuhair Al-Turki, director of the Saudi Geoparks Initiative, and Hamoud Alnughaymishi, director of the Science Sector at the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, accompanied Brito during her visit.

They explored significant geological features at the North Riyadh Geopark, including the Abu Shaddad Cave and the Edge of the World cliff. They also stopped to explore Ghamra Village, known for its natural adventure routes on the outskirts of Riyadh.

Brito said that the North Riyadh Geopark showcases the natural and cultural diversity of Saudi Arabia, and will enhance eco-tourism in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

In April, UNESCO designated North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark as part of its Global Geoparks Network. The Kingdom hopes to register 13 other sites on UNESCO’s network, the SPA added.


Riyadh’s latest group game spot encourages social connection

Pixel Games adds to the Kingdom’s capital’s growing roster of homegrown gaming concepts. (Supplied)
Updated 05 May 2025
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Riyadh’s latest group game spot encourages social connection

  • Center designed to engage people physically, mentally

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia encourages more active and social lifestyles, a group of young Saudi entrepreneurs in Riyadh has created a space that blends movement, mental challenges, and social connection.

Opened in 2024, Pixel Games is a locally developed gaming center designed to engage people both physically and mentally. It is also a testament to the vision and drive of young Saudis, who are shaping the Kingdom’s entertainment landscape.

Pixel Games adds to Saudi Arabia’s capital’s growing roster of homegrown gaming concepts. (Supplied)

Riyadh has no shortage of entertainment options, and Pixel Games adds to the city’s growing roster of homegrown concepts.

While the founders would like to keep a low profile, they are working behind the scenes to address the local appetite for interactive social spaces that go beyond traditional arcades or seasonal pop-ups.

FASTFACTS

• Activities at Pixel Games range from strategic puzzles to movement-based games, all designed for groups of friends and families to enjoy together.

• Each session lasts an hour, and visitors can reserve private rooms for a more personal experience.

The center features nine themed “moving rooms,” with more than 40 group-based physical and mental challenges.

Riyadh has no shortage of entertainment options, and Pixel Games adds to the city’s growing roster of homegrown concepts. (Supplied)

Activities range from strategic puzzles to movement-based games, all designed for groups of friends and families to enjoy together. Each session lasts an hour, and visitors can reserve private rooms for a more personal experience.

Visitors have responded positively to the experience. Nawaf Aloggayel, a recent guest, said: “The place is beautiful, the games are different and fun, and the prices are reasonable.

Pixel Games adds to Saudi Arabia’s capital’s growing roster of homegrown gaming concepts. (Supplied)

“I advise people to come … it’s the best entertainment place in Riyadh so far.”

Ahmed Al-Ahmed, marketing representative for Pixel Games, said: “Pixels is an entertainment center that gathers challenges and fun into a group of different movement activities.

“Groups can enjoy a private room, which makes it more exciting and comfortable.”

What sets it apart is its year-round availability, making it a go-to spot for spontaneous plans or scheduled outings. It provides a safe and stimulating environment where children can burn off energy, develop problem-solving skills, and socialize with their peers.

Whether you are looking for a quick group activity, a family outing, or a way to try something new with friends, Pixels offers a low-key alternative for playful competition and connection.

 


Biotech program to empower Saudi innovators

General view in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (REUTERS)
Updated 05 May 2025
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Biotech program to empower Saudi innovators

  • The seven-month program offers participants mentorship, capacity development, and networking opportunities with local and international investors and experts

RIYADH: The Ministry of Health has launched a biotechnology accelerator program to empower Saudi innovators in biotechnology and life sciences.

The initiative aims to enhance their scientific and commercial readiness, attract investment, and expand their global market reach, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It also seeks to boost their contributions to healthcare quality, aligning with the National Biotechnology Strategy and the Health Sector Transformation Program under Vision 2030, which envisions a thriving, innovation-driven economy and a vibrant society with sustainable health and quality of life.

The seven-month program offers participants mentorship, capacity development, and networking opportunities with local and international investors and experts.

It includes workshops, seminars, individual consultations, and a chance to present innovations at the BIO 2025 Conference.

The application deadline is May 8. Interviews and initial selection will take place from May 15-20, with final acceptances announced on May 25.

The ministry continues to advance health innovation and accelerate the progress of promising national projects. It encourages all Saudi innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups to register for the program and inquire via redbiotech@moh.gov.sa

 


Insan spends SR55m on beneficiary families in first quarter of 2025

The society deposited SR27.6 million into families’ bank accounts for basic expenses (cash, clothing, and food). (X @ensanorg)
Updated 05 May 2025
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Insan spends SR55m on beneficiary families in first quarter of 2025

  • Programs aim to meet needs through seasonal initiatives, monthly services, direct assistance

RIYADH: The Charitable Society for Orphans Care in Riyadh, also known as Insan, implemented several programs during the first quarter of 2025 aimed at meeting the needs of families through seasonal initiatives, monthly services, and direct assistance.

Total expenditure on services and initiatives provided during the first quarter amounted to SR55.09 million ($14.66 million), which included basic, seasonal, and other services.

The society deposited SR27.6 million into families’ bank accounts for basic expenses (cash, clothing, and food).

It also deposited SR2,790,600 for the Ramadan Basket Project, benefiting 9,251 families to meet their needs during the holy month of Ramadan, and SR1,060,800 for the Eid Gift Project, helping 5,304 through special gifts during Eid Al-Fitr.

There were more than 21,000 beneficiaries from the Zakat Al-Fitr project during the first quarter, covering their food needs before Eid Al-Fitr, at a cost of SR3.86 million.

The quarterly report issued by Insan highlighted the numerous programs and activities provided by it, including Imaniyat, Pioneers of the Future, Be a Human Compass, Mualham, and Medad.

These programs included developmental and empowerment paths, helping 2,853 beneficiaries.

In line with its commitment to meeting the needs of beneficiary families, Insan provided 7,725 diverse services during the first quarter, including emergency assistance, social and health support, bill payments, housing expenses, furnishing and maintenance, contributions to home purchases, healthcare, and other services. The society spent SR19,773,339 on these services.

It also conducted 1,469 visits to families in the first quarter. These assessed conditions, listened to needs, and identified requirements. The family satisfaction rate reached 93 percent.

In an effort to empower beneficiaries in various fields, the society conducted 436 applications for training, diploma, bachelor’s degree, employment, and project financing.

 


Saudi deputy minister receives newly appointed Spanish ambassador

Saud Al-Sati (R) holds talks with Javier Carbajosa Sanchez in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 05 May 2025
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Saudi deputy minister receives newly appointed Spanish ambassador

  • Al-Sati welcomed the Spanish ambassador and wished him success in his new duties

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Political Affairs Saud Al-Sati received the new Ambassador of Spain to the Kingdom Javier Carbajosa Sanchez in Riyadh on Monday.

Al-Sati welcomed the Spanish ambassador and wished him success in his new duties, the Foreign Ministry wrote in a post on X.

Separately, the Saudi deputy minister met with Ambassador of Iraq to the Kingdom Safia Taleb Al-Suhail and discussed bilateral relations and issues of common interest.