French engineer returns ancient coins to AlUla

Jean-Claude Lefevre handed over the coins in Paris. (Photo/Supplied)
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Updated 21 February 2020
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French engineer returns ancient coins to AlUla

  • Jean-Claude Lefevre said he got the coins from a child when he visited AlUla in 1966
  • Archaeologists at the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) are looking into the coins' origins

RIYADH/PARIS: When French geological engineer Jean-Claude Lefevre visited AlUla in 1966, a young child gave him five old bronze coins, which he took back to France with him. Last Friday, Lefevre donated those coins to the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU).

Lefevre said he was inspired to return the items after visiting the “AlUla — Wonder of Arabia” exhibition at the Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA) in Paris.

Lefevre was working with the Saudi Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources when he visited AlUla more than 60 years ago. At the time, there were no laws protecting heritage sites in Saudi Arabia, so there is no suggestion that the French engineer did anything illegal. Today, however, the removal of artifacts from such sites is forbidden.

Lefevre contacted the RCU and met Abdulrahman Alsuhaibaini, the commission’s acting museum and exhibitions director, at the IMA on Feb. 14, when he handed over the coins. They will now be studied by RCU archaeologists to determine their origin and hopefully reveal new details of the ancient commercial crossroads at Hegra.


ALSO READ: The French agency helping Saudi Arabia realize AlUla’s potential


“We are very grateful to M. Lefevre for his contribution to the protection and preservation of our heritage,” Alshuhaibaini said. “It’s wonderful to know that the IMA exhibition — where we launched our cultural manifesto last October — has inspired such positive behavior and a growing recognition of the Royal Commission’s commitment to preserving and protecting heritage. The coins will now be cleaned and conserved before they can be read and studied.”

Hegra became Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Archaeological excavations at Hegra have discovered evidence of daily Nabataean life and rituals since regular excavations by a Saudi-French mission began in 2008. The excavations have also demonstrated that the Romans built an outpost at Hegra — the most southerly Roman settlement yet discovered.

“Most of the finds are pieces of pottery and sandstone sculptures. Even the smallest find can yield valuable information that sheds new light on ancient life,” said Alsuhaibaini. “Since these coins have been removed from their original context at Hegra, their scientific value (has been diminished), but once cleaned up they may yield important information about the Nabateans or the Romans.”

Saad Al-Matrafi, a spokesperson for the RCU, denied recent rumors about the discovery of gold in AlUla. “The video that has been circulating on social media is an old video that misrepresents the finding of small fragmented Lihyanite pottery statues in Um Al-Daraj, AlUla,” he said. “There is no gold in AlUla.”

The “AlUla — Wonders of Arabia” exhibition at the IMA runs until March 7.


East Arafat Hospital’s mobile unit performs 14 emergency cardiac procedures during Hajj

Updated 1 min 14 sec ago
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East Arafat Hospital’s mobile unit performs 14 emergency cardiac procedures during Hajj

  • Onsite response eliminates need to transfer patients to specialized centers
  • Indonesian pilgrim who suffered cardiac arrest airlifted to Taif

MAKKAH: A mobile unit of East Arafat Hospital’s cardiology department has successfully performed 14 emergency cardiac catheterization procedures since it began operations on the first day of Hajj, the Makkah Health Cluster has announced.

The procedures are being conducted under the direct field supervision of King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah city, the health cluster said in a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency.

Composed of a specialized cardiology team, supported by qualified Saudi professionals in anesthesia, nursing and urgent cardiac care, the mobile cardiac catheterization unit is deployed at the holy sites to provide immediate on-site intervention.

Officials said that the initiative eliminated the need to transfer patients to specialized centers, “thereby enhancing patient safety and ensuring continuous medical care.”

Meanwhile, the Air Medical Evacuation team at the Ministry of Defense rescued an Indonesian pilgrim who suffered a cardiac arrest on June 5 in Makkah.

The patient was airlifted from Al-Noor Hospital in Makkah to King Abdulaziz Specialist Hospital in Taif city.

Air evacuation units stationed near the holy sites ensure a rapid emergency response, improving rescue times and increasing survival rates.

Health officials had earlier announced the successful testing of a new service transporting medicine with drones during Hajj, which started on June 4 and will run until June 9.

As reported earlier by Arab News, Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel said that drone delivery trials over the past two years had tested for safe takeoff and landing, as well as high temperatures. The drones were equipped with cooling systems, he said.

The drone initiative is a part of the comprehensive health care transformation taking place in the Kingdom under the Saudi Vision 2030 program.


Saudi transport minister tours Hajj shuttle service for pilgrims

Updated 3 min 15 sec ago
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Saudi transport minister tours Hajj shuttle service for pilgrims

RIYADH: As Hajj rituals continue to take place in the holy sites in Makkah, Saudi Arabia’s transport minister on Friday night toured a shuttle bus service used to move pilgrims from Mina to the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh Al-Jasser inspected the shuttle station west of the Jamarat complex, as pilgrims attempt to complete the Tawaf Al-Ifadah inside the holy mosque in Makkah.

The services uses a dedicated lane to transport about 20,000 passengers an hour on 100 buses on the short 20-minute journey northward to the Grand Mosque.

The minister’s visit is part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to ensure the quality of services provided to pilgrims, a Saudi Press Agency report said.

More than 1.6 million pilgrims are taking part in this year’s Hajj, which is an annual event and a key pillar of Islam.

Saudi authorities have said that the event has been a success with various ministries and state institutions taking part in ensuring the safety and timely provision of services to pilgrims.

In an address on Friday, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said: “The continued success we witnessed today in serving the Guests of God is the result of our blessed country’s efforts in serving the Two Holy Mosques, the holy sites and their visitors.”

The pilgrims, who are affectionately referred to as the Guests of Allah, are encamped in the tent city of Mina and will be performing the “stoning of the devil” ritual at the Jamarat over the next few days.

They spent Thursday standing at the plain of Arafat, an act considered as the climax of Hajj, supplicating and asking forgiveness from Allah.

On Friday, Muslims across the world marked Eid Al-Adha, which is always celebrated the day after Arafat.


How pilgrims can embrace sustainability during Hajj to reduce their environmental impact

Updated 07 June 2025
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How pilgrims can embrace sustainability during Hajj to reduce their environmental impact

  • Hajj generates millions of tonnes of plastic waste each year, making sustainable solutions critical to protecting the holy sites
  • Pilgrims are being encouraged to think beyond convenience and adopt habits that support the health of the planet and community

RIYADH: As millions of Muslims gather in Makkah for Hajj, concern is growing over the environmental toll of one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings — particularly the vast quantities of plastic waste left behind.

From water bottles to shopping bags, single-use plastics are a staple at major public events, and Hajj is no exception. Given the sheer volume of pilgrims, this waste can have lasting environmental consequences, unless mitigated by more sustainable choices.

Fortunately, awareness is growing among individuals and organizations about the harm caused by plastic pollution. Many are now turning to greener alternatives to reduce their footprint during the holy season.

Among the most commonly used items are plastic water bottles. With millions expected to be discarded during Hajj, experts and advocates say it is important to replace single-use items with reusable options or eliminate their use altogether.

One local company working to address the issue is Green Bags Saudi, a Jeddah-based provider of sustainable packaging. The company provides reusable bags made from jute, cotton, and canvas as part of its mission to support Saudi Arabia’s move away from disposable plastics.

“We proudly align our efforts with the Saudi Green Initiative, contributing to a greener future through both innovation and local production,” Aboobacker Yousuf, chairman and managing director of the GP Group of Companies that owns Green Bags Saudi, told Arab News.

Green Bags Saudi, a Jeddah-based manufacturer, provides reusable bags made from jute, cotton, and canvas as part of its mission to support Saudi Arabia’s move away from disposable plastics. (Supplied)

Although the company will not be directly involved in this year’s pilgrimage, Yousuf said it strongly advocates for more eco-conscious practices during Hajj.

“We recommend reusable cotton tote bags for carrying personal items, biodegradable hygiene kits, jute or canvas pouches for organizing belongings, and eco-friendly water bottles and cutlery sets,” he said.

“These items not only serve practical needs but also significantly reduce the environmental impact caused by disposable plastics during the event.”

Pilgrims are encouraged to be more conscious of their consumption and waste, and to choose products that support sustainability. (SPA)

Yousuf also encouraged pilgrims to be more conscious of their consumption and waste, and to choose products that support sustainability.

“Choosing reusable items over disposable ones, properly disposing of waste, and minimizing plastic use can make a significant difference,” he said.

“By carrying cloth bags, refilling water bottles instead of buying plastic ones, and using compostable or biodegradable products, every pilgrim can contribute to preserving the holy sites and supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader sustainability vision.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• 506 million tonnes of plastic were produced worldwide in 2022, but only 9 percent were recycled.

• Millions of tonnes of plastic enter the oceans every year, posing a threat to marine life.

• Plastic waste affects soil quality, damages plants, and contributes to groundwater pollution.

• By 2050, the weight of plastic waste present in our oceans could surpass that of fish.

While private companies are taking the lead in promoting eco-friendly alternatives, the public sector is also playing a key role in aligning Hajj services with the sustainability goals of Vision 2030 — a national strategy that seeks to boost quality of life across the Kingdom.

One standout example is the Sustainable Ihram Initiative, launched last month by the Fashion Commission. The program focuses on collecting and recycling textile waste generated by pilgrims, including ihrams, pillows, blankets, and sheets.

By embracing the principles of circular fashion, the initiative merges faith, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship — aiming to provide visitors with exceptional experiences while protecting natural resources.

The Sustainable Ihram Initiative focuses on collecting and recycling textile waste generated by pilgrims, including ihrams, pillows, blankets, and sheets. (SPA photo)

“The Sustainable Ihram Initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration, reflecting the collective efforts of local and international partners committed to advancing the circular economy within the fashion industry,” said Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Fashion Commission, in comments to the Saudi Press Agency.

As Hajj begins, such efforts underscore a growing sense of shared responsibility for the environment. With the support of private enterprise and government initiatives, more pilgrims are being empowered to make sustainable choices.

By opting for reusable products, minimizing waste, and supporting eco-friendly innovations, pilgrims can help protect the sanctity of the holy sites — and contribute to a more sustainable future for the Kingdom and the planet.

 


Madinah governor hosts Eid Al-Adha reception, highlights Hajj services

Prince Salman bin Sultan receives well-wishers celebrating Eid Al-Adha in Madinah. (Supplied)
Updated 06 June 2025
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Madinah governor hosts Eid Al-Adha reception, highlights Hajj services

  • The governor praised the facilities and services provided to pilgrims performing Hajj and commended the efforts of the relevant authorities

MADINAH: Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan received well-wishers celebrating Eid Al-Adha and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s dedication to serving pilgrims and maintaining the Two Holy Mosques.

During the reception, the governor underscored the commitment of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to ensuring exceptional care for pilgrims visiting Islam’s most sacred sites.

The ceremony drew a diverse gathering, including senior clerics, government ministers, tribal chiefs, local officials and citizens, who came to offer their best wishes to the prince.

The governor praised the facilities and services provided to pilgrims performing Hajj and commended the efforts of the relevant authorities.

 


Saudi crown prince praises efforts behind Hajj success

Updated 06 June 2025
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Saudi crown prince praises efforts behind Hajj success

  • Prince Mohammed also praised the dedication of government employees and volunteers across all sectors

MINA: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Friday lauded the success of this year’s Hajj season, crediting it to the Kingdom’s commitment to serving the Two Holy Mosques and the pilgrims who visit them, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

“The continued success we witnessed today in serving the Guests of God is the result of our blessed country’s efforts in serving the Two Holy Mosques, the holy sites and their visitors,” the crown prince said.

“We will continue to exert all efforts to provide comfort to the Guests of God.”

His remarks came during a reception held at the Royal Court in Mina Palace, where he received Eid Al-Adha well-wishers on behalf of King Salman.

The gathering included senior princes, the Kingdom’s Grand Mufti, high-ranking officials, military commanders involved in the Hajj operation and guests from Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

The crown prince also praised the dedication of government employees and volunteers across all sectors for their role in enabling pilgrims to complete their Hajj rituals safely and peacefully.