Saudi Arabia to organize virtual donors conference for Yemen in partnership with UN

KSRelief donations are distributed to Yemeni children. (KSRelief)
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Updated 31 May 2020
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Saudi Arabia to organize virtual donors conference for Yemen in partnership with UN

  • The Kingdom called on donor countries to support efforts to make the conference a success
  • The UN on Thursday announced the conference in partnership with Riyadh, saying the aim is to raise some $2.4 billion

RIYADH: Experts have highlighted the pivotal role the 2020 Donors Conference for Yemen could play in saving the country and extricating it from its present state of division and dilapidated infrastructure.
The event, to be held virtually on June 2 under the directives of King Salman, is an extension of Saudi Arabia’s global humanitarian and development contribution. The Kingdom is urging other donor countries to participate. The UN said that the aim is to raise some $2.4 billion to pay for the world’s biggest aid operation.
“The conference will coordinate humanitarian efforts among all donors and related parties, and ensure that the Yemeni civilians who are in need will get access to aid,” said Dr. Basil Abdullah Bawazir, a legal expert on constitutional law and international relations.
He described Yemen’s humanitarian situation as “one of the gravest in modern history,” saying that around 80 percent of Yemenis have been negatively affected by the Houthi conflict and do not have direct access to food, clean water, shelter and health care services.
“The humanitarian conditions in Yemen have exasperated because (of) the uncertain political conditions,” he said. “While all parties in the country claim they want peace, we, as Yemenis, only see that the chances of peace are more remote than ever because the parties want to make the maximum gains from the raging war. We pin big hopes on the donors conference and hope the parties involved will ensure that all the needy in Yemen get access to aid.”
Bawazir believes that the conference’s outcome should be translated on the ground in the form of enhanced aid to the needy and impoverished civilians in Yemen, while also including Yemenis living in difficult conditions in other countries.
As the country suffers from the COVID-19 outbreak and does not have a robust health care system, Yemenis need all forms of support now more than ever, he said.
He called on the donors to discuss the political situation and conditions in Yemen to reach an effective resolution and reach the roots of the political problem.
“The biggest support this conference can give to Yemen is to stop the war and hold a ceasefire,” he added.
Dr. Aref Abuhatem, an information counselor at the Yemeni Embassy in Saudi Arabia, described the current situation in Yemen as “completely complicated and cruel.”
He said that the Houthi militias are more dangerous than the COVID-19 pandemic, and threaten country’s future and security, as well as that of the Gulf.
The Yemeni people want to know the mechanism used in distributing aid, especially given that around $23 billion was misappropriated by corrupt individuals from local and international UN organizations, he said.

FASTFACTS

• The 2020 Donors Conference for Yemen, to be held virtually on June 2 under the directives of King Salman, is as an extension of Saudi Arabia’s global humanitarian and development contribution.

• The Kingdom is urging other donor countries to participate. The UN said that the aim is to raise some $2.4 billion to pay for the world’s biggest aid operation. 

“Yemen’s situation is catastrophic. There is no healt care, no education, no electricity, no security and no water,” said Abuhatem.
He added that lessons should be learned from Iraq, which is controlled now by Iran. Yemen should be saved from Iran so that it does not suffer the same fate.
He said that the UN envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths interfered in the political decisions when he should not have done. “This happened because the political decision-making process in Yemen lost direction and Griffiths took advantage of the situation.”
Abdulrahman Al-Kaff, an energy expert, said the power infrastructure is in bad shape and cannot meet the public’s increasing demand, with only 40 percent of Yemeni people having access to power.
“Power outages are frequent because of attacks targeting the infrastructure. The conflict has led to the complete destruction of the infrastructure all over the country,” he said.
Al-Kaff hopes the conference will recommend the use of crude oil or gas for power production, and set conditions for financing solar power projects.
Speaking about the country’s turbulent north-south divide, Salah Salim bin Hamel, a member of a local council and a rights activist, said that the decision-makers in Yemen’s north believe that the president should be from the Zaydi minority.
“The people in the south believe that most legislative, executive and judiciary bodies are run by people from the north, which is not fair,” he said.
The people in the northern side of the country want one united Yemen, while people in the south want separation and two independent states.
“Yemen needs a magical solution to get out of this crisis because the current political, social and religious conditions are complex. There is so much division,” said Hamel.
One of the main challenges that might obstruct aid from reaching the needy people in Yemen is the absence of a database of the impoverished and the needy, said Hamel. Other reasons include tribalism, armed conflicts and displacement.


Embracing the skies: Riyadh aviation show inspires next generation of pilots

Updated 23 November 2024
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Embracing the skies: Riyadh aviation show inspires next generation of pilots

  • Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation’s first female pilot wants more women to sign up

RIYADH: The Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation was among the top organizations at an aviation show that captivated the Kingdom’s capital with stunning aerobatic displays and an impressive lineup of aircraft.

Sand and Fun 2024, which concluded on Saturday at Thumamah Airport, showcased the Kingdom’s wide-ranging aviation sector.

The federation presented a collection of colorful hot air balloons to demonstrate the experience to adults and younger generations as part of the efforts to raise awareness about hot air ballooning and to inspire a new generation of pilots.

Sand and Fun 2024, which concluded on Saturday at Thumamah Airport, showcased the Kingdom’s wide-ranging aviation sector. (AN photo)

Among the pilots was Afrah Al-Harbi, the first female Saudi hot air balloon pilot to graduate from the federation.  

Al-Harbi is on a mission to cultivate a community of female pilots, encouraging women to explore the exhilarating world of hot air ballooning. Her story is an inspiring testament to the opportunities available to women in aviation and the importance of representation in this field.

“At the beginning, I was studying at the university, but the Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation launched a training program to train balloon pilots,” she told Arab News. “Thank God, I registered, and I was accepted. After that, I started my studies to become a balloon captain. The federation covered the entire mission, which is considered a grant from the federation. I obtained the European EASA license, and then I also obtained the Saudi license from the General Authority of Civil Aviation.”

The five-day event at Thumamah Airport gave visitors the opportunity to meet pilots, learn about the intricacies of ballooning. (Supplied/Aviation Club)

The federation offers structured programs to equip aspiring pilots with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.  

Hot air balloons first appeared in the Kingdom in AlUla as part of the Winter at Tantora Festival in 2018. This event not only showcased the beauty of ballooning, but also laid the groundwork for the establishment of the federation.

The hot air balloon sport is known and famous worldwide. We need a type of it that people can take part in within the Kingdom, especially for global competitions.

Abdulrahman Al-Wahaibi, Saudi hot air balloon pilot

The organization plays a crucial role in promoting balloon culture and raising awareness of the sport.

The five-day event at Thumamah Airport gave visitors the opportunity to meet pilots, learn about the intricacies of ballooning. (Supplied/Aviation Club)

“We want to show people that hot air ballooning is not only fun, but also safe,” Al-Harbi said, emphasizing the importance of public perception in the growth of the sport.

Her career has included a visit to the Netherlands, where she underwent extensive training.

“My studies in the Netherlands were quite lengthy, but it was an incredibly enriching experience,” she said. “The training included both theoretical subjects and practical sessions to help us obtain our licenses.”

Abdulrahman Al-Wahaibi, Saudi hot air balloon pilot. (AN photo)

The rigorous training not only prepared Al-Harbi for the technical aspects of flying, but also instilled a deep appreciation of the art of ballooning.

Abdulrahman Al-Wahaibi also spoke about his journey in the world of hot air ballooning, which began was he was a student in Australia.

“I looked at a balloon for the first time in my life and was fascinated by its shape,” he told Arab News. “I had to try the experience, so I did, as a passenger. The experience was beautiful, and I thought we needed this in Saudi Arabia. At that time, Saudi Arabia did not have hot air balloons.”

Among the pilots was Afrah Al-Harbi, the first female Saudi hot air balloon pilot to graduate from the federation. (AN photo)

Al-Wahaibi dedicated himself to bringing the ballooning experience back to Saudi Arabia, sharing it with family, friends, and the community.

This included studying aerospace engineering and breaking records in Australia for the fastest training period. He expressed pride in being part of the first Arab country to take part in international hot air balloon competitions, highlighting the significant strides made by the Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation.

“The hot air balloon sport is known and famous worldwide,” Al-Wahaibi said. “We need a type of it that people can take part in within the Kingdom, especially for global competitions.”

Sand and Fun 2024, which concluded on Saturday at Thumamah Airport, showcased the Kingdom’s wide-ranging aviation sector. (AN photo)

His vision aligns with the federation’s mission to broaden participation and elevate the sport on an international level.

Based in AlUla, the Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation plans festivals designed to integrate the natural environment and the grandeur of the historic landmarks of ancient civilizations such as Hegra.

The five-day event at Thumamah Airport gave visitors the opportunity to meet pilots, learn about the intricacies of ballooning, and even experience the thrill of a balloon ride.

With inspiring pilots such as Al-Harbi and Al-Wahaibi at the helm, the outlook for hot air ballooning in the years to come looks as bright as the skies adorned with colorful balloons.

 

 


Saudi ambassador presents credentials to Cypriot president

President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides receives Fawaz bin Abdulrahman Al-Shabili in Nicosia. (Supplied)
Updated 23 November 2024
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Saudi ambassador presents credentials to Cypriot president

  • Al-Shabili conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the president

NICOSIA: Saudi Ambassador to Cyprus Fawaz bin Abdulrahman Al-Shabili presented his credentials to the President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides at a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in the capital Nicosia, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

Al-Shabili conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the president, as well as their wishes for steady progress and prosperity for Cyprus.

Meanwhile, Saudi Vice Minister of Commerce and CEO of the National Competitiveness Center Eman bint Habbas Al-Mutairi led a Saudi delegation of government officials and business leaders to the UK to bolster bilateral economic relations.

 


Saudi Arabia to host Qur’an contest in Nepal

More than 400 contestants from various Nepalese states and governorates will participate in the preliminary qualifiers. (SPA)
Updated 23 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia to host Qur’an contest in Nepal

  • The competition is part of Saudi Arabia’s endeavor to disseminate the teachings of the Qur’an among young Muslims around the world

RIYADH: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance will hold the second Holy Qur’an Memorization Competition in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, on Dec. 21-22.

More than 400 contestants from various Nepalese states and governorates will participate in the preliminary qualifiers, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The competition is part of Saudi Arabia’s endeavor to disseminate the teachings of the Qur’an among young Muslims around the world.

The closing ceremony, which will include the presentation of awards to the winners, will be held on Dec. 23 and will be attended by officials from various centers and schools across Nepal.

 


Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season

Updated 23 November 2024
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Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season

  • Unique taste, aroma make it popular locally, internationally

RIYADH: The Asir region is currently in the midst of the Sidr honey season, with local markets flooded with high-quality honey produced from the nectar of Sidr trees.

The recent heavy rainfall in the region has led to a prolific flowering of Sidr trees, providing ideal conditions for bees to produce abundant and flavorful honey, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Sidr honey, which is renowned for its health benefits, is particularly prized for its antioxidant properties and ability to strengthen the immune system.

The unique taste and aroma of the honey have made it a sought-after commodity, both locally and internationally, the SPA reported.

Beekeepers in Tihama Asir have been busy harvesting the golden nectar, with prices ranging from SR350 to SR500 ($93-133) per kg.

The region’s diverse ecosystem, characterized by its fertile valleys and abundant flora, provides an optimal environment for beekeeping.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is actively supporting the development of the beekeeping industry. Initiatives such as the beekeeping and honey production development initiative improve practices, protect bee populations, and enhance the quality of honey.

By promoting sustainable beekeeping and preserving the natural habitats of bees, the Kingdom seeks to strengthen its position as a leading producer of high-quality honey while contributing to the global market.


Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability

Updated 23 November 2024
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Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability

  • Al-Ahsa event to promote communities’ role in economic growth

RIYADH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture will host the 1st International Forum for Saudi Reef in Al-Ahsa from Dec. 16-18, aiming to strengthen rural communities, and promote their role in driving sustainable development.

Maha Aldhahi, head of the forum’s executive committee, said: “The forum is pivotal in advancing rural development, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030. It will support rural communities, while contributing to global efforts and research on sustainable agriculture.”

Aldhahi said that the forum will unite regional and international experts to address the challenge of rural-to-urban migration, a widespread issue. To counter this, the forum will propose practical solutions to ensure rural areas remain economically viable, vibrant, and sustainable.

Additionally, it will explore innovations in agriculture and rural development, fostering economic growth and social cohesion through job creation and investment promotion, she added.

Aldhahi said that the forum builds on the Saudi Reef Program, recognized by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization as the world’s largest development initiative of its kind.

The program has supported over 77,000 agricultural projects, achieved a self-sufficiency rate exceeding 65 percent in vital sectors, and provided upskilling and career opportunities for rural communities.

Ghassan Bakri, secretary-general of the Saudi Reef Program, said: “The program is a model of sustainable growth, addressing food security and job creation while preserving cultural heritage. By hosting this forum, we aim to attract global partnerships and exchange cutting-edge solutions for rural empowerment.”

Bakri added that the forum will feature dynamic discussions on key topics, including sustainable agricultural practices, rural entrepreneurship, and the role of modern technology in agriculture.

The three-day event will also include an exhibition showcasing unique rural practices, handicrafts, and the work of local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. It will highlight how traditional techniques integrate with modern innovations to create sustainable livelihoods.