Health Ministry reports 687 new coronavirus cases, 24 deaths on Friday
The Kingdom’s health ministry announced 687 new cases of the disease and 24 more deaths from it
Updated 12 September 2020
Arab News
JEDDAH: The total number of people who have recovered from the coronavirus disease pandemic in Saudi Arabia stood at 300,933, according to the latest figures released on Friday.
Meanwhile, the Kingdom’s Health Ministry announced 687 new cases of the disease, meaning that 324,407 people have contracted the virus so far. There were 19,261 active cases; 1,368 of them are in critical condition.
The Ministry of Health announced 24 more deaths on Friday, raising the death toll to 4,213. Of the new cases, 72 were recorded in Makkah, 49 in Dammam, 48 in Jeddah, 42 in Madinah and 37 in Riyadh.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, 45 percent of the new reported cases were females, 10 percent were children, 4 percent were elderly and 86 percent were adults.
Saudi Arabia has so far conducted 5,645,077 PCR tests, with 55,584 carried out in the past 24 hours.
The Ministry of Health renewed its recommendations for anyone experiencing symptoms to go to its Tetamman (rest assured) clinics dedicated to helping those with COVID-19 symptoms, or Taakad (make sure) centers designated for those who show no, or mild symptoms, or think that they have come into contact with an infected person.
INNUMBERS
324,407 COVID-19 cases
300,933 Recoveries
19,261 Active cases
4,213 Total deaths
An appointment can be booked through the Sehaty app, or by calling the service center 937 for consultations and inquiries around the clock.
People can also use the ministry’s WhatsApp interactive services via the number 920005937 to obtain health information and services, learn about the developments of the virus, primary care centers, blood donation centers, appointments and how to obtain them.
Meanwhile, Jazan Health Affairs confirmed that the number of beneficiaries of Tetamman clinics and Taakad centers in the region had reached nearly 80,000 so far.
Tetamman clinics received more than 34,822 beneficiaries who were served through nine clinics distributed in all governorates of the region, while the number of people who visited Taakad centers exceeded 45,178 through eight centers, including car tests.
In Madinah, Taakad has provided services to 191,000 beneficiaries since its inception in the city.
The Madinah health affairs said that the center includes 12 examination rooms divided into two main tracks and six secondary tracks, with a capacity of more than 4,000 samples per day.
These tests show the extent of the virus’s spread, and the categories in which it is spreads, and help in early detection of these cases, cut the chain of infection and prevent the formation of hotbeds for the virus.
Ramadan nights: A tapestry of tradition, community, modern elegance
Ramadan transforms nights into vibrant spectacles of commerce and community
You can immerse yourself in the bustling night markets and seasonal stalls that come alive throughout the month
Updated 13 sec ago
Ghadi Joudah & Nada Hameed
RIYADH/JEDDAH: As the sun dips below the horizon, signaling the end of a day of fasting and reflection, cities across the Muslim world awaken to a nocturnal pulse.
The holy month of Ramadan transforms nights into vibrant spectacles of commerce and community, with bazaars and night markets emerging as electrifying hubs of activity.
You can immerse yourself in the bustling night markets and seasonal stalls that come alive throughout the month, in which Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions take center stage.
Visitors weave through vibrant hubs adorned with handcrafted souvenirs, traditional attire, and unique local goods, pausing to savor flavorful iftar and sahoor specialties served at the stalls.
The air hums with laughter, the clatter of coffee cups, and the warmth of shared stories, embodying the essence of Ramadan in the city.
Among Riyadh’s after-dark attractions, the Ramadan Caravan by Harvey Nichols stands out as a beacon of cultural celebration and modern luxury.
Ramadan Caravan by Harvey Nichols will run from February 13 to April 4 at Al-Faisaliah Center in Olaya. (SUPPLIED)
Returning this year for its 10th anniversary, this annual pop-up event runs until April 4 at Al-Faisaliah Center in Olaya, with extended hours tailored to Ramadan rhythms.
Inspired by Najdi architecture, the caravan’s design pays homage to Saudi heritage, blending earthy geometric patterns and arched motifs with sleek, contemporary aesthetics.
“Ramadan Reflections with HN,” which is this year’s theme, invites visitors to embrace and celebrate the season.
(SUPPLIED)
A Harvey Nichols spokesperson told Arab News: “By curating such a diverse collection, Harvey Nichols Riyadh ensures that customers can find items that resonate with their cultural backgrounds and traditions.”
To honor Ramadan’s spirit, the caravan introduces immersive experiences, and the spokesperson added: “We focus on activities that foster connection — like scent workshops with local artisans and bespoke gifting corners.”
These elements, and collections spanning abayas, kaftans, and home decor, reflect the rituals of gathering and generosity that are central to the month.
Adding to Riyadh’s after-dark allure, Beast House has announced its Ramadan 2025 experience: a vibrant fusion of tradition, artistry, and family-centric celebration.
(SUPPLIED)
Guests can explore hands-on activities such as floral arrangement and candle-making, or unwind in the elegant Ramadan Majlis — a luxuriously appointed space with plush seating and soft lighting, ideal for sahoor gatherings.
Culinary excellence takes center stage with a bespoke sahoor menu crafted by chef Rawan Al-Muslimani, blending timeless Ramadan flavors with contemporary flair.
The JAX Ramadan Market is also poised to join Riyadh’s roster of seasonal highlights.
As Ramadan is a time of togetherness, reflection, and celebration, and one of the most cherished traditions is visiting bazaars and night events, Ramadan Season is taking place in Al-Balad, the historic district of Jeddah.
Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Ramadan Season is being celebrated across cities nationwide, highlighting Saudi traditions through cultural and community events.
Under the slogan “Our Nights Have Returned,” the streets and public spaces have been adorned with decorative lights and installations, creating a magical atmosphere.
(SUPPLIED)
In key locations such as Al-Ghadeer Walkway, Olaya Street, and Jeddah Corniche, areas shine with Ramadan-themed displays throughout the holy month.
In Jeddah’s historic district, visitors can experience traditional Ramadan nights, enjoy iftar and sahoor at restaurants and cafes, and explore the “Balad stalls,” at which food vendors and seating areas offer a warm and welcoming space.
For a grand Ramadan experience, the Ramadaniyat Promenade is open until the end of Ramadan and entry is free.
Fawanees Nights at the Galleria Hotel on Tahlia Street runs throughout the month and offers a luxurious setting.
Beast House Ramadan 2025 experience: a vibrant fusion of tradition, artistry, and family-centric celebration. (SUPPLIED)
The Jibna Al-Eid Bazaar features a variety of local brands and delicious food, while the Balqees Exhibition is a key destination at Ana Ghair Mall.
For those looking for a lively Ramadan carnival, the Lammat Ramadan Festival will be held at the Hilton Hotel from March 13-17.
Another must-visit is the Samra Bazaar which is being held until March 15 at Emaar Square. This features a Ramadan tent, traditional folklore, a gaming championship, physical and electronic games, a children’s area, and an array of arts, culture, and food stalls.
Hajar Bin Rafe’a, the founder of Rafe’a Abayas and Rafe’a Concept Store, told Arab News about her deep appreciation of Ramadan bazaars, particularly Jibna Al-Eid and Qamra, which are known for their high attendance, excellent organization, and exceptional shopping experience.
Beast House Ramadan 2025 experience: a vibrant fusion of tradition, artistry, and family-centric celebration. (SUPPLIED)
Rafe’a said: “These two events receive an overwhelming turnout and stand out for their organization, revenue, and unmatched customer engagement. They have become an integral part of Jeddah’s identity during Ramadan.”
Rafe’a stressed that her participation in the bazaars is not solely for financial reasons but also to remind customers of the presence and evolution of local Saudi brands.
In addition, the Ahl Awal Exhibition, which runs until March 26 at Basateen Center, welcomes visitors daily from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Meanwhile, Ramadan with MC Bazaar, which was organized by Monochrome Community, was a two-day event on March 6-7 at Diwan Al-Hijaz on the Corniche. The event provided an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Saudi culture at Ramadan and enjoy the company of loved ones in an unforgettable setting.
Saudi Arabia’s Masam project clears 1,058 bombs from Yemen
Updated 25 min 9 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Project for Landmine Clearance, or Masam, removed 1,058 explosive devices from several parts of Yemen during the first week of March.
The KSrelief-led project cleared 1,034 unexploded ordnances and 24 anti-tank mines, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
Since its launch, the Masam project has removed 484,401 explosive devices across the country.
The aid is a part of Saudi Arabia’s Etaam Ramadan food distribution project
Updated 52 min 20 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief recently distributed more than 1,900 food aid parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
In Mauritania’s Tiaret district of Nouakchott, 3,390 people benefitted from 565 food parcels.
Also, 751 packages were handed out in the Karaan district of Somalia’s Banadir governorate, benefiting 4,506 people.
In addition, 590 parcels were distributed in the Romania cities of Bucharest and Constanta, benefiting 2,950 people.
The aid is a part of Saudi Arabia’s Etaam Ramadan food distribution project.
Saudi Arabia condemns Israel’s Gaza electricity cut
Updated 11 March 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has condemned Israel’s move to cut electricity to the Gaza Strip in what the Kingdom described as a practice of “collective punishment” against Palestinians in Gaza.
The Kingdom stressed its categorical rejection of Israeli violations of international humanitarian law, a foreign ministry statement said.
It reiterated its call on the international community to take urgent measures to restore electricity and the flow of aid to the Gaza Strip immediately without conditions or restrictions.
The Kingdom “renewed its call to activate international accountability mechanisms for these serious violations,” the statement concluded.
Israel cut off the electricity supply to Gaza, officials said Sunday, affecting a desalination plant producing drinking water for part of the arid territory.
It also suspended last week supplies of goods to the territory of more than 2 million Palestinians, an echo of the siege it imposed in the earliest days of the war.
Saudi Arabia welcomes Syrian agreement in northeast
Updated 11 March 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia welcomed an agreement between the interim Syrian government and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces that controls the country’s northeast.
The Kingdom praised the measures taken by the Syrian leadership to safeguard domestic peace in Syria and efforts made to complete the path of building state institutions, a Saudi foreign ministry statement said on Monday.
The deal includes a ceasefire and the merging of the main US-backed force there into the Syrian army.
The deal was signed by interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa and Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the US-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces.
The deal to be implemented by the end of the year would bring all border crossings with Iraq and Turkiye, airports and oil fields in the northeast under the central government’s control. Prisons where about 9,000 suspected members of the Daesh group are also expected to come under government control.