After 60 years, native gazelles return to Arabia

A handout picture provided by the Saudi Royal Palace on February 10, 2019, shows gazelles running in the desert at the site of al-Ula in northwestern Saudi Arabia. (AFP)
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Updated 26 February 2021
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After 60 years, native gazelles return to Arabia

  • Last November, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlighted in a speech to the Shoura Council that conservation in the Kingdom has risen 14 percent in the past three years from just 4 percent

MAKKAH: After a 60 year absence, the Arabian oryx and rhim gazelle have now returned to Rawdat Attinhat at the King Abdul Aziz Royal Reserve, north of the Kingdom’s capital city Riyadh.

In close cooperation between the National Center for Wildlife Development and King Abdul Aziz Royal Reserve, five Arabian oryx and 30 rhim gazelles, both endangered species, have been released into one of the largest unfenced conservation parks in the Kingdom.

Arabian oryx once thrived in the region, but disappeared from the central region of the peninsula 60 years ago.

According to the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, plans to release animals from the endangered list will be closely monitored and will work with more partners, according to the criteria and work plan of this ambitious national project, to revive wildlife in reserves and parks.

Last November, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlighted in a speech to the Shoura Council that conservation in the Kingdom has risen 14 percent in the past three years from just 4 percent. This comes as part of the national project to protect the environment and heritage according to the principles of sustainable development.

The program aims to strengthen environmental balance, and protect the Kingdom’s natural assets that have environmental, economic and cultural importance.

The spokesman for the Special Forces for Environmental Security said that its task is to protect wildlife in all locations, and called on all residents to refrain from hunting wild animals, adding that violators will be referred to the authorities and fined.

Ahmed Al-Bouq, the environmental advisor at the National Center for Wildlife Development supervising the national launch program, told Arab News: “King Abdul Aziz Reserve has a number of parks including Rawdat Attinhat, Rawdat Nourah, and Al-Khafs. These are considered wonderful natural habitats for endangered species in the Kingdom. These parks include acacia, sidra, and thistle trees, in addition to pastoral plants like cucumber, and they have an integrated ecosystem.”

Al-Bouq noted that the center has a program, the National Program to Relaunch and Resettle in Reserves and National Parks, which is a comprehensive, ambitious, and dedicated plan for all national parks in collaboration with supervising agencies.

He noted that by 2030, the National Center for Wildlife Development intends to release animals into the wild in 100 locations, including more gazelles and oryx, Alpine ibexes, ostriches, Houbara bustard birds, and other local species.

“The main objective of this program is to revive the wildlife of animals that either became extinct or are about to go extinct, based on international regulations and criteria,” Al-Bouq said.

He added: “A while ago we arranged to release more than 30 falcons, including free hawks, Shaheen, and Al-Wakra, after rehabilitating them in collaboration with the Saudi Falcons Club.”


Huge ‘800-year-old’ coral colony identified in Red Sea

Updated 11 sec ago
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Huge ‘800-year-old’ coral colony identified in Red Sea

  • The discovery, off the northwestern coast of Saudi Arabia, is said to be one of the largest of its kind in the world
  • It is expected to become a carefully managed tourist attraction for visitors to the Red Sea Global resort of Amaala

JEDDAH: A massive Pavona coral colony has been discovered in the Red Sea, off the northwestern coast of Saudi Arabia. The largest of its kind ever identified in the waters, it is expected to become a tourist attraction at the nearby Red Sea Global resort of Amaala.

This standalone colony — in contrast to a much larger reef, which is made up of many individual colonies — was described as one of the most significant environmental discoveries in the region and, although an exact size was not immediately given, it was said to rival the world’s largest-known individual coral colony, which is in the Pacific Ocean, covers an area of 32 meters by 34 meters and is 5.5 meters high.

Researchers say that studying this colony will be essential for safeguarding coral reefs in the Red Sea and around the globe. (SPA)

Red Sea Global told Arab News it will offer visitors to the Amaala resort the chance to view the colony in a secure and environmentally responsible way that ensures it is properly protected and minimizes effects on the local ecosystem.

Ahmad Al-Ansary, the organization’s head of environmental protection and regeneration, told Arab News that “a discovery of this magnitude underscores both the Red Sea’s environmental importance and its natural beauty.”

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The discovery, off the northwestern coast of Saudi Arabia, is said to be one of the largest of its kind in the world.

Estimating the age of the colony poses a technical challenge because of the limited growth-rate data for this species of coral in the Red Sea. Based on its size, comparative growth rates from Pacific specimens, and photogrammetry techniques that create 3D models from two-dimensional images, conservative estimates put its age at between 400 and 800 years old. Red Sea Global and KAUST said they were carrying out additional research and will refine the estimate.

“These giant coral formations act as ‘time capsules,’ preserving critical data on past climate conditions and helping us anticipate future environmental challenges,” he added.  

He went on to say that studying this colony will be essential for safeguarding coral reefs in the Red Sea and around the globe.

Red Sea coral ecosystems are among the hardiest in the world, genetically adapted to relatively high temperatures and salinity, and researchers said they will continuously monitor the colony to understand the nature of its resilience.

Ronda Sokka, a marine scientist at Red Sea Global and a co-discoverer of the colony, described it as “a natural treasure whose incredible hardiness in harsh conditions is truly rare.”

Her colleague Sylvia Yagerous said that mapping and documenting such large colonies is a core objective of the “Map the Giants” project, which aims to record all coral formations worldwide exceeding five meters in size. The latest find is the second giant colony documented by Red Sea Global in recent months.

 


First six Hajj flights from Pakistan depart for Saudi Arabia tomorrow

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First six Hajj flights from Pakistan depart for Saudi Arabia tomorrow

  • Around 50,500 Pakistani pilgrims will travel to Saudi Arabia under the Kingdom’s Makkah Route Initiative, which aims to streamline the immigration process for pilgrims to Makkah

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s 33-day-long Hajj flight operation will be launched from Tuesday, with six flights set to depart for Saudi Arabia, state media reported on Monday.

This year’s annual pilgrimage will take place in June, with nearly 89,000 Pakistanis expected to travel to Saudi Arabia under the government scheme and 23,620 Pakistanis performing Hajj through private tour operators.

“The Hajj flight operation to airlift intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia is commencing from tomorrow (Tuesday),” Radio Pakistan said in its report.

“On the first day of the Hajj flight operation, six flights will be operated: two from Lahore and one each from Islamabad, Karachi, Quetta and Multan.”

Around 89,000 pilgrims traveling under the government scheme will travel to Makkah and Madinah via 342 flights. The last Hajj flight will depart May 31.

Around 50,500 Pakistani pilgrims will travel to Saudi Arabia under the Kingdom’s Makkah Route Initiative, which aims to streamline the immigration process for pilgrims to Makkah.

The initiative was launched in 2019 by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and has been implemented in five countries: Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Morocco, and Bangladesh.

Under the initiative, pilgrims are able to complete their immigration requirements at their home country’s airports before they depart for Saudi Arabia. This saves pilgrims several hours upon arrival in the Kingdom, as they can simply enter the country without having to go through immigration again.

Under the Makkah Route Initiative, 28,000 pilgrims will depart for the Kingdom from Islamabad while the remaining 22,500 will fly from the southern port city of Karachi.

While a precise number of worldwide pilgrims for Hajj 2025 is difficult to determine in advance, projections suggest it will be a record-breaking year, with over 2.5 million Muslims performing the pilgrimage.

 


Saudi FM meets with Omani counterpart in Jebel Akhdar region

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan is pictured with his Omani counterpart Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi.
Updated 46 min 19 sec ago
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Saudi FM meets with Omani counterpart in Jebel Akhdar region

  • Prince Faisal is on an official visit to the country and reviewed Saudi-Omani relations with Al-Busaidi
  • The two ministers also visited the Rub Al-Khali border crossing linking the Kingdom and Oman

RIYAIDH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with his Omani counterpart Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi in the Jebel Akhdar region of Oman on Monday.

Prince Faisal is on an official visit to the country and reviewed Saudi-Omani relations and ways to strengthen them in various fields with Al-Busaidi, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The latest regional and international developments and efforts made with regard to them were also discussed.

The two ministers also visited the Rub Al-Khali border crossing linking the Kingdom and Oman.

They were briefed on the crossing’s modern facilities, including passenger processing lounges and logistical and administrative facilities to facilitate transit traffic.

These facilities aim to promote visits, trade exchange, and ease movement between the two countries, SPA said.


Saudi-Italian Business Forum showcases robust trade relations

Updated 28 April 2025
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Saudi-Italian Business Forum showcases robust trade relations

  • Event highlights opportunities in Kingdom, success stories of Italian companies

MILAN: The Saudi-Italian Business Forum, which was held on Monday in Lombardy, showcased the robust economic relationship between Italy and Saudi Arabia.

Spearheaded by prominent figures such as Veronica Squinzi, vice president for internationalization at Assolombarda, and Waleed Al-Orainan, secretary-general of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, the forum aimed to enhance collaboration and explore new business opportunities between the two nations.

Squinzi welcomed the forum and spoke of the significance of the gathering in strengthening economic ties, underscoring the importance of governmental support in fostering international business.

She said: “This forum represents a vital step in enhancing our economic collaboration and building lasting partnerships.”

Al-Orainan stressed the historic relationship between the two nations, dating back to the 1930s.

He said: “The warm reception we receive in Italy reflects the mutual respect and eagerness to enhance our bilateral cooperation.”

Kamel Al-Munajjed, chairman of the Saudi-Italian Business Council, expressed optimism regarding future collaboration.

He said: “We are at a pivotal moment where collaboration can unlock significant value chains, invigorating our economies.”

He acknowledged previous visits of Italian officials to Saudi Arabia which had helped to lay a solid foundation for partnerships.

Discussions at the forum revealed a landscape rich with business potential. Maria Tripodi, undersecretary of state for foreign affairs, noted that Saudi Arabia had emerged as a priority partner for Italy, with exports exceeding €6 billion in 2024 — an increase of 27.9 percent from the previous year.

Tripodi said: “Our relationship with Saudi Arabia is not only growing, it is thriving, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”

This growth positions Saudi Arabia as the second-largest market for Italian exports in the region, reflecting a burgeoning relationship across sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and high-tech innovation.

The forum also highlighted opportunities in Saudi Arabia and success stories of Italian companies in sectors such as infrastructure and construction, renewable energy, and sport.

Barbara Cimmino, vice president for export and foreign investment at Confindustria, said: “When we align our strengths, we create a synergy that benefits both nations.”

Discussions at the event turned to the Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the Saudi economy and reduce its dependence on oil.

Tripodi said: “This strategic plan presents numerous opportunities for Italian enterprises, particularly in technology, education, and public services.”


Innovators discuss future of STEM at Riyadh summit

Session featured prominent speakers including Prince Sultan bin Salman, special advisor to King Salman. (@mawhiba)
Updated 28 April 2025
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Innovators discuss future of STEM at Riyadh summit

  • Prince Sultan emphasizes empowering Saudi youth in science, technology
  • UNESCO’s Lidia Arthur Brito praises Mawhiba’s role in shaping future scientists

RIYADH: Innovators in science, technology, engineering and mathematics from Saudi Arabia and around the world gathered in Riyadh on Monday for the Eye on the Future Summit, which aimed to share insights and discuss the future of STEM.

“Today’s gathering is a celebration of talent, creativity, and vision,” Lidia Arthur Brito UNESCO assistant director general for natural sciences, said.

“The scientists, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow are here with us today, and it is our duty to ensure they are equipped with all the tools, opportunities, and inspiration they need to address the complex challenges of our world,” she said.

The event was hosted in collaboration with the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, known as Mawhiba, the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, the Abdullah Al-Fozan International Prize for the Promotion of Young Scientists in STEM, the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, and the Ministry of Culture.

Brito praised Mawhiba’s efforts in supporting the next generation of innovators in STEM, concluding: “Let us continue working together to nurture a generation of scientists who will not only imagine the future but lead it.”

The session “From the stars to STEM” featured prominent speakers, including Prince Sultan bin Salman, special advisor to King Salman, who delivered the keynote on empowering Saudi youth.

Prince Sultan delivered a heartfelt speech emphasizing valuable life and career lessons, including the importance of listening to one’s parents, staying connected to nature, preserving Saudi identity, and valuing continuous education.

He reflected on his years with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage since 2000, highlighting the generosity and unmatched hospitality of Saudi Arabia.

“Everyone comes to Saudi Arabia today to find their way, to learn things to enjoy life. They will not come to a better people who are more hospitable and generous, and I have heard that from all the people who have come to Saudi Arabia,” Prince Sultan said.

Following his remarks, the panel sessions began, featuring a distinguished lineup of local and international pioneers, innovators, and supporters in STEM, including Dr. Majd Abdulghani, a genomics lead at Lean Business Services and deputy national secretary for the Rhodes Scholarship in Saudi Arabia.

Abdulghani was also the first Saudi to receive a Rhodes Scholarship, and is dedicated to promoting the integration of genomic data into personalized, preventive healthcare in Saudi Arabia.

During the summit, she spoke about youth empowerment in STEM, emphasizing her mission to raise awareness of the opportunities available to Saudi youth in the field. “What I am focused on is trying to avoid missed opportunities,” she said.

The summit featured an memorandum of understanding signing between Mawhiba and Abdullah Al-Fozan Foundation for Education, which aims to continue support in providing access to STEM studies for the youth in Saudi Arabia.

During a visit to Mawhiba’s headquarters ahead of the event, Brito praised the foundation’s efforts to discover and nurture talented individuals in scientific fields.

“I think what unites UNESCO and Mawhiba is the true belief that STEM is very important for young people because it equips them with scientific knowledge, but also with critical thinking,” Brito said.