Saudi ambassador to Thailand sees ‘a prosperous and promising future’ for bilateral relations

Relations between Saudi Arabia and Thailand were officially restored in January this year. (Supplied)
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Updated 27 November 2022
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Saudi ambassador to Thailand sees ‘a prosperous and promising future’ for bilateral relations

  • Investment opportunities are many thanks to similar development priorities, Abdurrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Suhaibani tells Arab News
  • He says the crown prince’s recent visit will contribute to accelerated steps for enhancement of bilateral and trade relations

BANGKOK: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Bangkok last week has opened not only a new chapter in Saudi-Thai ties but also new horizons in which officials and the people see a promising future for both kingdoms.

Relations between Saudi Arabia and Thailand were officially restored in January this year, during Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha’s trip to Riyadh, when the two countries agreed to appoint ambassadors for the first time in over three decades.

The crown prince arrived in Bangkok as a guest of honor at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit hosted by Thailand on Nov. 18-19 and became the first Saudi official to make such a trip.

“It was the first visit at the level of the Kingdom’s leadership since the establishment of relations between the two countries in 1957,” Abdurrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Suhaibani, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Thailand, told Arab News.




In welcome messages, many Thais wrote it was an “honor” for them to see the Saudi crown prince in their country. (SPA)

“It will move the relations of the two countries to broader horizons and a prosperous and promising future.

“It will also contribute to accelerating steps that will enhance bilateral, economic and trade relations between the two countries by exploring potential investment opportunities in light of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and the development priorities of Thailand.”

The crown prince’s meetings with the Thai leadership have yielded numerous memorandums on energy, investment, tourism, anticorruption efforts and the normalization of diplomatic relations.

When the crown prince arrived in Bangkok, he was officially received by the country’s top leadership and royal family and unofficially by many others, especially from the younger generation, who took to social media to welcome him and set up online fan clubs.

In welcome messages, many Thais wrote it was an “honor” for them to see the Saudi crown prince in their country.




“I think Thai people are looking and are expecting more cooperation with Saudi Arabia,” Abdurrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Suhaibani, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Thailand, told Arab News. (Supplied)

Photos and videos from the visit went viral and made the rounds with captions such as “Warm welcome, Prince,” “This is what people in the country (Thailand) want,” “Happy: Thai-Saudi relations are very close after 32 years,” “Long live MBS.”

“The relations now seem to be on the right track and will grow stronger and more comprehensive in the coming period,” Al-Suhaibani told Arab News.

“The Saudi embassy will focus on implementing and following up on the agreements and memoranda of understanding that were signed during this historic visit.”

Tanee Sangrat, director-general of information at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs and soon-to-be Thailand’s ambassador to the US, told Arab News that the visit was “closely watched and followed by the Thai people in Thailand and around the world.”




Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha’s trip to Riyadh in January. (Shutterstock)

He said: “We look to Saudi Arabia as a country that has great potential. The crown prince and prime minister is very widely well respected by our people.

“I think Thai people are looking and are expecting more cooperation with Saudi Arabia.”

With the restoration of ties with Saudi Arabia, Thailand has found not only a new powerful partner in navigating volatile energy markets and energy transition, but also, as many have said, a “gateway” to the Middle East, where Thailand’s presence is not very strong.

 

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The restored relationship would give not only Thai exporters but also investors more access to opportunities in the Gulf and beyond.

“This is a big, big issue for Thailand. Saudi Arabia is a critical partner in the Middle East,” Thitinan Pongsudhirak, director of the Bangkok-based Institute of Security and International Studies, told Arab News.

“That is a gateway for Thailand to re-engage and re-enter Middle East markets. Without the Saudi Arabia relationship, a lot of doors were closed. Now, more doors will be opened.”

Suppalerk Aramkitphotha, a business development professional, saw the crown prince’s visit as a “great opportunity.”

“We are very glad that we have this opportunity,” he said, citing the business prospects between Thailand and the Middle East that would now be facilitated.

Jirayut Srupsrisopa, the founder of the first Thai fintech startup to notch up a valuation of more than $1 billion, said he was glad that the Saudi crown prince visited Thailand and new bridges were built.

“Now we can do so much more between Thailand and Saudi Arabia. We can work with Saudis for the future of energy, the future of green hydrogen or future growth in other aspects like the digital economy,” he told Arab News, adding that there would also be opportunities such as medical tourism.

Thailand, where healthcare services are well developed, already has agreements with countries such as Kuwait and Qatar for receiving patients. A deal with Saudi Arabia is likely to be a part of the two countries’ relations going forward.

“We are famous for medical tourism,” Jirayut said. “Everyone can come here, have a nice holiday, nice beach, nice mountains, nice hotels, nice services. And they can get their teeth done. They can recover. They can have a health checkup here at a fraction of the cost elsewhere.”

But there is much more to the renewed ties than business opportunities.

Referring to the potential role that culture can play in cementing the re-established Saudi-Thai relationship, Ambassador Al-Suhaibani said: “There are many similarities between the two countries, particularly in hospitality, generosity, friendliness and, most importantly the richness of culture.




Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Thai Prime Minister witness the exchange of several MoU between Saudi Arabia and Thailand. (Supplied)

“This will encourage us to strengthen relationships and communication between our people, as well as to promote constructive dialogue in many aspects of social, cultural and religious (life).”

This kind of exchange is what Thais have waited for a long time.

Voralak Tulaphorn, a marketing professional, said a Saudi presence is something that was missing from the multicultural landscape of Thailand for a long time.

“Saudi Arabia and (Thailand) actually have rich cultures, and with rich cultures it would be nice to have exchanges in everything from food and nature to fashion and handicrafts.”

For her, what holds the greatest promise as a means of bringing Thais and Saudis together is an appreciation of each other’s cuisines. Food is a good way to win hearts and spread cultural influence.

“I think people love Thai street food,” Voralak told Arab News, adding that she hoped that soon Saudi restaurants would start emerging in Bangkok. “We would love to taste Saudi Arabian food too.”

 


Spiritual journey of Hajj pilgrims ends with gifts and souvenirs

As Hajj concludes, pilgrims commonly engage in the cherished custom of purchasing gifts. (SPA)
Updated 7 sec ago
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Spiritual journey of Hajj pilgrims ends with gifts and souvenirs

  • Many gifts symbolize the holy sites and carry deep religious significance
  • Popular choices include Zamzam water, prayer beads, and copies of the Holy Qur’an

MAKKAH: Throughout their profound journey of faith, especially as Hajj concludes, pilgrims commonly engage in the cherished custom of purchasing gifts.

They flock to the malls and markets of Makkah, particularly those around the Grand Mosque. This tradition expresses their spiritual fulfillment and prepares them for their return home, blessed by Allah for having performed the sacred rites, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.

Gift buying represents joy at Hajj’s successful conclusion and strengthens social bonds between relatives, SPA added.

Many gifts symbolize the holy sites and carry deep religious significance. Popular choices include Zamzam water, prayer beads, and copies of the Holy Qur’an.

Pilgrims also frequently buy perfumes like incense and musk, along with various types of dates — ajwa dates being especially sought after.

The markets of Makkah and Madinah see a significant boom after Hajj, bustling with pilgrims of diverse nationalities.

These vibrant markets include modern malls in the Haram area, the traditional Aziziyah Market, the Hijaz Market, and bazaars near the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

Merchants actively meet this demand, offering a wide range of products, special offers for pilgrims, and often discounts on bulk purchases.


Saudi Interior Ministry confirms sustained care, loyalty to martyrs’ families during Hajj

Ministry of Interior is supporting families of deceased and injured armed forces personnel with humanitarian program.
Updated 43 min 36 sec ago
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Saudi Interior Ministry confirms sustained care, loyalty to martyrs’ families during Hajj

  • A key part of the program enables relatives of martyrs and injured personnel to perform Hajj at the ministry’s expense
  • Psychological, medical and social care is provided to relatives of martyrs and injured personnel throughout the year

MAKKAH: The Ministry of Interior, through the Agency for Military Affairs, is supporting the families of deceased and injured armed forces personnel with a humanitarian program reflecting the leadership’s commitment to citizens.

A key part of the program enables relatives of martyrs and injured personnel to perform Hajj at the ministry’s expense, along with providing psychological, medical and social care throughout the year.

One beneficiary speaking from Mina, Ibrahim bin Abdulkarim Al-Zahrani — injured in the line of duty and brother to two martyrs — expressed his appreciation for the Kingdom’s support.

He said such care reassures families that the Kingdom stands by them and gives them strength to continue serving, a Saudi Press Agency report said.

Al-Zahrani added that the ministry’s efforts, under Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, represent the state’s respect for the sacrifices of martyrs and its commitment to their families.

Chief Sgt. Salem Al-Qahtani of the General Department for the Care of Martyrs and Injured Families shared his 14-year experience serving the group, highlighting the department’s close, familial bond with their families.

“We have followed the children of the martyrs since their early years, watching them grow — some are now our colleagues, while others are performing Hajj through this program under the leadership’s close supervision,” he said.

The department develops support programs for beneficiaries, demonstrating the Kingdom’s commitment to honoring those who gave their lives for the nation and continuing support for their families.

It also reflects the leadership’s approach to supporting citizens and honoring the sacrifices of martyrs.


Saudi interior minister commends security forces for Hajj efforts

Saudi Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif has praised security and military sectors for dedication during Hajj.
Updated 09 June 2025
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Saudi interior minister commends security forces for Hajj efforts

  • Prince Abdulaziz said the work of the security and military sectors reflected a strong sense of national and religious responsibility

MAKKAH: Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif has conveyed greetings and congratulations from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to personnel involved in implementing Hajj security plans following the successful completion of the season.

This includes members of the Ministry of Interior, the Presidency of State Security, and supporting military agencies from the Ministry of National Guard, Ministry of Defense, and General Intelligence Presidency.

The minister’s remarks were made during a meeting at the ministry’s headquarters in Makkah with senior officials, commanders of security sectors, Hajj security forces, and supporting military and security agencies.

Prince Abdulaziz affirmed that following the directives of the leadership — who provided all necessary resources and ensured coordination among government and security bodies — the approved plans for this year’s Hajj were successfully executed.

Prince Abdulaziz, as chairman of the Hajj Supreme Committee, praised the security and military sectors for their unity, sincerity, and dedication during this year’s season.

He emphasized that their work reflected a strong sense of national and religious responsibility, honoring the privilege of serving pilgrims.


Makkah exhibition welcomes pilgrims among its visitors 

Updated 09 June 2025
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Makkah exhibition welcomes pilgrims among its visitors 

MAKKAH: The third Wahat Exhibition, which is being organized by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in Makkah, is continuing to welcome visitors — including Hajj pilgrims, citizens, and residents — from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The exhibition runs until June 15, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It features a section devoted to the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur’an, as well as rare manuscripts from the Makkah Library.

The exhibition also includes historic photographs of Makkah along with a documentary film which showcases past Hajj experiences and the development of services for pilgrims.

Visitors have praised the high-quality content, commending the ministry’s efforts in raising awareness, advancing technology, and improving communication and services for pilgrims.

They have said the exhibition reflects the Kingdom’s comprehensive efforts to serve pilgrims, promote religious awareness, and uphold the values of moderation and tolerance.

The Hadiyah Charity Association organized an exhibition in Mina during Hajj to showcase the Kingdom’s efforts in serving Islam and Muslims to reflect the rich cultural and geographical diversity of the Islamic world.

As a vibrant representation of global Islamic cultures, the exhibition underscored the Kingdom’s message of unity and hospitality toward pilgrims from all nations, the SPA reported.

Through immersive displays, it highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering harmony among civilizations and promoting mutual respect and appreciation.


Thousands of pilgrims continue spiritual journey to Madinah

A view of the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. (SPA)
Updated 09 June 2025
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Thousands of pilgrims continue spiritual journey to Madinah

  • Authorities prepare to welcome worshippers with comprehensive security, service plans

MADINAH: As pilgrims bid farewell to Makkah on Monday after completing Hajj — the fifth pillar of Islam — many departed for Madinah with cherished memories.

Hajj authorities in Madinah have begun implementing their operational plans for the second season, expecting thousands of pilgrims in the coming days.

The Special Forces for Hajj and Umrah Security have completed preparations to receive the pilgrims, as part of a comprehensive plan to ensure their safe and smooth arrival, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The field plan focuses on regulating pilgrim movement, facilitating entry and exit from Madinah, maintaining traffic flow, and reducing congestion.

Preparations include increased security presence on major routes, providing assistance and guidance, and ensuring emergency teams are ready to respond to health cases and other situations.

Government and volunteer bodies have raised readiness levels to support reception centers, entry points, and historical sites, while enhancing efforts in transport, guidance, hospitality, and healthcare through an integrated, 24/7 system.

These efforts reflect the leadership’s commitment to serving pilgrims and ensuring their safety during their journey between the holy sites and Madinah, the SPA reported.

Meanwhile, 2,443 pilgrims from 100 countries, hosted under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Guests Program for Hajj and Umrah, also traveled to Madinah after completing Hajj.

During their stay, they will pray at the Prophet’s Mosque, visit Quba Mosque, and explore significant historical landmarks.

The pilgrims expressed gratitude for the services provided by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, which met their needs and facilitated smooth movement between sites.

They shared their joy at completing the Hajj rituals, including standing at Mount Arafat, staying in Muzdalifah, the days of Tashreeq in Mina, stoning the Jamarat, and concluding with the farewell Tawaf.

A coordinated program is in place to transfer pilgrims from their accommodations to Madinah airport, overseen by the Hajj and Visit Committee and relevant authorities to ensure timely flight departures.

Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport recorded a successful pre-Hajj phase, receiving pilgrims smoothly and efficiently. During the arrival period, the airport handled 719,400 pilgrims — 49 percent of all air-arriving pilgrims this Hajj season — via 1,910 flights from 196 cities in 53 countries.

The General Directorate of Passports confirmed its readiness to finalize departure procedures at the Kingdom’s international air, land, and sea ports, supported by modern security systems and trained personnel.

Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh Al-Jasser also inspected King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to assess its readiness for pilgrim departures.

He reviewed procedures for receiving and dispatching pilgrims, including departure hall operations, service performance, and overall efficiency, aiming to ensure a smooth travel experience that meets international standards.