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Red Sea Film Foundation empowers Saudi scriptwriters

The Red Sea labs’ program plays a pivotal role in shaping the TV writing landscape in the region. (Supplied)
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Updated 10 August 2023
Nada Hameed
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Red Sea Film Foundation empowers Saudi scriptwriters

  • The seven-month SeriesLab program is training a select group of locals to write the next binge-worthy series
Updated 10 August 2023
Nada Hameed

JEDDAH: In a world captivated by the allure of episodic storytelling, the Red Sea Labs’ SeriesLab has emerged as a beacon of opportunity for aspiring Saudi scriptwriters to dive into the world of television scriptwriting.

With a comprehensive curriculum and exceptional industry connections, the SeriesLab stands as a testament to the Red Sea Film Foundation’s commitment to fostering emerging Saudi talents and revitalizing scriptwriting for the TV industry.

The innovative seven-month program kicked off in June and will continue until the end of the year. It is a dynamic blend of hands-on training, mentorship, and immersive experiences designed to shape the future of TV series production in the Kingdom.




The Red Sea labs’ program plays a pivotal role in shaping the TV writing landscape in the region. (Supplied)

The program was opened exclusively to Saudis and Saudi residents, providing a platform for local talents to shine on the global stage. The response was overwhelming, with over 100 applications received for the inaugural edition. After a rigorous selection process that included interviews and evaluations, the final roster of eight talented writers — including three women — emerged, all ready to embark on this transformative journey.

As part of the journey, the third phase offers participants a one-week workshop in Jeddah, including various lectures and joint sessions with industry professionals. Guest tutors include Philip Buiser, a writer from television and film whose credits include “Bates Motel”; voice coach Andrea Odinov; Joe Peracchio, a writer and producer with credits including “The Flash” on the CW network; Josh Berman, a writer and producer who was nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards; and Adrienne Thomas, a manager in the Creative Talent Development and Inclusion department at Disney General Entertainment Content.

We are learning from the pros, like people who are doing it in Holly- wood. So, we can share this information with the people around us. We can build a great industry in our country.

Yaser bin Abdulrahman, Scriptwriter

The inaugural program began with a virtual session that laid the foundation for understanding the intricacies of writing for TV. Guided by industry experts, the participants embarked on a path of exploration and growth.

In July, the participants went through in-person sessions in Los Angeles, the heart of the US entertainment industry, where they had the unique opportunity to collaborate with seasoned showrunners and writing experts, and even step foot inside the renowned Disney Studios Lot. This immersive experience provided firsthand insights into the TV production process, igniting their passion and helping to hone their skills.




The Red Sea labs’ program plays a pivotal role in shaping the TV writing landscape in the region. (Supplied)

Ryan Ashore, head of Red Sea Labs, told Arab News: “We took them to the Disney Studios. They showed them all kinds of technical details. And I’m hoping those writers see these details.

“We sat down with the vice president of Talent Development and Inclusion from Disney. A man with extensive experience, Tim McNeal. They were talking about how they select the talents, how they evaluate pilot scripts or TV series cribs.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The SeriesLab program kicked off in June and will continue until the end of the year.

• The eight writers were selected after a rigorous process that included interviews and evaluations.

• The third phase involves a one-week workshop in Jeddah with industry experts. • In July, the participants went through in-person sessions in Los Angeles.

“With certain methods that our writers now know, they have that knowledge now. They sat down with a director who did episodes from ‘The Shield,’ ‘The Walking Dead,’ ‘The Mentalist,’ and so many.

“It’s good to see how a director directs in TV because it's completely different from filmmaking.”

Beyond individual development, the Red Sea Labs’ program plays a pivotal role in shaping the TV writing landscape in the region. By nurturing emerging talents, the program contributes to the evolution of the industry by infusing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. This injection of new blood aims to inspire the creation of groundbreaking series that resonate with global audiences.




The Serieslab program’s winning project will be announced at the next Red Sea international Film Festival in Jeddah. (Supplied)

Ashore said: “It’s our mandate, our promise that we are going to build the industry in the right way.

“When I created the labs, I looked at Sundance Labs. Sundance in the US is one of the leaders. They have so many filmmakers that came out of it. Tarantino and Wes Anderson went to the Sundance Labs. So, these people had to go through that to evolve.

“And that’s how we build the industry slowly. And I really want to start with the younger generation.”

Speaking about the differences in developing content for TV compared to feature films, he said: “Feature films are different when you’re directing: You’re the master. In TV, the writer is the master. And that’s why a lot of TV series are affected completely by writer strikes.”

Among the participants is Yaser bin Abdulrahman, a 23-year old emerging Saudi director and scriptwriter who is currently developing a crime series.

He told Arab News: “I feel like there’s a lot of responsibility being involved in the SeriesLab. I need to focus on writing and I need every piece of information I can apply to my stories.”

Abdulrahman studied filmmaking in LA in 2018 and co-directed a Saudi thriller called “Junoon,” which was released in 2021 and is now streaming on Netflix.

Another participant is Aziz Madhi, 24, a scriptwriter who has produced two shorts, and is currently developing a drama series.

He said: “Pitching and presenting your project to everyone, communicating with a huge network from the industry, and finding out how you can communicate your story, reflecting on yourself and displaying your idea the best way possible, is really mesmerizing. That’s a big plus in that lab, in addition to writing.

“We are in a new industry now, the cinema and TV industry. We have to learn from the professionals, from the people who have been doing it for the past 100 years. And I think this opportunity is really special, said Yaser Abdulrahman.

“We are learning from the pros ... we can share this information with the people around us. We can build a great industry in our country.”

Writers will receive assignments and personalized guidance to apply the acquired knowledge following each workshop. The program concludes with a comprehensive review of all topics covered, ensuring the writers have attained a high level of proficiency.

Individuals selected by Red Sea Labs are required to fully engage in the training throughout the program’s duration. This entails active participation in all sessions, adhering to the program’s expectations as set by mentors and course moderators, and maintaining their availability to advance their projects between workshops while meeting designated deadlines.

Writers should have developed a series pilot and be ready to pitch to TV networks and streamers by the end of the program.

SeriesLab writers will also have a connection with industry experts, and the winning project will be announced at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, which takes place from Nov. 30 to Dec. 9.

 

Topics: Red Sea Red Sea Labs’ SeriesLab

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The young Saudis bridging language barriers during Hajj

Updated 5 sec ago
Waad Hussain
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The young Saudis bridging language barriers during Hajj

  • Volunteer translators allow pilgrims to overcome challenges when communicating in a foreign language
  • Diversity of the global Muslim community reflected in the number of languages spoken during Hajj
Updated 5 sec ago
Waad Hussain

RIYADH: Each year, millions of Muslims from all over the world arrive in Makkah for Hajj — united in faith, but sometimes divided by language.

From Turkish and Urdu to Swahili and Bahasa, the diversity of languages in the holy cities is vast. For many, overcoming language barriers while navigating the logistics of Hajj can be overwhelming.

That is where young Saudi volunteers step in to translate and ease some of the challenges pilgrims face.

“We speak different languages, but we’re all here for the same reason,” said Deema Ibrahim, 21.

Ibrahim’s experience volunteering as a translator began with a change of plans. “I initially joined a team for emergency medical services,” she said. “But when we arrived, we found that the ambulance units were already full. So we were redirected to work in the road guidance division.”

Her unit was based near a hotel that housed non-Arabic-speaking pilgrims. As one of the few bilingual members of her team, Ibrahim’s role became essential.

“I also assisted deaf and mute pilgrims through remote video calls,” she said. “That allowed me to support a wider group of people who would otherwise be left struggling.”

One of the most emotional moments she experienced was helping an elderly woman who had become separated from her family. “She didn’t remember much and couldn’t communicate clearly.

“We eventually found a card with her camp name, called them, and her daughters came running. They didn’t expect to find her again. It was a moment I’ll never forget.

“I did it for the reward — and for the duas.”

Saad Al-Harbi, 23, was encouraged by a friend to volunteer.

“He said, ‘You speak good English, you live in Makkah, and you’re available — why not help as a group guide and translator?’” he recalled.

Most of the questions from pilgrims were about directions. “They’d ask how to get to Arafat, or where to perform the stoning, or how to navigate from one site to another.”

But what stayed with him most was the gratitude. “On the last day of Hajj, almost everyone in our group came up to thank me. They told me my help made a difference. That meant everything.”

Maha Al-Ahmari, 24, who speaks fluent Turkish, assisted several elderly Turkish origin or Turkish-speaking pilgrims who were part of a group of North African pilgrims in Muzdalifah.

“Many of them were completely disoriented and couldn’t communicate with security or their own groups,” she said.

“Just being able to speak their language calmed them instantly. One woman kissed my hand in thanks — I’ll never forget that.”

The Kingdom’s efforts to enhance services for pilgrims include multilingual signage, smart apps with translation features, and trained staff in key areas. Still, human contact is at the heart of everything guides do — especially when emotions run high.

Ibrahim said that some of the most difficult cases involved older pilgrims who were confused, hard of hearing, or dealing with memory loss.

“The pressure increases during the days of Nafr,” she said. “People get lost easily. And when they can’t speak Arabic or English, the stress becomes dangerous.”

She credits the government’s organization — from surveillance centers to camp identification systems — for helping volunteers like her stay effective. “We had support, but the human side of it — calming someone, assuring them — that was on us.”

Faris Al-Turki, 28, who volunteered in Mina, said he used Google Translate in real time to assist a pilgrim from Central Asia. “It wasn’t perfect, but it helped. He was trying to find his medication and explain a health condition. We figured it out.”

For many volunteers, the act of translation is an act of worship. It’s a way to serve the guests of Allah — a role that holds deep spiritual meaning in Saudi culture.

“You’re not just translating words,” Al-Harbi said. “You’re translating emotion. You’re showing them that they’re not alone.”

Ibrahim agreed. “It was exhausting, physically and mentally, but it was the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done. Despite our different languages, we were all in the same sacred space, for the same reason. That unity — you feel it.”

In the end, most volunteers do not seek recognition. They often work behind the scenes, in the heat, in the chaos, among strangers.

But for the pilgrims who meet them — the ones who are lost, confused, scared — their presence is unforgettable. A calm voice. A familiar phrase. A gesture of patience.

And when the pilgrims return home, they may not remember every building or landmark, but they will remember that young Saudi who stepped forward, understood their words, and made them feel seen.

Topics: Hajj2025

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Makkah’s 911 is truly a friend in need

Updated 22 min 5 sec ago
MOHAMMED AL-KINANI
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Makkah’s 911 is truly a friend in need

Updated 22 min 5 sec ago
MOHAMMED AL-KINANI

MINA: Whether you have lost your way, misplaced a valuable item, or faced a moment of danger in the Makkah region, you can simply call 911, and the first thing you will hear is, “How can I help you?”

However, behind that simple question stands an army of skilled operators and a vast, sophisticated system — the Unified Security Operations Center 911 in the Makkah region, a key division of the National Center for Security Operations under the Saudi Ministry of Interior.

The center is a vital yet often unseen component of public safety, responsible for coordinating emergency responses. Its role becomes especially crucial during major events like the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Normally, the center includes representatives from around 15 security and service agencies, but this number can increase to as many as 30 during Hajj to ensure the effective management of large crowds and potential emergencies.

Located just a few kilometers from the holy sites, the facility is divided into three core sections: the call-taking hall, the dispatch hall, and the surveillance hall, which oversees the city’s extensive network of security cameras.

Speaking to Arab News, Capt. Abdulaziz bin Zuhair Al-Ghamdi, spokesperson for the NCSO, said the center receives around 40,000 calls each day, noting that 80 percent are resolved directly by call takers without the need for further escalation.

“Most of the calls we get are from people asking questions about some of the rules we have like how and when to enter Makkah, or who is allowed to enter Makkah,” Al-Ghamdi said.

During peak periods such as Hajj, the volume of calls increases. On Thursday, June 5 alone, the center handled 46,079 calls. Many of these came from pilgrims seeking assistance with finding their tents or requesting medical help.

Capt. Al-Ghamdi emphasized that only 20 percent of the calls require formal reports and are forwarded to specialized entities for further action.

“As you can see, the center is equipped with the most advanced technology. We answer calls in less than two seconds,” he said.

In addition to speed, the center also ensures accessibility, and male and female call takers are trained to respond in multiple languages, including English, French, and Urdu, to assist the diverse population of pilgrims and residents seeking help.

The spokesperson noted that once a call is received, the caller’s phone number, name, and location are immediately displayed on the center’s advanced monitoring screens. “If there is a serious case, we fill out a form and submit it to the specialized department in less than 45 seconds,” he added.

The NCSO oversees similar unified security operations centers in Riyadh, Madinah, and the Eastern Province. It is tasked with monitoring security developments across the Kingdom, analyzing threats, managing large-scale crises, and coordinating response efforts among various agencies.

Beyond reactive operations, the center proactively monitors daily developments, issues alerts to secure key installations and diplomatic missions, and coordinates security plans for national events.

In a city as densely populated and spiritually significant as Makkah, the responsibility is immense. But thanks to the unseen dedication of teams working around the clock, both residents and pilgrims benefit from a rapid and reassuring response when they need it most.

Behind every emergency call answered, there is a quiet promise of safety, delivered by professional men and women committed to protecting lives.

Topics: Hajj2025

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

Updated 07 June 2025
Arab News
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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
Updated 07 June 2025
Arab News

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.

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Saudi transport minister tours Hajj shuttle service for pilgrims

Updated 07 June 2025
Arab News
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Saudi transport minister tours Hajj shuttle service for pilgrims

Updated 07 June 2025
Arab News

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.

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

Updated 07 June 2025
Haifa Alshammari
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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
Updated 07 June 2025
Haifa Alshammari

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.

 

Topics: Hajj 2025 Editor’s Choice Green & Blue

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