Makkah Bus project to launch paid integrated services

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites launches the Makkah Bus project on Nov. 1 after the successful completion of its trial run. (SPA)
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Updated 22 October 2023
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Makkah Bus project to launch paid integrated services

  • Makkah has introduced its paid integrated services with the slogan “Ma’an A’ala Al-Darb,” which means “Together on the Road”

MAKKAH: The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites launches the Makkah Bus project on Nov. 1 after the successful completion of its trial run.

It aims to benefit residents and visitors to Makkah by offering fast, secure, and environmentally friendly bus services. The initiative includes designated seating for people with disabilities.

The Makkah Bus project aligns with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by generating job opportunities for Saudi citizens while contributing to the development of a dynamic and diverse economy.

Makkah has introduced its paid integrated services with the slogan “Ma’an A’ala Al-Darb,” which means “Together on the Road.” The project launches at the start of next month with a ticket price of SR4 ($1) encompassing all the integrated services.




The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites launches the Makkah Bus project on Nov. 1 after the successful completion of its trial run. (SPA)

Additionally, special packages and pricing options are available for different groups within flexible time frames to accommodate the diverse needs of beneficiaries.

The commission says that the launching of integrated services aims to enhance the quality in the framework of sustainable development. Tickets are available through several outlets, such as the project’s website, official application, and ticket vending machines throughout Makkah.

The project has been successful during its trial period that started in February 2022 and continues until the end of October 2023. It has served Makkah’s citizens and visitors through 12 routes that covered a distance exceeding 560 km, with the service provided by 400 buses, more than 800 drivers, and 438 stations.

The project forms part of a strategic plan that aims to improve public transportation services in Makkah, under the supervision of the commission. It also looks to reduce traffic congestion and harmful carbon emissions.


Saudi Arabia joins anti-corruption meeting in Beijing

Updated 6 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia joins anti-corruption meeting in Beijing

  • Mazin Al-Kahmous thanked China for hosting the event, highlighting the network’s efforts to tackle evolving corruption crimes
  • Al-Kahmous emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing cooperation against transnational corruption, pursuing corrupt individuals, and tracking illicit funds

RIYADH: A Saudi delegation led by Mazin Al-Kahmous, president of the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, is participating in the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities plenary meeting in Beijing, China, from Sept. 24 to 27.

At the meeting, Al-Kahmous thanked China for hosting the event, highlighting the network’s efforts to tackle evolving corruption crimes, including money laundering and the illicit use of virtual currency.

He emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing cooperation against transnational corruption, pursuing corrupt individuals, and tracking illicit funds.

Al-Kahmous noted the authority’s benefits from the GlobE Network in collaborating with counterparts and exchanging information on suspected entities.

The GlobE Network, launched by Saudi Arabia during the 2020 G20 Summit, was officially adopted by the UN on Dec. 17, 2021, at the ninth session of the Conference of the States Parties to the UN Convention against Corruption in Egypt.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised the Kingdom’s role in establishing the network during the 2021 UN General Assembly special session against corruption.

Spain was appointed chair of the network’s steering committee, with Saudi Arabia serving as vice chair.

Over the past three years, 219 anti-corruption agencies and international organizations from more than 120 countries have joined the network, evidence of the initiative’s success.


Riyadh conference empowers future climate innovation entrepreneurs

Updated 18 min 20 sec ago
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Riyadh conference empowers future climate innovation entrepreneurs

  • Event was hosted by the Saudi Youth Climate Network in partnership with the Global Shapers Community Jeddah Hub
  • Aishah Alsamdani: Connecting youth with environmental experts is crucial; there are many enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: The Saudi Local Conference of Youth 2024 took place in Riyadh recently with a focus on equipping young Saudis with tools for sustainable entrepreneurship in climate innovation.

The event was hosted by the Saudi Youth Climate Network in partnership with the Global Shapers Community Jeddah Hub.

“It's amazing to see the excitement among (the) youth to participate in this conference,” said Aishah Alsamdani, representative of the Saudi Youth Climate Network, in an interview with Arab News.

“Connecting youth with environmental experts is crucial; there are many enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia. This conference serves as a hub to bridge ideas between business, the private sector and government, particularly for (young people) starting their careers.”

This year’s theme, “Empowering Climate Entrepreneurship: From Knowledge Capital to Financial Capital,” brought together young, enthusiastic climate advocates and industry experts to foster intergenerational dialogue, explore green technologies and provide pathways to convert knowledge into financial capital.

Alsamdani emphasized the need to involve young people youth in building a sustainable future, stating: “They are the future, bringing innovative ideas and creativity. Addressing sustainability challenges requires fresh ideas, and (the) youth can significantly contribute.”

A panel discussion, “Entrepreneurship and Environmental Knowledge,” featured moderator Faisal Al-Shehri, founder and CEO of learning and employment platform OLO. Alongside him were Batool Albar, general manager of Terraxy, which provides integrated solutions for agriculture and soil sustainability in arid regions, and Sultan Al-Shayie, CEO of atmospheric water harvesting company Airwa.

They discussed cutting-edge technologies such as sustainable water solutions and highlighted the importance of cross-sector partnerships and government support.

Hassan Qadi, curator of Global Shapers Community Jeddah Hub, said: “KSA LCOY 2024 marks a pivotal moment for Saudi youth-led climate action. We are nurturing startups that address climate challenges while aligning with Vision 2030’s goals to diversify the economy and boost non-oil GDP.”

As part of the conference, the Global Shapers Community led the National Youth Statement, gathering input from attendees.

“The youth statement addresses key areas aligned with this year’s theme of entrepreneurship and climate change,” said Alsamdani. “This initiative aims to make youth impact more tangible.”

The statement will be submitted to the MENA Regional Conference of Youth in Amman and the Global Conference of Youth in Baku, amplifying Saudi youth voices ahead of COP29 climate negotiations. Alsamdani will attend the Regional Conference of Youth to share the conference results.

The event concluded with a Memorandum of Understanding signing, aimed at increasing youth involvement in climate action, between the Saudi Youth Climate Network, Prince Sultan University’s Center of Sustainability and Climate, and Vision for Africa.


Riyadh festival pays tribute to astrolabe inventor Mariam Al-Astrolabi 

Updated 24 September 2024
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Riyadh festival pays tribute to astrolabe inventor Mariam Al-Astrolabi 

  • Astronomer from Hamdanid dynasty at end of 10th century A.D.
  • Astrolabes integrate science, technology, engineering, arts, math 

RIYADH: The STEAM Festival, organized by the King Salman Science Oasis, is highlighting the pioneering work of scientist Mariam Al-Astrolabi and Saudi Arabia’s women.

Running until Sept. 30 under the theme “Fun Chemistry,” the festival aims to instill a sense of pride in the nation’s heritage, raise awareness about the role of women in science, and inspire girls to pursue careers in STEAM.

Al-Astrolabi made significant contributions to science, particularly astronomy, becoming one of the most notable women in Islamic history.

A Muslim scientist, she is renowned for her work in creating and perfecting astrolabes, instruments used in ancient times to determine locations based on the movement of stars.

Al-Astrolabi, an astronomer from the Hamdanid dynasty at the end of the 10th century A.D., excelled in astronomy and engineering.

The astrolabe was also used in marine navigation to explore new routes, and helped to determine the times and direction of prayers for Muslims. 

Astrolabes varied in size and design, with some small enough to be carried like a pocket watch before mechanical clocks were invented. 

Astrolabes are symbols of the integration of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, known as STEAM.

Skilled engineering was used to design and manufacture the instrument with precision.

Mathematical calculations ensured accurate observations, and some astrolabe designs included artistic elements.

Centuries after Al-Astrolabi’s passing — the exact date remains unknown — her name continues to inspire those working in astronomy.

In 1990, American astronomer Henry E. Holt honored Al-Astrolabi by naming after her one of the asteroids he discovered at the Palomar Observatory in San Diego, California.


Saudi cabinet welcomes UNGA resolution on ending illegal occupation in Palestinian territories

Updated 24 September 2024
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Saudi cabinet welcomes UNGA resolution on ending illegal occupation in Palestinian territories

The Saudi cabinet, chaired by King Salman, welcomed the recent United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for an end to the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The UN General Assembly passed a resolution urging Israel to end its illegal occupation of Palestinian territories within a year. The vote was 124-14, with 43 abstentions

 The cabinet also emphasized the need for practical and credible steps toward a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, in accordance with the Arab Peace Initiative and international legitimacy resolutions.

Addressing global developments, the council reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing regional and international security, supporting political resolutions to global crises, and promoting multilateral cooperation to tackle global challenges.

During the session, King Salman expressed his appreciation to international leaders for their well wishes on the occasion of Saudi Arabia's 94th National Day.

In environmental leadership, the cabinet celebrated Saudi Arabia’s election to the presidency of the Global Coral Reef Initiative, a recognition of the Kingdom’s efforts in protecting marine biodiversity and ecosystems.


‘Ezz Al-Watan 3’ wraps up with musical performances, airshow in Riyadh

Updated 24 September 2024
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‘Ezz Al-Watan 3’ wraps up with musical performances, airshow in Riyadh

  • Event, organized in collaboration with the General Entertainment Authority, featured musical performances, military parades, scholarly dialogues focusing on key historical events
  • Discussions tackled the evolution of security in the Kingdom over the ages and strategic changes that have reinforced security and stability

RIYADH: The “Ezz Al-Watan 3” celebration, held to mark Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day, has been concluded by the Ministry of Interior.

The event, organized in collaboration with the General Entertainment Authority, featured musical performances, military parades, scholarly dialogues focusing on key historical events, and the exhibition at the King Saud University arena in Riyadh.

Discussions tackled the evolution of security in the Kingdom over the ages and strategic changes that have reinforced security and stability, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The festivities also highlighted the ministry’s efforts and security system, as well as the services it provides to citizens, residents and visitors.

National Day holds a profound significance, with events honoring a grand historical legacy, brave sacrifices and the realization of a secure present in a thriving homeland.

On Monday, Riyadh witnessed spectacular aerial displays organized by the GEA in cooperation with various government and private entities. Crowds first watched an aircraft from the Directorate of Public Security carrying the Saudi flag.

Next came helicopter formations from the Ministry of the National Guard, then aircraft from the Royal Saudi Air Force under the Ministry of Defense and civilian airliners from Saudia Airlines and flyadeal.

The military craft formed the number 94 in the skies and the Saudi Hawks aerobatic team performed complex aerial formations to demonstrate the pilots’ skills.

They were followed by displays featuring Typhoon, F-15 SA, Tornado, and F-15 C aircraft in front of the showground.

Also participating in the air displays were the Royal Guard Presidency, the Presidency of State Security, the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Matarat Company, Saudi Air Navigation Services, the Saudi Aviation Club and the Saudi Broadcasting Authority.