AL-ARISH, Egypt: An 11th Saudi relief plane for Gaza, carrying 35 tons of aid including food, shelter and medical supplies, reached Al-Arish International Airport in Egypt on Saturday.
A day earlier, a ninth relief plane carried three of 20 ambulances that will be transported to Gaza through Rafah on the Gaza-Egypt border.
The delivery of aid is being overseen by Saudi aid agency KSrelief.
Mubarak Al-Dosari, director of branches management at KSrelief and head of the center’s specialized team in Egypt, told Arab News: “The Saudi humanitarian bridge has been extended for more than 10 days now and has been expanding every day. Planes are arriving at this airport, as you can see, to deliver tons of food, shelter, and medical supplies to be transported to Palestinian families.”
He added: “We are witnessing the arrival of a batch of ambulances, representing an important humanitarian need for the Palestinian Red Crescent because of ambulances impacted due to the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip.”
Al-Dosari said that the ambulance delivery was a response to an appeal by the Palestinian Red Crescent, adding: “We will coordinate with the Egyptian side to deliver them quickly into the Gaza Strip.”
Israel has imposed a land, air and sea blockade of the Gaza Strip since 2007. The Rafah crossing acts as a critical connection between the besieged territory and the world.
Rafah — overseen by Egypt — is the only crossing into Gaza not controlled by Israel. Tel Aviv runs the Erez and Kerem Shalom crossings.
Dr. Samer Al-Jutaili, the KSrelief spokesman, told Arab News that the situation in Gaza is “the worst scene in decades.”
He added: “To see dead children, women and the elderly everywhere in Gaza — the humanitarian truce means stopping the killing first, and this in itself is a massive achievement. After that, providing the opportunity for humanitarian aid will be smoother.”
Al-Jutaili said that humanitarian aid workers believe that the aid entering Gaza now is only a small portion of what is necessary to sustain Palestinians in the enclave.
“We have a feeling as humanitarian workers that what is entering Gaza now is worth nothing in relation to the actual humanitarian need. Only 10 percent of the needs are being met.”
About 100 trucks are entering Gaza each day. But Al-Jutaili, citing UN figures, said that the enclave requires about 1,000 aid trucks or more.
KSrelief is “fully prepared” for the situation and has increased the amount of aid being sent, he added.
“There is a real catastrophe happening on Earth. There is something we want to say to the international community … that the killing must stop first. We cannot work on providing humanitarian aid while people who need it are being killed.”
He said that Israel has a “systematic policy” to starve people in the Gaza Strip, in addition to targeting all infrastructure, including health care facilities, bakeries, water systems and electricity stations.
“Regrettably, it is now our belief that the intention encompasses not only the destruction of humanity but also the obliteration of vital life components at the same time. This fact indicates that there is an organized strategy to displace the inhabitants of Gaza,” he said.
Al-Jutaili expressed concern about the rapid decline in the standard of living in Gaza.
“Can you imagine that we are now talking about polluted water that nearly everyone in Gaza drinks? We are now talking about hepatitis cases that have begun to spread due to the polluted water. We expect there will be cases of cholera and malaria spreading due to rain and water swamps.”
Only about 15 percent of Gaza’s entire health care sector remains in operation, and every person “is a target” inside hospitals in the enclave, Al-Jutaili said.
He told Arab News: “Can you imagine how premature babies are pulled from incubators and subjected to a slow death because they are farther away from much-needed oxygen and nutritional supplies? Can you imagine that everything related to the intensive care rooms, from oxygen to fuel, is being purposefully targeted?”
Al-Dosari said that KSrelief is working with all active partners, such as the World Health Organization, the Red Crescent and UNRWA, to address the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
“We held meetings with these organizations through our specialized team from the center regarding health, food and shelter concerns.”
He added that KSrelief is holding regular meetings with the Palestinian Red Crescent to assist Palestinian families.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, KSrelief’s chief, said that the air bridge to Egypt will be maintained to send humanitarian aid through the Rafah crossing.
The center is also “studying the possibility of operating a sea bridge according to the need and speed of arrival,” he added.
“We are working on a sea bridge that will convey thousands of tons of aid. All of this will make us quantitatively prepared for any truce, such that it will increase the volume of aid entering Gaza.”
Saudi Arabia ramps up Gaza aid efforts
https://arab.news/6g39q
Saudi Arabia ramps up Gaza aid efforts
- Enclave only receiving 10 percent of needed deliveries, says KSrelief official
- Fears mount over contaminated water causing cholera, malaria outbreaks
Saudi women embrace natural beauty: a fresh take on changing standards
- Trend focuses on simplicity over perfection
- Consumers take more mindful approach
RIYADH: Women in Saudi Arabia have been embracing a more natural approach to their beauty routines in recent years, focusing on sustainability, health and authenticity over heavy makeup and curated perfection.
Arab News spoke to several women who described how this trend reflects a deep alignment with personal and societal values — prioritizing routines that enhance their natural features while promoting overall well-being and environmental sustainability.
For Laila Al-Ghamdi, this change is personal. “A few years ago, I would say natural beauty was everything to me. As a young teenager, my whole world used to revolve around the epitome of beauty,” she said. “Nowadays, healthier choices are influencing my decisions, and ironically, they’re the ones that make me prettier.”
This shift is supported by local brands that cater to these changing standards. One standout is LOCA Beauty, a Saudi brand with a focus on sustainability that was founded in 2018.
“LOCA Beauty was born out of a desire to provide innovative solutions that align with the Saudi lifestyle,” said Mai Al-Mohaimeed, marketing director of LOCA. “We focus on natural ingredients and sustainable packaging, which resonates deeply with our customers.”
Similarly, Asteri, another brand, empowers women with vegan products that withstand harsh weather conditions while celebrating the region’s natural beauty.
Beauty is no longer about fitting into a mold. It’s about feeling good in your own skin and celebrating who you are.
Munira Al-Ahmad, Local
Sustainability is central to the natural beauty movement in Saudi Arabia. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental and health effects of their purchases. Local brands are rising to meet this demand with eco-friendly materials and safe ingredients.
Glossig, inspired by Saudi Arabia’s desert landscapes, combines cultural storytelling with artistic innovation to enhance individuality. Meanwhile, Mai Ward and Jayla emphasize sustainability and luxury — Mai Ward celebrates Saudi heritage through handcrafted, sustainable products, while Ladeena focuses on organic solutions, delivering skin-friendly products infused with natural oils and butters.
For women like Rawan Al-Zahrani and Munira Al-Ahmad, these brands have become trusted choices.
“I love how LOCA products feel luxurious yet sustainable. Their makeup products are my go-to because they offer such an amazing glow to my skin,” Al-Zahrani said.
Al-Ahmad, meanwhile, praised Asteri for its innovative solutions. “Asteri’s products feel like they’re made for me — lightweight but effective, perfect for our environment,” she said.
Social media has also played a transformative role in this cultural shift. Platforms such as Instagram have become spaces for clean beauty enthusiasts to share tips and inspire others. Influencers highlight natural products and promote mindful consumerism.
“I follow several Saudi influencers who promote natural beauty and share tips on skincare and makeup,” Al-Zahrani said. “Their advice has helped me simplify my routine and focus on products that work for me.”
While local brands are thriving, they face significant challenges in competing with international giants. In a market saturated with global names it is difficult for smaller brands to stand out.
“Being a local beauty brand presents both opportunities and challenges,” Al-Mohaimeed said. “This also provides us with an opportunity to emphasize what sets us apart — our deep understanding of the Saudi market and the cultural nuances that shape our consumers’ needs.”
Changing beauty standards also reflect a generational change. Younger Saudis are more open to challenging traditional norms and exploring new ideas, driving innovation in the beauty industry. Natural beauty is becoming more about celebrating individuality and authenticity.
“Beauty is no longer about fitting into a mold,” Al-Ahmad said. “It’s about feeling good in your own skin and celebrating who you are.”
By choosing products and routines that align with their values, Saudi women are redefining the beauty industry, shaping a more sustainable future one natural step at a time.
GCC secretary general receives British ambassador to Saudi Arabia
- Albudaiwi emphasized the importance of strengthening relations between the GCC and the UK within the framework of their strategic partnership
RIYADH: Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jasem Albudaiwi received UK Ambassador to the Kingdom Neil Crompton at the GCC Secretariat headquarters in Riyadh on Tuesday.
During the meeting, they discussed the progress of negotiations on the free trade agreement signed between the GCC and the UK and reviewed the latest regional and international developments, the General Secretariat wrote in a statement.
Albudaiwi emphasized the importance of strengthening relations between the GCC and the UK within the framework of their strategic partnership, serving the aspirations and mutual interests of both sides.
Saudi authorities warn of inclement weather as country braces for heavy rainfall
- Riyadh received the season’s first rainfall with an umbrella of cloud enveloping the city skyline on Tuesday
- Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah received heavy rainfall on Monday with floods in low lying areas
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s meteorology authorities have forecast more rain accompanied by thunderstorms across several regions, with a red alert in Makkah, Asir and Baha regions due to the inclement weather.
The National Center for Meteorology forecast moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, hail and strong winds in parts of Asir, Al-Baha and Makkah.
Fog may form in some areas of these regions, it added.
Temperatures will drop and frost may form in the northern parts of the Kingdom, according to the NCM.
It added that dust-stirring winds will blow and rain may fall in parts of Riyadh, Qassim, the Eastern Region and Jazan regions.
Meanwhile, Riyadh received the season’s first rainfall with an umbrella of cloud enveloping the city skyline on Tuesday. Some areas in the capital also were lashed by hail.
Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah received heavy rainfall on Monday with floods in low lying areas, forcing the Civil Defense to warn against venturing into flooded areas and valleys.
The General Directorate of Civil Defense has issued warnings and safety instructions, as the country braces for heavy rainfall, urging the public to stay at home, avoid valleys and waterlogged areas, and adhere to all safety directives.
“We follow the weather conditions in some areas of the Kingdom, and call for staying away from valleys and water bodies,” the Civil Defense posted on X.
“During rain, stay away from low-lying areas, water pools and deep valleys,” it added.
Makkah Governorate on X posted several videos of heavy rains, thunderstorm and waterspouts.
Social media is filled with videos from the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, and the Red Sea City of Jeddah, showing streets and city roads flooded, and cars submerged as result of heavy rainfall.
According to the NCM, winds over the Red Sea will be northeasterly to northerly in the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southwesterly in the southern part at speeds of 20-50 km per hour. Waves may range from one meter and a half to more than two meters, and the sea will be relatively calm to choppy.
KSrelief delivers critical food, shelter aid to Syrian families
- Saudi aid agency also launches voluntary program to support Syrian healthcare sector
RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief on Tuesday distributed food and shelter aid to 200 families in the city of Douma, in the Rif Dimashq governorate of Syria, in coordination with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent.
Also on Tuesday, KSrelief distributed food and shelter aid in the village of Nasib, in the Daraa governorate, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
To date, seven planes carrying food, medical supplies, and shelter materials have arrived at Damascus International Airport as part of a Saudi relief airlift.
Additionally, 60 Saudi trucks containing essential supplies, including food, shelter materials, and medical supplies crossed the Nasib Border Crossing into Syria as part of a Saudi relief land bridge operated by KSrelief.
On Jan. 1, Saudi Arabia launched an initiative to provide essential aid to Syria, supporting efforts under the country’s new leadership to rebuild after years of civil war.
According to KSrelief, the Kingdom’s total aid to the Syrian people from 2011 to the end of 2024 exceeds $856 million.
Recently, Syrian Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Fadi Al-Qassem met with the KSrelief team in Damascus, where they discussed ways to deliver aid to the Syrian people and coordination between the Saudi aid agency and civil society organizations in the country.
Al-Qassem commended the support provided by Saudi Arabia through KSrelief and praised the Kingdom’s prompt response to the humanitarian situation in Syria.
Syrian Minister of Health Dr. Maher Al-Sharaa also met with the KSrelief team and discussed ways to contribute to addressing the needs of the Syrian healthcare sector.
Meanwhile, in Lebanon, KSrelief continues implementing its project to enhance healthcare services for Syrian refugees and the host community in the town of Arsal.
In one month, the Arsal Primary Health Care Center received 12,676 patients and provided 23,386 services across various departments.
The initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing humanitarian efforts to alleviate the suffering of those in need, particularly Syrian refugees affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
KSrelief also announced the opening of registration for the Saudi Voluntary Program for Syrians. The program aims to support the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts by providing critical emergency and medical services to Syrians in need.
The initiative covers surgery, psychological support, gynecology and obstetrics, orthopedics, internal medicine, pediatrics, physiotherapy, speech and communication therapy, and prosthetics, among other treatments.
Registration is available here.
Al-Ahsa’s bishts are exquisitely tailored, rich cultural symbols
- Known across the Arab world for their elegance, quality and intricate embroidery
RIYADH: Al-Ahsa is known for its diverse industries and handicrafts, particularly the Hasawi bishts, which are sought-after across the Arab world for their exquisite tailoring, quality and intricate embroidery.
The Hasawi bisht is favored by dignitaries, officials and businesspeople for its aesthetics as well as the rich culture it represents, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
They come in dark or light fabrics depending on taste, the occasion and season.
These garments are often adorned with silk thread, as well as golden and silver zari embroidery in shades of yellow, reddish hues, and white, the SPA reported.
Handmade bishts continue to be in demand despite machine-made options.
Certain families in Al-Ahsa and elsewhere in the Kingdom are renowned for their expertise in crafting handmade and artisanal bishts, with meticulous attention to design, shape and embroidery.
Prices vary based on craftsmanship, fabric quality, and the type of zari used. Fabrics from Japan or Kashmir, along with German zari, are factors in determining cost.
Winter bishts, woven from camel hair, come in varying quality and are distinguished by their thickness and weight compared to those made for summer.
Bisht fabrics are woven in Saudi Arabia, Syria and Jordan, with China and India offering similar manufactured options, the SPA added.
The embellishment of the winter Hasawi bisht initially had silk thread, and later incorporated golden and silver.
Stitching the karmuk, the wide section adorned with zari, can take 14 days by hand, while a machine can complete the task in two hours.
