Saudi Arabia seeks to host World Water Forum in 2027
Saudi Arabia seeks to host World Water Forum in 2027/node/2448616/saudi-arabia
Saudi Arabia seeks to host World Water Forum in 2027
Picture taken in a space at the Citizen Village where visitors can pretend they help clean the ocean, during the 8th World Water Forum taking place in Brasilia, on March 20, 2018. (AFP)
Saudi Arabia seeks to host World Water Forum in 2027
Updated 26 January 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has officially submitted a request to host the eleventh session of the World Water Forum in 2027 in Riyadh.
This submission confirms its interest in sustaining water resources, improving the quality of life, achieving sustainable development goals, and continuing to play a pioneering role in dealing with water issues in regional and international arenas, Saudi Press Agency reported.
Organized by the World Water Council, the World Water Forum represents the largest event in the field of water management.
It brings together governments, organizations, officials, and specialists from all relevant fields to exchange experiences and open up aspects of cooperation to develop the sector and ensure its sustainability.
The forum provides a platform for exchanging ideas, knowledge, and cooperation between concerned parties worldwide.
It also offers opportunities to present international best practices and find ways of cooperation to ensure sustainable water resource management worldwide.
After the setback of Expo 2030, Rome is once again challenging Riyadh to host the forum in 2027, the most important global gathering for the discussion and reflection on water issues.
As the city renowned for fountains and aqueducts, Rome has submitted its proposal, and the competition this time is between Italy and Saudi Arabia, with the verdict expected in May, during the 2024 Forum in Bali, Indonesia.
Despite being one of the countries with the scarcest water resources in the world, the Kingdom has applied to host the forum, given that the Kingdom possesses modern and advanced infrastructure, regulations and legislation regulating the sector.
The National Water Strategy is the roadmap that charts the future and helps overcome its challenges by establishing comprehensive institutional and structural frameworks.
Sisterhood club at full throttle on the road to freedom
For many club members, motorcycles are not only a mode of transport, but also represent independence and the breaking of barriers
Updated 22 June 2025
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Young Saudi women are discovering a new freedom riding motorcycles on the streets of Riyadh, challenging stereotypes and fostering an empowering community.
The Sisterhood Motorcycle Club, with its all-female membership, is at the forefront of this trend.
Founded in 2022 by Capt. Saud Albarak and Roaa Talal Abualsaud, the club was born from a simple idea: to create a safe, inclusive space for women in Saudi Arabia to explore their passion for motorcycles.
“We wanted to break stereotypes and build a strong community that supports freedom, confidence, and sisterhood on and off the road,” Abdulsaud said.
This mission resonates deeply with women who have long felt restricted by societal norms and expectations, she added.
For many club members, motorcycles are not only a mode of transport, but also represent independence and the breaking of barriers.
Joining the club is an opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a lifestyle that celebrates adventure and camaraderie. The club seeks to encourage women to embrace their passions, while providing a supportive network for those who seek to share this journey.
Abualsaud, a dentist and proud biker, explained her motivation for co-founding Sisterhood. “I wanted to create a space where women could feel both powerful and supported,” she said.
“As someone who always seeks adventure, riding became my way of feeling free and present. Building and leading this club wasn’t just about motorcycles — it was about making a statement that women can be bold, united, and unstoppable.”
Sisterhood membership is open to all women, regardless of their experience with motorcycles.
“Owning a bike is not required to join. We welcome women at all levels, whether you’re an experienced rider, someone considering getting a license, or simply curious about the community,” Abdulsaud said.
This inclusive approach makes it easier for women to join without feeling intimidated, fostering a sense of belonging.
Founded in 2022 by Captain Saud Albarak and Roaa Talal Abualsaud, the club was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to create a safe, inclusive space for women in Saudi Arabia to explore their passion for motorcycles. (Supplied)
“I’ve always been passionate about adventurous hobbies. I ride horses and have loved ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) since childhood. So, when women were allowed to ride motorcycles, I jumped at the opportunity,” said club member Maisa Alhugaily.
“What drew me specifically to Sisterhood Club was the sense of community and empowerment it offers. I wanted to be part of a group that supports and uplifts women, while exploring something exciting and different.”
The club provides mentorship, safety training, and introductory riding experiences to ensure that new members can embark on their journeys with confidence.
“What matters most is the spirit of adventure and respect for the community,” Abdulsaud said. This commitment to safety and education helps demystify the world of motorcycles, making it accessible to everyone.
The importance of such clubs for Saudi women cannot be overstated, she believes.
“These clubs give Saudi women visibility, voice, and validation in spaces traditionally dominated by men. Riding a motorcycle in Saudi Arabia is more than a hobby — it’s a symbol of choice, strength, and movement.”
Sisterhood empowers women by offering them opportunities to lead, connect, travel, and inspire each other.
This empowerment is crucial in a society where women are often expected to conform to traditional roles. The presence of female riders challenges stereotypes and encourages other women to explore their interests without feeling limited by societal expectations.
“It also helps normalize the presence of female riders in public, creating a ripple effect for future generations of girls to dream big without limitations,” Abdulsaud says.
Sisterhood membership is open to all women, regardless of their experience with motorcycles. (Supplied)
Currently, Sisterhood organizes over 40 rides and has 260 active members from cities across Saudi Arabia. The community is steadily growing, with regular collaborations with riders from other Gulf countries.
Abdulsaud said: “Sisterhood is not just a local club — it’s part of a larger movement.” This expansion reflects the increasing interest among women in pursuing activities that defy traditional gender roles.
In addition to riding, the club engages in various events and interests that foster camaraderie and personal growth.
“We participate in local and regional motorcycle events, organize safety awareness workshops, community outreach rides, and even lifestyle gatherings like motorcycle fashion events, fitness classes, and off-road trips,” Abdulsaud said.
The wide range of activities encourages a lifestyle filled with empowerment, connection, and fun.
Through the Sisterhood Motorcycle Club, Saudi women are not only discovering a passion for riding, but also building a supportive network that champions their dreams and aspirations. The club embodies a spirit of unity and strength, allowing women to pursue their passions unapologetically.
“We’re telling them, you have a place among us,” Abdulsaud said.
The Sisterhood Motorcycle Club is more than just a group of women who ride; it is a movement that signifies freedom, empowerment, and sisterhood. As these women continue to break barriers and redefine their roles in society, they are paving the way for future generations to ride boldly into their own destinies.
Saudi interior minister meets outgoing UK ambassador in Riyadh
Neil Crompton will be succeeded by Stephen Hitchen
Crompton described Saudi Arabia as a ‘key, indispensable partner’
Updated 22 June 2025
Arab News
LONDON: Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif met Neil Crompton, the outgoing UK ambassador to Riyadh, in his office on Sunday.
Crompton bid farewell to Prince Abdulaziz as his tenure as ambassador ended. Prince Abdulaziz thanked Crompton for his service in the Kingdom and wished him success.
Crompton will be succeeded by Stephen Hitchen.
In a previous interview with Arab News, Crompton described Saudi Arabia as a “key, indispensable partner” to the UK.
“We have a shared history, and part of our shared history is recognition that Saudi Arabia is a key diplomatic partner, not just in the Arab world, but in the Islamic world. I think it has a neutral ability to bridge gaps both between east and west, and north and south,” Crompton said.
Saudi transport minister wraps up visit to Russia and France
The visit aims to strengthen cooperation between the Kingdom and Russia and France in the fields of transport and logistics
Updated 3 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh Al-Jasser was recently on an official visit to Russia and France along with his accompanying delegation of officials from the sector.
He participated in the opening of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and its main session, which was also attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
In France, Al-Jasser attended the opening of the International Paris Air Show as well as a signing ceremony for an air services agreement between Saudi Arabia and Panama.
The visit aims to strengthen cooperation between the Kingdom and Russia and France in the fields of transport and logistics.
Saudi initiative supports people with disabilities
Purple Saturday allows participating stores to provide special discounts and promotions for people with disabilities
Updated 57 min 30 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: The Authority for the Care of People with Disabilities has announced the fifth Purple Saturday initiative, set for July 26, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Held annually on the last Saturday of July, the event is organized in partnership with government, private and nonprofit organizations.
As part of its commitment to supporting people with disabilities, the authority uses the initiative to offer incentives and encourage companies to develop programs that promote inclusion and participation.
Purple Saturday allows participating stores to provide special discounts and promotions for people with disabilities, the SPA added.
The initiative has grown steadily, with more than 3,500 retail locations across the Kingdom taking part, as well as contributions from other Gulf countries.
This year, the authority will introduce the Purple Saturday Award to recognize outstanding offers, companies and initiatives that support disability empowerment.
The award aims to encourage quality efforts, increase engagement and inspire community support, the SPA reported.
The authority continues to work across sectors to improve services for people with disabilities and raise public awareness, with the goal of building a more inclusive society with equal opportunities for all.