King, crown prince top donations as Saudi nation collects one billion riyals in Ramadan charity campaign
Updated 16 March 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman led donations as the Saudi nation collected a billion riyals for a national Ramadan charity campaign, organizers announced early on Saturday.
King Salman opened the campaign with SR40 million and was followed by the crown prince with SR30 million.
Among the other contributors were Aramco, SR35 million; Roshan, SR30 million; King Abdullah Foundation, SR 20 million; Al-Rajhi Endowment, SR15 million; SNB Alahli, SR15 million; SABIC, SR10 million; and Ma’aden, SR5 million.
The annual National Campaign for Charitable Work, through the Ehsan platform, is now in its fourth year, with contributions to the platform growing each year.
Majid Al-Qasabi, the chairman of Ehsan’s supervisory committee, thanked the king and crown prince for their generous contributions and said all of the donations Ehsan receives are an essential source of funding and play an important part in the success of the Kingdom’s charitable initiatives.
The campaign will remain open for donations throughout the holy month of Ramadan, which is a time when Muslims are encouraged to carry out charitable acts.
How Saudi forestry supports biodiversity and mitigates the effects of climate change
Despite its arid climate, Saudi Arabia is home to diverse forest types, from mountain woodlands to coastal mangroves
The Kingdom is expanding its green cover by planting millions of trees and restoring degraded forest areas
Updated 11 sec ago
Haifa Alshammari
RIYADH: It is easy to think of Saudi Arabia as a land dominated by endless dunes and sun-scorched plains. But beyond the sweeping deserts lies an unexpectedly rich tapestry of ecosystems — forests that climb mountains, shade winding valleys, and line the coastal edges of the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.
While forests cover just 1.1 percent of the Kingdom’s landmass, they play an outsized role in preserving biodiversity, storing carbon, and improving food security. Their ecological importance — and their fragility — has placed them at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s green transformation.
“The forest area in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is estimated to 2.7 million hectares, representing 1.1 percent of the Kingdom’s area,” Najeeb Alsubhi, head of the Valley Forests Department at the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, told Arab News.
“This includes mountain forests spread across the southern and southwestern parts of the Kingdom, distinguished by juniper trees, as well as the atam (wild olive) tree, in addition to groups of acacia trees.”
Mountain forests trace the high ridgelines from Taif down to Jazan, while valley forests — dotted with sidr and acacia — stretch through much of the country’s interior. Along the coastlines, clusters of mangroves thrive in tidal wetlands, providing critical habitat and natural coastal defenses.
Despite their modest footprint, these forests are ecological powerhouses. Globally, forests are known to contribute more than 80 percent of biodiversity, regulate climate, limit desertification, and provide essential products from honey to medicinal plants.
In Saudi Arabia, they are also a buffer against desert creep and climate shocks — an increasingly vital role as the Kingdom confronts environmental challenges.
Among the plant species that are found in the Kingdom's valley forests are Acacia and Sidr trees. (NCVC photo)
To protect and expand this natural wealth, Saudi Arabia has launched a forest conservation and rehabilitation drive, led by the NCVC. The center is planting more than 3.5 million trees and working to protect native species by mapping and restoring perennial tree habitats.
Recognizing the growing threat of wildfires, the NCVC has also established dedicated forest and fire monitoring systems, alongside research centers and public education initiatives aimed at long-term forest sustainability.
Among the most significant of these efforts is a new project to assess the health and changes in forest cover across five key regions: Al-Bahah, Jazan, Asir, Najran, and Taif.
DID YOU KNOW?
• Saudi forests are home to 97 species of tree and cover 2.7 million hectares of the Kingdom’s territory.
• Healthy forests contribute more than 80 percent of the biodiversity found in the natural environment.
• Although predominantly desert, Saudi Arabia also has mountain forests, valley forests, and mangroves.
This initiative, part of the National Forest Inventory Program, is a collaboration between the NCVC and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. The project is designed to support sustainable forest management while meeting international environmental reporting obligations related to biodiversity, climate change, and land use.
Strategies include data collection, identifying key forest locations, and using precision tools like digital hypsometers to measure tree height and forest structure.
Strategies by NCVC to conserve plantation areas in Saudi Arabia included determining confinement points, collecting data, and using a digital hypsometer to measure the height of trees. (NCVC photo)
Together, these efforts reflect a growing awareness of the vital role Saudi Arabia’s forests play — not only as ecological assets but as symbols of renewal in a land long known for its arid extremes.
As the Kingdom pushes ahead with its broader climate and environmental goals, these green sanctuaries, hidden among the peaks and valleys, may prove to be among its most valuable treasures.
The female-only wellness spaces in Riyadh that aim to empower women
Yoga, Pilates studios provide safe, calm environment
‘I have met some pretty incredible women,’ Australian customer says
Updated 25 April 2025
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: A number of female-only wellness spaces in Riyadh are aiming to provide empowering communities for women, driven by the desire for privacy and comfort.
Locations like gyms, pools and even some theme parks have created safe spaces exclusively for women on designated days.
This allows women to dress freely and engage in activities that foster a sense of community.
"Yoga by Sunset", a serene environment dedicated solely to women. (Supplied)
One such place is Sunsets Yoga, a serene studio environment dedicated solely to women.
It offers an array of classes and programs focused on health and wellness and also has an entertainment center where women can unwind and connect.
“Sunsets Yoga was born out of my passion for yoga and my deep desire to help people,” owner Wateen Al-Tuwaijri told Arab News.
Since moving to Saudi I have really noticed the benefits of going to a female-friendly Pilates studio. Not only is it comfortable but I feel confident in my own skin and body. The highlight for me has to be the networking. I have met some pretty incredible women who are not only inspiring but are like-minded.
Emma Shirley
“I opened this space because I believe in the transformative power of yoga — not just for the body, but for the mind and soul as well.
“My goal for Sunsets Yoga is to create a welcoming, peaceful environment where individuals can escape the stresses of daily life, reconnect with themselves and grow both physically and mentally.”
“Yoga is a universal tool for balance and I wanted to ensure that women here have access to a space where they can focus on their health and well-being without any barriers. (Supplied)
Al-Tuwaijri said it was “especially important” to have places in Riyadh that cater exclusively to women.
“Yoga is a universal tool for balance and I wanted to ensure that women here have access to a space where they can focus on their health and well-being without any barriers.
“It’s about supporting their journey of self-discovery and personal growth in a place where they can feel free, strong and inspired.”
The studio offered a range of regular, pre/post-natal and customized private training sessions. (Supplied)
Al-Tuwaijri said she wanted to build “a community that supports, encourages and nurtures” people.
Another prominent female-only space is the reformer Pilates studio Bdn in Al-Rayyan District.
“I’ve been practicing reformer Pilates for over 15 years now and swear by it,” owner Najd Al-Hatlani said.
Another prominent female-only space is "Bdn", a Pilates studio designed specifically for women. (Supplied)
“It has given me impeccable self-awareness regarding my body and how the smallest muscles move to support the larger ones … it has completely changed my perspective regarding all workouts.
She said she opened the studio to serve an untapped market in the east of Riyadh.
“Female-oriented spaces have always been part of our cultural heritage and experience. I think it’s important to continue to offer these safe haven spaces for women in order to maximize their well-being.
“As kind as many people want to be, we as women have shared far too many similar experiences through life which makes it comforting to be in the same room as that unspoken supportive energy.”
The studio offered a range of regular, pre/post-natal and customized private training sessions, Al-Hatlani said.
Emma Shirley, an Australia living in Riyadh, is a regular at Bdn.
“Since moving to Saudi I have really noticed the benefits of going to a female-friendly Pilates studio. My go-to Pilates studio in Riyadh is Bdn. I have been going there for a few months.
“Not only is it comfortable but I feel confident in my own skin and body. The highlight for me has to be the networking. I have met some pretty incredible women who are not only inspiring but are like-minded.”
Saudi Arabia takes part in European Economic Congress
The Saudi delegation met with the Poland’s deputy minister of Economic Development and Technology to discuss economic relations between Saudi Arabia and Poland
Updated 25 April 2025
SPA
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia participated in the 17th edition of the European Economic Congress, held in Katowice, Poland, from April 23-25.
The Saudi delegation consisted of Ambassador to Poland Saad bin Saleh Al-Saleh; Undersecretary of the Ministry of Investment for International Relations Sara Al-Sayed; Deputy Governor of the Saudi General Authority of Foreign Trade Abdulaziz Al-Sakran; and representatives from the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce, specifically the Saudi-Polish Business Council.
The Saudi delegation met with the Poland’s deputy minister of Economic Development and Technology to discuss economic relations between Saudi Arabia and Poland and strategies to improve investment and trade exchange, as well as taking part in a dialogue session focused on the same topics and including a review of the economic transformations occurring in the Kingdom in light of Saudi Vision 2030.
The delegation also conducted meetings and workshops with several representatives from companies attending the congress to present investment opportunities in the Kingdom.
Royal body offers Saudi traditional bisht-making course
Wrth plays a leading role in promoting Saudi identity and cultural heritage, both locally and globally
Updated 25 April 2025
SPA
RIYADH: The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, Wrth, has opened registration for the Al-Bisht Al-Hasawi Apprenticeship Program in Al-Ahsa governorate.
Al-Bisht Al-Hasawi — referring to the traditional male outer-garment dress made in Al-Ahsa — is a culturally significant craft in the Kingdom.
Participants will learn the fundamentals of the craft, including its history, tools, techniques, embroidery, sewing, and the traditional textile industry. (SPA)
The program spans three semesters and aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to revive, preserve, and promote this traditional art form.
Participants will learn the fundamentals of the craft, including its history, tools, techniques, embroidery, sewing, and the traditional textile industry.
Instruction will be delivered by seasoned artisans who have inherited and practiced the craft for generations.
Participants will learn the fundamentals of the craft, including its history, tools, techniques, embroidery, sewing, and the traditional textile industry. (SPA)
Following the successful first and second editions in 2023 and 2024, which trained 22 participants, the third edition will run from July 6 to Aug. 5, 2027.
This initiative is a part of Wrth’s broader effort to offer regular training programs that provide the skills and expertise required for specialized handicrafts.
Wrth plays a leading role in promoting Saudi identity and cultural heritage, both locally and globally.
It is committed to supporting emerging national talent, safeguarding intangible heritage, and fostering a deeper appreciation for traditional arts.
Registration is through Wrth’s website: https://wrth.edu.sa/programs/apprenticeship.
Jeddah’s Historic District to get new waste management plan
Ministry of Culture to collaborate with recycling firm on green initiative
Updated 25 April 2025
SPA
JEDDAH: The Ministry of Culture has signed a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Investment Recycling Co. to strengthen cooperation on waste management and recycling in Jeddah’s Historic District.
The initiative is part of the ministry’s efforts to revitalize the area, promote environmental sustainability, support green initiatives and enhance the visitor experience.
The agreement was signed by Wael bin Sami Saim Al-Daher, director general of the General Administration of the Jeddah Historic District Program, which is affiliated to the ministry, and Haitham bin Hassan bin Hamed, CEO of SIRC’s Western Region branch.
It outlines collaboration on implementing best practices and solutions for recycling construction and demolition waste, managing solid waste and converting it into materials such as gravel and fertilizer.
It also includes identifying effective mechanisms for waste collection and transportation and raising environmental awareness among residents and visitors.
The collaboration will contribute to national goals such as reducing carbon emissions, achieving fuel savings and creating jobs.
As part of its ongoing efforts in the Historic District, the ministry has added 120,000 sq. meters of green spaces, while its cleaning and maintenance teams remove 70 tonnes of waste daily.
