‘Black Scorpion’ cave in Northern Borders attracts adventurers
Updated 02 September 2024
Arab News
JEDDAH: The “Black Scorpion” cave in the Northern Borders region is a new spot for adventure enthusiasts and researchers.
The cave, which is 160 kilometers west of Rafha governorate near the village of Al-Habka, is more than 500 meters deep, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Its name comes from the cave entrance, which is similar to the shape of a black scorpion’s body when the moon is in its full phase on the 15th of the lunar month, adding to its allure, according to the report.
The Black Scorpion has three internal passages that narrow and widen and rise and fall in various places trough which visitors can walk.
Several trenches branch off in different directions, increasing its complexity. The cave’s geological features make it an ideal destination for environmental and geological tourism.
The town of Al-Habka, where the cave is located, was once a vital source of water in the desert because of its numerous wells and is known for its rich archaeological heritage.
The cave is home to a range of wildlife, including wolves, hyenas and foxes. Two years ago, the National Center for Wildlife discovered several cheetah carcasses in the area underscoring its importance for wildlife conservation.
According to Begess Al-Falih, a cave enthusiast and member of the Afaq Society for Astronomy, 542 caves and sinkholes have so far been discovered in the Northern Borders region.
He said that the “Black Scorpion” cave is just one of many cave tourism hotspots in the area. These natural wonders provide a rare opportunity for visitors to explore geological formations dating back thousands of years.
RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief continues to provide humanitarian assistance in several regions.
In Sudan, the agency distributed 500 food baskets in the Dongola region, Northern State, on Thursday, benefiting 5,105 individuals affected by flash floods and heavy rains. The action formed part of the second phase of the 2024 food security support project.
In Yemen, KSrelief provided 158 shelter bags and 92 tents to 948 individuals in Al Sabran camp, Al-Madina District of Marib Governorate, as part of the emergency shelter aid project.
Al-Ja’dah Health Center in Yemen’s Hajjah Governorate, supported by KSrelief, provided medical services to 2,164 people from Aug. 21-27. Clinics treated patients in departments including emergency, internal medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics, while 1,992 individuals received medications.
In northern Lebanon, KSrelief funded 59 ambulance missions in the Miniyeh district through the Subul Al Salam Social Association. These missions involved patient transport and emergency services in refugee areas and host communities.
These efforts are part of KSrelief's ongoing assistance to needy communities in Sudan, Yemen and Lebanon.
Asir is home to a wide range of avian life, including endemic species such as the Asir magpie, a rare bird found only in this region of Saudi Arabia
Updated 14 September 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Asir, a region renowned for its natural beauty, is also a sanctuary for a range of migratory birds.
These feathered visitors, some of which have inhabited the region for millennia, contribute significantly to the area’s rich biodiversity. The region’s diverse habitats, from highlands to plains, provide ideal conditions for a variety of bird species to thrive, the Saudi Press Agency reports.
The acacia, juniper and natural flowers provide suitable habitats for different bird species. (SPA)
In the spring, the forests of Asir come alive with the vibrant colors and songs of these avian guests. The region’s blend of climate and topography attracts birds from around the world, including species from Africa, Europe and Asia.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Asir’s blend of climate and topography attracts birds from around the world, including species from Africa, Europe and Asia.
• The endemic species such as the Asir magpie is a rare bird found only in this region of the Kingdom.
• European species such as the European bee-eater also visit the region during the spring and summer.
The SPA team, accompanied by bird enthusiast Ahmed Niazi, recently embarked on a journey to witness the natural spectacle of gathered birds.
Asir region’s diverse habitats, from highlands to plains, provide ideal conditions for a variety of bird species to thrive. (SPA)
According to Niazi in an interview with SPA, Asir appeals to migratory birds through its diverse tree species and varying temperatures. The acacia, juniper and natural flowers provide suitable habitats for different bird species.
Asir is home to a wide range of avian life, including endemic species such as the Asir magpie, a rare bird found only in this region of the Kingdom.
The acacia, juniper and natural flowers provide suitable habitats for different bird species. (SPA)
The fall and spring seasons are peak migration periods in Saudi Arabia, as birds traverse the region on their journeys between the northern and southern hemispheres.
Migratory birds from Africa, such as the African paradise flycatcher, pied cuckoo and gray-headed kingfisher, find suitable breeding grounds in Asir’s humid southwestern highlands. European species such as the European bee-eater also visit the region during the spring and summer.
The book, “Birds of Saudi Arabia,” published by Aramco in 2020, highlights the Kingdom’s rich avian diversity; 499 species are recorded, including 401 resident or migratory birds and 11 rare species.
Saudi artist adds local twist to French art movements
Vibrant artworks are a ‘rebellion against dull landscapes of the past,’ says Mohammed Al-Aameri
Updated 14 September 2024
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: In his latest exhibition, Saudi artist Mohammed Al-Aameri is presenting his own take on cubism and fauvism — with a Saudi twist.
“Red Line” at Kenz Gallery in the Al-Mousa Center, Riyadh, is on show until Sept. 20. The works on display draw particular inspiration from fauvism, an early 20th-century art movement known for its bold colors and expressive brushwork, favoring emotional expression through color over strict adherence to realism.
“Red Line” marks a pivotal moment in Al-Aameri’s artistic journey. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)
Al-Aameri told Arab News, “My exhibition focuses on expressing feelings and emotions as an alternative to realistic photography, while mixing my own style with techniques inspired by fauvism and cubism. Although fauvism was short-lived, it laid the groundwork for many modern-art movements.”
“Red Line” is the result of an artistic journey that spans decades. Al-Aameri’s paintings encapsulate stories, emotions, and cultural heritage.
Through my research, travel, and interaction with many (international) artists, I aim to revive the innovative spirit of these schools in my own style, presenting it in a new and distinctive way in Saudi Arabia.
Mohammed Al-Aameri, Saudi artist
“Through my research, travel, and interaction with many (international) artists, I aim to revive the innovative spirit of these schools in my own style, presenting it in a new and distinctive way in Saudi Arabia,” the 55-year-old artist said.
By tapping into modern art movements that push boundaries Mohammed Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)
“Red Line” consists of 20 works, including paintings that feature figures in traditional Saudi attire rendered in a vibrant palette that contrasts sharply with the muted colors typically associated with historical representations of the region.
“I love colors, and aim to express a spectrum in my paintings,” he said. “It’s a form of rebellion against the past, where we were often limited to dull landscapes of brown and green.”
Mohammed Al-Aameri, Saudi artist
Al-Aameri’s work is also deeply inspired by his childhood memories. These recollections provide a backdrop to his artistic expression, allowing him to weave personal history into his works.
At 19, Al-Aameri became enamored with Picasso’s art after seeing it in a magazine. “His work touched me and encouraged me to explore cubism,” he said. “I had been drawing in a classical style, but Picasso’s art showed me the potential to break boundaries. Cubism requires a deep understanding of geometry, which fascinated me.”
By tapping into modern art movements that push boundaries Mohammed Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)
This newfound passion led to opportunities for training with international artists in France and Florence, enriching his artistic perspective.
Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. “I aim to elevate the concept of art in Saudi Arabia, as many artists are still confined to traditional approaches,” he said.
His own artistic journey began at a young age. “I discovered my love for drawing at eight, inspired by my mother … my first portrait was of King Khaled, which amazed everyone and ignited my passion for art,” he said.
At 16, Al-Aameri sold his first painting—a watercolor depicting a Bedouin woman spinning wool. “The piece was filled with warm colors representing the Saudi environment,” he recalls. This artwork caught the attention of a British collector and was sold for SR3,500 ($933).
“Red Line” marks a pivotal moment in Al-Aameri’s artistic journey, showcasing not only his skill but also his vision for the future of art in Saudi Arabia.
“The exhibition is a celebration of art’s power to transcend limitations and connect with deeper truths,” he said.
Saudi delegation meets UK’s National Audit Office to boost cooperation, expertise
Talks focused on enhancing quality and efficiency through the value-for-money methodology
Updated 14 September 2024
Arab News
LONDON: A delegation from Saudi Arabia’s General Auditing Bureau met with officials from the UK’s National Audit Office in London to discuss strengthening cooperation and exchange expertise in the field of public sector auditing, Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
During the meeting, both parties explored opportunities for collaboration on performance reviews, financial statement analysis, technical capabilities, and risk management frameworks, SPA added.
They also focused on enhancing quality and efficiency through the value-for-money methodology, from the planning stage to measuring impact.
This comes as Saudi Arabia shifts from cash-based to accrual-based accounting in its public sector.
The delegation also held discussions with Gareth Davies, the UK’s comptroller and auditor general.
He emphasized the importance of the meeting in fostering closer ties between the two bodies.
Davies highlighted the significance of exchanging knowledge and expertise in areas such as accounting, auditing, and professional oversight, and noted that these efforts would contribute to improving the performance and efficiency of both institutions.
Who’s Who: Haneen Al-Saleh, managing director of Bosch’s regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia
Updated 14 September 2024
Arab News
Haneen Al-Saleh is the managing director of Bosch’s regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia.
She spearheads the company’s commitment to the country by driving innovation and collaboration across key sectors, including mobility, consumer goods, and energy.
Al-Saleh leads the team’s efforts in evolving the business of hydrogen, digitalization, and energy diversification while fostering regional development in the mobility sector.
Prior to joining Bosch, she had a number of jobs in the energy and engineering sectors. She has more than 10 years of experience, including as a global project intervention and operation leader, project manager, and strategic marketing analyst.
She began her career as a mechanical design engineer in the UK. After returning to the Kingdom, she took on various roles including strategic marketing manager and global execution and intervention leader at General Electric.
Her previous positions also include project mechanical engineer at Acumen Project in Nottingham, England, building services advisor at Ideal Design in Jeddah, and part-time sales at 3mobile in Edinburgh.
Al-Saleh was reportedly the first Saudi woman to work on a construction site while leading a team and completing the delivery of Waad Al-Shamal, the first integrated solar combined cycle power plant of the MENAT region, driving innovation and change in the energy landscape.
Al-Saleh holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in energy engineering and carbon management from the UK.
