Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador

Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally. (Supplied)
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Updated 13 September 2024
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Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador

  • Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani considers it an honor and responsibility to represent nation’s tourism program

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia actor Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, 10, who has been an ambassador for the Saudi Summer Program 2024, has brought an intense passion and energy to the role.

With a career marked by appearances in commercials and TV series, Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally.

Al-Qahtani told Arab News: “I’ve always loved performing. I started by acting in ads for big brands like Infiniti Cars, Al-Rajhi Bank and Aramco. These opportunities allowed me to explore different facets of acting and build a solid foundation in the industry.”




Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Saudi actor

His experience includes campaigns for the ministries of health and environment, water and agriculture, as well as the Misk Foundation.

His acting career has been marked by outstanding performances in series including “Al-Deek Al-Azraq” and “Orim.”

Al-Qahtani’s upcoming film, “Shahd,” has also generated considerable excitement among his fans. “Acting is my real passion … Growing up, my culture deeply influenced the roles I chose. I feel fortunate to work on projects that resonate with my heritage and bring our stories to life.”

It’s a special chance to share the beauty and diversity of our country’s summer experiences with the world. I take this role very seriously and am dedicated to making the most of it.

Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Saudi actor

Transitioning to his role as the ambassador for the Saudi Summer Program, Al-Qahtani considers it an honor and responsibility.

“I’m thrilled … it’s a special chance to share the beauty and diversity of our country’s summer experiences with the world. I take this role very seriously and am dedicated to making the most of it,” he said.

As part of his duties, Al-Qahtani has been touring Saudi Arabia, exploring various summer destinations and participating in local events.

Al-Qahtani said: “Every place I visit has its own unique charm. Boulevard City in Riyadh is incredibly dynamic, while Jeddah Corniche offers a beautiful blend of sea and city. Abha, where I grew up, holds a special place in my heart, and I’m always excited to share its beauty with others.”

One of the standout moments of his tour was attending the King Cup final in Jeddah. “It was a significant event, and representing the summer program there was a source of immense pride for me. It felt like a perfect blend of sports and cultural celebration.”

A particularly memorable experience for him was meeting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb in Asir. The meeting offered Al-Qahtani insights into the ongoing efforts to boost the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

“Meeting the minister was an invaluable experience,” he said. “I learned a lot about the strategies and initiatives aimed at promoting tourism in Saudi Arabia. It was inspiring to see the commitment and vision behind these efforts.”

During the interaction, Al-Qahtani held a kite adorned with the program’s logo and Al-Khateeb drew a picture symbolizing summer on it. “(It) was a special moment for me. It felt like a meaningful connection to the program and underscored the collaborative spirit of this initiative.”

Looking ahead, Al-Qahtani is enthusiastic about continuing his acting career while remaining committed to his ambassadorial role.

“I’m excited to keep working as an actor and take on new challenges,” he added. “I’m also dedicated to promoting Saudi Arabia’s cultural and artistic scene. Football is another passion of mine, and I hope to explore opportunities in that area as well.”

The four-month Saudi Summer Program runs until the end of September and includes Asir, Baha, Taif, Jeddah, Riyadh, the Red Sea and AlUla. There have been hundreds of events offered with more than 100 partners.

 


Authorities warn of thunderstorms, hail across Saudi Arabia until Sunday

Updated 18 September 2024
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Authorities warn of thunderstorms, hail across Saudi Arabia until Sunday

  • The Makkah region is expected to receive heavy rain that may lead to torrential downpours, hail, and strong winds

RIYADH: The Saudi Civil Defense warned of thunderstorms across the Kingdom until Sunday as the country experiences cooler autumn weather.

The authorities urged people to avoid areas susceptible to flooding, not to swim in open water, and to follow instructions issued through social media channels.

The Makkah region is expected to receive heavy rain that may lead to torrential downpours, hail, and strong winds.

moderate-to-heavy rain expected to affect the Baha, Asir, and Jazan regions, while Najran and Madinah regions might see drizzle to moderate rain.

September 1st signaled the official start of autumn in Saudi Arabia.

The season is usually rainy, with rapid fluctuations in weather patterns, providing much-needed respite from the heat, according to the  National Center for Meteorology.

Temperatures are anticipated to remain elevated until the middle of the month, with significant fluctuations expected in temperature.


Saudi crown prince to deliver annual royal address at Shoura Council on Wednesday

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (File/SPA)
Updated 17 September 2024
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Saudi crown prince to deliver annual royal address at Shoura Council on Wednesday

  • The crown prince will deliver the address on behalf of King Salman
  • Address will cover the Kingdom’s domestic and foreign policies and its positions on international issues

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will deliver an annual royal address to inaugurate the first year of the ninth session of the Shoura Council on Wednesday.

The crown prince will deliver the address on behalf of King Salman and it will cover the Kingdom’s domestic and foreign policies and its positions on regional and international issues, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

Shoura Council Speaker Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh said the council is guided by the contents of the royal address every year in its work, discussions, and decisions. 


Purrfect plan to pamper kitties by cat company in Saudi Arabia

Updated 17 September 2024
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Purrfect plan to pamper kitties by cat company in Saudi Arabia

  • Horayra Community’s ‘1 Million Cats’ campaign wants to ensure no cat naps hungry

JEDDAH: A Saudi Arabia cat food company, inspired by Islam’s directives on treating animals with love and kindness, is helping to take care of strays and those abandoned in the Kingdom.

The Horayra firm is named after Abu Huraira, a close companion of Prophet Muhammad. Abu Huraira, which means “Father of the kitten,” was given his nickname due to his affection for a kitten.

Horayra Community’s initiative to feed and take care of stray cats brings together experts, cat lovers and rescuers across the Kingdom. (AN photos/Supplied)

When tending to people’s sheep he would carry the kitten with him, playing with it during the day and placing it in a tree at night for safety. This reflects the values of compassion and love for animals that is at the heart of the company’s Horayra Community.

Saud Al-Sohimi, owner of the brand, told Arab News: “The goal is to feed the largest number of needy cats, promote the culture of compassion for animals, and rescue them from homelessness.”

HIGHLIGHTS

• Horayra Community launched the ‘1 Million Cats’ campaign recently to feed this number of cats across the Kingdom by distributing free food to rescuers and pet stores.

• The brand donates cat food for strays with every purchase of a Horayra product, which is certified by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority.

The initiative brings together experts, cat lovers and rescuers across the Kingdom.

They manufacture special bags for stray cats which are distributed to supervisors in the Horayra Community for delivery to rescuers across Saudi Arabia. (AN photos/Supplied)

They launched the “1 Million Cats” campaign recently to feed this number of cats across the Kingdom by distributing free food to rescuers and pet stores.

The company has offered SR5,000 ($1,332) to someone who has the best story about feeding a cat.

The goal is to feed the largest number of needy cats, promote the culture of compassion for animals, and rescue them from homelessness.

Saud Al-Sohimi, Horayra brand owner

By sharing videos with the campaign’s hashtag on social media, the community contributes to a larger story of collective effort and compassion, Al-Sohimi explained.

Speaking about the company’s products, he added that it is made “from natural ingredients, ensuring their health and care.”

Milo, a rescued stray cat finds a new life in the Philippines after being adopted through the Horayra Community's rescue services. (Supplied)

The company also donates cat food for strays with every purchase of a Horayra product, which is certified by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, and is available in Qatar and Kuwait.

They also manufacture special bags for stray cats which are distributed to supervisors in the Horayra Community for delivery to rescuers across the Kingdom.

Reflecting on the public’s love for cats, Al-Sohimi recalled how a woman in Riyadh rescued a cat with a severed tail. “She took the cat in, cared for it, and nursed it back to health. Unable to keep it, she put the cat up for adoption,” he said.

A Filipino man, living in Riyadh adopted the cat, and took it with him to the Philippines.

“There, the once-stray cat’s life transformed completely. It became a cherished pet, eventually had kittens, and lived a happy life filled with love and care, known as Milo to its new family,” said Al-Sohimi.

At the end of the year, the Horayra Community intends to honor the people who contributed to the campaign.

“The Horayra Community’s members are increasing every day. It is a shining example of the compassion and kindness of the Saudi people toward animals.

“Their efforts have significantly improved the lives of stray cats across the Kingdom, fostering a healthier environment for both humans and animals.” Al-Sohimi said.

 


Course bids to enhance hiking safety at Saudi royal reserve

Updated 17 September 2024
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Course bids to enhance hiking safety at Saudi royal reserve

  • The course highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the two bodies to enhance skills in tourism activities at reserves

RIYADH: The Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority, in collaboration with the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation, has hosted a two-day hiking risk assessment course at King Khalid Royal Reserve.

Some 25 participants, including tourist guides, hiking enthusiasts and local community members, attended the event to obtain skills in identifying hazards faced by outdoor sports practitioners, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The course covered risk analysis, avoiding common hiking mistakes, and safety strategies, including emergency risk management.

A key component was a five-step risk assessment process: identifying hazards, assessing who might be at risk, evaluating hazard levels, controlling and mitigating risks, and applying these skills in simulations of diverse terrains.

The course highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the two bodies to enhance skills in tourism activities at reserves.

 


Saudi Cabinet stresses importance of ending Israeli aggression in Gaza Strip

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chairs Tuesday’s Cabinet session. (SPA)
Updated 17 September 2024
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Saudi Cabinet stresses importance of ending Israeli aggression in Gaza Strip

  • Cabinet praised the outcomes of the fourth meeting of the High-Level Saudi-Chinese Joint Committee
  • Crown prince briefed the Cabinet on recent meetings with the prime ministers of Egypt and China

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Cabinet stressed the importance of stopping Israeli aggression in the Gaza Strip and working to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid into the territory on Tuesday. 

The Cabinet also welcomed the contents of a statement issued at a ministerial meeting held in Madrid on Friday on how to advance a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and efforts to resolve the war in Gaza.

The “Madrid meeting focusing on the implementation of the Two State solution” was hosted by Spain’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel Albares Bueno and was attended by representatives of EU member states, European countries, a number of Arab countries, and members of the Arab-Islamic Contact Group for Gaza.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman briefed the Cabinet on the written message he received from the president of Angola and his recent meetings with the prime ministers of Egypt and China.

The Cabinet praised the outcomes of the fourth meeting of the High-Level Saudi-Chinese Joint Committee which highlighted a mutual interest in enhancing cooperation in the fields of security, energy, trade, investment, finance, culture, and tourism.

The Cabinet also discussed the Kingdom’s participation in regional and international meetings as part of its ongoing efforts to cooperate with countries and organizations to achieve regional security and stability and address global challenges through various means.