Focus on petrochemicals industry and innovation at Riyadh festival
Focus on petrochemicals industry and innovation at Riyadh festival /node/2568872/saudi-arabia
Focus on petrochemicals industry and innovation at Riyadh festival
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Updated 26 August 2024
Arab News
Focus on petrochemicals industry and innovation at Riyadh festival
Event spotlights science, technology, engineering, art, math
Organized by the King Salman Science Oasis from Sept. 2-30
Updated 26 August 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math Festival 2024 in Riyadh from Sept. 2 to 30 will explore the history and future of the petrochemicals industry, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
The STEAM event titled “The Fun of Chemistry: The Multidisciplinary World of Petrochemicals,” has been organized by the King Salman Science Oasis.
It will explore the past discovery of oil, the latest innovations with a focus on sustainability and emerging technologies, and current environmental challenges, which are a part of Vision 2030.
The festival, to be inaugurated under the patronage of Riyadh Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar, is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors, including students, teachers and families.
The event will include scientific workshops, dialogue sessions, and interactive exhibitions.
The King Salman Science Oasis is a nonprofit organization established through a strategic partnership between the Riyadh Charitable Foundation for Science and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology.
It seeks to promote national values and belonging, global citizenship, and develop a culture of lifelong learning, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Human Rights Commission, King Khalid Foundation sign cooperation agreement
Updated 12 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: ֱ’s Human Rights Commission and the King Khalid Foundation struck a strategic partnership through a cooperation agreement signed in Riyadh on Thursday, marking a significant step toward advancing human rights protection in the Kingdom.
The agreement was signed by Hala Al-Tuwaijri, president of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, and Princess Nouf bint Mohammed bin Abdullah, CEO of the King Khalid Foundation, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The partnership is designed to strengthen coordination between the two organizations while making the most of their combined expertise to promote human rights initiatives throughout ֱ.
Under the terms of the agreement, the organizations will collaborate on joint research projects focusing on human rights issues, launch public awareness campaigns to foster a culture of human rights understanding, and develop community-based initiatives that align with their shared mission.
The partnership also aims to highlight ֱ’s growing commitment to human rights and sustainable development on both the domestic and international stages.
The partnership comes as ֱ continues to prioritize human rights advancement through legislative reforms, public education programs, and enhanced community engagement.
The Kingdom has been actively working to elevate the profile of its civil society organizations and their contributions to human rights progress through joint community initiatives and collaborative projects.
Solo but not sad: Young Saudis embrace freedom of living alone
Young Saudis embrace freedom of living alone as it gives them the sense of empowerment
Updated 18 July 2025
Waad Hussain
ALKHOBAR: For decades, the idea of a young Saudi living alone, by choice, was seen as rebellious and met with skepticism and rejection. But today, a new generation is embracing solo life with pride and a sense of personal power.
Across major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah and Alkhobar, young Saudis in their 20s are carving out homes of their own — not out of necessity but out of a desire for independence, comfort and self-growth. From students to young professionals, both women and men are stepping into their own apartments, styling their own spaces and redefining what it means to build a life.
Sarah Al-Ahmadi, 27, moved into her own apartment in Riyadh two years ago. At first, the silence was unbearable.
A glimpse into the personal space of a Saudi home designed and styled for solo living, which is gaining traction in ֱ. (Supplied)
“I’ve lived alone for two years now. At the beginning, I was depressed — I didn’t like the lifestyle, especially in Riyadh,” she said. “I couldn’t make friends, and I didn’t like the city. But over time, I started to build a life. Now, I can’t imagine living any other way.”
What once felt isolating became empowering. Al-Ahmadi discovered joy in being the sole decision-maker in her home: What she ate, how she decorated and who she invited, and when.
“It’s amazing to be fully independent and responsible for everything in my home,” she said. “I don’t need anyone. It’s beautiful when I invite my friends to a space that reflects my personality. Back at my parents’ house, I had to host them in the family living room. But here, we can cook together, have sleepovers and enjoy ourselves without a single worry.”
HIGHLIGHTS
• From students to young professionals, both women and men are stepping into their own apartments, styling their own spaces and redefining what it means to build a life.
• Waad Al-Marzouq’s family lives in the same city, and she sees them often. But the freedom of having her own space has changed how she views.
Mohammed Al-Dossari, 26, made the decision to live alone after returning from years of studying abroad.
“After coming back from my scholarship abroad, I decided not to move back in with my family,” he said. “I had already gotten used to being responsible for myself, for everything — and I liked that lifestyle. I wanted to keep it going.”
For Al-Dossari, solo living is not just about space, it is also about ownership: Of time, of priorities and of life itself.
Today, he manages his work schedule, home maintenance and meals on his own. He described his home as peaceful, personalized and reflective of who he is — not just as a son, but as a man finding his rhythm.
In Jeddah, Waad Al-Marzouq, 19, faced resistance from almost everyone she knew after floating the idea of living alone.
“Everyone was against it. My dad was especially worried about me living alone at such a young age,” she said. “But I’ve always been stable and independent in my own room, so I thought — why not? I got myself a studio apartment near my university and moved in.”
Al-Marzouq’s family lives in the same city, and she sees them often. But the freedom of having her own space has changed how she views adulthood.
“There’s nothing scary about it. My parents are nearby. I still see them. But now I have space to focus, to grow. It’s not a rebellion — it’s a choice.”
Al-Marzouq said living alone is important for design: Designing her days, her goals and even designing her tiny studio with candles, plants and her favorite throw pillows.
Social shifts have helped normalize solo living. More women are entering the workforce. Young Saudis are studying abroad. New real estate developments are offering studio and one-bedroom units in urban areas. Platforms like Airbnb and online property apps have also made it easier to search, rent and furnish without needing a family member to step in.
Psychologist Abeer Al-Shammari told Arab News that the rise in solo living reflects both emotional maturity and social evolution.
“Choosing to live alone can signal a strong sense of self,” she said. “These young adults are setting boundaries, creating their own routines and building self-reliance. It’s not just a lifestyle — it’s part of their identity development.”
But she warned that solo living also requires emotional preparation.
“The early phase can trigger anxiety or loneliness, especially for those coming from tightly-knit families,” she said. “But with time and proper coping strategies, many experience a deep sense of fulfillment and confidence.”
Interestingly, many solo dwellers say their relationships with family have improved since moving out.
“They don’t take me for granted anymore,” Al-Ahmadi said with a laugh. “When I visit now, it feels special. I’m not just ‘around.’ I’m someone they wait for.”
Al-Marzouq agreed: “My parents respect my independence now. We talk more meaningfully. There’s more mutual understanding.”
And for Al-Dossari, solo living has not resulted in isolation. He has become more intentional about friendships — hosting friends for dinner, going out when he wants and setting healthy boundaries.
“It taught me balance,” he said. “And it taught me how to enjoy my own company.”
Aseer’s blooming bounty: How rare flowers turn southern region into a year-round honey hub
Botanical diversity sets region apart
Updated 18 July 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Each summer, as Aseer’s highland peaks erupt in fragrant blossoms, local beekeepers begin harvesting some of ֱ’s most coveted honey. Each variety is tied to a rare native plant and a fleeting blooming season.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, this botanical diversity is what sets the region apart. Aseer accounts for 20 percent of the Kingdom’s total honey production, according to the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, and is home to more than 5,000 active beekeepers. Backed by SR54 million ($14.4 million) in government support, the sector has become a cornerstone of Aseer’s ecotourism and agricultural economy.
From mountains to valleys, each bloom supports not just bees, but families, farmers, and the region’s growing reputation as a hub for nature-based industries. (SPA)
At the heart of this flourishing industry lies a simple equation: flower plus season equals flavor. In his book “Honey Atlas,” researcher Dr. Ibrahim Al-Arifi documents the region’s key varieties, from thick white Majra honey harvested off the slopes to golden Katad from valley-floor Acacia trees. Each one tells a story of soil, altitude, and survival.
Majra honey, extracted from the blooms of Teucrium polium in late summer, is among the rarest in the Kingdom. It is prized for its immediate crystallization, pale color, and intense sweetness, all traits linked to the plant’s short blooming cycle and climate sensitivity. It grows only in the upper elevations of Aseer.
FASTFACT
Majra honey, extracted from the blooms of Teucrium polium in late summer, is among the rarest in the Kingdom.
Katad honey, gleaned from Acacia hamulosa flowers between June and August, is known for its golden shine and moderate density. The drought-resistant thorny plant thrives in the region’s valleys and produces honey credited with boosting immunity and energy.
From mountains to valleys, each bloom supports not just bees, but families, farmers, and the region’s growing reputation as a hub for nature-based industries. (SPA)
By early fall, another Aseer staple makes its appearance. Salam honey is dark red and comes from bees feeding on the golden blooms of the Acacia ehrenbergiana tree, which grows in rocky, arid environments.
The famed Sidr honey, widely known across the Kingdom, is extracted between August and October. Its source, the Sidr tree, blooms in the valleys and plains of Tihama, Rijal Almaa, and Sarat Abidah. Dark golden, highly nutritious, and medicinal, Sidr is among the most expensive types of honey in the Saudi market due to its limited supply and high quality.
The drought-resistant thorny plant thrives in the region’s valleys and produces honey credited with boosting immunity and energy. (Supplied)
Further west, along the banks of valley streams, the bright yellow blossoms of the seyal tree produce a fall honey noted for its spicy aroma and dark amber color. Even some winter-blooming trees, like Al-Samar, begin flowering early in warm parts of Aseer. This allows early harvests of a rich, red honey with a deep, earthy flavor.
This steady cycle of flowering, foraging, and flavor has made Aseer a year-round producer of artisanal honey. From mountains to valleys, each bloom supports not just bees, but families, farmers, and the region’s growing reputation as a hub for nature-based industries.
As demand rises for rare and organic honey, Aseer’s deep-rooted knowledge and climate-resilient crops are helping to secure the future of beekeeping in the Kingdom, one blossom at a time.
Riccardo Guariglia (R) receives Waleed Elkhereiji in Rome. (Supplied)
Updated 18 July 2025
Arab News
Saudi deputy FM meets Italian foreign ministry official
They discussed ways to enhance joint cooperation between ֱ and Italy and reviewed recent regional and international developments
Updated 18 July 2025
Arab News
ROME: Saudi Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji met secretary general of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Riccardo Guariglia, at the ministry’s headquarters in Rome on Thursday.
During the meeting, they discussed ways to enhance joint cooperation between ֱ and Italy and reviewed recent regional and international developments.
The event includes the Circus Tent area, which dazzles audiences with professional performances. (SPA)
Updated 18 July 2025
SPA
City Hub Festival in Al-Baha attracts thousands
City Hub continues to welcome visitors daily from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., offering a comprehensive range of entertainment and interactive experiences
Updated 18 July 2025
SPA
AL-BAHA: The City Hub Festival in Al-Baha witnessed a large turnout of visitors since its launch, attracting thousands of people of all ages.
The event is part of an entertainment tour organized by the General Entertainment Authority, targeting various regions of the Kingdom. This event promotes tourism and contributes to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The event includes the Circus Tent area, which dazzles audiences with professional performances. (SPA)
City Hub continues to welcome visitors daily from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., offering a comprehensive range of entertainment and interactive experiences. Activities include live shows, electronic gaming zones, educational experiences for children, a bird park, and horror and adventure facilities, in addition to a dedicated area for restaurants, cafes, and various markets, which has contributed to attracting large numbers of families and young people.
HIGHLIGHTS
• The festival is part of the authority’s efforts to enhance local entertainment and raise visitor satisfaction.
• Visitors have praised the organization and the quality of the programs and events offered.
• The City Hub Festival in Al-Baha runs through the end of July before continuing its tour to other cities across the Kingdom.
The event also includes the Circus Tent area, which dazzles audiences with professional performances, including a dancing fountain, trampoline shows, and 360-degree motorcycle stunts. It also features dedicated spaces for artistic performances within a safe and organized entertainment environment.
The festival is part of the authority’s efforts to enhance local entertainment, raise visitor satisfaction, and highlight the Kingdom’s tourism and cultural services. Visitors have praised the organization and the quality of the programs and events offered.
The City Hub Festival in Al-Baha runs through the end of July before continuing its tour to other cities across the Kingdom.