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Nearly 11m iftar meals served at Two Holy Mosques during first half of Ramadan

Nearly 11m iftar meals served at Two Holy Mosques during first half of Ramadan
Dates and water disturbed during a Ramadan iftar at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madina. (SPA)
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Updated 18 March 2025

Nearly 11m iftar meals served at Two Holy Mosques during first half of Ramadan

Nearly 11m iftar meals served at Two Holy Mosques during first half of Ramadan
  • Number iftar meals provided during Ramadan to has increased this year due to growth in the number of Umrah pilgrims at Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque, officials say

MAKKAH: Saudi authorities provided almost 11 million iftar meals to Umrah pilgrims and other worshippers at the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madina during the first half of Ramadan.

The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque said on Monday, the 17th day of Ramadan, it has provided 10,822,999 iftar meals and 10,290,000 packets of dates so far during the holy month, which is a time of worship for Muslims during which they fast from sunrise to sunset.

The authority said the number of iftar meals it provides during Ramadan to pilgrims performing Umrah, and other visitors to the mosques, has increased this year due to growth in the number of pilgrims, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The food is served in designated iftar areas at the mosques, in adherence with strict health standards to ensure the safety of worshippers, it added.

In the run-up to the holy month, the authority introduced an online service through which individuals, charitable organizations and endowments could submit requests to donate iftar meals at the Grand Mosque, the SPA added.


NCEC develops an environmental pollution vehicle to reduce pollution and protect public health

NCEC develops an environmental pollution vehicle to reduce pollution and protect public health
Updated 10 October 2025

NCEC develops an environmental pollution vehicle to reduce pollution and protect public health

NCEC develops an environmental pollution vehicle to reduce pollution and protect public health

RIYADH: To enhance the speed and efficiency of environmental emergency response in the Kingdom of ֱ, the National Center for Environmental Compliance has launched six first-response vehicles for ecological emergencies.

These vehicles feature advanced technologies, including systems for measuring pollutants and hazardous emissions, as well as the ability to intervene in dangerous chemical incidents, while allowing teams to reach the scene as quickly as possible.

The environmental pollution vehicle is a specialized vehicle for monitoring and responding to various sources of pollution, helping to mitigate their impact on public health and the environment.

The NCEC's Environmental Pollution Vehicle is equipped with gadgets and instruments designed for monitoring and responding to various sources of pollution. (NCEC photo)

In an interview with Saad Al-Matrafi, NCEC’s executive director of media and communication and official spokesperson, he said that these vehicles use the latest advances in pollution measurement, providing accurate and immediate data on air quality and potential hazards.

He said that the vehicles will be stationed in several locations in the Kingdom, including Riyadh, the Northern Borders, Madinah, Makkah, Jazan, and the Eastern Province.

“Functioning as mobile environmental monitoring stations, the vehicles feature integrated systems for gas analysis and air quality assessment — enabling swift, data-driven responses to environmental incidents across the Kingdom,” Al-Matrafi said.

“By collecting and analyzing real-time data, it enables rapid corrective action to address environmental challenges as they arise,” he added.

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The executive director demonstrated the operation of the equipment and devices available in each vehicle.

“Technicians can measure the volume of hazardous gases and monitor various types of gases, such as carbon monoxide, methane, propane, nitrogen oxides, ammonia, and other gases, depending on the type of sensors selected.”

Inspectors of the National Center for Environmental Compliance at work. (SPA file photo)

In addition, the vehicle’s emergency technicians can handle accidents and chemical and biological hazards, he said.

“All employees receive specialized training to operate these vehicles safely, including the use of gas detection equipment and protective suits, ensuring they can effectively respond to chemical, biological, and hazardous material emergencies,” Al-Matrafi said.

NCEC said that the technologies in the vehicle contribute to the rapid response and handling of any environmental emergency, thereby ensuring the community’s safety and achieving the highest standards of environmental protection.

More than 25 devices, items of protection equipment, and tools are available in NCEC’s environmental vehicles, including a measuring device used to calculate distances accurately. This product is designed to fold, making it easy to carry and store when not in use.

Saad Al-Matrafi, executive director and official spokesperson at NCEC. (AN file photo)

Another tool is the hazardous gas measuring device, which will be used to detect the presence of toxic or flammable gases in the surrounding environment, ensuring the safety of people where gas levels may be hazardous.

Additionally, there is an infrared thermometer to measure temperatures remotely, without the need for contact with the object or surface being measured.

Employees will be equipped with a sample collection and storage bag designed for hazardous materials responders, environmental agencies, military personnel, police, or forensic workers collecting samples containing chemical, biological, or radiological threats, including chemical warfare agents, toxic industrial materials, and toxins.

DID YOU KNOW?

• The National Center for Environmental Compliance is aiming to protect the environment and the general public’s health with the environmental pollution vehicle.

• More than 25 pieces of protective equipment are available in NCEC’s environmental vehicles to ensure accurate data collection and provide a safe environment for the workers.

• Gases that experts from NCEC can measure in vehicles include carbon monoxide, methane, and propane.

Another bag will be provided to transport samples from the collection site to laboratories or other locations safely and without any change to their quality.

To protect workers in hazardous environments, such as industrial plants, power plants, contaminated sites, and activities involving exposure to highly toxic materials, protective suits will be provided. Employee safety is essential to avoid contamination by hazardous substances.

Around the world, poor air quality is one of the causes of several health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer, according to the Clean Air Fund. (Supplied)

Furthermore, the chemical and biological hazard-resistant suit is designed to protect people from exposure to toxic chemicals, biological contaminants, or viruses in hazardous environments.

Workers are expected to use a face mask and a filter, as the modern design of full-face masks provides extensive and well-developed cover for the face while still allowing clear vision. While the availability of various sizes ensures masks fit comfortably and securely, the face mask filter provides complete protection from toxic and chemical gases.

The Kingdom is prioritizing its sustainable development goals as a significant objective of Vision 2030. Structuring a healthier, more flourishing, and greener future through innovative interventions such as the environmental vehicle by NCEC is critical for a balanced ecosystem.


 


Princess Sora bint Saud launches interactive book celebrating Riyadh

Speaking to Arab News, Princess Sora said: “The Sora Collection was born from a deep love for my homeland. (Supplied)
Speaking to Arab News, Princess Sora said: “The Sora Collection was born from a deep love for my homeland. (Supplied)
Updated 10 October 2025

Princess Sora bint Saud launches interactive book celebrating Riyadh

Speaking to Arab News, Princess Sora said: “The Sora Collection was born from a deep love for my homeland. (Supplied)
  • Part of Sora Collection, book spotlights history, culture
  • Born from ‘deep love’ of homeland, she tells Arab News

RIYADH: Princess Sora bint Saud recently unveiled “Riyadh,” the first book in her Sora Collection, which is a series of interactive publications designed to highlight the culture, history, and heritage of ֱ’s regions.

The luxury edition combines storytelling, illustration, and creative design, offering readers an immersive experience of the Saudi capital.

The book serves as a comprehensive guide to Riyadh, showcasing historic landmarks including Al-Masmak Fortress and the UNESCO-listed Diriyah, alongside modern icons such as the Kingdom Tower and Al-Faisaliah Tower.

“The book is just the starting point — there’s so much more that will be added; it’s going to be more of a lifestyle brand, but all relatable to the 13 regions.” (Supplied)

It also highlights traditional markets and heritage dishes including “haneeni,” “matazeez,” and “marqooq,” desert activities, and cultural experiences that capture the city’s unique character.

Speaking to Arab News, Princess Sora said: “The Sora Collection was born from a deep love for my homeland. I began the project back in 2022, and it took time to bring together all the right elements, from the concept and design to storytelling … to present it in the best way possible.

“The idea came from realizing that there wasn’t anything simple yet meaningful that covered all regions of ֱ in a creative and accessible way. I wanted to create something that could serve as a starting point for readers, especially children, to build their curiosity and discoveries from.

FASTFACTS

• Part of the Sora Collection, book spotlights history, culture.

• Born from ‘deep love’ of homeland, she tells Arab News.

“Each book is designed to inspire, while also living beautifully as a coffee table piece that invites conversation, pride, and connection to our culture.

“The book is just the starting point — there’s so much more that will be added; it’s going to be more of a lifestyle brand, but all relatable to the 13 regions.”

Crafted with historical accuracy and aesthetic appeal, the books provide an educational yet engaging experience for readers of all ages.

The launch comes amid ֱ’s cultural and tourism renaissance under Vision 2030, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a leading global destination.

Princess Sora’s series is expected to attract wide interest from readers, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts.

It presents “Riyadh” as more than a book but as a starting to discover ֱ in all its richness and diversity.

 


Literary scene thrives across wide spectrum of genres at Riyadh book fair

Literary scene thrives across wide spectrum of genres at Riyadh book fair
Updated 10 October 2025

Literary scene thrives across wide spectrum of genres at Riyadh book fair

Literary scene thrives across wide spectrum of genres at Riyadh book fair
  • Exhibition offers physical and digital books in various languages as well as works on jurisprudence and Prophet Muhammad

RIYADH: The Riyadh International Book Fair continues to be a showcase for ideas, culture, and innovation. At this year’s fair, which ended Friday, several booths stood out for their contributions to the literary and cultural scene.  

One of the most eye-catching was Samawi, a Saudi platform looking to transform the publishing landscape through its print-on-demand model. 

One of the most eye-catching booths this year was Samawi, a Saudi platform transforming the publishing landscape through its print-on-demand model. (AN photo by Jafar Saleh)

The platform allows authors to upload their books, which are then printed only when a customer places an order. This model significantly reduces costs for writers, who no longer need to stockpile large print runs. In addition, Samawi connects bookstores directly with authors, opening more channels for distribution and visibility. 

“We serve writers, publishers, and readers by providing technical support for the publishing industry, whether it’s reading, writing, printing, or digital and audio books,” Khaled Bamohamad, CEO of Samawi, told Arab News. 

Another notable presence at the fair was the Saudipedia booth. Launched in 2024, Saudipedia is a multilingual digital encyclopedia dedicated to documenting every aspect of ֱ — from culture, economy, and Vision 2030 to sports, entertainment, and politics. (AN photo by Jafar Saleh)

The platform offers flexible printing and distribution options. And the Samawi Reader app provides access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks. 

“We started in 2022 with e-books. Today we have 20,000 e-books and more than 5,000 audiobooks,” Bamohamad said. “With each exhibition, we introduce new services such as reading-speed analysis and enhanced reading experiences.” 

(AN photo by Jafar Saleh)

Another notable presence at the fair was the Saudipedia booth. Launched in 2024, Saudipedia is a multilingual digital encyclopedia dedicated to documenting every aspect of ֱ — from culture, economy, and Vision 2030 to sports, entertainment, and politics. 

Hassan Al-Qarni, editor-in-chief of Saudipedia, told Arab News: “We aim to provide reliable, original information to local, Arab, and international audiences.”  

Available in Arabic, English, French, German, Russian, and Chinese, Saudipedia is billed as a comprehensive reference for anyone seeking to learn more about the country. Its presence at the book fair highlights the growing role of digital-knowledge platforms in promoting Saudi culture globally. 

Another booth showcased the work of Nizar Al-Sheikh, a specialist in comparative jurisprudence and the landmarks of the Prophet’s biography. 

Al-Sheikh has published around 35 works on the subject. His latest is “The Tourist Guide for Visitors to Al-Ahsa and the Eastern Province,” which explores Prophet Muhammad’s visit to the titular region on a trade journey before the revelation of the message. 

“The work documents the villages and cities the Prophet passed through, the presence of the caliphs in the region, and the significance of its historical sites. It is comprehensive and covers many of the cities mentioned by the Prophet,” Al-Sheikh said. 

 


KSrelief launches urgent cholera response project in Yemen

The six-month project will benefit 1,153,000 individuals in areas most affected by the epidemic. (SPA)
The six-month project will benefit 1,153,000 individuals in areas most affected by the epidemic. (SPA)
Updated 10 October 2025

KSrelief launches urgent cholera response project in Yemen

The six-month project will benefit 1,153,000 individuals in areas most affected by the epidemic. (SPA)
  • Dr. Salem Al-Shabhi, undersecretary of the population at the Yemeni Ministry of Health, expressed his gratitude to the Kingdom for its comprehensive support, which he said “embodies the deep fraternal ties between the two nations

ADEN: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center — the Saudi aid agency — has launched an urgent response project aimed at combating cholera in Yemen.

The six-month project will benefit 1,153,000 individuals in areas most affected by the epidemic. It aims to reduce infection rates and limit the spread of cholera through preventative measures including the establishment of specialized medical teams to examine and monitor travelers at air and land entry points in several governorates, including Aden and Hadhramaut.

The six-month project will benefit 1,153,000 individuals in areas most affected by the epidemic. (SPA)

Dr. Salem Al-Shabhi, undersecretary of the population at the Yemeni Ministry of Health, expressed his gratitude to the Kingdom for its comprehensive support, which he said “embodies the deep fraternal ties between the two nations and strengthens the health system’s resilience against epidemic crises.”

Al-Shabhi added that the project is a “cornerstone in curbing the spread of epidemics, combining preventative measures with community awareness to promote health literacy.”

The initiative comes within the framework of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts, through KSrelief, to strengthen healthcare measures in order to tackle the cholera epidemic in Yemen.

 


Saudi foreign minister participates in Paris meeting on US’ Gaza ceasefire plan

Saudi foreign minister participates in Paris meeting on US’ Gaza ceasefire plan
Updated 10 October 2025

Saudi foreign minister participates in Paris meeting on US’ Gaza ceasefire plan

Saudi foreign minister participates in Paris meeting on US’ Gaza ceasefire plan
  • Kaja Kallas, the high representative for foreign affairs and security policy and vice president of the European Commission, was also present

PARIS: Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan took part in a ministerial meeting in Paris to discuss the US’ plan for a Gaza ceasefire, joining the foreign ministers and representatives of Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Turkiye, France, Italy, the UK, Germany, Spain, and Canada. Kaja Kallas, the high representative for foreign affairs and security policy and vice president of the European Commission, was also present.

Participants welcomed the agreement reached by the parties on a ceasefire, the exchange of prisoners and the release of hostages, and the start of the first phase of the peace process.

The meeting also looked at mediation efforts undertaken by Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye and ways to support implementation of the plan in line with the New York Declaration and in support of a political track leading to sustainable peace in Gaza and the region.