Tabuk’s governor launches environmental, water, agricultural projects worth more than SR4.3bn
Tabuk’s governor launches environmental, water, agricultural projects worth more than SR4.3bn/node/2611377/saudi-arabia
Tabuk’s governor launches environmental, water, agricultural projects worth more than SR4.3bn
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Tabuk Governor Prince Fahd bin Sultan has inaugurated 23 environmental, water, and agricultural projects with a combined value of more than SR3.8 billion ($1 billion), and laid the foundation for a further 25 projects worth over SR580 million. (SPA)
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Tabuk Governor Prince Fahd bin Sultan has inaugurated 23 environmental, water, and agricultural projects with a combined value of more than SR3.8 billion ($1 billion), and laid the foundation for a further 25 projects worth over SR580 million. (SPA)
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Tabuk Governor Prince Fahd bin Sultan has inaugurated 23 environmental, water, and agricultural projects with a combined value of more than SR3.8 billion ($1 billion), and laid the foundation for a further 25 projects worth over SR580 million. (SPA)
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Tabuk Governor Prince Fahd bin Sultan has inaugurated 23 environmental, water, and agricultural projects with a combined value of more than SR3.8 billion ($1 billion), and laid the foundation for a further 25 projects worth over SR580 million. (SPA)
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Updated 3 sec ago
Arab News
Tabuk’s governor launches environmental, water, agricultural projects worth more than SR4.3bn
Initiatives aim to improve services, strengthen sustainability, support objectives of Saudi Vision 2030
Updated 3 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Tabuk Governor Prince Fahd bin Sultan has inaugurated 23 environmental, water, and agricultural projects with a combined value of more than SR3.8 billion ($1 billion), and laid the foundation for a further 25 projects worth over SR580 million, it was announced on Sunday.
The initiatives, launched in the presence of Environment, Water and Agriculture Minister Abdulrahman Al-Fadli, aim to improve services for residents, strengthen environmental and water sustainability, and support the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Prince Fahd thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their backing of the infrastructure projects, and praised ministry staff for their efforts in enhancing public services and bolstering the Kingdom’s food security.
According to Al-Fadli, the projects include small desalination plants along the western coast with a design capacity of more than 93,000 cubic meters per day, and new water transmission systems able to carry 72,000 cubic meters per day to boost supplies in the governorates of Duba, Al-Wajh, and Umluj.
The National Water Company has launched 16 initiatives worth more than SR860 million to expand drinking water distribution and wastewater services in Tabuk, while the Saudi Water Partnership Company has completed the SR550 million Tabuk-2 Wastewater Treatment Plant with a peak capacity of 135,000 cubic meters per day.
Additional works include dam construction projects worth more than SR92 million, and mangrove planting and rangeland reserve protection valued at over SR18 million, as well as irrigation, rural development, and vegetation cover initiatives across the region.
Istituto Marangoni’s Riyadh campus is located in the Riyadh Creative District within the King Abdullah Financial District.
Updated 7 sec ago
Afshan Aziz
Riyadh welcomes Istituto Marangoni as Saudi fashion ambitions grow
Italian fashion school’s new campus to train Saudi talent, merge heritage with global trends
Updated 7 sec ago
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: Italian fashion school Istituto Marangoni will open its first campus in Riyadh on Aug. 28, marking a major step in the Kingdom’s bid to become a global fashion hub.
The new campus, which is located in the Riyadh Creative District within the King Abdullah Financial District, follows extensive market research with the Saudi Fashion Commission.
Istituto Marangoni’s Riyadh campus is located in the Riyadh Creative District within the King Abdullah Financial District. (Instagram/istitutomarangoniriyadh)
Surrounded by a growing cluster of creative companies and institutions, it will offer specialized programs tailored to ֱ’s evolving industry.
Stefania Valenti, the managing director of Istituto Marangoni, told Arab News: “There has never been a more opportune moment to invest in ֱ. The Riyadh campus is not only a symbol of our commitment to international education, but also a platform for cultural exchange, innovation, and empowerment.”
HIGHLIGHTS
• Istituto Marangoni programs have been designed in collaboration with the Saudi Fashion Commission to merge the Kingdom’s cultural heritage with modern global fashion trends.
• The school will offer three-year undergraduate advanced training diploma courses, accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation.
The school will offer three-year undergraduate advanced training diploma courses, accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, in areas such as fashion design and accessories, fashion communication and image, fashion management, digital communication and media, fashion product, and fragrances and cosmetics management.
Burak Cakmak, Saudi Fashion Commission CEO
The programs have been designed in collaboration with the Saudi Fashion Commission to merge the Kingdom’s cultural heritage with modern global fashion trends.
“It means that the three-year fashion design program offers pathways in sewing and modest fashion, reflecting local aesthetics,” Valenti explained, adding that the fashion communication and image course focused on visual storytelling for both local and international audiences. The business and management track will prepare leaders for the luxury sector.
This initiative contributes to a more diversified economy, generates new jobs, and positions the Kingdom as a hub for cultural exchange.
Burak Cakmak, Saudi Fashion Commission CEO
She added: “By fusing local identity with global standards we aim to cultivate a new generation of fashion professionals who can represent Saudi creativity on the world stage.”
To nurture and support creative young Saudis, 50 students will receive scholarships for the diploma programs through an initiative backed by the Ministry of Culture’s Fashion Commission.
Stefania Valenti, Istituto Marangoni managing director
The Riyadh campus will link to Istituto Marangoni’s global network, and Valenti said: “After two years at the Riyadh campus, students can progress to the final year at Istituto Marangoni London or Paris and get a bachelor’s degree in the chosen field of study.”
Saudi students will be helped to gain employment after their academic journey at Istituto Marangoni Riyadh, for either a Saudi or a global brand.
By fusing local identity with global standards we aim to cultivate a new generation of fashion professionals who can represent Saudi creativity on the world stage.
Stefania Valenti, Istituto Marangoni managing director
Istituto Marangoni works with more than 45,000 luxury and fashion companies worldwide and grants 91 percent placement after graduation. Its alumni network includes prominent figures such as Dario Vitale, creative director at Versace, and Alessandro Sartori, artistic director at Zegna.
Valenti stressed the institute’s commitment to empowering women and fostering entrepreneurship, aligning closely with Vision 2030’s ambitions to diversify the economy and promote cultural innovation.
Burak Cakmak, the CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission, called the opening “a pivotal milestone for ֱ’s fashion ecosystem,” adding that it created “a sustainable talent pipeline.”
The Riyadh campus is not only a symbol of our commitment to international education, but also a platform for cultural exchange, innovation, and empowerment.” (Supplied)
He said Istituto Marangoni was chosen for its global reputation and ability to adapt to local contexts.
He added: “Their presence in Riyadh ensures that our talents receive education that meets global standards while remaining grounded in Saudi cultural expression.
“Through immersive programs, mentorship, and access to industry networks, students will gain the skills and confidence to lead, innovate, and build meaningful careers.”
Istituto Marangoni works with more than 45,000 luxury and fashion companies worldwide and grants 91 percent placement after graduation. (Supplied)
He stressed that the courses were embedded within the local context, and added: “It encourages students to draw inspiration from their heritage and personal narratives, equipping them to tell authentic Saudi stories on international platforms, from runways and campaigns to entrepreneurial ventures rooted in sustainability.”
On the commission’s broader goals and vision, Cakmak said: “We take a holistic approach that encompasses every stage of the value chain, including design, product development, manufacturing, communications, merchandising, and retail.
“Education is at the heart of this vision. Through strategic partnerships, such as our collaboration with Istituto Marangoni, we are redefining what fashion learning can look like in the region and setting new benchmarks for creative excellence.”
Istituto Marangoni works with more than 45,000 luxury and fashion companies worldwide and grants 91 percent placement after graduation. (Supplied)
He linked the initiative to Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of unlocking Saudi talent, adding: “By investing in fashion academies like Istituto Marangoni, we are creating tangible opportunities for the local youth to pursue careers in culture, creativity, and innovation.
“This initiative contributes to a more diversified economy, generates new jobs, and positions the Kingdom as a hub for cultural exchange. At the same time it strengthens our global presence while ensuring that our heritage continues to evolve and inspire.”
Phone call on same day as UN Security Council’s meeting
Updated 3 min 44 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan spoke on the phone with his UK counterpart David Lammy on Sunday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The parties discussed developments in the Gaza Strip, the need to stop Israeli attacks and violations, and how to end the humanitarian catastrophe suffered by the residents of the enclave, the SPA added.
During the meeting, the UK, which was joined by Denmark, France, Greece and Slovenia, urged Israel to reverse its recent decision to expand military operations in Gaza, warning it would deepen Palestinian suffering, worsen the humanitarian crisis and endanger hostages.
The UK’s representative at the meeting, James Kariuki, said the move would not secure the release of hostages held by Hamas since the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks, and reiterated calls for their unconditional release.
He stressed that Hamas must disarm and play no role in Gaza’s governance, which should involve the Palestinian Authority.
He also urged Israel to lift restrictions on aid, open all land routes for essential supplies, and allow humanitarian agencies to operate freely.
Kariuki also highlighted a further $11.4 million provided by the UK for humanitarian funding for Gaza. He called on both sides to engage in negotiations in good faith toward a ceasefire and a two-state solution, which he added was the only path to lasting peace.
A relative of the missing man says sharks could be a factor in the incident
Updated 10 August 2025
SALEH FAREED
JEDDAH: A sweeping search-and-rescue operation is underway by Coastal Guards and volunteers in Jeddah a week after two Saudi men went missing during a diving trip in North Obhur.
Wissam Al-Zahrani and Fahad Arafat set out for a recreational diving trip from the resort in North Obhur around 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 3.
Concern arose when they failed to return after 8 hours and a missing persons’ report was filed at the Coastal Guard in Jeddah.
Search and rescue teams from the Jeddah Coastal Guard and diving volunteers were mobilized on the morning of Aug. 4.
After several hours of intensive operation, rescuers found the body of Arafat on Aug. 5 with marks indicating that he had possibly been attacked by a shark.
Rescue efforts continue uninterrupted to find Al-Zahrani at of the time of writing.
Speaking to Arab News, Baraa Al-Amoudi, a relative of Wissam, said: “Wissam, a professional and experienced diver, had participated in a diving trip last Sunday afternoon with two of his colleagues, one of whom was his cousin, Ammar. The three of them went diving in the open sea. After completing the first dive, everyone went to the beach to rest.
“Ammar decided to leave the resort after the break. Wissam Al-Zahrani and his friend Fahad Arafat returned to the sea for a second dive … but neither of them came back to the surface after that.”
Al-Amoudi said: “Early in the morning Wissam called me and told me that he and his friends are going to dive from the resort.
“As an experienced diver, I warned him that it is a dangerous area but he insisted on going with his friends. Around 9 p.m. I received a call from my friends and they told me my brother and his friend, Fahad, are missing.”
He added: “We are in a state of shock and it is a very painful and tragic incident to bear but we have faith in Allah’s will. Wissam was no stranger to the sea, but a professional who carried all the safety equipment. We do not know what happened underwater, but only God knows.”
Al- Amoudi said that Wissam, in particular, is a professional instructor and belongs to a family of diving professionals, suggesting that sharks at the site may have been a factor in the accident.
Fahad is a father of three and known for his good character and diving professionalism.
On Aug. 9, part of a torn diving suit was also found, along with diving goggles and an air cylinder, but the rest of the equipment and the body were not found, raising the family’s concern and increased the ambiguity and complexity of the situation.
World Lion Day, held on Aug. 10, serves as a reminder of the lion’s cultural heritage and renews call for global conservation.
Updated 10 August 2025
Haifa Alshammari
Echoes of the lion’s roar found in ֱ’s ancient art
Updated 10 August 2025
Haifa Alshammari
RIYADH: On World Lion Day, a global awareness event for the species’ decline, rock engravings in northern ֱ offer rare evidence of a time when these majestic big cats might have lived in the region.
Although lions do not roam wild in the Kingdom, their presence and interactions with ancient societies were notable.
According to the Royal Commission of AlUla, numerous lion depictions in AlUla symbolize strength, royalty, nobility, and bravery. These include carved guardians of a tomb at Dadan, dating back about 2,500 years.
During the early to middle Holocene (8,000 to 4,000 years ago), the region was wetter and greener, and lions may have been widespread. Archaeological finds of early human activity in AlUla from this time period include lion engravings.
As the region dried, the lion habitat may have shrunk to mountainous zones in Yemen and along the western Arabian edge into Jordan, Syria and Iraq.
Eight locations across ֱ show carvings of lions on rocks and mountains in AlUla and Hail province, including in Shwaimes in Hail region. (Supplied)
The commission cautions that, while compelling, the lion iconography in AlUla does not conclusively prove that the predators lived there, since such images were also common in places like Classical Europe and Imperial China.
According to the RCU, the last confirmed sighting of lions in ֱ is currently unknown, but historical records allegedly support that lions persisted in Yemen into the early 20th century, and that the last known lions in Iraq were shot in 1918, with sightings in Iran in the 1940s.
While the RCU is engaged in reintroducing Arabian leopards to ֱ, there are no plans to bring back lions to the region.
Globally, lion populations have suffered severe declines: African lion numbers dropped by about 75 percent, with 43 percent of that loss occurring between 1990 and 2005.
World Lion Day, held on Aug. 10, serves as a reminder of the lion’s cultural heritage and renews the call for global conservation efforts to ensure their survival.
Japan’s ambassador visits international falcon auction
Falconer of the Future pavilion aims to attract, educate young generation
Updated 10 August 2025
Hebshi Alshammari
RIYADH: Japan’s Ambassador to ֱ Yasunari Morino on Saturday visited the International Falcon Breeders Auction in Malham, north of Riyadh.
Organized by the Saudi Falcons Club, the event runs until Aug. 25 and features leading falcon breeding farms from around the world.
The ambassador was received by Talal Al-Shamaisi, the CEO of the club, who briefed him on the auction and the participating local and international breeding farms.
The ambassador, accompanied by his delegation, toured the auction pavilions, viewed the falcon species on display and their feed, visited the participating farms’ pavilions and equipment sections, explored the Falconer of the Future pavilion, and took photos of some of the birds.
The International Falcon Breeders Auction is the largest event of its kind worldwide. It brings together elite falcon breeds from across the globe and serves as an annual destination for falconers and breeders.
Walid Al-Taweel, spokesperson for the Saudi Falcons Club, said that the auction was one of the best events of its kind as it featured “a selection of high-quality breeds within a professionally organized and competitive environment, giving it an advantage over other markets.”
The auction has witnessed record-breaking sales over the past four years. Last year’s auction saw 872 birds changing hands for a combined value of more than SR10 million ($2.7 million), a 25 percent increase in revenue and a 36 percent rise in the number of birds sold from 2023.
On the opening night of this year’s event, two birds were sold for SR180,000.
Al-Taweel told Arab News that high-value sales had motivated falconers and enhanced their confidence in the event as a trusted global destination.
He said: “The auction utilizes modern technologies in sales and medical examinations. It also features live broadcasting, which allows real-time viewing of the auction from around the world.”
The auction serves as a premier global platform for elite and championship-winning falcons, featuring rapid-fire bidding that connects breeders, falconers, and collectors from around the world.
Al-Taweel added that the auction seeks to preserve the heritage of falconry through the initiatives and events held annually by the Saudi Falcons Club, as well as programs that preserve the natural environment of the birds.
The auction supports the club’s vision to pioneer innovation in falconry breeding, conservation, and cultural preservation while promoting environmental awareness.
The club has also dedicated an interactive pavilion, titled Falconer of the Future, as part of the International Falcon Breeders Auction, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
It aims to introduce the young generation to the world of falconry by showcasing tools used for training and caring for the birds, as well as the best ways of hunting.
The club has organized special competitive rounds for young enthusiasts, enabling them to gain experience that simulates real falconry environments. Cash prizes and honors are awarded to the winners.
The pavilion offers practical information to help children understand the stages of training and handling falcons, contributing to raising early awareness.
