KSrelief distributes thousands of food baskets worldwide

KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
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KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
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KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
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KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
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KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
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Updated 16 March 2025
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KSrelief distributes thousands of food baskets worldwide

KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people. (SPA)
  • Etaam project aims to distribute 390,109 food parcels across 27 countries during Ramadan

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has delivered thousands of food parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

In Nigeria, KSrelief distributed 334 food baskets to families in need in the Adamawa state as part of the Etaam Ramadan food basket distribution project.

In Mauritania, 220 food parcels benefited 1,320 people in the Tiaret district. Somalia received 1,390 baskets for families in the Sool and Sanaag regions, benefiting 8,340 people.

Bangladesh saw 300 parcels distributed in the Barguna district, benefiting 1,500 individuals.

In Romania, 150 baskets were provided to families in Bucharest and Constanţa, while in Montenegro, 250 parcels were given to families in Rozaje and Bijelo Polje.

In Niger, 700 baskets were distributed in the Tillaberi Region, benefiting 4,900 people. South Africa received 450 parcels for families in Johannesburg.

Now in its fourth phase, the Etaam project aims to distribute 390,109 food parcels across 27 countries during Ramadan, benefiting 2.3 million people at a cost of over SR67 million ($17.8 million).


Prophet’s Mosque’s AI-driven medical capsules enhance healthcare

Madinah Health Cluster has launched 2 smart medical capsules in northern central area of Prophet’s Mosque to enhance healthcare
Madinah Health Cluster has launched 2 smart medical capsules in northern central area of Prophet’s Mosque to enhance healthcare
Updated 39 sec ago
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Prophet’s Mosque’s AI-driven medical capsules enhance healthcare

Madinah Health Cluster has launched 2 smart medical capsules in northern central area of Prophet’s Mosque to enhance healthcare
  • Detect chronic diseases, conduct rapid tests, measure vital signs, perform electrocardiograms 

RIYADH: The Madinah Health Cluster has launched two smart medical capsules in the northern central area of the Prophet’s Mosque to enhance healthcare for visitors and pilgrims, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The “Tabah and Tibabah” capsules use advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to detect chronic diseases, conduct rapid tests, measure vital signs, and perform electrocardiograms.

They are linked to the Seha Virtual Hospital for specialized support, according to the SPA.

The capsules expand healthcare services, complementing existing facilities including the Al-Salam Endowment and Al-Haram hospitals.

The capsules are operated during peak times by trained medical workers and serve over 576 patients daily. They reflect the collaboration between the government and private sector. 

Meanwhile, the Saudi Red Crescent Authority teams in Madinah transferred an emergency cardiac patient for treatment through their Cardiac Attacks pathway in 56 seconds.

Dr. Ahmed bin Ali Al-Zahrani, director of the authority’s regional branch, explained that the Medical Transfer Center received a call via the 997 hotline about a patient in his 60s experiencing severe chest pain at the Prophet’s Mosque.

An advanced care team that was dispatched performed an electrocardiogram and diagnosed an acute heart attack. This was communicated to the on-duty physician, who activated the Cardiac Attack pathway protocol.

The patient was transported to the Hayat National Hospital’s cardiac catheterization lab via a special route, where the medical team was ready for immediate intervention.

Al-Zahrani said the rapid response and coordination by the emergency teams helped prevent complications and led to a successful outcome for the patient.


British explorer ready to complete dream expedition across Saudi Arabia

British adventurer Alice Morrison is on a remarkable 2,500-km journey through Saudi Arabia, traveling north to south. (Supplied)
British adventurer Alice Morrison is on a remarkable 2,500-km journey through Saudi Arabia, traveling north to south. (Supplied)
Updated 19 min 40 sec ago
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British explorer ready to complete dream expedition across Saudi Arabia

British adventurer Alice Morrison is on a remarkable 2,500-km journey through Saudi Arabia, traveling north to south. (Supplied)
  • Second phase of Alice Morrison’s historic Saudi trek will cover 1,300 km and is expected to take 70 days

JEDDAH: British adventurer Alice Morrison is on a remarkable 2,500-km journey through Saudi Arabia, traveling north to south. She recently completed the first phase on foot, exploring the Kingdom’s diverse landscapes while highlighting its rich history and cultural transformation.

A TV presenter and writer, Morrison was the first woman to walk Morocco’s Draa River. She has also cycled from Cairo to Cape Town, ran around Mount Everest and walked across Jordan.

Originally from Edinburgh, she documents her adventures through books, documentaries, her “Alice in Wanderland” podcast, and is now filming the BBC show “Arabian Adventures: The Secrets of the Nabateans.”

In an interview with Arab News, Morrison, 61, discussed her recent journey in Saudi Arabia, which ended on Feb. 14 just before Ramadan, after completing the first section of her 2,500-km trek.

The trek, split into two phases, is expected to take five months.

Accompanied by camels Jusy and Lulu, as well as local guides, Morrison began the first phase on Jan. 1, covering 930 km, averaging 23 km or 33,000 steps daily.

Morrison said she has been working on the project for decades and was determined to make her dream come true.

The second phase will start in Madinah in October this year and finish near Najran, on the Yemen border, in December.

Morrison said: “When I was 11, my father gave me a copy of Wilfred Thesiger’s ‘Arabian Sands,’ about an Englishman crossing the Empty Quarter with his Bedouin companions. It fired my imagination. I later studied Arabic, and when Saudi opened up to non-Hajj tourism, I began planning the journey.

“I have always wanted to explore Saudi Arabia since studying Arabic at university, but I was initially hesitant because it was an unknown to me,” she added.

Asked about her impression of Saudi Arabia, she said: “I thought the people would be strict and serious. In fact, I found a people who love to laugh, joke and enjoy life — some of the most hospitable folk on the planet.”

Morrison split her trek into two phases due to Saudi Arabia’s intense heat and the holy month of Ramadan.

“Yes, I will be back in October to complete the expedition and walk to the Yemen border. It will be 1,300 km and take about 70 days. I can’t wait,” she said.

“The country is so rich in history. We have discovered Bronze Age tombs, 4,000-year-old rock carvings, and mechanical treasures from the old Hejaz railway, now named for the provinces it passes through. I can’t wait for phase two — though my feet can.”

Speaking about the highlights of her journey, Morrison said: “Exploring AlUla was a big highlight. It is rich in history, with the Nabatean and Dadanite kingdoms. I was lucky to be shown around by distinguished archeologist Wissam Khalil, who kept finding new artifacts under our feet. I also saw a wild Arabian oryx in the Sharaan Nature Reserve. It was thrilling to see an animal once extinct thriving again.”

Morrison also met Saudi women along the way, including walking with the country’s first female wildlife rangers in Wadi Al-Disah, part of the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Royal Reserve.

Speaking about the challenges, she said: “I had bad blisters and was in a lot of pain, but I just took painkillers and kept going. Our camels bolted, and Lulu injured herself, so we had to find a solution. We found a camel herder and a vet, bought her food, and now she is recovering on the farm.

“We also walked through a terrible sandstorm that scoured my skin and filled me with despair, but Shaya Al-Shaya, the guide who walked with me, and I, encouraged each other and finished.”

On her route, Morrison, a fluent Arabic speaker, has been warmly hosted by many locals. “I have to mention the hospitality. Everywhere we went, people tried to help us and wanted to know all about the expedition. We had so many sheep slaughtered for us. I am grateful to every single kind person who looked after us, fed us and welcomed us.

“Things are really changing in Saudi Arabia now — very rapidly. For me, it is an interesting time to come, talk to young women, and see what their dreams and hopes are.”


Ramadan in Qatif showcases Saudi small town spirit

Ramadan in Qatif showcases Saudi small town spirit
Updated 17 March 2025
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Ramadan in Qatif showcases Saudi small town spirit

Ramadan in Qatif showcases Saudi small town spirit
  • Festive gatherings typical of tight-knit community
  • Locals enjoy spirituality, family gatherings in holy month

RIYADH: Locals in Qatif practice Ramadan traditions by reconnecting with relatives, keeping the community spirit of small Saudi towns alive.

Like other regions of the Kingdom during Ramadan, families and friends gather to scope for the best markets, cafes and restaurants as Qatif’s days turn into nights.

But for many locals, Ramadan is about staying in and reconnecting with relatives in the tight-knit locale.

Dana Al-Awamy, a university student from Qatif, told Arab News that her Ramadan routine “feels like a celebration because everyone is fasting together and breaking their fast together.

“The food we eat is always the same so it is kind of ritualistic ... my favorite part about Ramadan is the community and feeling the spiritual connection to God.”

Having lived abroad, Al-Awamy had a foreign concept of Ramadan, but coming back home has given her the chance to immerse herself in the holy month, surrounded by the warmth of her family.

During the month, Al-Awamy honors her late grandmother, who was the heart of past celebrations.

“She was an amazing chef and it was her that would cook most of the food and make specific dishes only in Ramadan.

“I miss that now. I really believe because of that, it made me enjoy Ramadan as a kid and grow to love it even more as an adult,” she said.

Sara Al-Awami shares her treasured moments with family, highlighting that the holy month brings a beautiful balance of spirituality, family and community, making it her favorite time of the year.

“We have a daily walk before iftar, which has become a small but meaningful tradition. The evenings are filled with gatherings, game nights, and, of course, enjoying all the delicious food,” she said.

“I also love wearing traditional clothing during Ramadan — it adds to the festive and cultural spirit of the month. And while I’d love to say I help with the cooking, my real specialty is showing up just in time for iftar ... especially for dessert.”

“One of my favorite things about Ramadan is the strong sense of community and generosity that fills the month.”

Having lived in different places, Al-Awami realized that while there may be slight cultural differences, Ramadan is celebrated in a very similar way in countries across the Gulf.

“The essence of the month is always about family, loved ones and coming together. The Eastern Province, like many other regions, is full of vibrant Ramadan traditions — whether it’s the communal iftars, the traditional fashion, the late-night outings, or the spiritual gatherings,” she said.

“But overall, across the Gulf, the core of Ramadan remains the same: A time of faith, family and generosity.”

Having spent many years celebrating Ramadan abroad and alone, she has come to appreciate the time spent with family even more.

“Nothing compares to the warmth of breaking your fast with loved ones, the conversations that last late into the night and the shared traditions that make this month so special,” she said.

“Now, I cherish these moments even more because I know what it’s like to experience Ramadan without them.

“Whether in the Eastern Province, Kuwait, London, or the US, what makes Ramadan truly meaningful is the connection — with family, with the community and with faith.”


’Ramadan Lights’: Saudi Arabia launches new phase of its global tourism campaign

’Ramadan Lights’: Saudi Arabia launches new phase of its global tourism campaign
Updated 17 March 2025
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’Ramadan Lights’: Saudi Arabia launches new phase of its global tourism campaign

’Ramadan Lights’: Saudi Arabia launches new phase of its global tourism campaign
  • While Ramadan days are peaceful and relaxing, the nights come alive with bustling markets, festive stalls, and extended shopping hours in the Kingdom
  • People can explore districts like Jeddah, Al Balad, and Diriyah, visit awe-inspiring mosques, and discover traditional souks filled with unique finds

KARACHI: Saudi Arabia has announced the next phase of its global tourism campaign and named it “Ramadan Lights,” the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) said on Monday, sharing a range of offerings in the Kingdom.
During Ramadan, Saudi transforms into a vibrant hub where tradition meets celebration. While the days are peaceful and relaxing, the nights come alive with bustling markets, festive stalls, and extended shopping hours, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture.
People can explore districts like Historic Jeddah, Al Balad, and Diriyah, visit awe-inspiring mosques, and discover traditional souks filled with unique finds. With a lively atmosphere and special Ramadan events, it’s the perfect time to experience the warm, welcoming spirit of Saudi.
“From the crystalline waters of the Saudi Red Sea, lively coastal city of Jeddah, to the heritage-soaked AlUla, and the vibrant capital of Riyadh, visitors venturing to Saudi can experience a land of firsts, and create memories for a lifetime,” the STA said in a statement shared by its Pakistani PR partner firm. 
“From wellness retreats, stargazing, beach horse riding, paddleboarding and kitesurfing there is somethings for every type of interest. History and heritage come to life in Diriyah, near Riyadh, walking through the ancient rock carved tombs near AlUla, or wending your way through the alleys of Historic Jeddah.”
Ramadan is traditionally a time for family and reflection, and the Kingdom truly comes alive as the sun sets.
In Jeddah, visitors are treated to a diverse selection of Ramadan delicacies to suit every taste, or vibrant Ramadan tents filled with surprises and exciting events. For those wanting to celebrate, the Al Falah Square Bazaar offers a distinctive cultural experience that revitalizes authentic Ramadan traditions whilst offering shoppers a different experience through a range of shops and products.
AlUla is the place where Ramadan’s serene ambiance blends harmoniously with the tranquil surroundings, creating the perfect setting for reflection and relaxation while enjoying nature’s beauty. A visit to Bukhoor Road for shopping and tasting coffee is a must or enjoying wonderful Ramadan events at Al-Manishiyah Square.
Riyadh City offers a unique Ramadan ambiance, where iftar and suhoor gatherings bring families together, and special Ramadan events create a distinct atmosphere. Visitors can wonder through the Souk Al Zal, an exceptional market for incense, traditional artifacts and textiles, combining Saudi heritage with a Ramadan atmosphere, or watch the Ghabga, a Ramadan event that offers a unique experience, mixing traditional and modern atmosphere and featuring a range of entertainment and cultural events to enhance the Ramadan experience.
Saudi Arabia is currently boosting its public service sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation and tourism as part of the Vision 2030 framework, which aims to cut the Kingdom’s reliance on oil.
The Ramadan Lights season is part of the Kingdom’s global tourism campaign, “Saudi, Welcome to Arabia,” a vibrant consumer brand dedicated to sharing Saudi Arabia with the world and welcoming travelers to explore all the country has to offer.
It aims to drive forward the country’s tourism industry through awareness-raising campaigns and to provide a comprehensive array of information and resources for travelers to plan and enjoy unforgettable journeys.


KSA, Amazon launch cloud skills accelerator

KSA, Amazon launch cloud skills accelerator
Updated 17 March 2025
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KSA, Amazon launch cloud skills accelerator

KSA, Amazon launch cloud skills accelerator
  • Participants will work on real-world cloud computing projects, to gain practical experience and earn accredited certifications

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, in partnership with Amazon Web Services, has launched the AWS Builder Accelerator program to develop national expertise in cloud computing and equip participants with advanced AWS skills. 

The initiative offers an intensive four-week training program at the AWS’ headquarters in Virginia, US, combining theoretical learning with hands-on projects under the guidance of AWS experts, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday. 

Participants will work on real-world cloud computing projects, to gain practical experience and earn accredited certifications.

These skills will help meet market demands and enhance the readiness of national talent to adapt to technological advancements, the SPA reported.

The program targets graduates in technical fields, particularly those in computer science and IT, with two to three years of experience, to boost their competitiveness in the cloud computing sector. 

Set to begin on June 16, the program requires applicants to be Saudi Arabia citizens employed in the private sector. A letter of employer approval is needed upon final acceptance, according to the ministry’s website. 

For registration or more details, visit futureskills.mcit.gov.sa/ar/form/aws.