Program connects youth to Saudi heritage in Abha/node/2609135/saudi-arabia
Program connects youth to Saudi heritage in Abha
Participants learn the basics of archeology, artifact handling, and excavation through practical tools and realistic simulations, allowing creative and hands-on interaction with heritage. (Supplied)
Short Url
https://arab.news/4u5fz
Updated 9 sec ago
Arab News
Program connects youth to Saudi heritage in Abha
The program emphasizes the preservation of artifacts and responsible engagement with cultural heritage
Updated 9 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: The Heritage Commission launched the Little Explorer program in Abha, aiming to connect younger generations with the Kingdom鈥檚 heritage and introduce them to elements of national cultural identity.
Running until July 26 at Al-Muftaha Village, the event encourages curiosity and appreciation for heritage among children through interactive educational activities. It includes cultural, artistic, sports, and adventure events, as well as workshops.
The program emphasizes the preservation of artifacts and responsible engagement with cultural heritage, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.
Little Explorer is one of the commission鈥檚 key initiatives to promote national identity and build a generation that values heritage. It is designed for young audiences, combining scientific knowledge with interactive learning.
Participants learn the basics of archeology, artifact handling, and excavation through practical tools and realistic simulations, allowing creative and hands-on interaction with heritage.
UN report praises Kingdom鈥檚 achievements in integrated water resources聽management/node/2609132/saudi-arabia
UN report praises Kingdom鈥檚 achievements in integrated water resources聽management
Updated 44 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: 黑料社区 shared its experience of advancing water security and sustainability in a region of extreme water scarcity during the SDG 6 Water Action Agenda Special Event in New York.
The event was held on the sidelines of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development at the UN鈥檚 headquarters, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.
It followed UN-Water鈥檚 recognition of 黑料社区 as one of the countries showing clear and measurable progress in integrated water resources management under SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) 6.
The Kingdom鈥檚 delegation, led by Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani, the deputy minister for water at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, presented 黑料社区鈥檚 approach to accelerating the progress of SDG 6.
The event spotlighted successes in the sector and countries making significant strides. 黑料社区 was highlighted in the report as a success story for its rapid progress in integrated water resources management, the SPA added.
Al-Shaibani said that the Kingdom鈥檚 efforts had brought notable improvements in efficiency, coordination, and service quality between 2017 and 2023.
The Kingdom鈥檚 integrated water resources management indicator rose from 57 percent to 83 percent during this period, marking one of the fastest global increases under SDG indicator 6.5.1, he said.
Al-Shaibani stressed that strong support from the Kingdom鈥檚 leadership had enabled significant structural and organizational reforms to aid sustainable water management.
With substantial investments to expand and modernize water infrastructure, these efforts had raised the Kingdom鈥檚 鈥渆nabling environment鈥 score from 42 percent in 2017 to 87 percent in 2023, he added.
Najran鈥檚 heritage draws families to rural villages
Updated 12 min 38 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Rural tourism in Najran is encouraged by the area鈥檚 diverse environment, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, a Saudi Press Agency report says.
It offers visitors a unique experience 鈥 from captivating landscapes and ecological formations to ancient architecture and historic fortresses steeped in history.
The western villages of Najran, along both banks of Wadi Najran, feature towering fortresses atop mounts Raum and Saadan, the SPA added.
Traditional mud-brick palaces among palm and grape farms create scenic views which reflect the region鈥檚 environmental identity and cultural history.
Resident Saleh Al-Asiri says Najran is marked by its cultural diversity and architectural landmarks, varied terrains like mountains, valleys, plains, and deserts making it ideal for nature and heritage tourism. He pointed out areas of interest such as Zur Wadeah, Al-Hadhan, Al-Jarbah, and Al-Qabil.
Rural tourists can discover these sites, admire traditional mud houses and palm farms, and visit heritage villages. They can also explore Wadi Najran, enjoying views of historic homes, ancient palm trees, and sunsets over Raum Fortress, Al-Aan Palace, and Mount Abu Hamdan.
Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/
Updated 22 July 2025
Haifa Alshammari
Protecting houseplants from 黑料社区鈥檚 summer heat
Indoor plants proven to improve health, but caring for them comes with challenges
Looking after plants teaches 鈥減atience and the slow waiting for results鈥
Updated 22 July 2025
Haifa Alshammari
RIYADH: In 黑料社区鈥檚 intense summer heat, having a houseplant adds a cozy element to homes and can improve owners鈥 health, but caring for them can prove a challenge.
Plants purify the air, reduce stress and create a natural sense of calmness in the middle of the daily hustle and bustle of major cities.
However, as the country is reaching the peak of summer with daytime temperatures soaring above 40 degrees celsius, caring for indoor plants can come with difficulties.
Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)
Without suitable care, the summer heat can easily damage thriving indoor gardens.
Arwa Al-Otaibi, a plant owner and botany enthusiast, spoke to Arab News about the impact plants can make on homes, and the proper way to care for them.
鈥淥ne of the most beautiful and relaxing things is when we visit places filled with plants and nature,鈥 she said.
HIGHLIGHTS
鈥 According to botany enthusiast Arwa Al-Otaibi, plants reconnect people with nature and the Earth, bringing comfort.
鈥 It is critically important to pay attention to where a plant should be placed.
鈥淲e feel a wonderful sense of comfort, relaxation and calm, so imagine when we see the place we live in filled with plants, and when we own plants in our homes.鈥
Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)
According to Al-Otaibi, plants reconnect people with nature and the Earth, bringing comfort. This is felt by farmers, as she describes it, when they touch the leaves and soil, which she says 鈥渟ignificantly reduces cortisol levels.鈥
Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being.
This is supported by scientific studies, including a 2015 paper in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology which found that subjects felt more 鈥渃omfortable, soothed and natural,鈥 and their blood pressure was lowered after transplanting an indoor plant.
Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)
Plants can also improve air quality by filtering toxins and increasing humidity in the air, which is essential in Riyadh鈥檚 dry weather.
Caring for plants teaches 鈥減atience and the slow waiting for results, such as the blossom of flowers and the growing of new leaves,鈥 Al-Otaibi explained.
鈥淭his in itself inspires patience and calmness. Taking continuous care of a plant, even if in the small details, yields long-term results.
It is critically important to pay attention to where a plant should be placed. Some plants should be put near windows to keep them exposed to sunlight, while others thrive under indirect light.
Arwa Al-Otaibi, Botany enthusiast
鈥淭his is an example that reminds us of the long-term benefits of investing in ourselves, our health, and our relationships,鈥 she added.
It is critically important to pay attention to where a plant should be placed. Some plants should be put near windows to keep them exposed to sunlight, while others thrive under indirect light.
Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)
Another point is that summer heat leads to faster evaporation, yet overwatering a plant can also be damaging. It is recommended to use well-draining pots and water early in the morning or after sunset to lower the stress on the plant.
Also, maintaining a cooler temperature inside the house is essential for the growth of plants.
鈥淎nother important aspect of plant care in hot weather is ensuring the overall atmosphere in the room,鈥 Al-Otaibi said.
Houseplants are more than just an aesthetic piece in the house; they can enhance both mental and physical well-being. (Supplied/ Unsplash)
鈥淭he appropriate temperature for plants varies depending on the type of plant, but in general, during hot weather, the home temperature should not exceed 25 degrees Celsius.
鈥淲hen leaving the house, there should be some sort of ventilation, like leaving windows slightly open, to refresh the air when the air-conditioning is off.鈥
Maintaining a balanced ecosystem for the plant is important. Misting leaves with water to protect them from becoming dry, or grouping them together to create a microclimate, could also be beneficial.
In general, taking care of houseplants in Riyadh鈥檚 intense summer heat can be a challenge, yet it is one can be overcome with proper attention.
Healthy houseplants can elevate the overall atmosphere with greenery creating a beautiful indoor jungle, bringing life into a quiet living room.
Young Saudis will power the Kingdom鈥檚 green future, says expert
鈥淵oung Saudis bring an intrinsic value rooted in their unique perspective,鈥 Eman Alhajji told Arab News
Updated 22 July 2025
Hajar AlQusayer
RIYADH: As 黑料社区 pursues its Vision 2030, sustainability has become a national priority. With more than 63 percent of the population under 30, young Saudis are emerging as key drivers of the Kingdom鈥檚 green transition.
Eman Alhajji, a scientific researcher and founder of the Saudi Youth for Sustainability initiative, believes the role of Saudi youths goes beyond participation.
In 2021, she was named Young Changemaker for leading sustainability initiatives by Universita della Svizzera italiana during the MEM Summer Summit, in collaboration with the Middle East and North Africa Division of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.
Eman Alhajji, Saudi Youth for Sustainability initiative founder
鈥淵oung Saudis bring an intrinsic value rooted in their unique perspective,鈥 she told Arab News. 鈥淭hey possess a digital fluency and global awareness that allows them to seamlessly connect with international best practices and rapidly disseminate information.鈥
This combination, she said, makes them 鈥渋ndispensable partners in shaping a resilient and prosperous Kingdom.鈥
The presence of younger generations is increasingly visible in major efforts such as the Saudi Green Initiative, the Middle East Green Initiative, and global platforms such as COP27 and COP16.
We are not only nurturing a generation of environmental stewards but also cultivating a new generation of green entrepreneurs, engineers and digital innovators 鈥 ensuring that 黑料社区鈥檚 economic diversification is synonymous with sustainable growth and technological leadership.
Eman Alhajji, Saudi Youth for Sustainability initiative founder
From renewable energy storage to sustainable agriculture and advanced recycling, youth-led initiatives can serve as incubators for the green economy.
鈥淲e are not only nurturing a generation of environmental stewards but also cultivating a new generation of green entrepreneurs, engineers and digital innovators 鈥 ensuring that 黑料社区鈥檚 economic diversification is synonymous with sustainable growth and technological leadership.鈥
A 2024 PwC report supports this, showing that 91 percent of Saudi youth are familiar with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, prioritizing quality education, clean water and sanitation, zero hunger, peace, justice and affordable clean energy.
It also noted that young Saudis are showing increasing interest in fields such as health care, renewable energy and tourism, viewing them as ways to make an impact while building the future.
Education remains a cornerstone. While AlHajji acknowledged progress in integrating sustainability into the Saudi school system, she called for more interdisciplinary and problem-based approaches.
鈥淪ustainability should be seamlessly integrated across all subjects 鈥 from science and engineering to economics, urban planning, and even the arts 鈥 demonstrating its pervasive relevance,鈥 she explained.
Hanin Aljifri, CEO of the Saudi Youth for Sustainability organization, echoed the sentiment, while noting a gap between awareness and action.
鈥淭he biggest challenge isn鈥檛 a lack of interest 鈥 it鈥檚 a lack of clear starting points. Many young people simply don鈥檛 know where to begin or how to take the first step.鈥
Despite this, she remains optimistic.
鈥淲e鈥檝e seen firsthand that a large number of youth in 黑料社区 are eager to get involved in sustainability; they鈥檙e passionate, motivated, and ready to contribute.鈥
Qassim governor launches $53m health, energy, municipal initiatives
Solar power, hospital upgrades, heritage sites, and tourism trails drive development in Al-Bukayriyah governorate
Updated 22 July 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Prince Faisal bin Mishaal, the governor of Qassim, inaugurated health, municipal, energy and charitable projects in Al-Bukayriyah governorate, worth more than SR200 million ($53 milion).
He said these projects reflect the leadership鈥檚 strong support for development programs and better services for citizens and residents, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
Prince Faisal highlighted efforts to upgrade infrastructure, expand healthcare and social services, and enhance municipal initiatives to create a safe and vibrant urban environment. He thanked all government and civil entities involved.
Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of supporting high-quality tourism projects that contribute to rural development and offer diverse tourism options for residents and visitors to the region. (SPA)
The municipal projects, costing more than SR140 million, aim to improve infrastructure and the urban landscape and include, according to the mayor of Al-Bukayriyah, roads, streets, public squares, parks and pedestrian walkways.
Prince Faisal praised the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and local municipalities, stressing the need to continue delivering quality projects that serve citizens and support comprehensive development.
He inaugurated the second phase of a solar energy project at the governorate building, part of efforts to adopt renewable energy and improve efficiency in government facilities.
HIGHLIGHT
Prince Faisal reviewed projects to restore Al-Bukayriyah鈥檚 old town and develop the Jabal Saq trail. The projects aim to revive the town鈥檚 heritage character, create an attractive environment, and enhance the urban landscape.
The project is a step toward sustainability by reducing reliance on traditional energy and powering the facility with solar energy, the SPA reported.
Prince Faisal said the use of solar power cuts operating costs, lowers carbon emissions, and improves spending efficiency, and expressed the hope to expand such initiatives throughout the region.
The project is a step toward sustainability by reducing reliance on traditional energy and powering the facility with solar energy. (SPA)
He also launched several health projects, worth SR26 million, to strengthen the health sector and improve services. These include upgrades to Al-Bukayriyah General Hospital, an automated lab, improved inpatient, outpatient, and emergency services, the development of Al-Zahra Health Center, and replacement of the hospital鈥檚 electrical systems.
Prince Faisal also visited Basma Rural Resort in Al-Bukayriyah governorate. He toured the resort鈥檚 facilities and reviewed its tourism services and unique rural hospitality that reflect the region鈥檚 natural landscape and agricultural heritage.
Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of supporting high-quality tourism projects that contribute to rural development and offer diverse tourism options for residents and visitors to the region.
He commended the private sector鈥檚 efforts to invest in sustainable tourism activities aligned with the goals of the Kingdom鈥檚 Vision 2030 to develop tourism as a vital economic sector.
Prince Faisal said that Al-Bukayriyah, like other governorates in the region, possesses promising tourism potential that should be optimally leveraged.
The Qassim governor expressed hope for more high-quality tourism projects that support the local economy and generate job opportunities for Saudi men and women.
Prince Faisal visited Maqsourat Al-Suwailem at the Al-Bukayriyah heritage site, where he was briefed on its historical and architectural significance.
He underlined the importance of preserving heritage sites as part of national identity and promoting heritage tourism. Such projects, he said, honor the legacy of ancestors and help introduce younger generations and visitors to the region鈥檚 culture.
The governor praised the Al-Suwailem family for preserving and exhibiting the site, highlighting their role in fostering awareness of national heritage and supporting heritage tourism.
Prince Faisal also reviewed projects to restore Al-Bukayriyah鈥檚 old town and develop the Jabal Saq trail, implemented by the municipality in cooperation with the Al-Bukayriyah Community Committee.
The projects aim to revive the town鈥檚 heritage character, create an attractive environment, and enhance the urban landscape.
The Jabal Saq trail, at an elevation of 400m, is a tourist and recreational destination, offering walking, hiking, and scenic views to boost local tourism.
Prince Faisal highlighted the importance of such initiatives in preserving heritage and promoting tourism, praising the municipality and committee for their efforts aligned with Vision 2030 goals to develop tourist sites and improve quality of life.
Prince Faisal launched two major charitable initiatives worth about SR10.5 million: the Waqf Al-Walidayn by the Holy Qur鈥檃n Memorization Association; and the Investment Endowment by the Saei Association for Widows.
The Waqf Al-Walidayn supports the association鈥檚 Qur鈥檃nic education programs and financial sustainability, while the widows鈥 endowment funds Saei鈥檚 initiatives to improve widows鈥 living and social conditions.
He also sponsored an agreement between the People of Al-Bukayriyah Endowment Foundation and the Healthy Cities Program to support community initiatives that promote health and enhance quality of life.
