Health Ministry urges pre-Hajj vaccinations via Sehhaty

Health Ministry urges pre-Hajj vaccinations via Sehhaty
The Ministry of Health urged individuals in Saudi Arabia who plan to go on Hajj this year to receive their vaccination shots beforehand and to register them via the Sehhaty app, the Saudi Press Agency reported. (AFP/File)
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Updated 15 May 2024
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Health Ministry urges pre-Hajj vaccinations via Sehhaty

Health Ministry urges pre-Hajj vaccinations via Sehhaty
  • The required vaccinations include a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and one of the influenza vaccine taken this year
  • The ministry said that vaccinations for domestic pilgrims are available at primary health care centers

RIYADH: The Ministry of Health urged individuals in Saudi Arabia who plan to go on Hajj this year to receive their vaccination shots beforehand and to register them via the Sehhaty app, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The required vaccinations include a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and one of the influenza vaccine taken this year, along with a dose of the meningitis vaccine taken within the past five years. These vaccines are crucial for the well-being of pilgrims during Hajj.
The ministry said that vaccinations for domestic pilgrims are available at primary health care centers. Those intending to perform Hajj this year should schedule an appointment through the Sehhaty app.
Completing vaccinations before Hajj is essential due to the gathering of large crowds from around the world performing rituals in one place, which may expose them to infection with numerous contagious diseases prevalent in certain countries, the ministry said.
Following health guidelines before arriving at the holy sites protects both pilgrims and service workers, helping to safeguard against diseases that could disrupt Hajj rituals. Doing so also ensures the safety of individuals arriving from abroad to the Kingdom.
Pilgrims from outside the Kingdom must obtain specific vaccinations before Hajj, including for meningococcal disease, yellow fever and polio.
The ministry stressed the necessity of only using approved vaccines in the Kingdom, including those against COVID-19 and seasonal influenza, as well as updating vaccinations against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox.


Jeddah forum focuses on coral reef conservation

Jeddah forum focuses on coral reef conservation
Updated 27 sec ago
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Jeddah forum focuses on coral reef conservation

Jeddah forum focuses on coral reef conservation

JEDDAH: The Red Sea Coral Reef Fish and Fisheries Forum began in Jeddah on Tuesday.

The two-day event aims to bolster efforts to preserve coral reef fish populations and fisheries while enhancing ecosystem sustainability in the Red Sea.

Organized by the General Organization for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea, the forum brings together 37 experts in marine ecosystems from Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Several governmental entities are taking part to discuss cooperation between Saudi Arabia and other countries.

Additionally, the event showcases initiatives to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities for sustainable development in the Red Sea.

The forum focuses on three main topics: Managing coral reef fisheries, mitigating the impact of fisheries on sea turtles and addressing threats to coral reefs to develop effective preservation strategies.

It is part of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture’s efforts to protect marine environments and enhance cooperation to achieve sustainable development goals for future generations.


Piece of cake: Saudi bakery competing with Paris’ best

Piece of cake: Saudi bakery competing with Paris’ best
Updated 33 min 23 sec ago
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Piece of cake: Saudi bakery competing with Paris’ best

Piece of cake: Saudi bakery competing with Paris’ best

MAKKAH: A Saudi-owned bakery in Paris is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the city’s famed patisseries and giving the best French chefs a run for their money.

Blending French charm with Middle Eastern flair, Lam’s offerings include feta and za’atar buns, halva cookies and even the traditional Saudi kleicha.


Its founder, Abdullatef Al-Rashoudi, grew up in a family of seven children. His father, a brigadier general and commander in the Saudi army, relocated the family to the US for work.

His mother, of Syrian descent, was raised in Syria by the well-known Al-Rawaf family from Qassim. This created a unique cultural blend for Al-Rashoudi, shaping his modern outlook.

He told Arab News: “My life took a radical turn after my father passed away in 1997. I transitioned from childhood to facing significant responsibilities at the age of eight.

“I continued my studies at Dar-Assalam schools in Riyadh, graduating in 2007. I then joined the College of Medicine at King Saud University, where I obtained my medical degree in 2013.

“Afterward, I traveled to Canada to pursue a master’s degree at the prestigious McGill University, and then to France in 2016 to start a fellowship program in orthopedic surgery.”


According to Al-Rashoudi, he faced some difficulties in the program, leading him to pause his studies and return to Riyadh, where he worked at King Saud University for a year.

“In 2019, I decided to completely change my career path after realizing that my true passion lies in culinary arts, not medicine,” he added.

“With the support of my family and a scholarship from the Misk Foundation, I pursued culinary studies at Le Cordon Bleu in France, a longtime dream of mine.

“There, I honed my skills in the arts, and after graduating, I worked in several famous bakeries in France, gaining experience in a field that is highly competitive with chefs of extensive expertise.”


After three years of intensive training, Al-Rashoudi realized his dream of opening his own business in Paris: A cafe that combines baked goods and coffee, distinguished by authentic Saudi touches.

The project brought on a unique challenge, especially in a city where baked goods are often considered an integral part of daily life.

Through his cafe, Al-Rashoudi introduced Saudi kleicha, an old folk Saudi pastry, as an exclusive treat for customers.

It is not part of the regular menu, but through this approach, he aimed to introduce the French public to Saudi culture. His goal was achieved, particularly with the satisfaction he has observed among customers.


With support from the Saudi community in France, who frequently visit Al-Rashoudi’s cafe, Lam has received excellent reviews, earning a five-star rating on Google.

Today, Al-Rashoudi aspires to expand his business to other cities in Europe, with the ultimate goal of blending Saudi culture with global culinary arts, showcasing Saudi cuisine as a leading and contributing force in the world of food.


Saudi Arabia condemns Israel’s ban on UN agency for Palestinian refugees

Saudi Arabia condemns Israel’s ban on UN agency for Palestinian refugees
Updated 32 min 39 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia condemns Israel’s ban on UN agency for Palestinian refugees

Saudi Arabia condemns Israel’s ban on UN agency for Palestinian refugees
  • Foreign Ministry describes the decision as a ‘flagrant violation of international law’ and an assault on international legitimacy
  • It accuses Israel of attempting to erase the Palestinian identity through ‘ethnic cleansing,’ and of obstructing the peace process

RIYADH: Saudi authorities on Tuesday condemned a decision by the Israeli parliament that prevents the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees from working in Israel and occupied East Jerusalem, describing it as a “flagrant violation of international law.”

The criticism by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs came a day after Israeli lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to ban the agency’s operations in those areas.

In a statement published by the Saudi Press Agency, the Foreign Ministry said the decision was a direct assault on international legitimacy that disregards the “unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe” affecting the Palestinian people and obstructs the UN’s role in providing essential services.

“The Kingdom affirms its categorical rejection of the continuous and systematic practices of the Israeli occupation authorities in politically and militarily targeting the United Nations’ agencies and its relief organizations,” the ministry added.

It accused Israeli authorities of attempting to erase the Palestinian identity through “ethnic cleansing,” and of obstructing efforts to establish a comprehensive peace process.

It reiterated Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support for UNRWA’s humanitarian mission, and pointed out that the agency’s mandate is rooted in UN Security Council Resolution 194, adopted in 1948, which enshrines the right of return for Palestinian refugees.

UNRWA, which was established in 1949, provides vital aid, including educational, healthcare and social services, to refugees in Palestinian territories and neighboring countries.

In addition to banning UNRWA operations, the new Israeli legislation prohibits Israeli officials from cooperating with the agency or its employees.


Saudi Arabia’s anti-terrorism chief meets Nigeria’s national security adviser

Saudi Arabia’s anti-terrorism chief meets Nigeria’s national security adviser
Updated 29 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s anti-terrorism chief meets Nigeria’s national security adviser

Saudi Arabia’s anti-terrorism chief meets Nigeria’s national security adviser
  • Al-Moghedi commended Saudi Arabia for its generous support, including funding initiatives for strategic projects benefiting member states

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Maj. Gen. Mohammed Al-Moghedi, secretary-general of the Islamic Military Counter-Terrorism Coalition, met with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja recently to strengthen efforts against terrorist groups.

During the meeting, Ribadu thanked Saudi Arabia for playing a leading role in maintaining regional security and supporting the coalition since its inception, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday. 

He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to collaborating closely with the coalition in combating terrorism, which has affected his country. 

Al-Moghedi commended Saudi Arabia for its generous support, including funding initiatives for strategic projects benefiting member states. 

He highlighted programs backed by the Kingdom for training security, military and civil agencies in affected states. 

He also reviewed the coalition’s Sahel Program, aimed at supporting regional stability and countering terrorism.

Al-Moghedi and his delegation toured Nigeria's National Counter Terrorism Center, and met its director, Maj. Gen. Adamu Garba Laka to review the body’s resources, functions and operational mechanisms, as well as discuss potential collaboration. 

This visit underscores the coalition’s vision to enhance cooperation among member states and foster a secure, stable future for Africa, the SPA report stated.


Saudi crown prince meets with global leaders including Pakistani PM, Jordanian counterpart

Saudi crown prince meets with global leaders including Pakistani PM, Jordanian counterpart
Updated 29 October 2024
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Saudi crown prince meets with global leaders including Pakistani PM, Jordanian counterpart

Saudi crown prince meets with global leaders including Pakistani PM, Jordanian counterpart
  • Sharif and accompanying delegation in Kingdom to attend FII summit

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan on Tuesday, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The prime minister and his accompanying delegation are in the Kingdom to attend the Future Investment Initiative conference.

During the conference, Sharif shared with attendees his government was looking forward to forging new partnerships in artificial intelligence (AI), education and health.

Speaking at the summit, Sharif said Pakistan was laying foundations for a knowledge-based economy, driven by innovation in the domains of AI, education and health.

Prince Mohammed also held talks on Tuesday with his Jordanian counterpart Hussein bin Abdullah, the President of Senegal Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Vietnamese prime minister Pham Minh Chinh, SPA added.