Saudi photographer’s winning shot and the stories behind it

Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)
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Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)
Saudi photographer’s winning shot and the stories behind it
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Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)
Saudi photographer’s winning shot and the stories behind it
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Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)
Saudi photographer’s winning shot and the stories behind it
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Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)
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Updated 05 March 2024
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Saudi photographer’s winning shot and the stories behind it

Saudi photographer’s winning shot and the stories behind it
  • From hobbyist to international artist, the journey of Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki

MAKKAH: Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki, a Taif native, developed a love for photography from a young age, particularly in documenting family events, eventually earning him a reputation as the family photographer.

Al-Maliki holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Umm Al-Qura University and currently serves as an employee at the Ministry of Education.




Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)

As an active member of numerous local and international photography clubs, Al-Maliki holds affiliations with key organizations, including the International Federation of Photographic Art and the Photographic Society of America. He has showcased his talent in various local and international photography exhibitions, clinching several accolades.

His most recent recognitions came through the This Is Makkah photography competition, a part of the Makkah Brings Us Together event activities, organized by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites.

HIGHLIGHT

Al-Maliki said that technological advancements have made photography easier, especially with artificial intelligence technologies inside cameras that contribute to solving many problems. ‘From my perspective, so long as there is an idea and a message, your work will reach its audience and you will maintain your position.

Reflecting on his journey, Al-Maliki shared with Arab News: “My belief in the saying, ‘A picture is worth a thousand words,’ is the main motivation for me to continue this hobby, especially since a picture stops a moment in time and allows people to remember what made them happy later on. What the picture means to the photographer is a noble message that must be conveyed correctly.”




Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)

He added: “I will never forget the first professional camera that my father gave me. It was like the exploration stage of a new world. At that time, I began to learn about the camera and then experimented with various types of photography. I believe that this stage was the most important in my journey because it taught me the basics of photography and allowed me to delve into its exceptional world, especially since I started taking diverse pictures and learning from my mistakes.”

Al-Maliki said that he moved on to the stage of practical application and improvement through visual nourishment, attending specialized courses and workshops, especially art exhibitions that help interact with photographers and benefit from their experiences.




Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)

“When I started participating in local and international competitions, I set several goals for myself to strive for, which became a motivation for me to continue. I have achieved some of them. I was awarded the title of ‘international artist’ by the International Federation of Photographic Art, as well as ‘golden exhibitor’ by the Asian Photographers Union.”

Al-Maliki further explained that when he started participating in competitions in 2009, he was not successful, but despite that, he did not hesitate to continue participating.




Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki

“With perseverance, attempting to capture different shots, and self-improvement, I won my first international award in 2013. I always made sure to learn and benefit from the community of photographers around me. As for the picture of ‘the domes on the roof of the Grand Mosque,’ I consider it the main player in my submissions.”

Al-Maliki said: “This picture has won more than one award at both local and international levels, including gold, silver, and bronze medals, as well as honorary distinctions in several different countries, including recently Oman, China, France, and India.




Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)

“It is considered one of the closest shots due to the circumstances under which it was captured, as it was taken during the first helicopter flight operated by a security agency during the Hajj season, specifically on the Day of Arafah. This day is known for the Grand Mosque being empty of pilgrims as they stand on the plains of Arafat.

“Also, due to the windy conditions and altitude at midday, multiple rapid shots were taken until success was achieved, with only this person present on the roof of the Grand Mosque, which contributed to highlighting the domes and their size compared to the person, as well as the presence of all shades of monochromatic colors in the work and the contrast of its elements.”

What the picture means to the photographer is a noble message that must be conveyed correctly.

Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki

Speaking about what the Saudi photographer lacks to achieve international recognition, he explained that we are living in the golden age of photography, with the vision of our inspiration, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who sees us as the true force for achieving the vision.

“The Kingdom is rich in its diverse terrain and beautiful places, be it in the north, south, east, or west.

“Every photographer should seize the opportunity to capture shots that remain in the memory of viewers and leave a special mark, especially since the spread of pictures has become easier than ever through various social media platforms and the ease of access to the world. I will strive diligently to represent my country and achieve top positions because we are always at the forefront and nothing hinders our sky-high ambition.”




Raed Abdullah Al-Maliki captured an award-winning photo, main, of the Grand Mosque domes from a helicopter during Hajj season, showcasing their size in relation to a solitary figure on the roof. (Supplied)

He pointed out that technological advancements have made photography easier, especially with artificial intelligence technologies inside cameras that contribute to solving many problems. From my perspective, so long as there is an idea and a message, your work will reach its audience and you will maintain your position, regardless of the tool used in photography, whether professional cameras or even mobile phones.

“The photographer plays a large part in showing creativity because no matter how many resources are available, without the right person, you cannot impress others.”

Al-Maliki concluded by stating that artists can see their reality differently, even if they are accustomed to it. “Choosing different angles and places at different times and with new ideas will help me find subjects worthy of photography. Usually, I search for new angles photographers have not touched upon, hoping to highlight a different aspect through the picture.”

 


Saudi leadership congratulates Jordan king after successful surgery

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (File/SPA)
Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (File/SPA)
Updated 9 sec ago
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Saudi leadership congratulates Jordan king after successful surgery

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (File/SPA)
  • King Abdullah left hospital on Tuesday after undergoing minor surgery
  • The 63-year-old monarch was admitted earlier in the day for an incisional hernia at King Hussein Medical City

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent cables of congratulations on Tuesday to Jordan’s King Abdullah after he underwent minor surgery.

In separate cables, the king and crown prince prayed for the Jordanian monarch’s health and happiness. 

King Abdullah left hospital on Tuesday after undergoing minor surgery, the Jordanian royal palace said.

The 63-year-old monarch was admitted earlier in the day for an incisional hernia at the country’s King Hussein Medical City.

He is set to resume his working schedule on Wednesday, according to the royal palace. 


Saudi Arabia is ‘neutral setting’ for US-Russia talks, says political commentator

Saudi Arabia is ‘neutral setting’ for US-Russia talks, says political commentator
Updated 53 min 49 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia is ‘neutral setting’ for US-Russia talks, says political commentator

Saudi Arabia is ‘neutral setting’ for US-Russia talks, says political commentator
  • Kingdom has engaged in policy of maintaining ties with ‘key players in the world’
  • Latest meeting highlights increasing role as international mediator

RIYADH: US-Russia talks taking place in Riyadh today exemplify Saudi Arabia’s position as a “neutral setting,” with the Kingdom having engaged in a policy of building ties with various nations, according to a political commentator.

“(Saudi Arabia) has close ties to Russia, America, to China, to the European Union, to the BRICS countries. Saudi Arabia has built a stature where it has maintained excellent ties with all the key players of the world,” Ali Shihabi said.

He said that the Kingdom has pursued a multilateral foreign policy in building close relationships with various nations, particularly in the past five years.

Russia and the US agreed after the Riyadh meeting to begin working toward ending the war in Ukraine and improving ties, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told the Associated Press.

Saudi Arabia’s mediation efforts have gained renewed attention following the country’s role in dialogue over the Russia-Ukraine war.

In 2024, the Kingdom played an influential role as a mediator, and was responsible for facilitating the biggest US-Russian prisoner swap since the Cold War, according to Reuters.

The exchange involved 24 prisoners — 16 moving from Russia to the West and eight sent back to Russia from the West.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was also reportedly involved in a negotiating a Ukraine-Russia prisoner swap in 2022 involving more than 300 people.

Shihabi said that the meeting in Riyadh between Russia and the US “is really a result of the crown prince’s close relationships.”

He said: “Both parties look upon Riyadh and look upon the crown prince as a friend — in a way this is a neutral setting.”

Shihabi underlined that European countries “are hostile to Russia.”

He said that Saudi Arabia is an ideal host for the peace talks because of its “neutrality,” having been a close ally to both countries.

“Saudi Arabia did not impose sanctions on the Russians, it works closely with the Russians in OPEC+, it’s very close to the Americans, it was a place that both parties were comfortable coming to,” Shihabi said.

The meeting in Riyadh came about following phone calls US President Trump had separately with Russian President Vladimir Putin and then Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Feb. 12.

Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office following the calls, Trump said: “I think we are on the way to getting peace, I think President Putin wants peace, President Zelensky wants peace, and I want peace. I just want to see people stop getting killed.

“We think we’re going to probably meet in Saudi Arabia, the first meeting. We know the crown prince, and I think it would be a very good place to be.”

Shihabi underlined that the Kingdom’s hosting of the talks signals the country’s “very prestigious position,” adding that “it shows the respect that both Russia and America have for Saudi Arabia.”


Saudi Cabinet reaffirms support for global peace talks in Riyadh

Saudi Cabinet reaffirms support for global peace talks in Riyadh
Updated 18 February 2025
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Saudi Cabinet reaffirms support for global peace talks in Riyadh

Saudi Cabinet reaffirms support for global peace talks in Riyadh
  • Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed relations with both France and the US, ways to strengthen ties across various sectors, as well as regional and international developments
  • Cabinet reiterated the Kingdom’s support for the talks between Russia and the US in Riyadh, highlighting the Saudi commitment to global peace and security

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chaired a Cabinet session in Riyadh on Tuesday and briefed ministers on his recent talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

During the talks, he discussed relations with both countries, ways to strengthen ties across various sectors, as well as regional and international developments.

The Cabinet reiterated the Kingdom’s support for the talks between Russia and the US in Riyadh, highlighting the Saudi commitment to global peace and security.

The Council of Ministers reviewed the government’s recent activities, particularly those aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. It also discussed the outcomes of the Kingdom’s participation in regional and international meetings, highlighting its commitment to collective efforts and expanding cooperation to achieve its aspirations and objectives.

The Cabinet reiterated the Kingdom’s call, expressed during the 42nd Arab Interior Ministers Council, to enhance security cooperation, coordinate efforts to combat crime and develop a comprehensive security strategy to address shared challenges.

The council said that the Kingdom’s presidency of the GlobE Network reflects the international community’s confidence in Saudi Arabia’s ability to drive a major shift in consolidating cooperation among member states, enhancing policies and developing tools to effectively combat corruption.

The Cabinet welcomed the Jeddah Declaration issued by the 13th Conference of Ministers of Culture in the Islamic World. The declaration outlines a shared vision for leveraging culture to drive social and economic progress, safeguard Islamic heritage and foster collaboration to address global challenges.

For the occasion of Founding Day, observed on Feb. 22, the Cabinet expressed pride in the history of the Saudi state, its deep-rooted heritage and its three-century-long civilization. It commended the nation’s achievements in fostering unity, justice and continuous progress.

The Cabinet highlighted the Kingdom’s prominent position among the top 10 global markets for battery energy storage, marked by the start of operations at the 2,000-megawatt-hour-capacity Bisha project. This reflects the transformation of the energy sector and the Kingdom’s leadership in energy production as well as export.

The Cabinet commended the opening of regional headquarters for 600 international companies within the Kingdom, highlighting global recognition of Saudi Arabia’s economic stability, promising growth trajectory and strategic geographic location, supported by exceptional talent and expertise.


Saudi crown prince receives Russian FM in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.
Updated 40 min 43 sec ago
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Saudi crown prince receives Russian FM in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.
  • During the meeting, aspects of Saudi-Russian relations and ways to enhance and develop them in various fields were reviewed

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Tuesday.

During the meeting, aspects of Saudi-Russian relations and ways to enhance and develop them in various fields were reviewed, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

Developments in regional and international events, views on them, and efforts made toward them to achieve security and stability were also discussed by the officials. 

The meeting came after Lavrov participated in US-Russian talks hosted by the Kingdom on ending the war in Ukraine. 

Later on Tuesday, Prince Mohammed received the CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund Kirill Dmitriev.


World Defense Show organizers announce expanded 3rd edition

World Defense Show organizers announce expanded 3rd edition
Updated 18 February 2025
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World Defense Show organizers announce expanded 3rd edition

World Defense Show organizers announce expanded 3rd edition
  • Next edition will be held under the theme The Future of Defense Integration, showcasing the latest technology in air, land, sea, and space
  • Organized by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Military Industries, the event is a key part of the Kingdom’s ambition to localize 50 percent of its defense spending by 2030

RIYADH: Organizers of Saudi Arabia’s World Defense Show have announced an expanded exhibition area with several new sections for its third edition, which will be held in February 2026.

An additional hall will increase floor space to a total of 273,000 square meters, more than 58 percent larger than the first edition in 2022, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

More than 65 percent of the exhibition space is already sold out, according to the report.

The next edition will be held under the theme “The Future of Defense Integration,” showcasing the latest technology in air, land, sea, and space.

Organized by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Military Industries, the event is a key part of the Kingdom’s ambition to localize 50 percent of its defense spending by 2030.

The next edition will be the most successful yet, said the event’s CEO Andrew Percy, as reported by SPA.

There will be more local and international participation, and the exhibition will focus more closely on technology including unmanned and marine defense systems.

New programs in the upcoming edition will include a defense and security industry lab, and an exhibition of future technologies.

A Saudi supply chain zone will allow local small and medium-sized enterprises to network with key players in global supply chains.

Positive feedback from the last two editions exceeded expectations, Percy said, allowing organizers to set new ambitious goals for this upcoming event.

The World Defense Show was first held in 2022 on the outskirts of the Saudi capital Riyadh.

It attracted 600 exhibitors from 42 countries, 82 military and defense delegations, and 65 thousand visitors from 85 countries, according to GAMI.

The second edition in 2024 saw over 106,000 people attend, with 441 delegations from 116 countries.

A total of 61 purchase contracts worth SR26 billion ($6.9 billion) were signed, according to GAMI.