Riyadh forum highlights Saudi Arabia’s vision for healthcare and tourism

Tourism in Saudi Arabia contributes 4 percent to the national GDP. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
Tourism in Saudi Arabia contributes 4 percent to the national GDP. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
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Updated 28 April 2024
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Riyadh forum highlights Saudi Arabia’s vision for healthcare and tourism

Tourism in Saudi Arabia contributes 4 percent to the national GDP. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister of Investment Transaction Saleh Al-Khabti said that the healthcare sector’s contribution to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product is projected to reach about $66.6 billion, with the creation of more than 245,000 jobs by 2030.

Al-Khabti shared the information during a panel discussion titled “The Kingdom and Vision 2030 as a Global Health Tourism Destination”, at the Health Tourism Future Forum, which began Sunday in Riyadh.




The three-day event features presentations, workshops, a young researchers' forum, business meetings, seminars, and interactive sessions. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)

The Health Tourism Club and the Health Tourism Association, in partnership with the Global Healthcare Travel Council, launched the forum to identify priorities and redefine visions for health tourism at regional and international levels.

The forum, which this year coincides with the eighth anniversary of the launch of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, is an annual global platform for the health tourism industry aiming to develop future strategies in the Kingdom’s healthcare sector. The global healthcare industry is estimated to be worth $4.4 trillion.




Ahmed Al-Ouraij, President of the Health Tourism Association said the forum represents the birth of the first specialized health tourism initiatives. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)

Al-Khabti said that significant investment is needed in the Saudi healthcare sector over the next seven years, much of which will be driven by the National Investment Strategy.

“Regarding foreign direct investment, Saudi Arabia reached about $19 billion, a three-time increase since 2017,” he said.

Ahmed Al-Ouraij, president of the Health Tourism Association, said that the forum marked the beginning of the first specialized health tourism initiatives.




Healthcare London is a collaborative of nine healthcare providers - 23 hospitals - such as the Cleveland Clinic and Imperial College. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)

Health tourism involves individuals traveling to another country for medical treatment or wellness services. The sector has grown rapidly in recent years due to increasing healthcare costs in many countries and advances in medical technology and expertise in specific regions.

Mahmoud Abdulhadi, deputy minister of tourism for destination enablement, mentioned that Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry has made significant progress, exceeding its target of 106 million visitors seven years ahead of schedule.

“The total amount spent on the total population of visitors was about $66.6 billion, a direct contribution to the economy,” Abdulhadi said.




The three-day event features presentations, workshops, a young researchers' forum, business meetings, seminars, and interactive sessions. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)

The deputy minister also said that about 10 percent of all employment rates globally come from the tourism or tourism-related sectors. In Saudi Arabia, tourism contributes 4 percent to the national GDP.  

“Tourism is a key contributor to Vision 2030 because it creates employment. When we started our journey in 2019, we had 600,000 employees in the sector, and today we have 925,000.”

Abdulhadi added that increasing the number of employees to 1.6 million by 2030 seemed on target, given the current trajectory.

“Leisure is now our second-largest source of visitation after spiritual visits to the holy sites and our fastest growing sector,” he said.

Conversely, only a small percentage of visitors to the Kingdom travel for medical or wellness purposes.

Abdulhadi said: “The reason might be because health tourism hasn’t been marketed well enough or in the right way.”

While the health tourism sector is still in its early stages, Abdulhadi believes there is a strong domestic market, or potential, for wellness and health travel.  

Health tourism can range from medical treatment to wellness services. Abdulhadi said: “We have on the technical side people who are coming in for treatment for specific illnesses, and then we have on the soft side people who are coming in for what a spa experience in a nice destination is.”

He said that certain destinations lend themselves to potential wellness offerings, but that having the proper infrastructure in place is critical.

In the exhibition accompanying the conference, Healthcare London, a collaboration between nine healthcare providers, announced its official launch.

It was formed to allow more international patients to access the treatment that London’s leading private healthcare providers and NHS teaching hospitals can offer.

Michael Barker, project manager at Healthcare London, told Arab News: “Ever since we started working on Healthcare London, Saudi Arabia has been our No.1 market, especially because we know it very well.”

The forum also addresses challenges, proposes innovative solutions for sustainable growth, and works to raise awareness about the need to prioritize health and well-being. It is the culmination of the Kingdom’s drive to boost medical tourism and enhance the local and global healthcare sector.

The three-day event includes presentations, workshops, a young researchers’ forum, discussions, business meetings, seminars and interactive sessions. The activities focus on aspects of medical tourism such as innovation, investment, marketing and legislation.

 


King Salman, crown prince congratulate Spanish monarch on national day

King Salman, crown prince congratulate Spanish monarch on national day
Updated 15 sec ago
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King Salman, crown prince congratulate Spanish monarch on national day

King Salman, crown prince congratulate Spanish monarch on national day
  • Oct. 12 is also commonly referred to as the Dia de la Hispanidad

RIYADH: King Salman sent a cable of congratulations on Saturday to King Felipe VI of Spain on his country's National Day, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The king wished the Spanish monarch continued good health and happiness, and the government and people of Spain steady progress and prosperity, SPA added.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent a similar cable to King Felipe.

The National Day of Spain is a national holiday held annually on Oct. 12 and is also commonly referred to as the Dia de la Hispanidad, commemorating Spanish legacy worldwide, especially in Hispanic America.

On Friday, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez urged the international community to stop selling weapons to Israel as he condemned attacks by Israeli armed forces against the United Nations’ peacekeeping force in Lebanon.


Early breast cancer detection crucial for high recovery rates, says Health Ministry

Early breast cancer detection crucial for high recovery rates, says Health Ministry
Updated 12 October 2024
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Early breast cancer detection crucial for high recovery rates, says Health Ministry

Early breast cancer detection crucial for high recovery rates, says Health Ministry
  • Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly improve patient quality of life

RIYADH: Early detection of breast cancer is vital for achieving a recovery rate exceeding 95 percent, the Saudi Ministry of Health said.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly improve patient quality of life and reduce mortality, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministry highlighted the importance of regular breast health screenings, noting that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women both globally and locally.

According to the ministry, 55 percent of breast cancer cases in the Kingdom are discovered in advanced stages, which reduces the chances of recovery.

Early screening is crucial for prevention, as 80 percent of breast tumors are benign, the ministry said.

The ministry recommends a healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, breastfeeding, avoiding long-term use of birth control pills without medical consultation, abstaining from all tobacco products, and adhering to hormone therapy under medical supervision to help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

A global health campaign, held every October and known as Pinktober, aims to promote screening and prevention of the disease, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide.

Pinktober, also known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, was launched in 2006 to provide a platform for advocacy organizations, health departments, retailers, and community groups to raise awareness of the disease, and support those affected by it.


Shalayel Museum unveiled at Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition

Shalayel Museum unveiled at Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition
Updated 12 October 2024
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Shalayel Museum unveiled at Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition

Shalayel Museum unveiled at Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition

Riyadh: Women have played a significant role in the art of falconry throughout history, often intertwining their passion for the sport with their positions of power and influence.

Shalayel Museum, dedicated to unraveling the world of falconry, is one of the main attractions at the Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition, organized by the Saudi Falcons Club at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham. 

Notable figures highlighted in the “Women in Falconry” section include Sultana Chand Bibi of India, who not only defended her kingdom against Mughal forces but also revealed a love for falcons, often depicted in paintings of her era. 

Similarly, Queen Christina of Sweden, an intellectual and patron of the arts, was known for her hunting expeditions accompanied by falcons, while Eleanor of Arborea introduced legislation to protect falcons, reflecting her dedication to the study of birds.

Other royal figures, such as Mary of Burgundy and Catherine the Great, embraced falconry as both a pastime and a status symbol, demonstrating their prowess in a sport historically reserved for the elite. 

In contemporary times, falconry is a space where women such as Saudi Adhari Al-Khaldi continue to challenge stereotypes, continuing the legacy of female falconers who have shaped this noble pursuit across centuries and cultures. 

The Peregrine is known as the fastest animal and bird on the planet, diving at speeds exceeding 240 km/h (AN/Basheer Saleh)

The sections in the museum focus on falcons, falconers and falconry in the Arab world and globally. 

A museum spokesperson highlighted the four main types of falcons found in the Arabian Peninsula: the gyrfalcon, peregrine falcon, lanner falcon, and saker falcon.

“Each of these majestic birds has unique characteristics, ecological significance, and historical relevance, particularly in the rich falconry traditions of the region,” they told Arab News. 

The gyrfalcon is the largest species of falcon, primarily inhabiting polar and subpolar regions across North America, Greenland, Europe and Asia. 

“They are distinguished by their broad chests, powerful wings and relatively short tails. A prominent brow above their eyes and long, sharp talons further enhance their formidable appearance,” the spokesperson said.

The saker falcon is renowned for its historical significance and resilience, breeding across northeast Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of South Asia.

A gauntlet is a protective hand cover, typically made of leather and fabric, used to carry the falcon safely. (AN/Basheer Saleh)

“Historically, Arabs were the first to recognize and hunt with saker falcons, establishing a deep-rooted connection with this species,” the spokesperson added. 

Known for its remarkable endurance, the saker can withstand hunger and is resistant to various diseases. 

“This falcon is capable of reaching speeds up to 300 kph (186 mph), making it one of the fastest birds of prey.”

The lanner falcon, is a medium-sized bird found primarily in Africa and Southeast Asia, with limited migration patterns. 

The spokesperson said: “While they primarily inhabit Africa and southeast Europe, their presence extends just into Asia. Their adaptability to various environments and their striking appearance contribute to their status among bird enthusiasts.” 

For Al-Enezi, Sadu weaving embodies the stories and traditions of her ancestors, serving as a bridge between generations.(AN/Basheer Saleh)

The peregrine falcon deserves mention as one of the most well-known falcons globally, renowned for its incredible speed and hunting prowess. 

“The peregrine is known as the fastest animal and bird on the planet, diving at speeds exceeding 240 kph (149 mph).” 

They described how, as we continue to explore and preserve these remarkable birds, we celebrate their role in the ecosystem and their significance in our cultural history.

The museum also has a dedicated section for falconry equipment essential for the successful training and handling of these magnificent birds.

The gauntlet, a protective hand cover typically made of leather and fabric, is used to carry the falcon safely.

To keep track of the bird during flight, a transmitter is used, allowing falconers to monitor their falcon’s location wirelessly.

When not in flight, the falcon rests on a block perch, a cone-shaped stand made of wood or iron, featuring a flat base covered with artificial grass or fabric, and a sharp-tipped metal piece to secure it to the ground.

For observing falcons in action, a hunting scope, a high-quality binocular, is indispensable. 

The swing, made from the wings of a bustard, is used to attract the falcon’s attention. To ensure the bird’s health, falconers regularly measure its weight.

A hood — a leather head covering —keeps the falcon calm by blocking its vision, while the mangalah is a fabric tool used to carry the bird, often lined with artificial grass. 

Finally, jesses, the strings tied to the falcon’s legs, connect to a leash, allowing for secure handling and control. Together, these tools enhance the bond between falconer and falcon, ensuring a successful hunting experience. 

The Weaving Heritage section, much enjoyed by visitors, displays local traditional crafts that represent the country’s heritage and national identity, including weaving traditional textiles. 

Haila Al-Enezi, a passionate advocate for the preservation of traditional crafts, told Arab News that Sadu weaving is not just an art form but a vital expression of Saudi Arabian heritage. 

“This intricate craft, characterized by its geometric patterns and vibrant colors, reflects the Bedouin lifestyle and their deep connection to the desert environment.”

For Al-Enezi, Sadu weaving embodies the stories and traditions of her ancestors, creating a bridge between generations.

She said: “Each piece carries cultural significance representing unity, identity, and the resilience of Saudi women who have historically played a crucial role in sustaining these practices.”

Through her work, Al-Enezi hopes to inspire a new appreciation for Sadu weaving, ensuring that this cultural treasure continues to thrive in modern society. 


Taif’s stone villages: a gateway to the region’s heritage

Taif’s stone villages: a gateway to the region’s heritage
Updated 12 October 2024
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Taif’s stone villages: a gateway to the region’s heritage

Taif’s stone villages: a gateway to the region’s heritage

JEDDAH: Nestled amid the rugged granite mountains of Maysan governorate in Taif, the villages of Bani Malik, Bani Saad, and Thaqif boast a unique architectural heritage.

Houses in these villages are skillfully constructed from the very stone that forms the towering peaks around them, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of generations past, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Visitors to Maysan are captivated by local people’s stories, and by the striking resemblance between the colors of their houses and the mountains.

Many locals are eager to share their rich cultural heritage, including traditional crafts, arts, chants, and ancient tools used in construction, such as the pickaxe and chisel.

The villages of Maysan offer a distinctive architectural experience. Visitors can explore houses carved into the mountaintops and villages built on rocks adorned with grapevine, apricot, peach, and almond branches.

Ancient dams in these villages are renowned for their suitability to the rocky terrain and their ability to withstand the elements, SPA said. Constructed from granite stones and covered with clay, the structures stand as enduring symbols of the past.

Adding to the allure, Wadi Qarn, west of Taif governorate, boasts a diverse landscape of sandy deserts, rugged mountains, and lush greenery, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor adventure.

The valley is home to aromatic wild plants, and a variety of rare migratory animals and birds. Adorned with rock carvings depicting camels, Wadi Qarn entices visitors to explore its natural wonders.

Wadi Qarn extends toward the west to Wadi Al-Sayl Al-Kabeer, supporting villages, farms, and leopard habitats in Wadi Mahram.

It gives rise to eastern and western tributaries, with villages such as Mallah, Al-Multawi, and Al-Dar nestled along wadis that share their names.

Visitors can enjoy the valley’s natural beauty, flowing waters, and rich biodiversity.

The area is known for its diverse wildlife and striking geological formations, such as rocky slopes and hills of varying sizes, that set it apart from other landscapes.


Kingdom arrests 22,993 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 22,993 illegals in one week
Updated 12 October 2024
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Kingdom arrests 22,993 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 22,993 illegals in one week
  • The report showed that among the 1,378 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 22,993 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

According to an official report, a total of 14,269 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 5,230 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,494 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,378 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 58 percent were Ethiopian, 41 percent Yemeni, and 1 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 80 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 19 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.