Makkah officials discuss boosting investment, enhancing city services

Makkah officials discuss boosting investment, enhancing city services
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The Makkah Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday saw Mayor of Makkah Musad Abdulaziz Aldaood meet with entrepreneurs and investors to discuss the future of investment and improvements to the business environment. (SPA)
Makkah officials discuss boosting investment, enhancing city services
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The Makkah Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday saw Mayor of Makkah Musad Abdulaziz Aldaood meet with entrepreneurs and investors to discuss the future of investment and improvements to the business environment. (SPA)
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Updated 21 August 2024
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Makkah officials discuss boosting investment, enhancing city services

Makkah officials discuss boosting investment, enhancing city services
  • Demand for municipal investments and successes achieved to date reflect the importance of this sector, its ability to improve residential and visitor services

RIYADH: The Makkah Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday saw Mayor of Makkah Musad Abdulaziz Aldaood meet with entrepreneurs and investors to discuss the future of investment and improvements to the business environment.

They talked about ways to improve the quality of life, achieve financial sustainability and meet the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which focuses on boosting investment and increasing revenues.

The mayor stressed his commitment to achieving the objectives, which will increase the city’s attractiveness and help improve the quality of services.

The meeting reiterated the importance of capitalizing on investment opportunities, improving communication between medium and small enterprises and the Makkah Municipality, highlighting key pillars to support the Saudi youth in building a promising future for the business sector, and establishing a genuine partnership between entrepreneurs and business-related institutions.

The Makkah Municipality has launched a new package of investment opportunities through the Furas platform, including three projects for the establishment, operation and maintenance of malls, and one for the establishment, operation and maintenance of a women’s health and fitness center.

Demand for municipal investments and successes achieved to date reflect the importance of this sector, its ability to improve residential and visitor services, and Makkah’s development across a number of areas, according to the municipality.


Saudi Food and Drug Authority cites health benefits of turmeric

Saudi Food and Drug Authority cites health benefits of turmeric
Updated 59 min ago
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Saudi Food and Drug Authority cites health benefits of turmeric

Saudi Food and Drug Authority cites health benefits of turmeric
  • Says it acts as an antioxidant and alleviates arthritis symptoms
  • Turmeric had long been used in Asia for folk medicine and food additive

RIYADH: Turmeric has numerous health benefits, including the numerous health benefits, including the ability to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) said on Sunday.
In a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the SFDA said the herb plant known in Botany as Curcuma longa, is also known for its antioxidant properties.
Turmeric had long been used in Asia for folk medicine and food additive.
The SFDA, however, stressed the importance of using herbal medicines with caution and recommends consulting a healthcare professional before using such, as they can interact with certain medications or foods.
"It is essential to note that turmeric may interact with blood thinners like aspirin and certain blood pressure medications," the authority said.
It recommends a daily turmeric powder intake of 0.5 to 1 gram, taken in three smaller doses consumed between meals.
The SFDA also warned against using turmeric continuously for more than six weeks, saying it may lead to gallbladder or stomach pain.
It further warned women to avoid turmeric during pregnancy, as it could impact the uterus.
The SFDA issues warnings against harmful herbs, plants, and cosmetic products, and updates its list in its website every now and then.


Palestinian president arrives in Riyadh ahead of Arab-Islamic summit

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is welcomed on arrival in Riyadh on Sunday evening. (SPA)
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is welcomed on arrival in Riyadh on Sunday evening. (SPA)
Updated 10 November 2024
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Palestinian president arrives in Riyadh ahead of Arab-Islamic summit

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is welcomed on arrival in Riyadh on Sunday evening. (SPA)
  • Arab and Muslim leaders will discuss continued Israeli aggression on Palestinian territories and Lebanon at a summit on Monday

RIYADH: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas arrived in Riyadh on Sunday evening ahead of an Arab-Islamic follow-up summit focusing on Israel’s wars in Gaza and Lebanon.

Arab and Muslim leaders will discuss continued Israeli aggression on Palestinian territories and Lebanon at the summit on Monday.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf, the Foreign Minister of Guinea Morissanda Kouyate, the President of Senegal Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Uganda’s Third Deputy Prime Minister Lukia Isanga Nakadama also arrived in Riyadh on Sunday.

The President of Mauritania Mohamed Ould Ghazouani arrived in the Kingdom’s capital on Sunday after performing Umrah and praying in the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah on Saturday.


Saudi foreign minister holds meetings ahead of Arab and Islamic Summit on Gaza, Lebanon wars

Saudi foreign minister holds meetings ahead of Arab and Islamic Summit on Gaza, Lebanon wars
Updated 10 November 2024
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Saudi foreign minister holds meetings ahead of Arab and Islamic Summit on Gaza, Lebanon wars

Saudi foreign minister holds meetings ahead of Arab and Islamic Summit on Gaza, Lebanon wars

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs on Sunday held a series of meetings ahead of the Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit to be held on Monday.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with several foreign ministers, including Palestinian Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Mustafa, Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Bassam Sabbagh, Lebanese Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants Abdallah Bou Habib, and Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Maitama Tuggar.

In his meeting with Mustafa, discussions focused on the latest developments in the Gaza Strip and ongoing efforts to address the humanitarian and political challenges facing the region.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of collective action within the framework of the summit's agenda.

The conversation with Syria's Sabbagh centered on relations and included an exchange on key regional and international developments of mutual concern. The two ministers highlighted the need for continued dialogue to foster regional stability and cooperation.

During discussions with the Lebanese FM, Prince Faisal reviewed current issues affecting Lebanon amid Hezbollah's war with Israel and explored ways to support the country amid its ongoing challenges. 

The meeting with Nigeria's Tuggar covered a range of topics from the summit’s agenda and touched on shared regional and global concerns. The two ministers reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing diplomatic relations and addressing international issues of mutual interest.

All the meetings were attended by Dr. Saud bin Mohammed Al-Sati, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, and Abdulrahman Al-Dawood, Director General of the Foreign Minister’s Office.


Saudi crown prince receives call from Iran president

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. (File/SPA/AFP)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. (File/SPA/AFP)
Updated 10 November 2024
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Saudi crown prince receives call from Iran president

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. (File/SPA/AFP)
  • The chief of staff of Saudi Arabia’s armed forces visited Tehran to meet with his Iranian counterpart and discuss defense ties earlier on Sunday

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a phone call from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

During the phone call, Pezeshkian praised the Kingdom’s initiative to host a joint Arab-Islamic follow-up summit to discuss continued Israeli aggression on Palestinian territories and Lebanon. The president expressed his wishes that the summit would be a success.

Arab and Muslim leaders will convene in Riyadh for the summit scheduled for Monday, focusing on Israel’s wars in Gaza and Lebanon.

On Sunday, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan chaired the preparatory ministerial meeting, where officials reviewed the latest developments and outlined the summit’s agenda.

Earlier on Sunday, the chief of staff of Saudi Arabia’s armed forces visited Tehran to meet with his Iranian counterpart and discuss defense ties, the Saudi Ministry of Defense said.

Fayyad Al-Ruwaili and Iran’s Major General Mohammad Bagheri discussed opportunities to develop relations between the two countries in the military and defense fields. 


A silent culinary symphony: Saudi Arabia’s first deaf-run restaurant opens in Qatif

The restaurant plays a vital role in promoting a broader understanding of deaf culture. (AN photo)
The restaurant plays a vital role in promoting a broader understanding of deaf culture. (AN photo)
Updated 10 November 2024
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A silent culinary symphony: Saudi Arabia’s first deaf-run restaurant opens in Qatif

The restaurant plays a vital role in promoting a broader understanding of deaf culture. (AN photo)
  • Arina Pizzeria blends Italian flavors with proud representation for deaf community

RIYADH: In bustling Qatif, where the vibrant flavors of Italy meet the rich culture of Saudi Arabia, a memorable dining experience awaits that challenges perceptions and redefines communication.

Imagine a place where the rhythm does not come from music but from the graceful motions of hands and the expressive faces of its staff.

Arina Pizzeria, entirely staffed and operated by deaf individuals, offers not only exceptional food but also a powerful narrative of resilience and community.

Husband-and-wife duo Hussain Alshbrka and Arina Gabulyan opened Arina Pizzeria in September, marking a milestone as the first restaurant in Saudi Arabia to be fully staffed and operated by deaf individuals. (AN photos/Instagram/arinapizza.sa)

Husband-and-wife duo Hussain Alshbrka and Arina Gabulyan earned their master’s degrees in business management in the US and returned to their hometown of Qatif to pursue their passions for culinary arts and inclusivity.

In September this year they proudly opened Arina Pizzeria, marking a groundbreaking milestone as the first restaurant in Saudi Arabia to be fully staffed and operated by deaf individuals.

“I was inspired by the idea of creating a place where the deaf community, especially those who came to Qatif for work, could meet,” Alshbrka told Arab News.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Arina Pizzeria, entirely staffed and operated by deaf individuals, offers not only exceptional food but also a powerful narrative of resilience and community.

• By raising awareness about sign language, Arina encourages connection and interaction across all parts of society. 

This vision emerged from his previous role as the general manager of Three Dimension Trading Est., where he regularly interacted with deaf individuals.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the name, Alshbrka said: “I wanted to honor my beautiful wife, so I named the restaurant Arina.”

Hussain Alshbrka, Arina Pizzeria co-founder

This personal touch is complemented by a creative design ethos, he explained: “I wanted the restaurant to be a creative blend of architecture and art. I wanted it to be an attractive gathering place that satisfies the eye and is unique in appearance, with a modern and elegant architectural style.”

Upon entering, guests are greeted by the restaurant’s motto: “A slice of silence, a world of flavor.”

At Arina, effective communication between employees and customers is crucial. “We use multiple communication methods. Technology provides an excellent and effective tool for translating speech into written words,” Alshbrka said.  

This restaurant proves that the deaf are an integral part of society. It helps to integrate the deaf hand in hand with hearing individuals and strengthens their bond.

Hussain Alshbrka, Arina Pizzeria co-founder

“We also use easily accessible QR code technology on tables for customers to scan with their mobile phones, producing a visual representation that is a preferred method of communication for our deaf employees.”

The restaurant is breaking barriers in the community. “Many customers want to learn sign language as a way to communicate with us directly, which is always welcomed and appreciated,” he added.

The staff undergo rigorous training. “If they do not already possess these skills, it is easy to learn a new language when it is used regularly, especially in a work environment with somewhat predictable responses.”

Upon entering, guests are thoughtfully presented with a card showcasing the alphabet in sign language. (AN photo)

Alshbrka’s belief in equality is reflected in Arina’s commitment to hiring deaf individuals: “I am convinced that a deaf person is capable of doing anything a hearing person can do when given the opportunity and training.”

By employing deaf individuals, Arina demonstrates that abilities transcend barriers and that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to thrive.

Customer interactions at Arina have led to memorable moments, highlighting the restaurant’s unique approach. He recalled: “One of my most unique and unforgettable experiences was when one of our customers expressed gratitude to our staff in Bulgarian. This again demonstrated that language should not be a barrier between people.”

The response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive. Alshbrka emphasized: “The language barrier between our hearing customers and deaf employees has eroded, and we have begun to see the fruits of our labor.”

This collective effort has created a harmonious environment where everyone can come together.

Despite the challenges faced during the launch, Alshbrka said the support from across the Kingdom has been a testament to the community’s embrace of Arina.

The restaurant plays a vital role in promoting a broader understanding of deaf culture. “This restaurant proves that the deaf are an integral part of society,” its founder said. “It helps to integrate the deaf hand in hand with hearing individuals and strengthens their bond.”

By raising awareness about sign language, Arina encourages connection and interaction across all parts of society.

Arina goes beyond simply serving food, it serves as a beacon of empowerment, proving that with passion and partnership, barriers can be broken, allowing diverse voices to harmonize beautifully.