Revival of springs and aflaj: Saudi Arabia focuses on sustainable water solutions

Revival of springs and aflaj: Saudi Arabia focuses on sustainable water solutions
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Saudi Environment Minister Abdulrahman Al-Fadli reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to sustaining water resources in the Kingdom. (SPA)
Revival of springs and aflaj: Saudi Arabia focuses on sustainable water solutions
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Saudi Environment Minister Abdulrahman Al-Fadli reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to sustaining water resources in the Kingdom. (SPA)
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Updated 04 September 2024
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Revival of springs and aflaj: Saudi Arabia focuses on sustainable water solutions

Revival of springs and aflaj: Saudi Arabia focuses on sustainable water solutions
  • At a workshop in Riyadh titled Water Springs in the Kingdom: Status, Legislation, and Sustainability, Minister Al-Fadli emphasized the significance of water sources
  • Al-Fadli called for collaborative efforts between the ministry, relevant authorities, and local communities to manage and enhance these resources

RIYADH: Saudi Environment Minister Abdulrahman Al-Fadli on Wednesday reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to sustaining water resources in the Kingdom. This follows the resurgence of several springs and aflaj (ancient irrigation systems) across Saudi Arabia.

At a workshop in Riyadh titled “Water Springs in the Kingdom: Status, Legislation, and Sustainability,” Al-Fadli emphasized the significance of these water sources for water security and rural development.

He called for collaborative efforts between the ministry, relevant authorities, and local communities to manage and enhance these resources.

The workshop, attended by local and regional water experts, explored how to use the return of spring waters for rural and agricultural development, identify best practices, and discuss rehabilitation and governance of ancient water systems, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani, deputy minister for water affairs, attributed the revival of some springs to increased rainfall, rising water levels, recharge wells, and the removal of silt. The migration of farmers during droughts also inadvertently helped revive the springs, and clearing obstacles from valley streams has been beneficial.

Looking ahead, Al-Shaibani stressed the need to use this natural bounty by establishing farms near springs, maintaining water channels, and redirecting surplus water for afforestation under the Saudi Green Initiative.

He noted that Saudi Arabia has more than 700 springs, categorized into six geological types, with some having dried up due to reduced rainfall and excessive water extraction. The ministry is preparing a comprehensive study to inventory and document these springs.

The executive president of the Saudi Irrigation Organization, Mohammed Abu Haid, highlighted the institution’s role in maintaining springs and aflaj. He called for the integration of traditional irrigation systems with modern techniques to enhance water use efficiency and quality.

The organization’s approach includes regular monitoring, pollution treatment, advanced water storage solutions such as reservoirs, and ensuring water availability during droughts.

Abu Haid emphasized the need for improved cooperation with partners and local communities in water management. “We are leveraging expertise from research centers and think tanks to rehabilitate springs and aflaj, ensuring their sustainable flow and optimal use,” he said.

The workshop included three panel discussions with local and regional experts, academics, and specialists in water management. The first addressed the current status of springs and aflaj in the Kingdom; the second explored local customs and regulations governing these systems; and the third examined regional experiences, with insights from Oman, Morocco, and the UAE, facilitating an exchange of expertise and best practices across the Arab world.

The workshop concluded with a roundtable discussion on the challenges of sustaining and managing springs and aflaj in Saudi Arabia.


BLVD Runway: Soaring to new heights with activities inside retired Boeing 777s

BLVD Runway: Soaring to new heights with activities inside retired Boeing 777s
Updated 14 February 2025
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BLVD Runway: Soaring to new heights with activities inside retired Boeing 777s

BLVD Runway: Soaring to new heights with activities inside retired Boeing 777s
  • Aircraft were repurposed as a restaurant, haunted house and trampoline area
  • Planes were dismantled and transported from Jeddah before joining Riyadh Season

RIYADH: 

Visitors are flocking to a unique Riyadh Season dining experience that hosts a variety of activities inside three retired Boeing 777 aircraft.

BLVD Runway is inviting people to dine inside the repurposed planes that were set up after being transported from Jeddah to Riyadh in a highly publicized road journey in September last year.

Before the aircraft were transported, they were dismantled by Saudia, the Kingdom’s flag carrier. It was the first time that the process had been completed outside a Boeing facility.

Saudia completed the operation in just 45 days, well ahead of an expected 60-day timeline.

The three aircraft were redesigned for multiple purposes: One as a restaurant, another as a haunted house and the third as a trampoline area for children.

To access the attraction, visitors only need to pay for parking, with free entry for all passengers.

Inside the aircraft, guests can experience a unique dining adventure featuring authentic Saudi cuisine at the restaurant “Am Hussain” (Uncle Hussain).

The dining space immerses guests in a dining experience that highlights the richness and diversity of Saudi culinary traditions.

The restaurant’s owner, Hussain Ashmawi, expressed deep appreciation for the vision of General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Alalshikh, who conceptualized the idea.

Ashmawi told Arab News: “This wonderful and modern idea showcases our heritage through the diverse foods of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

“Our offerings garner admiration from both local and international visitors, many of whom are experiencing Saudi dishes for the first time.”

He added: “The food we present on the plane has won the admiration and appreciation of many visitors.

“It allows them to connect with the flavors of our land in a way that is both memorable and enjoyable.”

Ashmawi warmly welcomed visitors to enjoy authentic Saudi flavors, naming his restaurant a must-visit spot for anyone attending Riyadh Season.

The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, showcasing the culinary talents of local chefs.

The restaurant’s decor features traditional Najd-style Sadu red prints and seating inspired by Hijazi designs, creating an inviting environment that celebrates regional aesthetics.

“I was honored to represent Saudi cuisine, and the reactions from our guests are truly priceless,” Ashmawi said.

Visitors can also dine at another restaurant, 10/10 Burger, located in the control tower.

The establishment offers a more contemporary dining experience, catering to a different audience.

Turki Alalshikh announced that Riyadh Season 2024 had surpassed 19 million visitors to date. The remarkable turnout highlights the widespread appeal of the event.

The annual medley of events launched in October and recently introduced new offerings, including world-class boxing and wrestling matches, international concerts, unique dining options and public gardens.

Pleasant weather in Riyadh and a mid-semester school break have drawn families to Riyadh Season activities, particularly the “Dunes of Arabia” area, which has attracted camping and winter enthusiasts.


OIC secretary-general, Japan ambassador discuss cooperation

OIC secretary-general, Japan ambassador discuss cooperation
Updated 14 February 2025
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OIC secretary-general, Japan ambassador discuss cooperation

OIC secretary-general, Japan ambassador discuss cooperation

JEDDAH: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Secretary-General Hussein Ibrahim Taha and Japanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Yasunari Morino met in Jeddah on Thursday.

The two officials held talks on cooperation and improving ties between the OIC and Japan.

They discussed several issues of mutual concern, particularly the situation in Palestine.

 


Jeddah governor attends Japan National Day reception

Jeddah governor attends Japan National Day reception
Updated 14 February 2025
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Jeddah governor attends Japan National Day reception

Jeddah governor attends Japan National Day reception

JEDDAH: Jeddah Gov. Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi attended on Thursday the Japanese Consulate General’s reception celebrating the Asian country’s National Day.

Prince Saud was received by Japanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Yasunari Morino, Consul General Daisuke Yamamoto, and other consulate officials, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The governor and the ambassador also held talks on issues of mutual interest ahead of the reception.


Filipino judges complete training at Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh

Filipino judges complete training at Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh
Updated 14 February 2025
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Filipino judges complete training at Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh

Filipino judges complete training at Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh
  • 2-week course held to enhance the skills of Filipino judges
  • Facilitates exchange of expertise between Saudi, Philippines

RIYADH: Participants in the second judicial course for Filipino judges, held recently at the Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University, have commended the Kingdom’s government for prioritizing the spread of Islamic knowledge and its commitment to serving Muslims.

The two-week course at the university’s Higher Judicial Institute was aimed at enhancing the skills of Filipino judges, and facilitate the exchange of expertise between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

This year’s course, which concluded on Feb. 12, was the second for Filipino judges. The first course was held in 2022.

The program is part of a series of international judicial training programs organized by the institute in collaboration with countries worldwide. Judges from Malaysia, Indonesia, Comoros, and several other African nations have also participated.

These initiatives aim to foster international cooperation and exchange judicial expertise, further solidifying the Kingdom’s leadership in this field, the SPA reported.
 

 Filipino judges and scholars of the Higher Judicial Institute pose for a souvenir picture at the Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University ion Riyadh. (SPA)

Islamic law is partially applied in the Christian-majority Philippines and is applicable only to Filipino Muslims. Shariah courts are supervised by the country’s Supreme Court.

Last year, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed a law expanding the Shariah judicial system in the Philippines to cover not only the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao but also other regions.

Under the new law, the Shariah courts have jurisdiction over civil affairs for Muslim communities, including family matters, marriage, and inheritance. Criminal cases remain under the authority of national courts.


Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Greece’s new president

Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Greece’s new president
Updated 14 February 2025
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Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Greece’s new president

Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Greece’s new president
  • Constantine Tassoulas replaces Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the first woman to serve as Greece’s head of state

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Thursday congratulated Greece’s parliament chief Constantine Tassoulas on his election as the country’s new president.

In a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency, King Salman said he wished the new president every “success,” and for “the friendly people of Greece continued progress and prosperity.”

The crown prince issued a similar statement.

Tassoulas, 65, was elected with 160 votes in the 300-member parliament in the fourth round of voting on Wednesday.

Constantine Tassoulas, left, delivers a speech at the parliament building in Athens on February 12, 2025, after he was elected president of Greece. (Pool via REUTERS)

He replaces Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the first woman to serve as Greece’s head of state, who was not nominated for a second five-year term.

Tassoulas is a member of the governing center-right New Democracy party and a close ally of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. A lawyer by trade, he also served as culture minister a decade ago.