Rising star triumphs in tech competitions

Rising star triumphs in tech competitions
Mariam Al-Ahmar won first place in the Mediathon hackathon, a competition organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in May. (Supplied)
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Updated 11 September 2024
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Rising star triumphs in tech competitions

Rising star triumphs in tech competitions
  • Success of Mariam Al-Ahmar, 23, is a rallying cry for Saudi women in tech

RIYADH: In an era where technology is shaping the Kingdom’s future, 23-year-old Mariam Al-Ahmar is emerging as an inspiration for Saudi Arabia’s young people seeking to contribute to their nation’s development.

A graduate of Prince Sattam University with a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, Al-Ahmar recently won first place in the Mediathon hackathon, a competition organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology earlier this year in May.

She also secured third place in Tamkeenthon, a health-focused competition organized by the Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities from November 2023 to January this year.

Al-Ahmar’s success story has resonated throughout Saudi Arabia, leading to appearances on prominent channels including Al-Akhbariya's "120 Minutes" and MBC's "Good Morning Arabs."

Reflecting on her experiences in the Mediathon and Tamkeenthon competitions, Al-Ahmar described her journey as “enriching” and challenging.

Trying to identify a real-world problem that needed a solution required deep introspection and creativity, she said.

Al-Ahmar told Arab News: “Presenting and articulating this issue and its remedy to the judging committee was another obstacle. However, through effective teamwork with my dedicated colleagues, we successfully navigated these challenges and triumphed.”

In an age where technology often champions individual genius, Al-Ahmar’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of collective effort and support.

“The passion for technology fueled my pursuit of software engineering,” she said. “Prince Sattam University played a pivotal role in my journey by providing me with a solid educational foundation.”

When asked about the factors that set her work apart, Al-Ahmar said: “I attribute the distinctiveness of our work to a combination of innovative problem-solving approaches, meticulous attention to detail, and a collaborative team dynamic.”

She added: “These factors, coupled with a relentless pursuit of excellence, set our projects apart from those of our competitors.”

She offered advice to students aspiring to follow in her footsteps. “Always remember that challenges are opportunities for growth. Embrace them wholeheartedly and work with dedication and perseverance.”

“Utilize your education as a strong foundation to tackle real-world problems creatively. Lastly, never underestimate the power of hard work, determination, and continuous learning in achieving your goals,” Al-Ahmar said.


Saudi FM, Iranian president hold meeting in Doha 

Saudi FM, Iranian president hold meeting in Doha 
Updated 03 October 2024
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Saudi FM, Iranian president hold meeting in Doha 

Saudi FM, Iranian president hold meeting in Doha 

RIYADH: Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian received on Wednesday in the Qatari capital Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the Saudi Press Agency said.

The pair discussed the latest regional and international developments.

Senior Saudi and Iranian officials attended the meeting.


2-state solution the only viable path to lasting peace in Middle East, says Saudi foreign minister

2-state solution the only viable path to lasting peace in Middle East, says Saudi foreign minister
Updated 03 October 2024
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2-state solution the only viable path to lasting peace in Middle East, says Saudi foreign minister

2-state solution the only viable path to lasting peace in Middle East, says Saudi foreign minister
  • In an op-ed published in the Financial Times, Prince Faisal bin Farhan writes: ‘Palestinian statehood is a prerequisite for peace, rather than its by-product’
  • The ‘true obstacles to peace are not the Palestinians and Israelis, who yearn for stability and coexistence, but rather the radicals and warmongers on both sides,’ he adds

LONDON: Now is the time to embark on an irreversible path to resolving the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians that culminates in the establishment of two independent states in which the peoples can live side by side in peace, Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister said.

In an op-ed published in the Financial Times on Wednesday, Prince Faisal bin Farhan wrote that a two-state solution is the only viable way to ensure the long-term security of Palestine, Israel and the wider region.

The Kingdom will work tirelessly to help create an independent Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital, and will not establish diplomatic relations with Israel until this happens, he added. His comments echoed a reaffirmation of the Saudi stance by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a recent address to the Shoura Council.

Prince Faisal said an independent Palestinian state would deliver the dividends the Kingdom seeks: regional stability, integration and prosperity. His op-ed follows a sharp escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon in recent weeks, and an Iranian missile attack against Israel on Tuesday.

“It is essential to understand that the true obstacles to peace are not the Palestinians and Israelis, who yearn for stability and coexistence, but rather the radicals and warmongers on both sides who reject a just resolution and seek to spread this conflict across our region and beyond,” he wrote.

“These extremists should not dictate the future of our peoples or force war upon them. The voices of moderation must rise above the din of conflict, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that they are heard.”

Prince Faisal said self-determination is a right the Palestinian people deserve and are entitled to, and Saudi Arabia and other countries are working to secure global recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state. He encouraged those nations that have privately expressed a willingness to do this to do so publicly, because now is the “time to stand on the right side of history.”

He continued: “Merely recognizing Palestine is not enough. We must demand more accountability, in line with International Court of Justice opinions. This includes the implementation of UN resolutions, the imposition of punitive measures against those that work to undermine Palestinian statehood, and incentives for those who support it.”

He said the continuing assault on Gaza, expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank and imposition of restrictions on movement by Israeli authorities “creates a reality that diminishes prospects for a sovereign Palestinian state.”

Israeli “intransigence only exacerbates tensions and erodes trust, making diplomatic negotiations increasingly difficult, prolonging the suffering of both sides and pushing the region ever closer to wider war,” he added.

The prince called for support of the Palestinian Authority, which he said has shown perseverance “in maintaining calm in the occupied West Bank despite unrelenting obstacles.”

He continued: “Its commitment to non-violence and cooperation must be supported. A lasting resolution cannot be achieved without both Gaza and the occupied West Bank being under PA control.

“Palestinian statehood is a prerequisite for peace, rather than its by-product. This is the only path that can lead us out of this cycle of violence and into a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace, with security and mutual respect. Let us not delay any longer.”


Remote Thabhloten in Empty Quarter has rich history, compelling beauty

Remote Thabhloten in Empty Quarter has rich history, compelling beauty
Updated 02 October 2024
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Remote Thabhloten in Empty Quarter has rich history, compelling beauty

Remote Thabhloten in Empty Quarter has rich history, compelling beauty
  • Most remote village in Saudi Arabia, situated near the Omani border
  • In 1930, some of the residents had met first British travelers in desert 

MAKKAH: Thabhloten Center, part of Al-Ahsa governorate in the Eastern Province and over 1,500 km from Riyadh and 1,200 km from Al-Ahsa, is Saudi Arabia’s most remote village. 

Thabhloten, considered the largest sand basin in the world, is characterized by towering sand dunes on all sides, rich natural resources, and lakes in the middle. 

It is the most remote village in Saudi Arabia, with few paved roads and connections to cities in the Kingdom.

Mubarak bin Klot, a resident of Thabhloten, said that the locals speak Arabic, contrary to the misconception that they converse in Mehri. 

He said people have lived in the area for generations and have a connection to the land. “We grew up on its hills and were shaped by its vast landscape.” 

He also spoke fondly of the first documented journey across the Empty Quarter in 1930, which included British travelers and explorers.

This included Thomas Bertram, with the support of Sheikh Saleh bin Klot Al-Rashidi.

This historic expedition took place during the reign of King Abdulaziz, the founder of the Kingdom.

He continued: “Seventeen years later, the journey was undertaken once again by Wilfred Thesiger, whom the Bedouins called Mubarak bin London.

“He crossed the Empty Quarter with my grandfather, Mohammed bin Saleh bin Klot, traveling from Manukh to the Emirates, then to Oman, and finally to Mukalla, successfully traversing the entire Empty Quarter alongside three companions from the same tribe.

“These remarkable journeys were thoroughly documented in Britain, and we have copies of the records.”

He added that Thabhloten is the only village in the Empty Quarter, with around 436 properties and a population of just 400 people, all from the Al-Rashid tribe.

The villagers are primarily Bedouins, whose lives are shaped by the natural elements, relying on the weather, grazing lands, water sources, and livestock. 

He said the village has produced several educated individuals, with many having graduated from various universities.

Bin Klot said that he completed his initial education in the village before pursuing a degree in political science in Jordan.

He chose to return to his village, driven by a strong sense of attachment and the deep significance the village holds for its people.

Bin Klot said the nearest city where residents can access supplies, medical care, and essential goods is Al-Ahsa. Members of the community face significant challenges to cover these distances.

He said the roads leading to and from the village are challenging, unpaved, and often impassable.

Despite this, he said there was a strong community spirit, with people sharing resources.

Bin Klot said the government supplies the village with fuel to ensure electricity is provided to all its residents. 

He said people prefer to live in the area because of its mild winters and compelling natural beauty. 

When asked about children leaving for opportunities elsewhere, he said these decisions were up to their guardians. 

Some families have moved to cities in the Kingdom, while others preferred to stay.


Saudi crown prince congratulates Japan’s new prime minister

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. (File/SPA/AFP)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. (File/SPA/AFP)
Updated 02 October 2024
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Saudi crown prince congratulates Japan’s new prime minister

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. (File/SPA/AFP)
  • Ishiba officially took office after a parliamentary vote on Tuesday, replacing Fumio Kishida

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent a cable of congratulations on Wednesday to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba after he officially took office on Tuesday.

The crown prince wished the premier success and the Japanese people further progress and prosperity. He praised Saudi-Japanese relations and said the Kingdom is keen to develop them “in all fields.”

Ishiba officially took office after a parliamentary vote on Tuesday, replacing Fumio Kishida.

Kishida stepped down as the leader of the long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).


KSrelief chief receives Yemeni PM and his delegation

KSrelief chief receives Yemeni PM and his delegation
Updated 03 October 2024
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KSrelief chief receives Yemeni PM and his delegation

KSrelief chief receives Yemeni PM and his delegation

Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, general supervisor of the Saudi aid agency KSrelief, received Prime Minister of Yemen Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak and his accompanying delegation in Riyadh on Wednesday.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed the latest developments in the humanitarian and relief projects provided to the Yemeni people by the Kingdom through KSrelief and ways to enhance them, the Saudi aid agency noted in a report.

Al-Rabeeah emphasized the center’s keenness to alleviate the suffering of the needy, affected and displaced groups in Yemen, according to the directives of the Kingdom’s leadership.