Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador

Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally. (Supplied)
Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally. (Supplied)
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Updated 13 September 2024
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Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador

Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador
  • Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani considers it an honor and responsibility to represent nation’s tourism program

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia actor Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, 10, who has been an ambassador for the Saudi Summer Program 2024, has brought an intense passion and energy to the role.

With a career marked by appearances in commercials and TV series, Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally.

Al-Qahtani told Arab News: “I’ve always loved performing. I started by acting in ads for big brands like Infiniti Cars, Al-Rajhi Bank and Aramco. These opportunities allowed me to explore different facets of acting and build a solid foundation in the industry.”




Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Saudi actor

His experience includes campaigns for the ministries of health and environment, water and agriculture, as well as the Misk Foundation.

His acting career has been marked by outstanding performances in series including “Al-Deek Al-Azraq” and “Orim.”

Al-Qahtani’s upcoming film, “Shahd,” has also generated considerable excitement among his fans. “Acting is my real passion … Growing up, my culture deeply influenced the roles I chose. I feel fortunate to work on projects that resonate with my heritage and bring our stories to life.”

It’s a special chance to share the beauty and diversity of our country’s summer experiences with the world. I take this role very seriously and am dedicated to making the most of it.

Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Saudi actor

Transitioning to his role as the ambassador for the Saudi Summer Program, Al-Qahtani considers it an honor and responsibility.

“I’m thrilled … it’s a special chance to share the beauty and diversity of our country’s summer experiences with the world. I take this role very seriously and am dedicated to making the most of it,” he said.

As part of his duties, Al-Qahtani has been touring Saudi Arabia, exploring various summer destinations and participating in local events.

Al-Qahtani said: “Every place I visit has its own unique charm. Boulevard City in Riyadh is incredibly dynamic, while Jeddah Corniche offers a beautiful blend of sea and city. Abha, where I grew up, holds a special place in my heart, and I’m always excited to share its beauty with others.”

One of the standout moments of his tour was attending the King Cup final in Jeddah. “It was a significant event, and representing the summer program there was a source of immense pride for me. It felt like a perfect blend of sports and cultural celebration.”

A particularly memorable experience for him was meeting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb in Asir. The meeting offered Al-Qahtani insights into the ongoing efforts to boost the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

“Meeting the minister was an invaluable experience,” he said. “I learned a lot about the strategies and initiatives aimed at promoting tourism in Saudi Arabia. It was inspiring to see the commitment and vision behind these efforts.”

During the interaction, Al-Qahtani held a kite adorned with the program’s logo and Al-Khateeb drew a picture symbolizing summer on it. “(It) was a special moment for me. It felt like a meaningful connection to the program and underscored the collaborative spirit of this initiative.”

Looking ahead, Al-Qahtani is enthusiastic about continuing his acting career while remaining committed to his ambassadorial role.

“I’m excited to keep working as an actor and take on new challenges,” he added. “I’m also dedicated to promoting Saudi Arabia’s cultural and artistic scene. Football is another passion of mine, and I hope to explore opportunities in that area as well.”

The four-month Saudi Summer Program runs until the end of September and includes Asir, Baha, Taif, Jeddah, Riyadh, the Red Sea and AlUla. There have been hundreds of events offered with more than 100 partners.

 


Thousands of people benefitting from KSrelief food aid

Thousands of people benefitting from KSrelief food aid
Updated 27 sec ago
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Thousands of people benefitting from KSrelief food aid

Thousands of people benefitting from KSrelief food aid
  • The Etaam project, now in its fourth phase, aims to distribute 390,109 food parcels across 27 countries during Ramadan

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's aid agency KSrelief recently launched its Etaam Ramadan project in Djibouti to deliver 6,640 food parcels for the benefit of 9,840 people, state news agency SPA reported on Friday.

The announcement comes as KSrelief continues to deliver food to some of the world’s most needy during the holy month.

In Nigeria’s Kebbi state there were 433 parcels delivered, benefiting 2,598 people. And in Bucharest and Constanta in Romania, a further 299 packages to aid 1,495 people were distributed.

Also, 172 packages were sent to Syrian and Palestinian refugees and vulnerable families in the Lebanese governorate of Mount Lebanon.

And in Bangladesh’s Naogaon town, 250 were sent for 1,250 people.

In the Teyarett district of the Mauritanian capital, 220 parcels were sent for the benefit of 1,320 people.

The Etaam project, now in its fourth phase, aims to distribute 390,109 food parcels across 27 countries during Ramadan, benefiting 2.3 million people at a cost of more than SR67 million ($17.8 million), the SPA added.


Offences related to drug methamphetamine outlined

Offences related to drug methamphetamine outlined
Updated 32 min ago
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Offences related to drug methamphetamine outlined

Offences related to drug methamphetamine outlined
  • Saudi attorney general decision effective March 1
  • Addicted individuals will be given choice of rehab

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Attorney General Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib has outlined the list of criminal offences related to the drug methamphetamine.

Sheikh Saud’s decision, dated March 1, 2025, is a part of efforts to combat the use and distribution of drugs in the country, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

The criminal offences that warrant arrest include possession, smuggling, obtaining, purchasing, transporting and manufacture. In addition, personal use and consumption are also criminal offences.

Methamphetamine — also known as shabu, crystal meth, or the poor man’s cocaine —  causes serious psychological and behavioral disorders, and contributes to the rise in crime and violence.

As such, the scourge has to be dealt with firmly in accordance with deterrent legislation and decisions, the report stated.

While the law against drug trafficking and abuse is harsh, it also allows for individuals to seek reform and rehabilitation.

Article 42 of the Anti-Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Law stipulates that the user “shall be granted the opportunity to receive treatment.”

The legislation further states that this can be done without “legal accountability, by not filing a lawsuit against the user or addict, if he or one of his relatives comes forward intending to receive treatment.”

In addition, the law requires that the person “hands over the narcotic or psychotropic substances” and provide “information about their location.”


Crown prince receives Yazeed Al-Rajhi after winning Saudi Dakar Rally

Crown prince receives Yazeed Al-Rajhi after winning Saudi Dakar Rally
Updated 14 March 2025
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Crown prince receives Yazeed Al-Rajhi after winning Saudi Dakar Rally

Crown prince receives Yazeed Al-Rajhi after winning Saudi Dakar Rally

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Yazeed Al Rajhi, winner of the 2025 Dakar Rally Saudi Arabia, at Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah.

After winning the title in the cars category, Al-Rajhi became the first Saudi to accomplish the feat in the rally, one of the world's most prestigious motorsports championship.

The Crown Prince congratulated Al-Rajhi on winning a tough competition, featuring a number of prominent international competitors. He emphasized that the achievement should serve as motivation for Saudi athletes to continue developing their skills for future success.

Al-Rajhi thanked the Crown Prince for the gesture.

Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sports, and Prince Khalid bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation, attended the reception.

Saudi Arabia has hosted the Dakar Rally since 2020, when it moved from South America.


Newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors take oath of office before crown prince 

Newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors take oath of office before crown prince 
Updated 14 March 2025
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Newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors take oath of office before crown prince 

Newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors take oath of office before crown prince 

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on behalf King Salman, received newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors to a number of countries.

The ambassadors took oath of office before the crown prince at Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the Kingdom’s Foreign Minister, attended the ceremony.


Saudi crown prince, Russia president discuss Ukraine crisis 

Saudi crown prince, Russia president discuss Ukraine crisis 
Updated 14 March 2025
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Saudi crown prince, Russia president discuss Ukraine crisis 

Saudi crown prince, Russia president discuss Ukraine crisis 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made a phone call to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Saudi Press Agency said early Friday.

The crown prince affirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to exerting all efforts to facilitate dialogue and achieve a political solution to the crisis in Ukraine.

President Putin renewed his thanks and appreciation to the Kingdom for its constructive efforts and endeavors.

The two leaders also reviewed ways to boost bilateral cooperation.