Saudi Arabia reaffirms centrality of Palestinian cause
Minister urges unified Arab media strategy, and artificial intelligence integration to enhance content
Updated 10 December 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary has emphasized the importance of leveraging Arab efforts in the sector to support the Palestinian cause.
Al-Dossary made the comments while chairing the 20th session of the Executive Office of the Arab Information Ministers Council in Abu Dhabi, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
The meeting was attended by heads of Arab delegations, institutions, and unions engaged in media-related activities.
Al-Dossary stressed the need for all Arab media outlets to highlight the resolutions issued during the recent Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit in Riyadh.
These resolutions reaffirmed the centrality of the Palestinian cause, unwavering support for the national rights of the besieged people, and the pursuit of a just and comprehensive solution based on international agreements.
“We meet today to discuss 12 items as part of Arab efforts to enhance joint Arab media work, foremost among them the Palestinian cause,” the minister said.
He also emphasized the importance of the unified Arab plan for media engagement with environmental issues.
Al-Dossary highlighted Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification and the One Water Summit, stressing the importance of showcasing their outcomes in Arab media.
He underscored the importance of leveraging artificial intelligence technologies in Arab media to enhance content and analyze audience behavior.
Furthermore, he called for the insights from the Global AI Summit held in Riyadh to be implemented to improve the performance of Arab media.
He noted that discussions were held on key issues, including the role of the media in combating terrorism.
In addition, there was a focus on the Arab League’s efforts to follow up on the Arab Media Action Plan abroad, and the Arab Media Map for Sustainable Development 2030.
Symphony of scripts: Calligraphers make their mark in Dammam exhibition
‘The Pulse of Ink’ unites 30 young and experienced artisans to honor cultural heritage
Updated 15 sec ago
Arab News
DHAHRAN: In the heart of Dammam, the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts is hosting a calligraphy art exhibition titled “The Pulse of Ink,” showcasing works of the Qatif Calligraphy Group.
Art enthusiasts and curious minds alike have until Jan. 20 to explore works by renowned calligraphy and ornamentation artists, including some as young as 12-years-old.
To complement the exhibition, the Qatif Calligraphy Group has organized a series of engaging activities, including workshops for aspiring calligraphers.
The first workshop was presented by 14-year-old Hussein Bazaroun, who has been practicing calligraphy for two and a half years.
Bazroun’s passion and dedication to the craft are a source of inspiration for young and aspiring artists alike.
Additional workshops will focus on Diwani script, led by calligrapher Ali Al-Khuwaildi, and Ruq’ah script, taught by his fellow calligrapher, Hassan Al-Radwan.
Among the showcased talents is 12-year-old calligrapher Ali Al-Kadhim, a prodigy who has been perfecting his craft for just over a year and a half. His talent is a testament to the group’s mission to promote and preserve the ancient art of Arabic calligraphy.
The exhibition also features a diverse range of pieces, each a captivating blend of intricate lines, curves and ornaments that seem to dance across the page.
The calligraphy group’s goals are diverse and far-reaching. By hosting workshops, exhibitions and lectures, they promote Arabic calligraphy as an Islamic and artistic art form, while also supporting local artists and enriching the cultural landscape of Qatif.
Through competitions and showcases, they are creating a new generation of calligraphers to carry forward the tradition.
For Al-Khuwaildi, vice president of the calligraphy group, calligraphy is more than just a hobby — it is a refuge, a source of comfort and a means of creative expression.
“I fell in love with calligraphy in elementary school, and it evolved from a hobby into a refuge throughout my life,” he told Arab News.
“Whenever life gets overwhelming, I return to it like a bird to its nest.” His words reflect the therapeutic power of calligraphy, which requires patience, dedication and a deep understanding of the intricate relationships between letters, lines and spaces.
Hassan Al-Bashrawi, secretary of the calligraphy group, highlighted the unique appeal of Arabic calligraphy: “It combines two key aesthetic qualities: Artistic construction and meaningful values reflecting Islamic civilization and Arab heritage.”
Al-Bashrawi’s own journey as a calligrapher has been marked by intense study, practice and collaboration with fellow artists. Through his work, he is building a strong foundation for renewal, drawing inspiration from both ancient resources and contemporary artists.
For Muna Al-Muhanna, a talented artist featuring her first piece in the exhibition, the experience is nothing short of exhilarating.
“My feelings were a mix of the joy of accomplishment and pride in creating something in remembrance of Allah, the Most High,” she said.
Capturing the essence of the ancient art form, she added: “It separates me from the tangible world and immerses me in a realm of beauty represented by calligraphy.”
At the Qatif Calligraphy Group’s exhibition in Dammam, visitors will be treated to a visual feast of intricate scripts, majestic ornaments and heartfelt expressions of creativity.
In an era where technology dominates our daily lives, this celebration of Arabic calligraphy serves as a reminder of the beauty, spirituality and timelessness of handwritten art.
Whether you are an art lover or history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of language, the exhibition is sure to leave you in awe of the magic that happens when pen meets paper.
Anthony Hopkins enchants Riyadh with dreamlike symphony
Introduced by Morgan Freeman, the Hollywood icon reflects on universal language of music
Performing concert in Saudi Arabia ‘an unimaginable honor,’ Hopkins says
Updated 25 min 33 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: In a captivating blend of art and humanity, Hollywood icon Anthony Hopkins graced the Bakr Al-Shaddi Theater in Boulevard City, Riyadh, with a performance titled “Life is a Dream” as part of the Riyadh Season festivities.
Introduced by fellow actor Morgan Freeman, Hopkins opened his speech with the Arabic greeting, “As-salamu alaykum,” setting a tone of cultural respect and unity.
Hopkins shared his reflections on life and art, drawing from the words of Edgar Allan Poe: “I have always believed that all we see or seem is but a dream within a dream.”
He thanked Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, for the invitation to perform in Riyadh.
“I am deeply humbled and immensely grateful to premiere my piece, ‘Life is a Dream,’ during Riyadh Season,” he said.
Reflecting on his life, he described the path from “the son of a simple baker” in South Wales to a world-renowned composer and actor.
“My life, to me, is a profound mystery,” he said. “It’s impossible to understand or take credit for the blessings I’ve been given. That’s why I believe life is a dream, and this piece, ‘Life is a Dream,’ was inspired by my dreamy childhood in South Wales, my wonderfully supportive mother and my father, who was larger than life and worked tirelessly throughout his life.”
Hopkins invoked the philosophy of Ralph Waldo Emerson, highlighting music and art as spiritual connectors.
“Music and art are paths to God, the primary means to connect all human souls. Emerson understood that touching one soul means touching all souls and I too believe that music is a transformative power,” he said.
“I always dreamed of being a composer, but I never knew how. Yet performing this concert in Saudi Arabia, the cradle of Islam, where Prophet Muhammad received his messages and home to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah is an unimaginable honor.”
Addressing global challenges, Hopkins stressed the importance of unity and peace.
“I cannot imagine a better place than here to come together, bridge our differences and envision a world of peace, balance and love,” he said.
“At 87 years old, I understand deeply that death is inevitable. But the theme of this concert is that life is a long farewell to everything we love, a prolonged goodbye, but one filled with forgiveness and wonder.”
Hopkins concluded by acknowledging the team that made the concert possible, giving special thanks to Rakan Al-Harthi, managing director of Sela, his music producer Stephen Barton, conductor Matthew Freeman, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. He ended his speech with “Shukran.”
Through this event, Hopkins not only showcased his musical talents but also made a lasting impression on Riyadh Season, emphasizing the unifying power of art and music in promoting tolerance, love and understanding across cultures.
Saudi authorities arrest 21,485 illegals in one week
Updated 18 January 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 21,485 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 13,562 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,853 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,070 for labor-related issues.
The report showed that among the 1,568 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 50 percent were Ethiopian, 47 percent Yemeni, and 3 percent were of other nationalities.
A further 64 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 16 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, SPA reported.
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.
How Saudi Arabia is weaving sustainable practices into its fashion industry
Saudi Vision 2030 champions reducing, reusing, recycling, and upcycling clothing, with local designers leading the way
Initiatives like Riyadh’s GFX Fashion Swap promote exchanging quality garments to extend wardrobe life and cut waste
Updated 18 January 2025
Waad Hussain
RIYADH: Thanks to the mass production and export of cheaply made clothing — a phenomenon of globalization known as “fast fashion” — consumers the world over have gained access to an almost limitless range of affordable outfits.
While this manufacturing and retail boom has stimulated growth, created jobs, and catered to consumer demand, it has also placed an immense strain on the workforces making these garments and on the environment.
In line with the sustainability goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform agenda and its circular economy approach, the Kingdom is encouraging consumers and manufacturers to reduce, reuse, recycle, and upcycle clothing to help ease the environmental burden.
With more than 80 billion garments produced worldwide every year, the industry has contributed to the pollution of the environment, the excessive use of resources, and a throwaway culture that has resulted in towering heaps of waste.
Globally, one garbage truck’s worth of textiles is sent to landfill or incinerated every second, depleting natural resources and increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Experts warn the industry could account for a quarter of the world’s carbon emissions by 2050.
Textile waste account for 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, according to UN figures. (AFP)
One of the most polluting industries globally, fast fashion is responsible for 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, according to UN figures — surpassing the combined emissions from international flights and maritime shipping.
Compounding the problem, a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation reveals that less than 1 percent of used clothing is recycled into new garments, perpetuating a destructive cycle of resource depletion and waste.
A striking design by Khoja, highlighting modern Saudi fashion with a blend of tradition and futurism. (Instagram: moekhoja)
“Sustainability in fashion isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity,” Mohammed Khoja, founder of Saudi clothing brand Hindamme, told Arab News.
“We focus on creating high-quality, timeless pieces designed to transcend trends. This avoids overproduction and ensures that our garments can become cherished vintage finds for future generations.”
Opinion
This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field)
Khoja’s emphasis on “timeless design” aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of reducing waste and promoting sustainable consumption.
To address the issue of waste, Saudi Arabia is investing in circular fashion — a model focused on reusing, recycling, and upcycling clothing to extend its life cycle.
The Fashion Commission, which is part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture, has launched initiatives like the GFX Fashion Swap in Riyadh, which encourages the exchange of high-quality garments while educating participants on the environmental benefits of prolonging wardrobe use.
“We don’t need to keep buying new items,” said Nasiba Hafiz, a Saudi fashion designer. “Why not use the things we already have and repurpose them? This way, we can reduce waste and become more conscious consumers.”
(Instagram: globalfashionexchange)
Hafiz collaborates with Al-Oula Women’s Charitable Society to transform surplus fabrics into new garments, reducing waste while empowering women from underprivileged backgrounds in south Jeddah.
Another significant initiative is the Sustainable Materials Research Center. Established in partnership with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, the facility develops eco-friendly textiles for traditional garments like abayas and thobes.
By blending innovation with cultural heritage, the Kingdom advances sustainable design solutions.
Fast fashion’s impact extends beyond consumer waste, with a significant yet often overlooked toll on water resources. Factories in developing countries, where most clothing is produced, consume vast amounts of water and energy.
Efforts are being made to develop sustainable textile materials in the Kingdom. (AFP)
For instance, producing a single pair of jeans requires about 3,781 liters of water, according to the UN Environment Programme — enough to meet one person’s hydration needs for more than five years.
Textile factories also release hazardous waste that pollutes rivers and groundwater, with dyeing and treatment processes contributing heavily to water contamination.
The World Bank estimates the fashion industry generates 20 percent of global wastewater, which is often laced with toxic chemicals.
Waste from textile's factories is released to Dravyavati river in Rajasthan, India. Dyeing and treatment processes in textile factories contribute heavily to water contamination. (AFP)
In Saudi Arabia, where water is scarce, designers like Chaldene are championing sustainability. The brand incorporates eco-friendly materials, such as coconut-shell buttons, to reduce reliance on resource-heavy alternatives.
“Every detail in our collection reflects our commitment to minimizing waste and honoring nature,” Asma Al-Othaimeen and Ghada Al-Majed, the co-founders of Chaldene, told Arab News in a joint statement.
Indeed, Saudi designers are leading the Kingdom’s sustainable fashion movement, pioneering innovative approaches to reduce the industry’s environmental impact.
One such designer, Ghaydaa Majdaly, uses 3D technology to transform recycled plastic bottles into fabric, ensuring a zero-waste approach.
With 3D software programs simplifying the design process and improving product quality while reducing the environmental footprint, fashion designers are changing the way they approach their products, as well as pattern making and fittings. (Supplied)
“Technology allows us to reimagine what’s possible in fashion while addressing the environmental challenges of fast fashion,” said Majdaly.
To the same end, Nasiba Hafiz, in collaboration with Al-Oula, repurposes discarded fabrics into new garments. This partnership not only reduces waste but also provides economic support to women in south Jeddah.
“By reusing and repurposing, we can extend the life of materials and create something beautiful and meaningful,” said Hafiz.
Brands like Yasmina Q and Al-Oula turn discarded materials into new garments.
Hajj ihrams are recycled into reusable garments through sterilization and repair.
Meanwhile, Hindamme creator Khoja, who focuses on timeless designs over seasonal trends, believes in creating heirloom-quality pieces meant to last generations.
“Sustainability isn’t just about the environment — it’s about preserving our cultural identity while reducing waste,” he said.
However, the shift to sustainable fashion is not just up to brands and designers. Consumers also play a key role in driving demand for eco-conscious products.
Fast fashion thrives on overconsumption, with surveys showing many garments are worn only seven times before being discarded.
Reyouf Madkhali, a Saudi model and sustainable fashion advocate, emphasized the role of consumer behavior. “Sustainable fashion is reshaping the industry by encouraging innovation and responsibility,” she said.
“As a model, I prioritize working with brands that align with these values to promote conscious consumerism to my audience.”
Saudi model and sustainable fashion advocate Reyouf Madkhali. (Supplied)
She also noted the growing interest in sustainable practices among younger generations.
“People are starting to ask questions and take ownership of their choices,” she said. “Supporting local brands is a passion of mine, and I’ve been gradually replacing pieces in my wardrobe with designs from Saudi designers.”
Saudi Arabia is proving that sustainability and cultural preservation can go hand in hand. By tackling the environmental impact of fast fashion and promoting innovative solutions, the Kingdom is forging a new path.
Diriyah Season launches At-Turaif District activities
Diriyah Season 2024/25 began on Dec. 20 last year, under the theme “Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity”
Updated 17 January 2025
Arab News
DIRIYAH, Riyadh: Diriyah Season on Friday launched a new program of activities at the At-Turaif District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering visitors a range of cultural and historical experiences aimed at exploring Saudi Arabia’s heritage.
The program highlights key moments from the history of the first Saudi state through workshops, theatrical performances, and cultural sessions.
Visitors will engage in activities such as traditional Najdi design workshops, poetry recitations, and demonstrations of the Saudi Arda, the Kingdom’s traditional sword dance.
This year’s program also features the updated 850 Interactive Experience, named after the establishment of Diriyah in the Islamic calendar year 850 AH (1446 or 1447 AD in the Gregorian calendar).
The experience uses storytelling and puzzles to explore notable historical figures, including Imam Turki bin Abdullah, and key events from Diriyah’s history.
Workshops in traditional construction techniques, historical games, and exhibitions showcasing the district’s architecture are designed to deepen understanding of the region’s cultural significance, while live performances and discussions will further connect audiences with the stories of At-Turaif’s past, including its role in Saudi Arabia’s early statehood.
Diriyah Season 2024/25 began on Dec. 20 last year, under the theme “Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity.” The event aims to promote Diriyah as a cultural hub, combining historical education with live entertainment and creative showcases.
