KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy

Special KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy
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KSrelief’s humanitarian efforts have reached 106 countries with an amount exceeding $7.3bn, said Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah at the Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum. (AN Photo/Rashid Hassan)
Special KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy
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KSrelief Supervisor General Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah speaks during a roundtable session with media representatives in Riyadh on February 23, 2025. (SPA)
Special KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy
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KSrelief Supervisor General Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah speaks during a roundtable session with media representatives in Riyadh on February 23, 2025. (SPA)
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KSrelief’s humanitarian efforts have reached 106 countries with an amount exceeding $7.3bn, said Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah at the Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum. (AN Photo/Rashid Hassan)
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KSrelief Supervisor General Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah speaks during a roundtable session with media representatives in Riyadh on February 23, 2025. (SPA)
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KSrelief’s humanitarian efforts have reached 106 countries with an amount exceeding $7.3bn, said Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah at the Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum. (AN Photo/Rashid Hassan)
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KSrelief’s humanitarian efforts have reached 106 countries with an amount exceeding $7.3bn, said Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah at the Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum. (AN Photo/Rashid Hassan)
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Updated 24 February 2025
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KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy

KSrelief marks a decade of defining humanitarian aid diplomacy
  • KSrelief’s worldwide aid efforts exceed $7.3 billion
  • King Salman always concerned with humanitarian work, says KSrelief chief

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief’s humanitarian efforts have reached 106 countries with an amount exceeding $7.3 billion, its Supervisor-General Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah noted at the Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum on Monday.

The agency has implemented 3,355 relief projects either directly or through its 211 international, national, and local partners.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the forum which is being held in partnership with the UN, Al-Rabeeah said: “This is a moment worthy of reflection, to draw lessons from the past that will help us to direct our actions towards the future.”

He noted that the forum, which is being attended by experts, officials from the UN and various international organization, is held under the theme “Navigating the Future of Humanitarian Response,” and coincides with the 10th anniversary of the establishment of KSrelief.

“King Salman has always been vitally concerned with humanitarian work, which he underscored 10 years ago with his establishment of the KSrelief to be a leading center in delivering Saudi humanitarian aid to those most in need around the world,” Al-Rabeeah said. “(It is) an approach that combines humanitarian giving, strategic planning, effective and rapid emergency interventions during crises of all kinds.”

He added that as a result of these efforts, the Kingdom’s total charitable contributions over the past five decades have surpassed $133.8 billion. “Additionally, KSrelief is one of the leading international organizations that implement extensive networks of global volunteer missions — 876 thus far across 52 countries,” he said.

KSrelief also actively participates with the UN in supporting a wide range of global humanitarian initiatives, including the Sustainable Development Goals, and contributes to the creation of innovative access mechanisms that achieve significant and comprehensive results.

He explained that the forum is being held within the context of collaborative efforts with the international community “as we share experience and knowledge to improve humanitarian crisis response.”

The event features 21 sessions and 132 speakers and will serve as a starting point for developing innovative initiatives that open new opportunities for humanitarian work.

These initiatives will incorporate creative models inspired by the most up-to-date technologies to improve the operational efficiency of humanitarian responses, ensure the optimal use of resources, and minimize duplication of efforts to better meet the lives of vulnerable groups worldwide.

The forum also provides an opportunity to call on the global donor community and partners from both the public and private sectors to provide the necessary financial support for humanitarian programs, to improve the speed and efficiency of crisis response, and to address urgent humanitarian appeals.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan thanked the diverse participation, saying: “We value the efforts and participation.”

He added: “This is a sign of standing firm and united in commitment to addressing the world's most pressing humanitarian challenges.”

Prince Faisal praised KSrelief for being at the forefront of humanitarian efforts for people in need everywhere including Palestine, Syria, Yemen, Sudan and all over the world.

He commended KSrelief’s extraordinary efforts with the Masam project removing landmines in war hit Yemen, as well as its efforts to champion humanitarian diplomacy in conflict areas.

Saudi moves to enhance dialogue and resolve conflicts have been acknowledged by the world, he said, noting that humanitarian diplomacy is very important in conflict areas, and that KSrelief has been playing a crucial role in preserving values.

Riyadh Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar read a message on behalf of King Salman that highlighted the commendable role the KSrelief played over the first decade of its run.

The opening ceremony saw the signing of four agreements: the first memorandum of financial contribution was signed between KSrelief and the World Health Organization with the amount of $300 million for the global polio eradication initiative; the second memorandum was signed between KSrelief and UNICEF with $200 million allocated for the initiative; the third between KSrelief and the Islamic Development Bank with a $100 million contribution to the lives and livelihood fund; and the fourth, a renewal of a joint cooperation program between KSrelief and the World Food Programme which has spanned several decades, during which the Kingdom has supported the dates program with more than 100,000 tonnes donated.

Speaking at the session on “Humanitarian diplomacy in conflicts,” Al-Rabeeah said humanitarian diplomacy is key in paving the way to resolve humanitarian catastrophe in conflict areas.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised Saudi Arabia for its humanitarian diplomacy in conflict areas such as Sudan, Ukraine, Gaza, and Syria.

He underlined that impartiality and neutrality is important for humanitarian diplomacy in conflicts.

International Organization for Migration Director General Amy Pope stressed the importance of access to basic services such as healthcare, water, food and shelter in conflict areas. 

She thanked KSrelief for bringing the organization into this key discussion, saying ensuring the needs of the people on the move remain central to the humanitarian agenda. 

Maciej Popowski, director general of the Directorate General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, stressed the importance of the legal aspect of humanitarian diplomacy and called for humanitarian diplomacy according to international humanitarian law, without indulging in politics.

He also mentioned EU sanctions on Syria during the previous regime.

The EU Council, meanwhile, decided on Monday to suspend a number of restrictive measures in view of the improved situation in Syria Arab Republic. This decision is part of the EU’s efforts to support an inclusive political transition in Syria, and its swift economic recovery, reconstruction, and stabilization.

Pierre Krahenbuhl, director general of the International Committee of the Red Cross, praised Saudi Arabia for its important role in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Sudan, Ukraine for humanitarian diplomacy in these armed conflicts.

UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, in a video message, praised KSrelief’s key role in humanitarian diplomacy in conflict areas.


Saudis are ditching screens for face-to-face fun

Saudis are ditching screens for face-to-face fun
Updated 19 April 2025
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Saudis are ditching screens for face-to-face fun

Saudis are ditching screens for face-to-face fun
  • Tabletop games bring families together for unplugged fun and real connections

RIYADH: In a screen-saturated world where social interactions often shrink to notifications, analog fun is reshaping Saudi leisure. Board games, once dismissed as childish relics, are experiencing a revival across the Kingdom. Whether at home, in cafes, or at traditional majlis gatherings, Saudis are increasingly turning to tabletop games for fun, connection and cultural relevance.

What began as a simple form of entertainment during family nights or holidays has grown into a social phenomenon, with games like Jackaroo, Sequence and locally designed options such as Saudi Deal, Elaab Bel Khames (Play With Five), La Tagool (Don’t say), and Ensan, Hayawan, Khashaabalan (Person, Animal, Nonsense) now staples in Saudi homes.

A tabletop games cafe in Saudi Arabia, offering a wide selection of international and local games. (Supplied\Roaa Al-Johani \Hayy Jameel)

“It became a trend because people miss real-life connection,” said Roaa Al-Johani. “Playing face to face just hits different, especially these days.”

This sentiment is echoed across Saudi homes, where board games have moved from being a once-in-a-while pastime to an essential part of gatherings.

I’d love to see games that tell stories from our culture or dive into Saudi history in a fun, modern way.

Wojoud Aziz

“Board games are a big part of our culture now,” Al-Johani added. “You see them in cafes — some cafes are fully built around them. Every Saudi home probably has either a Jackaroo or a Carrom board, especially after the (pandemic) era.”

During the pandemic, with more people spending time at home and looking for ways to unplug from screens, tabletop games offered a low-tech yet highly engaging alternative.

A tabletop games cafe in Saudi Arabia, offering a wide selection of international and local games. (Supplied\Roaa Al-Johani \Hayy Jameel)

Al-Johani shared how her own family embraced this shift: “I come from a family that loves board games to the point that my grandpa has a Jackaroo board in his majlis and invites his friends and neighbors to play. It’s kind of how we bond — when we play, age doesn’t really matter.”

The appeal lies in the shared experience. Unlike video games, which are often isolating or limited to a few players, board games bring people together physically and emotionally.

A tabletop games cafe in Saudi Arabia, offering a wide selection of international and local games. (Supplied\Roaa Al-Johani \Hayy Jameel)

“Even though I’m a hardcore gamer, I still prefer board games sometimes,” she said. “It’s really about the people you’re with — not just the game. The vibes, the laughs, the face-to-face time … it just feels more real.”

Norah Shobili, who recently tried Jackaroo, was similarly surprised by how engaging it was. “I used to think it was a kid’s game because they were the only ones playing it, but once I learned it, it was genuinely fun!”

People miss real-life connection. Playing face to face just hits different, especially these days.

Roaa Al-Johani

More than the gameplay itself, Shobili highlighted the intergenerational aspect of local games. “‏Back when Monopoly was the trend, kids wouldn’t play with elderly, because they’re kids they don’t know how to play, but with Jackaroo you see the elders team up with the young ones because they’re very good!”

Wojoud Aziz said that Saudi-made games resonate deeply with local culture: “They speak our language — literally. The humor, the names, the style — it all feels like home. You can tell they’re made by people who understand our culture and how we hang out.”

According to Aziz, board games are now a fixture in Saudi social life. “They weren’t always this big, but now? They’re part of the plan. I always see people playing them during family gatherings or chill hangouts.

“It gets super competitive but in a fun way, and everyone’s into it — even those who don’t usually play games.”

While most local games focus on fun, she believes there is more to them than meets the eye. “Some games really push you to focus, plan ahead and even read other players’ vibes. It’s low-key educational, too, but without making it feel like school, you know?”

The social value of these games is clear. “Board games have the advantage of being present with your family — if not verbally then at least physically,” Shobili said. “The whole family in one room, and as long as whoever you call will answer, that’s more than enough to spend quality time for me. It’s more about being there rather than doing something or talking.”

She also believes that Saudi game developers can take creative liberties, as long as they do not lose what matters most. “As long as they preserve the spirit of gatherings — being able to play as a big group regardless of age — they can develop however they want.”

That inclusivity is crucial. “Not all international games are translatable,” she said.

Looking ahead, both players and creators hope to see more storytelling and cultural depth in locally made games. “I’d love to see games that tell stories from our culture or dive into Saudi history in a fun, modern way,” Aziz said. “Something that mixes nostalgia with creativity — and hopefully goes global.”

As Saudis seek richer, more engaging ways to connect with friends and family, board games have become more than just entertainment — they are a bridge between generations, a spark for laughter, and a reason to put phones down and just be present.

 


The golden legacy of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province artisans

The golden legacy of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province artisans
Updated 19 April 2025
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The golden legacy of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province artisans

The golden legacy of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province artisans
  • As Saudi Arabia’s economy grew and diversified, many goldsmiths pivoted from hands-on crafting

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province has, historically, been a hub for the making of gold jewelry. Families in Al-Ahsa and Qatif have been passing down this intricate art for centuries, forging the region’s cultural identity and fueling its commerce.

While some artisans have shifted to gold trading or other careers amid the Kingdom’s economic transformation, many continue to practice their craft, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Mohammed Al-Hamad, former head of the Gold and Jewelry Committee at the Asharqia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, shared insights into the historical development of this profession in an interview with the SPA.

While some artisans have shifted to gold trading or other careers amid  economic transformation, many continue to practice their craft. (SPA)

Al-Hamad comes from a long line of jewelry manufacturers and gold traders. He described the traditional methods of shaping gold using rudimentary tools to create distinctive jewelry. He explained that the traditional goldsmithing process began with melting gold in a crucible over hot coals using a leather bellows, followed by shaping it with a hammer and anvil, the essential tools of the trade.

According to Al-Hamad, early goldsmiths were not only skilled artisans but also adept merchants, engaging directly with customers in their shops, selling their creations, and reworking precious metals brought in by patrons.

Some even traveled extensively to trade in used gold, silver, and the gold embroidery of traditional cloaks (bisht), using scales and traditional weight measurements before the widespread adoption of the gram system.

FASTFACT

Early Saudi goldsmiths were not only skilled artisans but also adept merchants, engaging directly with customers in their shops and reworking precious metals brought in by patrons.

Transactions were often based on trust, with gold frequently sold on credit or entrusted to the goldsmith for repair or modification.

Al-Hamad recalled that, as a child, he accompanied his father to purchase a 10-tola gold ingot —about 116 grams — for SR 600, a hefty sum back then.

He also mentioned a remarkable relic of the craft’s storied past — a legal document more than 200 years old recording the sale of a gold sandal, a testament to the artistry’s deep roots in the Eastern Province.

Artisans, he said, often crafted their own specialized tools and displayed their finished pieces in a traditional box known as a matbakah.

As Saudi Arabia’s economy grew and diversified, many goldsmiths pivoted from hands-on crafting. Some opened shops, workshops, or even factories, while others pursued opportunities in national companies or government positions.

Al-Hamad sees his generation as a bridge, connecting the days of pure handcrafting to a new era of gold trading and specialized workshops.

Jaafar Al-Nasser, a young electrical engineering graduate from the US, chose to carry forward his family’s goldsmithing legacy, the SPA reported.

He has built a factory packed with cutting-edge technology. Al-Nasser said that the gold and jewelry industry has transformed dramatically, shaped by economic, cultural, and social shifts, particularly greater exposure to international cultures.

This change has sparked customer demand for unique designs, encouraging jewelers to use advanced machinery to innovate.

Al-Nasser said soaring gold prices have hit the industry hard. Larger pieces are costlier to craft, pushing designers to create lightweight jewelry. This focus on minimal weight is a core goal for today’s manufacturers, he noted — a delicate balance of artistry and practicality driving this traditional craft forward.

 


Saudi, Egypt transport ministers discuss enhancing cooperation

Saudi, Egypt transport ministers discuss enhancing cooperation
Updated 19 April 2025
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Saudi, Egypt transport ministers discuss enhancing cooperation

Saudi, Egypt transport ministers discuss enhancing cooperation
  • The two sides discussed opportunities for developing partnerships in various transportation activities

RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh Al-Jasser met Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel El-Wazir recently in NEOM.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed opportunities for developing partnerships in various transportation activities, along with exchanging expertise in infrastructure, port connectivity and facilitating trade exchange, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Egyptian minister’s visit included a series of meetings and sessions, along with a meeting with officials in NEOM, where future projects were reviewed, and cooperation opportunities in maritime transport and modern technologies were explored.

 


Saudi Arabia promotes cinema, talent at Beijing festival

Saudi Arabia promotes cinema, talent at Beijing festival
Updated 19 April 2025
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Saudi Arabia promotes cinema, talent at Beijing festival

Saudi Arabia promotes cinema, talent at Beijing festival
  • The commission’s goal is to promote Saudi films and local talent and demonstrate the growth of the Kingdom’s film industry, while fostering collaboration with Chinese and Asian film sectors

RIYADH: The Saudi Film Commission is taking part in the Beijing International Film Festival, being held in the Chinese capital from April 19-22.

Its presence reflects the organization’s commitment to expanding the global presence of Saudi cinema, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Launched in 2011, the Beijing International Film Festival is a leading event in Asia and globally, promoting cultural exchange and cinematic dialogue.

There is a Saudi pavilion for the commission and its partners, offering a platform to engage with visitors and filmmakers and emphasizing creative and investment opportunities in the Kingdom.

The program also features a special screening of “Norah,” which highlights local talent and the richness of Saudi Arabia’s artistic content.

The commission’s goal is to promote Saudi films and local talent and demonstrate the growth of the Kingdom’s film industry, while fostering collaboration with Chinese and Asian film sectors.

It also aims to position Saudi Arabia as a key destination for filmmakers and expand international partnerships, with the hope of cementing its place on the global cinema map.

 


Japanese nanotube pioneer inspires Saudi youth at Riyadh science oasis

Japanese nanotube pioneer inspires Saudi youth at Riyadh science oasis
Updated 19 April 2025
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Japanese nanotube pioneer inspires Saudi youth at Riyadh science oasis

Japanese nanotube pioneer inspires Saudi youth at Riyadh science oasis
  • The session included participation from several high school students
  • Known as the father of carbon nanotubes, his 1991 discovery revolutionized the field of nanotechnology

RIYADH: King Salman Science Oasis in Riyadh hosted a scientific discussion featuring Japanese professor Sumio Iijima, the discoverer of carbon nanotubes and recipient of the 2025 King Faisal Prize in Science.
The session included participation from several high school students, along with various scientists and specialists, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The event was part of the center’s initiatives aimed at enhancing communication between scientists and younger generations, and inspiring students to engage in scientific research and innovation.
During the session, Iijima shared his academic journey and the early challenges he faced, discussing the motivations that led him to discover carbon nanotubes using an electron microscope.
Known as the father of carbon nanotubes, his 1991 discovery revolutionized the field of nanotechnology. His efforts established a new field in solid-state physics and materials science.
The discussion also addressed the importance of nanomaterials for future applications and their use in diverse fields such as electronics, energy storage and biomedicine. His discovery laid the foundation for countless technological innovations in the 21st century.
Iijima answered numerous questions related to scientific research and offered advice and encouragement to those interested in science and technology.
King Salman Science Oasis is a leading national initiative dedicated to promoting scientific culture and stimulating creativity and innovation across all segments of society.