Renowned Saudi journalist and columnist Rida Lari passed away Friday following a long battle with illness.

Rida was buried in Hawwa cemetery. He was 77.

Jeddah-born Lari is considered by many in the media as one of the pillars of Saudi journalism, and among first generation of true journalists in the Kingdom.

Lari completed his studies in Jeddah, and his undergraduate’s studies in Egypt in 1960s.

He held several governmental posts, including cultural attaché in Spain.

Lari served as the editor in chief of Okaz Arabic daily from 1975 to 1981. He also served as the editor in chief of English daily Saudi Gazette from 1985 to 1998.

Also, he served as the director general of the Saudi Press Agency.