蹤獲弝け

蹤獲弝け to host donor conference for displaced people in Sahel region

Extremist violence in the Sahel region has displaced millions of people. (AP/File Photo)
Extremist violence in the Sahel region has displaced millions of people. (AP/File Photo)
Short Url
Updated 23 August 2024

蹤獲弝け to host donor conference for displaced people in Sahel region

蹤獲弝け to host donor conference for displaced people in Sahel region
  • Conference will mobilize resources and coordinate efforts to provide critical aid to millions of people in the Sahel and Lake Chad region

RIYADH: 蹤獲弝け will host a donor conference for displaced people in the Sahel region of Africa on Oct. 26,the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center announced on Friday.

The conference, supported by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, will be held in response to the severe humanitarian crisis impacting Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, Burkina Faso and Mali, Saudi Press Agency reported.

It will mobilize resources and coordinate efforts to provide critical aid to millions of people in the Sahel and Lake Chad region, SPA added.

The UN estimates that nearly 33 million people across the region require urgent humanitarian assistance and protection, including about 11 million internally displaced persons and refugees.

The conference will be co-hosted by KSrelief and the OIC, in cooperation with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.

The Sahel and Lake Chad region has faced a multifaceted crisis for more than a decade, with social and economic instability exacerbated by the drying up of Lake Chad.

The conference will focus on raising resources for humanitarian and development initiatives, with an emphasis on UN-coordinated humanitarian response plans, and building partnerships to promote effective long-term solutions.

This conference is a critical step toward mobilizing the necessary resources and forging partnerships to address the pressing humanitarian needs in these areas. Jointly, we can bring hope and relief to millions, KSrelief Supervisor-General Abdullah Al-Rabeeah said.

OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha called on member states and international partners to extend financial resources to help improve conditions in the troubled region, and he emphasized the conferences role in implementing the OICs resolution by the Council of Foreign Ministers.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi also highlighted the urgent need for support.

We must spare no effort to assist forcibly displaced populations and the communities that host them, he said, and expressed gratitude to 蹤獲弝け, the OIC and other partners for their efforts to address the severe funding shortage faced by the region.


Saudi pavilion at Expo 2025 highlights nations culture and artists

Saudi pavilion at Expo 2025 highlights nations culture and artists
Updated 22 sec ago

Saudi pavilion at Expo 2025 highlights nations culture and artists

Saudi pavilion at Expo 2025 highlights nations culture and artists
  • Since opening in April, the studios have hosted more than 115 events

OSAKA: The Kingdoms pavilion at Expo 2025 is showcasing contemporary 蹤獲弝け artworks tailored for a Japanese audience, which is aimed at promoting cultural ties between the two countries.

The artworks are on show within two cultural studios that are also used to host workshops and exhibitions.

Since opening in April, the studios have hosted more than 115 events, including exhibitions and live performances, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

The events in the cultural spaces feature 蹤獲弝け artists who showcase the Kingdoms heritage.

蹤獲弝けs pavilion at Expo 2025 is the second-largest after Japan. It has registered more than 1 million visits.

Expo 2025 Osaka began in April and will conclude in October.


蹤獲弝け to host cultural week in Osaka

蹤獲弝け to host cultural week in Osaka
Updated 09 July 2025

蹤獲弝け to host cultural week in Osaka

蹤獲弝け to host cultural week in Osaka
  • Calligraphy, art and Japanese-Saudi photographic show from July 12-15

OSAKA: The Kingdoms Ministry of Culture will host a Saudi Cultural Week in Osaka from July 12 to 15, which will highlight the nations rich heritage and showcase handmade products.

Taking place at the Expo Gallery EAST, the event coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Japan and 蹤獲弝け.

It will feature the Heritage Commission, the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, and the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy.

Additionally, the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives will present a series of photographs highlighting the cultural relations between the two nations.

蹤獲弝けs Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka will feature more than 700 immersive cultural activities, showcasing the Kingdoms innovation and heritage, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

The cultural week is a part of the Kingdoms broader initiative to strengthen ties between 蹤獲弝け, Japan and other nations.


Saudi crown prince meets Iranian foreign minister amid regional diplomacy push

Saudi crown prince meets Iranian foreign minister amid regional diplomacy push
Updated 08 July 2025

Saudi crown prince meets Iranian foreign minister amid regional diplomacy push

Saudi crown prince meets Iranian foreign minister amid regional diplomacy push
  • Leaders discuss ties and regional stability
  • Prince Mohammed urges dialogue and diplomacy as means of resolving disputes

JEDDAH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his delegation at Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah on Tuesday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Their meeting came as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between the two countries and navigate a turbulent regional landscape.

 

 

During the meeting, Prince Mohammed and Araghchi reviewed the state of Saudi-Iranian relations and exchanged views on recent developments across the region.

The crown prince underscored the Kingdoms hope that the current ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel would help lay the groundwork for enhanced regional security and stability.

Reaffirming 蹤獲弝けs longstanding support for diplomatic solutions, the crown prince stressed the importance of dialogue in resolving regional disputes and reducing tensions.

For his part, Araghchi expressed gratitude for the Kingdoms stance in condemning Israeli aggression, and praised Prince Mohammeds personal commitment to promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.

The meeting was attended by several senior Saudi officials, including Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, and National Security Advisor Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban.

Earlier in the day, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received his Iranian counterpart in Makkah, where the two officials also discussed bilateral relations and explored ways to foster regional cooperation.

Their talks focused on the evolving situation in the region and mutual efforts to safeguard security and stability.


Cabinet commends HRC adoption of resolution to protect children in cyberspace

蹤獲弝けs Cabinet held a session on Tuesday. (SPA)
蹤獲弝けs Cabinet held a session on Tuesday. (SPA)
Updated 08 July 2025

Cabinet commends HRC adoption of resolution to protect children in cyberspace

蹤獲弝けs Cabinet held a session on Tuesday. (SPA)
  • Crown prince briefed the Cabinet on the contents of his discussions with Indonesian president and phone call he received from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz

RIYADH: The Cabinet commended on Tuesday the Human Rights Councils unanimous adoption of a resolution submitted by the Kingdom to protect children in cyberspace.

The resolution, submitted by 蹤獲弝け, aims to protect children in cyberspace and is rooted in the global initiative Child Protection in Cyberspace launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in October 2024.

The Cabinet said that 蹤獲弝け maintaining its position as the top-ranked country in global cybersecurity according to this years edition of the International Institute for Management Development World Competitiveness Yearbook adds to a series of achievements made by this sector in record time.

Saudi Minister of State and Cabinet member Issam bin Saad bin Saeed said the Kingdoms first-place ranking globally in the ICT Development Index 2025 issued by the International Telecommunication Union is a confirmation of the strength of the its digital infrastructure.

It was also testament to the attractiveness of its investment environment and the development of the local digital economy, which has reached SR 495 billion ($132 billion) in size, he added.

The Cabinet also discussed the Kingdoms efforts and contributions at the international level to support multilateral action and enhance global economic growth rates, including continued cooperation with OPEC+ producers to maintain stability in oil markets.

The crown prince also briefed the Cabinet on the contents of his discussions with the President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto and a phone call he received from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

 


Reimagining the road ahead in 蹤獲弝け

As 蹤獲弝け rethinks how cities function, the role of local digital infrastructure is becoming more central. (Supplied/SPA)
As 蹤獲弝け rethinks how cities function, the role of local digital infrastructure is becoming more central. (Supplied/SPA)
Updated 08 July 2025

Reimagining the road ahead in 蹤獲弝け

As 蹤獲弝け rethinks how cities function, the role of local digital infrastructure is becoming more central. (Supplied/SPA)
  • A Saudi-developed navigation platform signals a deeper shift in how smart cities are designed

JEDDAH: As cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah grow at an unprecedented pace, they face mounting pressures that come with rapid urban expansion: increased traffic, infrastructure demands, and changing mobility patterns.

These challenges have sparked new conversations and innovations to support evolving everyday life.

Among the latest digital tools to emerge is Balady+, a 蹤獲弝け-developed navigation app that is gaining traction with more than 1 million downloads on Google Play according to the apps listing.

As the country continues its digital transformation, mobility solutions such as Balady+ are becoming a part of the conversation on how to make urban environments more efficient, accessible and responsive. (Supplied)

Launched in May, the app offers a locally tailored alternative to global platforms such as Google Maps and Waze to address navigation needs across Saudi cities.

Developed by Balady, a subsidiary of NHC Innovation, the apps features include real-time traffic updates, indoor navigation in malls and multistory buildings, and alerts for roadworks and speed bumps with accurate spatial and timing information.

FASTFACT

Balady+, a Saudi-developed navigation app, is gaining traction with more than 1 million downloads on Google Play.

A notable moment for the platform came during this years Hajj season, when Balady+ collaborated with the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites to support pilgrims with an interactive mapping system.

Yasser Alobaidan, CEO of Balady+

Over 11,000 key landmarks including mosque entrances and exits, surrounding streets, hospitals, Red Crescent stations, restrooms, fountains, and more than 160 critical facilities were updated in real time to ease the flow of people through dense and high-pressure areas.

Navigation apps arent just tools anymore; theyre daily essentials, said Abdulrahman Al-Babtain, a Riyadh-based commuter who has been using Balady+ for the past two months.

What makes this app more useful for me is how it reflects the real condition of roads, especially when it comes to closures or construction zones.

Navigation apps arent just tools anymore; theyre daily essentials, said Abdulrahman Al-Babtain, a Riyadh-based commuter who has been using Balady+ for the past two months. (SPA)

Built with an artificial intelligence-powered search engine, the app has generated a mix of enthusiasm and thoughtful critique from users on app stores.

Many have praised its realistic 3D mapping, with comments including extraordinary and custom made to better visualize surroundings.

Some reviews highlight standout features such as the snap and send municipal reporting tool, with one user noting that a damaged road was fixed within 12 hours of being reported.

Adel Alzahrani, ROSHN executive director of community development charters

While one review described the app as a decent alternative to Google Maps, others note a learning curve for new users and hope for future updates that make the interface more user-friendly and inclusive.

According to Al-Babtain, speed-bump alerts and government data integrations are particularly helpful in avoiding unexpected delays during his daily commute.

The GPS is smart, but what really matters is having the most current local info and thats where Balady+ wins, he said.

If we design cities for cars, we get traffic. If we design cities for people, we get life.

Adel Alzahrani, ROSHN executive director of community development charters

For Adel Alzahrani, executive director of community development charters at ROSHN, the app is part of a larger conversation about urban design and mobility.

Were not just developing real estate were influencing how people move, live, and interact. Mobility behavior starts with design. I often say the cities of the future wont be shaped by concrete alone theyll be sculpted by intelligence, data, and empathy, he said.

While international apps dominate global markets, Alzahrani who has used them all sees Balady+ as an attempt to address local needs through an initiative that is culturally aware, government-backed, and citizen-focused.

If we design cities for cars, we get traffic. If we design cities for people, we get life, he said.

As Saudi cities are increasingly digitized, apps such as Balady+ represent a broader shift in how people interact with their surroundings, not just as commuters but also data contributors and active participants in shaping smart urban systems.

Yasser Alobaidan, CEO of the app, told Arab News it was built on a combination of local and global technologies.

It was created through 3D modelling programs for areas like Hajj camps, the Grand Mosque, the Prophets Mosque, and key landmarks across cities and global technologies that convert residential and commercial buildings into 3D visualizations.

Work is currently underway to render the main roads across Saudi cities in 3D to provide drivers with a more realistic navigation experience, he added.

Available on Android, iOS, and Huawei Store, it supports both Arabic and English, and features a voice assistant that guides users in both languages.

Alobaidan explained the technical challenges of rendering 3D environments, such the Grand Mosque and Hajj camps, on users mobile devices.

Managing and optimizing the processing power and battery usage on users mobile devices when rendering 3D models was not easy.

As the country continues its digital transformation, mobility solutions such as Balady+ are becoming a part of the conversation on how to make urban environments more efficient, accessible and responsive.

蹤獲弝け stands at a unique moment. We have the chance to leapfrog the mistakes of car-first urbanism and become a global model of people-centered innovation where design, policy, and technology converge to create cities that breathe, move, and serve with grace, Alzahrani explained.

Its not just a digital tool, its a statement of intent. It tells us that 蹤獲弝け isnt just building smart cities were designing smarter ways to live in them.

Looking ahead, he said: Id love to see Balady+ connect with multimodal platforms, so users can seamlessly move between metro, bus, walking, or even autonomous shuttles.

Id also advocate for opening up APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), so urban developers and municipal agencies can build on top of the platform, creating custom layers for districts or temporary events.

As the Kingdom rethinks how cities function, the role of local digital infrastructure is becoming more central.

Balady+ may not be the only tool in that transition, but it points to a growing appetite for locally developed, tech-driven solutions to urban challenges.

Its not following global models. Its redefining them through a uniquely Saudi lens. And I think thats something worth celebrating, Alzahrani said.