萝莉视频

How wildflowers bring color and ecological balance to 萝莉视频鈥檚 deserts

Special How wildflowers bring color and ecological balance to 萝莉视频鈥檚 deserts
Clockwise, from top left: Zamlouq (Senecio glaucus), Ramth (Haloxylon salicornicum), Arnebia decumbens and 鈥嬧嬧嬧嬧嬧嬧媄ahra (Tribulus omanense). (SPA photos)
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Updated 24 May 2025

How wildflowers bring color and ecological balance to 萝莉视频鈥檚 deserts

How wildflowers bring color and ecological balance to 萝莉视频鈥檚 deserts
  • Conservation efforts and nature reserves are helping the Kingdom鈥檚 native desert flora make a strong comeback
  • Desert wildflowers like Zahrah and Zamlouq symbolize resilience, blooming in some of the world鈥檚 harshest environments

JEDDAH: 萝莉视频鈥檚 landscapes are brightened each year by a dazzling array of wildflowers that bring bursts of color and life to its deserts and valleys.

Among the most iconic are Bassia eriophora, Senecio glaucus (locally known as Zamlouq), and Tribulus omanense (commonly called Zahrah). These species are celebrated not only for their natural beauty but also for their ecological, historical, and cultural significance.

In the Northern Borders Province, the desert is seasonally transformed into a living canvas by the arrival of Zamlouq, one of the region鈥檚 most striking wildflowers. Once near extinction, this annual herbaceous plant is now enjoying a revival.

Also known as Nowair or Yellow Arabian, Zamlouq germinates rapidly after rainfall and can grow up to 20 centimeters tall. It is easily recognized by its elongated, strap-like leaves and bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that enrich the desert with vibrant color.

Zamlouq emits a distinctive, aromatic fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies, playing a vital role in pollination and supporting ecological balance.




Zamlouq, also known as Nowair or Yellow Arabian, not only provides valuable forage for livestock and wildlife but also helps stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. (SPA)

It typically blooms from late winter into spring, carpeting the desert floor with natural ground cover that boosts soil fertility and provides valuable forage for livestock and wildlife. It also helps stabilize the soil and prevent erosion 鈥 especially in open desert areas.

鈥淭his annual herb thrives in sandy plains and open rangelands, blooming in spring,鈥 Ghalia Aljeddani, associate professor of plant ecology at the University of Jeddah鈥檚 Department of Environmental Sciences, told Arab News.

鈥淚t serves as valuable forage for livestock and contributes to soil stabilization and ecological beautification.鈥

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Another native species creating a breathtaking spectacle during the blooming season is the Ramth shrub (Haloxylon salicornicum), particularly in the valleys of the Northern Borders, such as Wadi Arar and its tributaries. Recent thunderstorms and rainfall have triggered renewed floral activity in these regions.

Ramth is a perennial, evergreen shrub known for both its ecological and pastoral value. Conservation efforts, including the establishment of nature reserves, have helped restore this once-declining species and expand 萝莉视频鈥檚 green cover.




Ramth (Haloxylon salicornicum), a perennial desert shrub, thrives across the Arabian Peninsula under harsh desert conditions. (SPA photo)

Highly valued by herders as a key 鈥淗amad鈥 (palatable pasture shrub), Ramth typically grows to around 1 meter tall and can spread across several square meters. Its scale-like, tubular leaves retain moisture, allowing it to thrive in extreme desert conditions.

When protected from grazing, Ramth demonstrates a remarkable capacity to regenerate. In mid-summer, its foliage produces tiny granules of pure white sugar 鈥 a unique feature in its ecological profile.

Ramth is 鈥渃ommonly used as camel forage and firewood,鈥 said Aljeddani.

鈥淚t is also a natural source of salt for camels and has uses in cleaning products and some medicinal applications. Its ability to thrive in saline and arid environments makes it a promising solution for combating desertification.鈥

DID YOU KNOW?

鈥 More than 800 types of wildflowers have been recorded across the Arabian Peninsula.

鈥 After rainfall, the deserts, rocky mountains and gravel plains burst into life with greenery.

鈥 Despite their relatively small sizes, wildflowers in 萝莉视频 are remarkably resilient.

鈥 Bedouin have long used wild plants to treat infections and for health-boosting properties.

Among the diverse Tribulus species found across the Arabian Peninsula, Tribulus omanense 鈥 locally known as Zahrah 鈥 stands out with its large, vivid yellow flowers and soft, feathery foliage.

This trailing plant thrives in loose sands and high desert dunes and can grow up to 80 centimeters tall, adding a dramatic splash of color to otherwise barren terrain. Belonging to the Zygophyllaceae family, Zahrah is distinguished by its star-shaped flowers with five delicate petals and its spiny seed capsules.




Tribulus omanense 鈥 locally known as Zahrah 鈥 is a creeping annual plant from the (Zygophyllaceae) family, distinguished by clover-like compound leaves and bright yellow flowers. (SPA photo)




Tribulus omanense stands out with its large, vivid yellow flowers and soft, feathery foliage. (SPA photo)

Its deep green, pinnate leaves and sprawling stems enhance its ornamental appeal, while its winter bloom transforms the desert into a radiant sea of yellow. Zahrah serves as an important food source for desert ungulates like gazelles and oryx, as well as for domesticated animals.

Native to the Arabian Peninsula, Zahrah is exceptionally adapted to harsh conditions, tolerating extreme heat, drought, and sandy soils. Its water-saving mechanisms make it indispensable to desert ecosystems.

Beyond its ecological value, Tribulus omanense is revered as a symbol of endurance and vitality 鈥 mirroring the resilience of the desert and the spirit of the people who call it home.




The Arnebia decumbens plant, a seasonal wildflower that flourishes in the Kingdom's Northern Borders region during spring, serves as a vital food source for wildlife and livestock and contributes to ecological balance and soil stabilization in sandy areas. (SPA)

Yet environmental pressures such as climate change, overgrazing, and urban expansion threaten the resurgence of these plants. Authorities are working to raise public awareness about the importance of conserving native vegetation to preserve biodiversity and protect the Kingdom鈥檚 natural heritage.

These measures will help maintain ecological balance without excessive strain on water resources, enhance natural resistance to drought and desertification, and support the development of resilient and sustainable ecosystems.

鈥淭hese wildflowers are not merely natural adornments of the land,鈥 said Aljeddani. 鈥淭hey play vital environmental, cultural, and economic roles and significantly contribute to national initiatives aimed at achieving sustainability.鈥


Timely intervention by medical specialists saves Egyptian pilgrim from losing eyesight

Timely intervention by medical specialists saves Egyptian pilgrim from losing eyesight
Updated 43 sec ago

Timely intervention by medical specialists saves Egyptian pilgrim from losing eyesight

Timely intervention by medical specialists saves Egyptian pilgrim from losing eyesight
  • Patient suffered from retinal detachment accompanied by cataracts
  • After a one-day surgery, the patient continued with her Hajj rituals听

MAKKAH: Quick and precise intervention by a medical team at the Eye Health Center of King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah saved the sight of an Egyptian pilgrim who experienced sudden vision loss, Saudi health authorities announced on Thursday.

A series of examinations revealed that the patient was suffering from retinal detachment accompanied by cataracts, an emergency eye condition that can result in permanent vision loss if not treated promptly, said a Makkah Health Cluster statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency.
 
After a one-day surgery, the patient was discharged in stable condition and was able to continue with her Hajj rituals safely and with comfort.

"She is now receiving close medical follow-up to ensure retinal stability and gradual improvement in her vision," the health cluster said.

Each year, 萝莉视频 deploys around 50,000 healthcare and technical professionals to work 24 hours daily during Hajj to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims. 

Last year, the Ministry of Health said more than 142,000 pilgrims benefited from various healthcare services provided by health centers and hospitals. 

Of the number, 4,082 were admissions to hospitals and medical centers, out of which 24 open-heart surgeries, 249 cardiac catheterizations, and 1,006 dialysis sessions were rendered.


Saudi crown prince, Canadian prime minister discuss bilateral relations

Saudi crown prince, Canadian prime minister discuss bilateral relations
Updated 30 May 2025

Saudi crown prince, Canadian prime minister discuss bilateral relations

Saudi crown prince, Canadian prime minister discuss bilateral relations

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney shared a call on Thursday and discussed bilateral relations.
They discussed prospects for cooperation between the two countries, and opportunities to develop and enhance it in all fields, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The pair also reviewed the situation in the Middle East, agreeing on the need for sustainable peace in the region.
Carney was victorious in a May election after taken over as prime minister in March following the resignation of his predecessor Justin Trudeau. 
The crown prince and Carney discussed energy security and deepening trade between Riyadh and Ottawa, according to a readout from the Canadian premier鈥檚 office. 
Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact, it read. 


Umm Al-Qura University: Training students to work with millions of Hajj pilgrims

Umm Al-Qura University: Training students to work with millions of Hajj pilgrims
Updated 30 May 2025

Umm Al-Qura University: Training students to work with millions of Hajj pilgrims

Umm Al-Qura University: Training students to work with millions of Hajj pilgrims
  • Makkah-based institute plays significant role in developing Hajj experience under Saudi Vision 2030
  • One of the institute鈥檚 most important contributions is its seasonal field studies, says official

MAKKAH: As part of 萝莉视频鈥檚 efforts to improve the experience of Hajj, a specialized institute at Makkah鈥檚 Umm Al-Qura University is training thousands of professionals to work with the millions of pilgrims expected to travel to the two holy cities.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research plays a significant role in national development efforts under Vision 2030.

Director Khalid Al-Ghamdi spoke to Arab News about how the institute is working to improve the experience of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

鈥淭he institute remains a key driver in enhancing the pilgrimage experience through applied research and strategic capacity building,鈥 Al-Ghamdi told Arab News.

鈥淎s an advanced scientific arm, it plays a vital role in improving the efficiency and safety of services at the Grand Mosque and the holy sites.鈥

HIGHLIGHTS

The institute also trains thousands of field personnel annually to serve pilgrims and Umrah performers, in roles including security and healthcare staff, drivers and volunteers.

Training is delivered through immersive rehearsals that closely mirror real-world conditions in the field.

The institute is a globally unique research center dedicated to serving a gathering of unparalleled scale and significance.

One of the institute鈥檚 most important contributions is its seasonal field studies, Al-Ghamdi said.

Carried out annually during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, these studies document and analyze real-time challenges in key areas such as crowd movement, transport flow, environmental hazards, emergency response and overall efficiency.

He added that the outcomes of these studies serve as a vital technical reference for authorities, offering data-driven recommendations that support more effective planning for future seasons 鈥 a crucial function as crowds throng at holy sites in high temperatures.

The institute also trains thousands of field personnel annually to serve pilgrims and Umrah performers, in roles including security and healthcare staff, drivers and volunteers.

Training is delivered through immersive rehearsals that closely mirror real-world conditions in the field.

The institute also operates in close coordination with various government entities, including the Ministry of Interior, Civil Defense and the Transport Authority, to align its training with official guidelines.

Al-Ghamdi also discussed the institute鈥檚 advisory role in shaping regulatory and operational frameworks for Hajj and Umrah services.

The advisory role includes evaluation studies and environmental impact assessments, which inform strategic decisions on infrastructure development and service quality enhancement.

The institute is a globally unique research center dedicated to serving a gathering of unparalleled scale and significance.

Its research priorities are uniquely tailored, setting it apart from its international counterparts through a specialized focus on the Hajj, the holy sites, the two holy cities and related areas including urban planning, environmental sustainability and humanitarian services.

Additionally, Umm Al-Qura University offers academic programs in medicine and administration, specifically designed to prepare students for managing the unique operational demands of the Hajj and Umrah seasons.
 


King Salman receives letter听from Russian President Putin on Saudi-Russian ties

King Salman receives letter听from Russian President Putin on Saudi-Russian ties
Updated 29 May 2025

King Salman receives letter听from Russian President Putin on Saudi-Russian ties

King Salman receives letter听from Russian President Putin on Saudi-Russian ties
  • Message was delivered to Deputy Foreign Minister Walid bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji during his meeting in Riyadh with Russian Ambassador Sergei Kozlov

RIYADH: King Salman received a letter from Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday regarding relations between 萝莉视频 and Russia, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The message was delivered to Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji during his meeting in Riyadh with Russian Ambassador Sergei Kozlov.

The two officials reviewed Saudi-Russian relations and discussed regional and international developments, as well as ongoing diplomatic efforts on key issues, SPA added.


Elevating the comfort and dignity of Hajj pilgrims

Elevating the comfort and dignity of Hajj pilgrims
Updated 29 May 2025

Elevating the comfort and dignity of Hajj pilgrims

Elevating the comfort and dignity of Hajj pilgrims
  • Premium amenities on offer for ease, safety, accessibility
  • Hajj operators say VIP packages within Islamic guidelines

JEDDAH: A number of premium amenities are available for Hajj pilgrims seeking greater comfort, safety and accessibility during the pilgrimage.

Some of the offerings include specialized tents, gourmet meal options, personal care kits, and 24/7 medical support.

Hajj operator Abdullah Ali bin Mahfouz spoke to Arab News about some of the new services introduced this year.

鈥淲e have enhanced our services in very small things,鈥 he said. 鈥淟ike the pillow, which now weighs 1,100 grams, and the mattresses, which are more comfortable for rest.

鈥淲e鈥檝e also set up specialized tents that include mosque praying areas, which were previously located outside. One entire tent is equipped with massaging chairs to provide added comfort to the pilgrims.鈥

Abdullah Ali bin Mahfouz (left) spoke to Arab News about some of the new Hajj services on offer this year. Shown on the right are some of the premium services available for pilgrims include specialized tents, gourmet meal options, personal care kits and 24/7 medical support. (Supplied)

These upgrades allow pilgrims regardless of age or physical condition to perform their rituals with dignity.

鈥淥ur trained staff are available to support pilgrims at every stage, with special care provided for those with mobility needs.鈥

Wheelchair users are offered dedicated support during essential movement between the holy sites, and the operator also offers 24-hour meal and medical services.

鈥淭he Islamic sermon is provided in English, Arabic and Urdu, ensuring that everyone can understand and connect with the spiritual message,鈥 Mahfouz added.

Mohammed Hamed, representing another Hajj operator, highlighted efforts to provide a comfortable pilgrimage.

鈥淲e have designed beds in a style with dividers so pilgrims are not disturbed by others in the tent,鈥 he said.

鈥淓ach sleeping space includes charging points and reading lamps, allowing pilgrims to rest and recharge both physically and electronically.鈥

To minimize crowding and waiting, the company brings meals directly to pilgrims. 鈥淲e will provide food to them wherever they are sitting ensuring a peaceful environment,鈥 Hamed added.

Critics of VIP Hajj packages sometimes raise concerns about preserving the pilgrimage鈥檚 spiritual essence. However, providers insist these services are aligned with Islamic values and are merely accommodating varying needs among the faithful.

Salim Mansour, another Hajj service provider, defended the rise of VIP offerings. 鈥淭he VIP packages are carefully designed to remain within the accepted religious guidelines of Islam.

鈥淢any pilgrims opt for VIP Hajj packages to enjoy added conveniences, such as accommodation near the Jamarat area in Mina and dependable transportation services.鈥

These services are part of a wider initiative under 萝莉视频鈥檚 Vision 2030, aimed at enhancing and modernizing the nation鈥檚 pilgrimage and tourism offerings.