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Ƶ pushes sustainable water future at Riyadh expo

Special Ƶ pushes sustainable water future at Riyadh expo
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The expo runs from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., welcoming visitors, investors, and business owners to showcase technologies and exchange knowledge on water and sustainable practices. (AN Photo/Jaafer Alsaleh)
Special Ƶ pushes sustainable water future at Riyadh expo
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Tareq Altamimi, founder and owner of SAS RTL, told Arab News that their goal is to introduce the company to visitors and experts, while also learning from other firms. (AN Photo/Jaafer Alsaleh)
Special Ƶ pushes sustainable water future at Riyadh expo
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The expo runs from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., welcoming visitors, investors, and business owners to showcase technologies and exchange knowledge on water and sustainable practices. (AN Photo/Jaafer Alsaleh)
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Updated 6 sec ago

Ƶ pushes sustainable water future at Riyadh expo

Ƶ pushes sustainable water future at Riyadh expo
  • Global firms join Kingdom’s efforts to secure resources for growing population and industries
  • Tareq Al-Tamimi: In line with the Kingdom’s ambition, we also aspire to grow in both local and global markets

RIYADH: The Global Water Expo is being held from Sept. 2-4 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center, where experts are discussing industry challenges, opportunities, and policy changes.

The event features more than 300 local and international companies, including leading firms from Germany, China, Turkiye, and the US in the water treatment sector.

Visitors can explore solutions in water and desalination, drainage and sewage systems, water extraction and treatment, waste management, recycling, and the latest advancements in environmental protection.

Among the participants is Tareq Al-Tamimi, founder and owner of SAS RTL, who spoke to Arab News about the company and its goals.

“Commercially, we want to showcase our facility to suppliers and consumers. In line with the Kingdom’s ambition, we also aspire to grow in both local and global markets.”

SAS RTL, based in Madinah, began operations in 2021 after the COVID-19 pandemic, specializing in water systems, including desalination plants and sewage systems.

Water plays a critical role in Ƶ’s economic progress and the well-being of its population. Due to the Kingdom’s scarce natural water resources, the government is making major investments to meet the needs of a fast-growing population, sustain expanding industries, and secure water for agriculture.

Ƶ is home to the world’s largest desalination plant. With its focus on sustainable development, the Kingdom is attracting international companies specializing in desalination and water solutions to present their technologies at the Global Water Expo.

Based in San Diego, California, Energy Recovery — a 20-year-old American leader in energy efficiency technology — is among the international companies at the expo.

The company develops innovations for desalination and energy, including recovery devices that cut energy consumption in seawater desalination plants.

Imad Al-Sharif, vice president of sales and business development at Energy Recovery, told Arab News: “Our product works in seawater desalination plants using reverse osmosis. It produces two components: desalinated water and wastewater.”

He added: “The desalinated water is reused, while the wastewater is purified and returned to the sea. Its unique advantage is the high energy content — instead of wasting it, we capture the mechanical energy for the plant’s benefit. About 60 percent of the energy is recovered and reused.”

The expo runs from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., welcoming visitors, investors, and business owners to showcase technologies and exchange knowledge on water and sustainable practices.


Ƶ emerges as global AI leader in 6 years

Ƶ emerges as global AI leader in 6 years
Updated 45 sec ago

Ƶ emerges as global AI leader in 6 years

Ƶ emerges as global AI leader in 6 years
  • Efforts led by Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority
  • Kingdom has ‘visionary leadership,’ academic tells Arab News

RIYADH: The Kingdom has emerged as a global leader in data and artificial intelligence in just six years, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

The transformation has been spearheaded by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority since its establishment in 2019.

The SDAIA has developed a strategic roadmap to enhance the Kingdom’s global competitiveness by leveraging data and AI to drive economic growth and develop human capabilities, the SPA reported.

“As the primary host of the Kingdom’s national data, the SDAIA is crucial for enabling digital transformation, providing insights for national decision-making, and building a robust digital infrastructure for integrated government services.”

The authority also prioritizes the responsible use of these technologies, creating regulatory frameworks that align with the Personal Data Protection Law to ensure privacy and ethical standards, the SPA reported.

Commenting on the transformation, Muhammad Khurram Khan, a professor of cybersecurity at King Saud University, told Arab News: “Ƶ’s AI journey is a direct reflection of visionary leadership, strategic foresight, and an unwavering national commitment to technological sovereignty.

“With the support of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom has positioned AI as a national priority, embedding it at the heart of its economic transformation and modernization agenda.”

“This top-level commitment has empowered Ƶ to build world-class digital infrastructure, advance AI research and innovation, and lay the foundation for long-term self-reliance in advanced and disruptive technologies,” Khan added.

The crown prince provides support for the SDAIA that has enabled the authority to achieve over 70 national and international awards and certifications, positioning the Kingdom at the forefront of global indicators.

“Through institutions like SDAIA, the Kingdom is driving a comprehensive national AI strategy that spans policy development, capability building, ethical governance, and global collaboration,” said Khan.

He added that the Kingdom’s AI leadership is evident through its hosting of global AI summits, and nationwide education initiatives.

Ƶ has also set up Public Investment Fund-backed AI entities including the company Humain, and committed to international standards through policies such as the Saudi AI Qualifications Framework, he said.

“These efforts clearly demonstrate the Kingdom’s ambition to lead the global AI race," he added.

Khan said that equally critical was the Kingdom’s deep investment in human capital.

The SAMAI initiative, which aims to equip 1 million Saudis with AI skills, and the national integration of a curriculum for over 6 million students, represent strategic moves toward long-term self-reliance and talent-driven innovation, he said.

“This is more than a digital shift, it is a nation-scale re-engineering of how technology, talent, and trust are mobilized to shape the future.

“Ƶ’s AI strategy is deeply aligned with Vision 2030, ensuring that AI is not only a driver of economic diversification, but also a tool to elevate human potential, enhance public services, and secure a competitive edge in the global innovation landscape.”

“By embedding AI into its societal fabric and aligning every initiative with Vision 2030, Ƶ is building a resilient, self-sufficient, and innovation-led economy that is poised to lead the world into the AI era,” he added.

The SDAIA’s initiatives include organizing successful global summits since 2020, attracting over 100,000 participants, and leading to the establishment of the International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics, supervised by UNESCO.

In addition to its global efforts, the SDAIA has contributed significantly to domestic services. The authority’s cybersecurity standards earned it certification from the global CREST organization, making it the first government agency in the Middle East to do so.

The SDAIA has also digitized government services, notably through the Tawakkalna app, which serves over 34 million users with more than 1,000 services.

Furthermore, the SDAIA employs AI technologies to manage crowds and ensure safety during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.

The SDAIA’s projects have also yielded significant economic benefits.

The Estishraf platform has generated over SR51 billion ($13.5 billion) in savings for more than 121 government agencies, while the Ehsan platform has facilitated over SR12 billion in donations, the SPA has reported.

These achievements demonstrate the tangible impact of the SDAIA’s work in strengthening the national economy and enhancing government efficiency.


DCO chief meets Palestinian, Syrian ministers in Riyadh

DCO chief meets Palestinian, Syrian ministers in Riyadh
Updated 52 min 44 sec ago

DCO chief meets Palestinian, Syrian ministers in Riyadh

DCO chief meets Palestinian, Syrian ministers in Riyadh
  • Meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the organization and Palestine in digital economy development
  • Al-Yahya also held talks with Syrian Minister of Communications and Technology Abdel Salam Heikal

RIYADH: Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization Deemah Al-Yahya received Palestinian Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Abdul Razeq Natshe and his delegation at the organization’s headquarters in Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the organization and Palestine in digital economy development, supporting innovation, inclusive growth and opening new opportunities in the digital sector.

Al-Yahya highlighted the organization’s commitment to Palestine’s digital transformation, praising national efforts toward economic openness.

She emphasized building partnerships that expand market access, attract investments and bridge digital divides, particularly through initiatives such as Digital Foreign Direct Investment.

Natshe and his delegation commended the organization’s evidence-based, data-driven approach in advancing digital growth among member states and its platforms that enable knowledge sharing, performance measurement and connecting emerging digital systems globally.

Both sides highlighted the importance of a robust digital ecosystem that supports entrepreneurs, empowers youth and creates opportunities for cross-border integration.

They also highlighted exchanging best practices and expertise between member states and Palestine to advance digital transformation, share knowledge and support regional digital development.

They agreed to continue coordination and explore practical areas of cooperation to boost the digital economy and enhance regional collaboration.

In a separate meeting, Al-Yahya also held talks with Syrian Minister of Communications and Technology Abdel Salam Heikal.

The two sides highlighted the importance of exchanging best practices and expertise between the organization’s member states and Syria.

They discussed the organization’s support approach and its role in connecting Syria to a broader network of global digital stakeholders.

The Digital Cooperation Organization confirmed its readiness to assist the Syrian Arab Republic in its digital transformation and commended the country’s national efforts toward economic openness.

Al-Yahya said that the organization is committed to supporting regional digital transformation and building a sustainable ecosystem that empowers individuals and entrepreneurs.

She added that dialogue and cooperation with countries like Syria are essential to fulfilling the organization’s mission of enabling digital prosperity for all.


KSrelief, Kyrgyz officials discuss humanitarian ties

KSrelief, Kyrgyz officials discuss humanitarian ties
Updated 03 September 2025

KSrelief, Kyrgyz officials discuss humanitarian ties

KSrelief, Kyrgyz officials discuss humanitarian ties
  • Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah met with Kyrgyz Ambassador Ulukbek Maripov in Riyadh
  • Maripov praised the Saudi aid agency’s efforts in assisting those in need worldwide

RIYADH: Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, supervisor general of the Saudi aid agency KSrelief, met with Kyrgyz Ambassador to Ƶ Ulukbek Maripov in Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

The two officials discussed issues of mutual interest related to humanitarian and relief affairs, as well as ways to support humanitarian work in Kyrgyzstan.

Maripov praised the Saudi aid agency’s efforts in assisting those in need worldwide, the SPA added.

KSrelief has implemented 3,632 projects worth more than $8.1 billion in 108 countries. These initiatives have been carried out in cooperation with 328 local, regional, and international partners since the agency’s inception in May 2015.

According to a recent KSrelief report, the countries and territories that benefited the most from the agency’s projects were Yemen ($4.6 billion), Syria ($532 million), Palestine ($530 million), and Somalia ($248 million).

The programs cover food security, early recovery, water, sanitation and hygiene, health, camp coordination, education, protection, emergency aid, and nutrition.


Al-Ahsa exhibition promotes innovation, investment opportunities in lime industry

Al-Ahsa exhibition promotes innovation, investment opportunities in lime industry
Updated 03 September 2025

Al-Ahsa exhibition promotes innovation, investment opportunities in lime industry

Al-Ahsa exhibition promotes innovation, investment opportunities in lime industry

Riyadh: “Lomi Hasawi,” an exhibition dedicated to the lime fruit of Ƶ’s Al-Ahsa region, attracted crowds of visitors, businessmen, and officials from the Kingdom and other Gulf countries.

The exhibition aims to present limes from Al-Ahsa — one of the governorate’s key agricultural products after dates — highlight the product’s derivatives, and encourage investment in related industries.

Organized by the Al-Ahsa Chamber in collaboration with the Al-Ahsa Development Authority, the exhibition runs until Sept. 6 and features 73 pavilions displaying innovative lime-based products.

The event also hosts youth initiatives and booths for artisans and families in the cottage industry, attracting strong visitor interest and engagement, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

Over three days, the exhibition held the “Lomithon” hackathon in partnership with King Faisal University, where more than 60 entrepreneurs presented 14 projects to enhance the value of lime and create economic opportunities.

Interactive events include a live cooking platform with prominent chefs from the Kingdom and Gulf region, along with tourist programs and handicraft workshops, the SPA added.

Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr, the governor of Al-Ahsa, inaugurated the exhibition on Aug. 21, highlighting the governorate’s competitive advantages and promising investment opportunities.

The Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, known as Reef Saudi, is participating as a gold sponsor of the exhibition.

Reef Saudi spokesman Majed Al-Buraikan said the program, which supports producers, provided SR342,000 ($91,000) to the lime sector in the Eastern Province, benefiting 89 farmers.

This support has increased lime production to more than 122,400 tonnes, Al-Buraikan added.

The fruit sector is a key focus for Reef Saudi, which aims to diversify local agriculture, improve efficiency, and contribute to self-sufficiency, in line with Vision 2030, according to SPA.

Al-Buraikan highlighted the high economic value of Al-Ahsa’s limes, its strong marketing potential, and its role in processing industries.

He added that Reef Saudi empowers small farmers by developing their tools and skills, thereby boosting incomes and economic returns.


Palestine tops agenda as Saudi crown prince meets UAE president in Riyadh

Palestine tops agenda as Saudi crown prince meets UAE president in Riyadh
Updated 11 min 49 sec ago

Palestine tops agenda as Saudi crown prince meets UAE president in Riyadh

Palestine tops agenda as Saudi crown prince meets UAE president in Riyadh
  • The leaders discussed the latest developments in Palestine alongside ways to strengthen Saudi-UAE ties and regional cooperation

RIYADH: The latest developments in Palestine were the focus of talks on Wednesday as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan in Riyadh.

The two leaders reviewed the situation in Palestine as part of a broader discussion on regional issues, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

They also explored ways to strengthen the close bilateral relations between Ƶ and the United Arab Emirates and to enhance cooperation across various fields.

Sheikh Mohamed arrived in Riyadh earlier on Wednesday and was received at King Khalid International Airport by the Crown Prince, underscoring the depth of ties between the two Gulf neighbors.