EDITORIAL opinion Why today is China’s about Saudi growing ties with Arabia’s future, Saudi as much Arabia as its past By Li Huaxin By Faisal J. Abbas Page 16 Editor In Chief Page 3

SUNday, September 23, 2018 since 1975 Muharram 13, 1440 www.arabnews.com

The Voice of a Changing Region

JOLT TO REGIME Camel fest puts Taif on heritage map 29 gunned down at Iran military parade Opposition group, Daesh both claim responsibility

and that at least one of the assail- AFP Tehran ants, armed with a Kalashnikov Iran’s President Hassan First we assault rifle, wore the uniform of Rouhani vowed a “crushing Iran’s Revolutionary Guards force. response” after gunmen thought it’s “First we thought it’s part of the shot dead at least 29 people part of the parade, but after about 10 seconds including women and children parade, but we realized it was a terrorist attack on Saturday in an attack on an after about as bodyguards (of officials) started Iranian military parade. 10 seconds shooting,” he said. we realized “Everything went haywire and Daesh claimed to have carried out soldiers started running,” Ghasemi the rare assault in the southwestern it was a said. “The terrorists had no particu- city of Ahvaz, while Iranian officials terrorist lar target and didn’t really seem to accused “a foreign regime” backed attack as care as they shot anyone they could by the US of being behind it. bodyguards with rapid gunfire.” “The response of the Islamic Re- (of officials) State television gave a casualty public of Iran to the smallest threat toll of 29 dead and 57 wounded, will be crushing,” Rouhani said on started while the official news agency his official website, after addressing shooting. IRNA said those killed included a similar military parade in Tehran Behrad Ghasemi women and children who were to commemorate the start of the A local journalist spectators at the rally. 1980-1988 war with Iraq. Many of the wounded were in Foreign Minister Mohammad critical condition. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attended the closing ceremony of the SPA Javad Zarif said the attack near In a message of condolence to Rus- Crown Prince Camels Festival in Taif on Saturday. Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Sheikh the Iraqi border was carried out sia’s close regional ally, President Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and other dignitaries were present. Khalid bin Faisal by “terrorists recruited, trained, Vladimir Putin said he was “appalled bin Shuraim, owner of Al-Anoud, the winner camel, bagged a sword and SR1.5 million armed & paid by a foreign regime.” by this bloody crime” which was a Behrad Ghasemi, a local journal- reminder of the “necessity of an un- prize money. The event, organized by the Saudi Federation of Camels, was attended by a ist who witnessed the attack, said compromising battle against terror- number of princes and guests from the Gulf countries. shots rang out for 10 to 15 minutes i sm”.

PUTTING US UNDER PRESSURE Turkey set for new Syria offensive

drawal of the Syrian-Kurdish People’s military intervention in Syria. Menekse Tokyay Ankara Protection Units (YPG) from Manbij. Turkish presidential spokesper- Ankara is gearing up for a military Tal Abyad, an Arab-majority town son Ibrahim Kalin on Friday said offensive in the Syrian town of Tal north of Raqqa city and near the his country would soon start joint Abyad, according to news reports, Turkish border, was captured from training and patrols with the US in with video footage showing a mili- Daesh in 2015 by the YPG in an offen- Manbij, but added that Washing- tary deployment near the Turkish sive supported by US-led airstrikes. ton’s continued military support of border town of Akcakale. An operation in Tal Abyad would the YPG is unacceptable. The deployment is aimed at put- likely mark a new phase in Turkey’s The US State Department omit- ting additional pressure on the US ted the YPG and its political wing, to accelerate the implementation the Democratic Union Party (PYD), of a roadmap endorsed by Ankara HIGHLIGHT from its 2017 Country Reports on and Washington in June for the Terrorism, which was released on northern Syrian city of Manbij, ex- An operation in Tal Abyad would Wednesday. perts told Arab News. likely mark a new phase in Turkey’s military intervention in Syria. The roadmap consists of the with- Detailed report Page 13

NO LETUP IN VIOLENCE TheBrief Libya seeks UN help as MODI under fire India’s prime minister was under fire over allegations of corruption militia fighting kills 10 in a military jet deal with France after comments by former French in force since Sept. 4. They said a AP, AFP Benghazi President François Hollande. P14 total of 18 people remain missing. The latest bout of fighting between Libya’s internationally recog- UAE bad loans rival militias in the capital Tripoli nized government has called on The UAE banking sector is well- has left 10 people dead. the UN to take “concrete and effec- positioned for future growth with The medical authorities said 59 tive” action to protect civilians and the days of “bad loans” dragging people were also wounded when halt the fighting. The Government down bank balance sheets “behind fighting erupted the previous day, of National Accord (GNA) called us,” says a top banking official. P17 taking the death toll to 106 since on the UN mission to “present the armed conflict first began there late Security Council with the reality of last month. Friday’s fighting further the bloody events in Libya so that it 2 Riyals • Vol. XLIII strained a cease-fire that has been can ... protect the lives and property No. 292 • 20 pages of civilians”. JEDDAH RIYADH AL KHOBAR Libya slid into chaos after the 2011 •CORNICHE COMERCIAL CENTER - AL-BALAD - 012-6423510 •KINGDOM TOWER •LULU HYPERMARKET - 013-4987575 38 > uprising that overthrew longtime •QUEEN BUILDING, AL-BALAD - 012-6447882 •VELLAGIO 1 MALL AL BATHA •AL-RAHMANIYA CENTER, KING ABDULLAH BIN ABDULAZIZ ST. fastfact •RED SEA MALL •OLAYA SHOWROOM, SITEEN AQARIAH - 011-4656685 MAKKAH

dictator Muammar Qaddafi and led •JANUBIA MARKET, AL-BALAD - 012-6447225 / 012-6490130 MEDINA •AL MANSUR STREET NEXT TO S.A.M.A - 012-5377587 / 012-5378022 Libya slid into chaos after the 2011 to his death. It’s governed by rival DAMMAM •SULTANAH ST, AL-MASANI - 014-8268616 / 014-8221453 •JABAL OMAR MARKETS - 012-5389923 / 012-5759784 •AL-DAMMAM SEIKO MARKET, KING SAOUD ST. - 013-8325606 •AL-NOKHBA ROYAL HOTEL - 014-8207372 uprising that overthrew longtime authorities, based in Tripoli and the dictator Muammar Qaddafi and country’s east, each backed by an 9 771319 833054 led to his death. array of militias. ARAB NEWS Sunday, September 23, 2018 3

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NationalSpecial coverage Day

TRANSFORMATION ON TRACK EDITORIAL Why today is about Saudi Arabia’s journey: From Saudi Arabia’s future, as much 1932 to 2030 and beyond as its past faisal j. abbas As the Kingdom marks National Day, Arab News tracks how the bold reforms underway editor in chief n National Day, we Saudis typically in KSA mean the country is undergoing a period of change like never before celebrate our past. In a way, this occasion is very much like Thanksgiving; we look back at the blood, sweat and tears that were Osacrificed for the unification of the Kingdom in 1932… and then praise God for what this nation has become. Cynics would argue that any country which stumbles upon a vast wealth of oil would have ended up the same way. Of course, all these cynics need to do is just look at Iraq and Iran, for example, and they will find out that their argument doesn’t stand. On National Day, local newspapers typically publish stories reminding the public of why we should be proud of our past. However, we at Arab News have decided to mark this occasion differently this time. In 2016, Vision 2030 was announced by then- Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Promising to rid the Kingdom of its dependence on oil through introducing social and economic reforms, the vision quickly emerged as a blueprint to Saudi Arabia’s future. It wasn’t too long after that we started feeling the change.We finally had a young leader who spoke our language, empowered by his father, King Salman. It was uncommon for Saudis to hear the terms “Project Management Office” and “KPIs” from their leaders. Then suddenly, international companies were granted licenses to operate without the need for a Saudi partner. The religious police’s powers were curbed for the first time, and their role restricted to a somewhat advisory one. Saudi Arabia has embarked on a plan to boost renewable energy. Shutterstock A government enter- tainment authority mam Well No. 7, or “the Prosperity Well.” sical concerts and cinemas have made a from how the youth — surely the coun- was established and Arab News Riyadh And prosper Saudi Arabia did. The comeback, women have been given the try’s most valuable resource — perceive we – like any normal There are several shorthand oil boom brought untold riches to the right to drive as of June this year, and the future of the country, to the various country – started On National terms for Saudi Arabia bandied Kingdom — yet the country became the economy has opened up more to megaprojects underway, women’s em- having concerts Day, we Saudis around in the press: “Oil- over-reliant on the energy industry, foreign investment. powerment, and the entertainment revo- and live shows. For typically rich,” perhaps, or “the desert forming what Crown Prince Moham- Saudi Arabia — despite, as some news lution being seen in country where cin- instance, this year’s celebrate our Kingdom.” med bin Salman has called an “addic- outlets tell us, being so “oil rich” — is emas, until very recently, were banned. National Day will be past. However, tion” to oil. also embarking on a plan to boost re- This is complemented by a new sec- celebrated by a special Neither, of course, does justice to the It is the crown prince’s bold — and, newable energy. As part of the Vision tion on the Arab News website called performance of Cirque we at Arab modern Saudi Arabia of 2018 — nor to say many, ambitious — Vision 2030 re- 2030 program, Saudi Arabia plans to “Road to 2030” — available at www. du Soleil, who are News decided where the Kingdom is heading over the form plan that aims to overcome that meet 10 percent of its power demand arabnews.com/road2030 — where you visiting KSA for the to envision next 12 years. addiction. from renewable sources by 2023 — and will find all the latest news, analysis and first time. Saudi Arabia’s On Sept. 23, Saudi Arabia observes Na- The plan, unveiled in 2016, is a com- it fully expects to exceed this target. The opinion about the reforms. In 2017, Mohammed future under country’s planned megacity — the $500 tional Day, in recognition of the date in prehensive blueprint for the future, lay- As is becoming increasingly clear to bin Salman was Vision 2030 1932 on which the country was founded ing out a strategy, and clear targets, to billion NEOM project, announced last the world, Saudi Arabia is no longer a appointed crown by King Abdul Aziz, known in the West diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy, and year — will run entirely on renewables. “desert Kingdom,” nor will it be oil-rich prince; with greater — and it looks as Ibn Saud. develop public service sectors such as It is for these reasons that Arab News forever. powers, he acceler- bright. It was during King Abdul Aziz’s reign health, education, infrastructure, recre- is looking forward, rather than back, on It is rich in other ways: In its youth, ated his reform plans. that oil was discovered in commercial ation and tourism. this year’s National Day. its leadership, and its bold plan to trans- Only a few months ago, cinema theaters re-opened, a quantities, when in March 1938 “black Under the spirit of the plan, a raft of On the coming pages, we delve into form over the next 12 years in a way it Culture Ministry was established, and women were gold” was struck at the site known as Dam- changes have already taken place. Mu- myriad aspects of this changing Kingdom, has never done before. allowed to drive and enter sport stadiums. Vision 2030 has also unleashed the potential of Saudi women; from government positions, to CEOs, to Uber drivers, there is no disputing that they are healthy goals now driving much more than just cars. In a symbolic gesture, MBS – the man who will one day become Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques A grand coincidence: Saudi teenagers who will turn 30 in 2030 – also met with the Coptic Pope in Egypt, the Archbishop of Canterbury in England and with Chris- tian and Jewish leaders in the United States. innovate, create and connect with one “My plans will obviously be related to Of course, with change comes teething problems. Deema Al-Khudair Jeddah another. Hopefully, we are successful YOUTHVISION the medical field, and hopefully I can And there is no doubt that not everyone will be at The year 2030, when the Kingdom’s in conveying the same sentiment the have an influence in the Hajj season ease with these fast and drastic reforms. Will the Vision is due to be fully realized, will be crown prince does in his vision.” medical services and hospitals in diverse vision achieve all of its targets? Certainly not – but the an auspicious time for the 18-year-old Al-Nasser applauded the crown Hopefully, I can have regions,” she said. idea is to reach for the stars anyway. Saudis of today, as it is also the year in prince for providing the Kingdom with an influence in the She is also excited to see the ways in Needless to say, we as Saudis were never used to which they will turn 30. grand opportunities in all aspects. “The Hajj season medi- which Vision 2030 is realized, adding: paying VAT or having unsubsidized utility bills – and of Arab News talked to some of these beauty of Crown Prince Mohammad bin cal services and “I see a future where the Kingdom course, many people would rather this not be the case. ambitious teenagers, who are already Salman’s dynamic vision is that the future hospitals in diverse of Saudi Arabia will be within the However, if we want to be a normal country, we playing their part in achieving the goals is taking place in the present,” he said. regions. top-ranked countries in technology, must start behaving like one. For the first time, we of Vision 2030 to create a successful and “Ambitions are coming to life every Lojain Maawadh Student at Imam Abdulrah- education and health.” in Saudi Arabia are minding our spending, switching thriving Saudi society, to find out what year, with new infrastructural plans and man bin Faisal University Musab Al-Majnouni, an electrical off unnecessary lights and considering gasoline bills they think about the changes and the genuinely beneficial social changes. engineering student at Princeton before we buy our next car. future of the Kingdom. “In order to understand what Saudi The beauty of University and secretary of Us the It is also significant that the government launched Firas Al-Nasser, a law student at the Arabia will be like in 2030, one only Crown Prince Youth, said he feels privileged to have ADAA (The National Center for Performance Measure- University of Leeds and vice president needs to see the change the crown Mohammed bin been born in the year 2000. ment). In today’s issue, we interview the head of ADAA, of nonprofit organization Us the Youth, prince has made in one year. In one Salman’s dynamic “I am in a position where I can observe Husameddin AlMadani, who tells us that their aim isn’t feels the weight of responsibility that year, women were given more financial vision is that the the positive transformation of Saudi only to monitor government body performance, but to this coincidence of age brings, but is opportunities and the legal ability to future is taking Arabia as part of my daily life, and I am allow citizens to have a constant say in it too. facing it with admirable optimism. drive. In one year, the construction of place in the present. confident that there is so much potential As government officials constantly review and “This coincidence, while remark- an entire new city has begun, in which for me to contribute to that change as we amend the targets and deliverables, we at Arab News Firas Al-Nasser Student at University of Leeds able, places on me the responsibility to hundreds of billions of US dollars have get closer to 2030,” he said. decided to dedicate today’s National Day coverage to be the embodiment of (Crown Prince) been invested. In one year, we have He aims to excel in his chosen field, so imagining how Saudi Arabia could look in 2030. Mohammad bin Salman’s vision,” he said. significantly reduced our economic Before 2030, I wish that he can play his part in the realization With the introduction of artificial intelligence, “Of course, with all the platforms he reliance on crude exports. to acquaint myself of Vision 2030 “given the emphasis on renewable energy, the completion of mega projects has laid out for me and others alike, this “Now imagine what the next 12 years with all the proj- science and technology in our modern such as NEOM and the restoration of ancient heritage responsibility translates seamlessly into might have in store. That sense of mystery ects and initiatives economy and its alignment with our sites such as Al-Ula, our journalists envisioned Saudi ambition.” and anticipation inspires the youth helping us reach future goals.” Arabia’s future – and it looks bright. He said that Vision 2030 is both a of Saudi Arabia, an achievement only our goals. He added: “Before 2030, I wish to This is why we are also proud to introduce Road to plan and an ideal, adding: “It builds an possible under bold, decisive leadership.” acquaint myself with all the projects and 2030, our new online section dedicated to tracking Musab Al-Majnouni Student at Princeton infrastructure for innovation and it also Lojain Maawadh, a freshman studying University initiatives helping us reach our goals. and reporting on Saudi reforms and Vision 2030. encourages the people, especially the medicine at Imam Abdulrahman Bin With that knowledge, I would love to take As such, today we celebrate the Kingdom’s past, youth, to innovate. Faisal University, wants to become a part in a project involving education, as present … and future. “Us the Youth is an organization surgeon and hopes to use her expertise I believe it to be the most vital aspect of that strives to motivate the youth to to assist with future Hajj projects. Vision 2030.” Twitter: @FaisalJAbbas ARAB NEWS Sunday, September 23, 2018 5

Qiddiya is the brainchild of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is the chief architect of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reform program. Saudi Arabia National Day

VISION 2030 Kingdom’s mega projects shaping a bright future for all From Neom, Qiddiya to The Red Sea project, Saudi Arabia seems determined to redefine innovation and invention

snowfall can be expected during the Mohammed Al-Kinani Jeddah Neom is being built on diverse terrain sheltered by mile-high mountains and cooled by breezes from more than 450 km of Red Sea coastline. Photo/supplied winter. Work on a number of Supported by fully automated economy but the global economy, as companies to invest in the city of is the brainchild of Crown Prince species, including the hawksbill massive leisure and services, along with zero-carbon international companies will invest Jeddah, the gateway to the Holy Mohammed bin Salman, a self- sea turtle. infrastructure projects in infrastructure, Neom will operate in it. Mosques.” styled liberal agent of change who is The project marked a milestone Saudi Arabia is nearing solely on wind and solar power. “The project will add to the He said that the number of passen- the chief architect of the Kingdom’s with its incorporation as a stand- completion, while others Thousands of solar panels and national gross domestic product,” he gers at the airport hit a record high sweeping Vision 2030 reform alone closed joint-stock company, are in the earlier stages in wind turbines will generate enough said. in 2017, jumping from 31 million in program. The Red Sea Development a country where the vision power to supply the development “Neom is a new name, a great 2016 to 34 million, a 9.4 percent rise. The reforms stem partly from Company, which is wholly owned for the future includes with low-cost regenerative energy name that represents the future. It He added that the new airport economic motives. They aim to by the country’s Public Investment increased diversification of all year round. has an important location along the welcomed more than 7 million Hajj boost domestic spending on enter- Fund. its income sources. With aspirations to become a Red Sea, in which nearly 10 percent and Umrah pilgrims in 2017. When it tainment, as the Kingdom has been The company in October global hub for innovation, knowl- of all the world’s trade flows.” becomes fully operational in the first reeling from the oil-price slump announced Virgin Group founder From Neom and Qiddiya to The Red edge and trade, it will establish He added that Neom is at the heart three months of 2019, with a total of since 2014. Saudis have until now Richard Branson as one of its board Sea project and more, the Kingdom itself as the prime exit from the King of the world, and can be reached by 46 gates, it will be five times the size spent billions of dollars each year to members, and has also recruited seems determined to change our Salman Bridge, a $4 billion causeway 70 percent of the global population of the existing airport. see films and visit amusement parks John Pagano, former managing understanding of innovation, recre- linking Western Asia and Africa. in less than eight hours. In leisure developments, by 2030 in neighboring tourist hubs, such director of development for the UK’s ation, aviation and invention. Neom will stretch across the He also pointed out that the huge Qiddiya, the “the Saudi answer as Dubai and Bahrain, because they Canary Wharf Group, as its chief Neom, the world’s first indepen- Egyptian and Jordanian borders, project, whose consultative board to Disneyland,” is expected to be were denied many entertainment executive. dent economic zone, is currently thus establishing itself as the first members come from around the attracting 17 million visitors a year in options at home. The company will now move being developed in Tabuk, in the private economic zone to span three world, would also attract workers the entertainment sector, 12 million To address this, in February forward with the creation of its northwest corner of the country. countries. from many countries. in the shopping sector and 2 million Saudi Arabia’s General Entertain- special economic zone, with its own A pillar of the nation’s Vision 2030, It aims to foster innovation in the hospitality sector. ment Authority announced it would regulatory framework, it said. it is being precisely designed and through an open-source policy, Qiddiya shares the name of stage more than 5,000 festivals and This will be separate from the constructed to serve nine special- under which the world’s top scien- the area in which it is situated, concerts in 2018, double the number base Saudi economy, with a special ized investment sectors: Energy, tists will have an open invitation Our goals for 40 kilometers from the center of of the previous year, and pump $64 emphasis on environmental sustain- biotech, food, mobility, advanced to conduct research in the fields of Riyadh city, which has spectacular billion into the sector in the coming ability, and will offer visas on arrival manufacturing, technological and medical science, artificial intelli- views of mountains, valleys and decade. for overseas visitors, relaxed social digital sciences, tourism, media, and gence and virtual reality. To create desert. It is expected to be the Another under-construction norms and improved business 256,000 jobs in entertainment — sectors strategi- By adopting a regulatory frame- the construction world’s largest entertainment city cally chosen to attract international work that fosters technological industry by 2020 by 2030, covering a total area of 334 investment, and all part of a grand growth according to the highest square kilometers, far surpassing push to diversify Saudi Arabia’s international standards, guidelines, Walt Disney World in Florida, which oil-centric economy. and practices, scientists will have the is 110 square kilometers. Neom is being built on diverse luxury of using Neom as a scientific It will include high-end theme terrain sheltered by mile-high testing ground for next-generation Saudi talent, he added, will also be parks, entertainment centers, sports mountains and cooled by breezes genomics, gene therapy, nanobi- involved in the project. amenities capable of hosting inter- from more than 450 kilometers of ology, bioengineering, and stem-cell Meanwhile, Jeddah’s King Abdul national competitions, training Red Sea coastline. research. Aziz International Airport has been academies, desert and asphalt Future inhabitants will be able Dr. Abdullah Al-Maghlouth, a redesigned and expanded to handle tracks for motor sports, water- and to enjoy previously untouched, member of the Saudi Economic an ever-increasing number of snow-based recreation, outdoor naturally formed beaches, islands Association, said that Neom is a passengers and flights. and adventure activities alongside and vast desert terrains where major addition not only to the Saudi Occupying a 105-square-kilometer nature and safari-park experiences, site, the new airport is an important and a wide range of historical, part of the Saudi Vision 2030. cultural and educational activities It features a 136-meter air traffic and events. control tower, a 3,000-person The project will target local, Neom is currently being developed in Tabuk, KSA’s northwest corner. SPA capacity mosque, 220 service regional and international tourists counters, 80 self-service counters and aims to create the nation’s mega project is The Red Sea, where phase of The Red Sea project — and parking spaces for 8,200 pre-eminent entertainment, sports visitors will be able to explore some which will occupy an area greater vehicles. and cultural destination, while of the nation’s hidden treasures, than the size of Belgium, between “KAIA has become an ideal airport, remaining true to the Saudi identity. including a nature reserve that the cities of Al-Wajh and Umluj — with its creative infrastructure and Qiddiya chief executive Michael boasts a stunning diversity of will include hotels and residential immense size,” Al-Maghlouth said. Reininger said he expects the project flora and fauna in the foothills of a units, along with a new coastal “It will also create job opportu- to attract foreign investors in enter- dormant volcano. town, an airport and a marina. nities for young Saudi men and tainment and other sectors, but did A host of marine-oriented resort Groundbreaking is expected women, and will definitely add to the not specify the cost of construction. developments will also allow during the third quarter of 2019 and national GDP. The project will help to diver- for unparalleled scuba diving phase one is due for completion by “The biggest aircraft in the world sify national-income sources and is among stunning coral reefs. The late 2022, the company said. can now land at the modernized forecast to contribute to up to SR17 project will form an archipelago Authorities hope the project will airport, which was made under billion to GDP by 2030. that is home to environmentally create as many as 35,000 jobs and the latest quality measures. It will Like many of the other ambitious protected coral reefs, mangroves contribute SR15 billion ($3.99 billion) Jeddah’s airport has been redesigned to handle an increasing number of flights. also attract many international projects, including Neom, Qiddiya and several endangered marine to the local economy.

Date with history the Romans, archaeological riches Archaeological The French consider this Arab News Jeddah dating back 4,000 years and other treasures in the project so prestigious that Gerard Bathing in the scorching sun of priceless artifacts from the Ottoman northwestern Mestrallet, a special envoy of the region of the Traveling Saudi Arabia for the past 4,000 Empire. president, has been appointed Kingdom are years and sitting among the sandy The somewhat forgotten land older than Saudi for Al-Ula. Both countries share back dunes of the northwestern region is going to be brought into the Arabia itself, a common approach to national of the Kingdom, lie the country’s spotlight by the year 2020 as a and barely heritage; that culture transcends all known to the archaeological treasures. historic collaboration takes place borders and should be accessible to world. AFP thousands These treasures are even older between Saudi Arabia and France. all who seek to observe history. than Saudi Arabia itself, and barely France excels in the art of The agreement was signed in the of years by known to the world. preserving history so it is the presence of Saudi Arabia’s Crown The area covers about 52 hectares perfect alliance to meet the goals of Prince Mohammed bin Salman reviving of well-preserved land in which making Al-Ula a tourist attraction. and French President Emmanuel there are tombs handcrafted out Saudis are cooperating with Macron as well as Al-Ula governor, of the rocks, relics from ancient France in preserving and promoting the special envoy to Al-Ula and Al-Ula civilizations such as the Greeks and culture and archaeology. France’s foreign minister. 6 ARAB NEWS Sunday, September 23, 2018 Past two years have been extremely positive in overcoming challenges. Husameddin AlMadani Director general of Adaa Saudi Arabia National Day

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Adaa’s vision aims to track achievements, boost transparency in national projects

focused on the quality of data they The result so far: Four quarters Noor Nugali Riyadh produce and are starting to invest of performance reports have been One of the major reform in the quality of their data structure. published up to date, Adaa has projects of the Kingdom’s Our goals for We have great success stories where trained about 5,000 public sector Vision 2030 is Adaa — entities invested heavily in their data employees, and sent 16 government the National Center for structure. One ministry was able to executives to the Harvard Kennedy To reverse budget Performance Measurement. from a defecit of reach 99 percent data validation. School. SAR 195 bn to a surplus of Even the process of producing the “We launched our International Adaa is tasked with performance 4bn by 2023 reports for entities describing their Performance Hub IPH at Davos measurement and enablement of progress and achieving their targets in 2018 and launched Beneficiary government entities. The enable- has become purely quantitative.” Experience tools (BEX) last May, ment involves providing tools, Adaa’s mandate directly relates to where we started measuring 21 ben- frameworks and educational sup- Vision 2030’s third pillar; To achieve eficiary journeys in eight different port which enables better measure- an ambitious nation, one that is ef- sectors: Housing, health, education, ment and development. quality of data provided. The estab- fectively governed through trans- labor, trade, transport, legal, and The performance-monitoring lishment of a performance culture parency by reporting on progress. Hajj and umrah. For example, in the agency was established in 2016. was the first step we addressed and This is achieved through engaging BEX Hajj assessment Adaa assessed Husameddin AlMadani is the di- considered our initial investment citizens, residents and beneficiaries 30 services covered by 16 govern- rector general of Adaa, which has that would automatically support of government services in the pro- ment entities over three main cities: the aim of introducing a culture of addressing our second challenge,” cess of improving services provided, Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah.” transparency and performance as- he said. AlMadani said. Adaa is aiming to set the bar high sessment into Saudi Arabia’s public Adaa has worked with world- “It is on outcome-based key per- and fundamentally enhance perfor- sector. renowned institutions to educate formance indicators: Measuring mance. Adaa was created prior to the roll- public entities and increase their the progress toward Vision 2030’s “Our aim is to be a world-class out of Vision 2030 as a recommen- awareness and capabilities regard- approved targets and objectives; center for government perfor- dation from the Council of Econom- ing performance measurement execution level data; collecting data mance, innovative in embracing ic and Development Affairs (CEDA). and to spread the culture of perfor- on milestone achievements of Vi- the latest technologies and provid- “His Royal Highness Crown mance measurement. Adaa has per- sion 2030 realization projects and ing intelligent, accurate and timely Prince Mohammed bin Salman saw formance ambassador teams placed initiatives; service-level data; and Adaa is tasked with monitoring performance of government entities. data. Adaa will drive excellence in the necessity of knowing where within each of the government enti- measuring and collecting data on performance, comprehensively be we stand before embarking on any ties it works with. beneficiaries’ satisfaction with gov- proved effective where existing em- capable of capturing relevant data grand vision in order to assess our AlMadani said that the past two ernment services. FASTFACT ployees looked for potential candi- and accurately measuring it. It will progress,” AlMadani said. years had been extremely positive Finding qualified professionals dates that went through rigorous be a true enabler in building human “In planning how the center can in overcoming challenges. specialized in performance mea- Watani app covers more than training, workshops and eventual capacity to enhance performance start on a successful note we pre- “We find the language complete- surement that can meet the scope 28,000 centers and more than hands-on job experience under con- and build government leaders who pared for two main challenges we ly changed; entities speak in tar- and scale requirement was a chal- 80,000 government services tinuous evaluation for transfer. are citizen centered in their ap- had to tackle; the establishment of gets they achieved, gaps they have lenge for Adaa. However, Adaa de- that beneficiaries can view and “This proved to be a strong capa- proach giving citizens a voice and a a performance culture within gov- closed. The focus is on performance veloped their own build, operate rate. It will soon be launched to bility building engine we are proud stake in the future development of ernment entities and improving the numbers and KPIs. They are also and transfer (BOT) model which the public. of,” AlMadani said. their Kingdom,” AlMadani said. ARAB NEWS Sunday, September 23, 2018 7

Muslim World League Secretary-General Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa and the Vatican’s Cardinal Tauran signed a cooperation agreement in April. Saudi Arabia National Day

RELIGIOUS HARMONY leaders in New York. During those meetings, the crown prince stressed the importance of respect between followers of all religions and the need to promote the positive values of coexistence Saudi Arabia and tolerance. A few days before his trip to the UK, the crown prince met Coptic Pope Tawadros II at Cairo’s largest taking lead cathedral, and invited Egyptian Christians to visit Saudi Arabia, saying that all Coptic Christians are welcome. Meanwhile, the secretary- in interfaith general of the Muslim World League, Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, and the Vatican’s Cardinal Tauran signed a cooper- dialogue ation agreement in April for achieving common objectives. Islamic researcher Sheikh Ahmed Al-Ghamdi said interfaith Riyadh has pledged to continue dialogue is a necessary human, making efforts for peace till the world religious and cultural endeavor is free of terror and extremism Our goals for

renouncing violence, extremism Mohammed Al-Kinani Jeddah and terrorism, and achieving Build strategic partnerships to In 2007, King Abdullah held security and peace for the peoples grow the PIF Program to SAR 20 a groundbreaking meeting of the region and the world. Al-Rahi trillion by 2020 with Pope Benedict XVI. later also met the crown prince. In April this year, the A year later, he invited religious king received at his office at scholars, media representatives, Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh academics and intellectuals from the chairman of the Pontifical that will help to curb terrorism and around the globe to take part Council for Interfaith Dialogue at extremism. in three-day interfaith talks in the Vatican, Cardinal Jean-Louis A former president of the Makkah Makkah. Tauran, and his accompanying branch of the Commission for the During that meeting, the param- delegation. Promotion of Virtue and Prevention eters of the discussions Muslims of Vice — sometimes referred to in should be having with people of the media as the “religious police” other faiths were outlined. — he believes that such discussions Since then, Saudi Arabia’s efforts We need to widen the should be widened to include more to bring peace to the world have circle of interfaith followers of other religions to ease not stopped, nor will they end till hostilities and thwart terrorism, the globe is free of terrorism and dialogue between sectarianism and racism. extremism. societies in order to “We need to widen the circle Crown Prince Mohammed bin spread acquaintance. of interfaith dialogue between Salman has said in interviews that Sheikh Ahmed Al-Ghamdi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman says he wants to return Saudi Arabia to a ‘moderate Islam’ that is more open and societies in order to spread he wants to return Saudi Arabia to Islamic researcher tolerant of other faiths. SPA acquaintance, create rapproche- a “moderate Islam” that is more ment and correct the distorted open to the world and tolerant of During the meeting, they religious leaders on the second They also viewed a selection Saudi Arabia, according to senior image of Islam,” he said. other faiths. again stressed the important day of his landmark visit to the UK. of early texts from the Christian, sources at the Saudi Embassy in “Dialogue between followers of In November 2017, King Salman role that followers of all religions Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Muslim and Jewish faiths, including the UK and the Ministry of Foreign all the divinely revealed religions held talks in Riyadh with Lebanon’s and cultures have to play in Welby, the spiritual leader of the fragments of a Qur’an manuscript Affairs. — Judaism, Christianity and Islam Maronite Christian Patriarch renouncing violence, extremism Anglican Communion of millions found in a Birmingham University They added that the meeting — can bring peace to the world. Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi. and terrorism, and achieving of Christians, received the crown library in 2015, which are thought to had been “very positive and very Moreover, talking with followers Both men stressed the impor- global security and stability. prince at Lambeth Palace in be among the world’s oldest. pleasant.” of Buddhism, Hinduism, Confu- tance of the role of all religions and In March, Crown Prince central London, where the two The crown prince extended an Three weeks later, the crown cianism and other religions can cultures in promoting tolerance, Mohammed met political and men talked for an hour. invitation to the archbishop to visit prince met several US religious also widen the space for peace.

ENTERTAINMENT Big-screen business in Saudi Arabia will be billion-dollar industry by 2030

Jennifer Bell Dubai

The big-screen business in Saudi Arabia will be a billion-dollar industry by 2030, according to experts, as regional and global movie operators queue up for a ticket into the Kingdom’s hugely profitable movie market. Saudi Arabia is expected to amass the largest share of the cinema business in the Arabian Gulf region by 2030, with hundred of cinemas and thousands of screens set to open across the Saudi Arabia is expected to become a significant box office market. AFP Kingdom over the next 12 years. Within months of Saudi Arabia the next three years. And last month, formally ending a 35-year-long ban a fourth license was awarded to Lux fastfact on cinemas, three cinema opera- Entertainment Co., which plans tion licenses were awarded to to open 300 cinemas across the AMC Theatres plans to open operate in the Kingdom, the first Kingdom within five years. around 40 cinemas in 15 cities was to AMC Theaters, an American VOX, which plans to open 80 new in Saudi Arabia over the next chain owned and operated by screens over the next 12 months, five years, and between 50 to 100 cinemas in about 25 cities Wanda Group. It opened the says the Kingdom will form half of by 2030. Kingdom’s first modern cinema on its overall revenues in the Middle April 18 and plans to open around East over the next five years. 40 cinemas in 15 cities in Saudi “Saudi has huge opportuni- Cameron Mitchell, CEO of Majid Arabia over the next five years, ties and is expected to become a Al-Futtaim Cinemas, of which VOX and between 50 to 100 cinemas in significant box office market worth Cinemas is a subsidiary. about 25 cities by 2030. $1 billion (SR3.75 billion),” said He said the Kingdom’s box-office Shortly after, the second license market is expected to become “one was awarded to VOX Cinemas, of the largest” in the world, with a now one of Saudi Arabia’s biggest majority of its 32-million popula- movie operators. It plans to open tion under the age of 30. “The Our goals for 600 screens in Saudi Arabia in the market is massive and full of oppor- next five years, the same number of tunities as the population is young

screens as the company’s regional To increase and enthusiastic about cinema.” contribution to footprint combined. GDP from Will Saudi Arabia ever host the SAR 110 bn to In July, it was announced the the 170 bn by 2020 world premiere of a Hollywood third license had been awarded movie? No one’s saying right to the Al-Rashed United Group — now, but with such a covetable Empire Cinema — which plans to box-office market, it may only be a build 30 theaters in the country over matter of time. 8 ARAB NEWS Sunday, September 23, 2018

Saudi employees have impressed me with their professionalism, their drive and their passion. Saudi Arabia National Day Glenn Lovell

NEW PERSPECTIVE an outsider’s view on the trans- resources mixed with modern some time now because they were Amin-Al-Mrstani, a Syrian expat Ameera Abid Jeddah forming country. methods can really take the country required to make a better country living in Saudi Arabia for 33 years, Saudi Arabia’s As the National Day of Saudi A 66-year-old Yemeni expat living somewhere.” in the long run. commented: “I never thought that Arabia approaches, the people of here for half a century, Salman Sarmad Hassan from Pakistan, “Change is always good, it is the changes would happen, but road to the Kingdom gear up in green to has seen changes occur in front of who has lived in the Kingdom for 9 usually hard to accept changes they did happen and most of them celebrate it. As excited as Saudi his very eyes, “All the changes are years, says, “The major changes that when they first happen but with are good. profound nationals are, expats living in the moving toward a better Kingdom, had a positive impact were cinemas time everything will get back to “The further changes that I would country also play their part in for the perfect effect we will need to opening and women driving, as normal. To carry out the KSA’s like are to stop the shops closing changes, in the celebrating National Day. wait 10 or 15 more years.” these are things the community has ambitious welfare and development during prayer time and better eyes of outsiders Arab News made contact with He added: “Saudi Arabia is a been waiting for a long time. projects, changes which would add maintenance of the main roads and some expats in Saudi Arabia to hear country rich in resources. All its “I had expected the changes for value to the economy are required.” cities, which needs more attention.”

KIWIS IN KSA How 3 New Zealanders made Riyadh into a new home

most Saudis. She has seen the reign try. Among their exploits are a visit to ous, hospitable people I think I’ve Hala Tashkandi Arab News of four Saudi kings, witnessed nearly the Al-Wahbah Crater, the Mastodon ever come across,” Louise said. Over the past few decades, every major expansion of the city of Cave, the Taif Rose Festival, Mada’in With the ban on women driving Saudi Arabia has been home Riyadh, and experienced Saudi Ara- Saleh, and other places that Gaelene lifted, Louise is thrilled to be driving to many an international bia’s technological and cultural revo- documents in her blog, “Kiwi Living herself to and from work and carry- expatriate. And like most lutions. “And it still amazes me, when in Saudi.” ing out her own errands. “The future foreigners who know little I see the city, how far it’s managed to The two of them can often be is bright for Saudi women,” she said. about the country before come in such a short time,” she said. found wandering off-road into the “They’ve got so much potential,” they visit for the first time, “It makes me so excited to think of desert for what they referred to as “a Glenn said. “We have a few young they quickly come to learn where it can go.” bit of camping,” and don’t seem to be Saudi girls at the office who have re- that you shouldn’t believe Glenn Lovell, a lawyer, initially worried about getting lost out there. ally impressed me with their profes- everything you hear. relocated to Saudi Arabia for what “No GPS required,” Glenn said, “it’s sionalism, their drive and their pas- was supposed to be a two-year pe- all instinct.” sion.” Louise Adam relocated to Saudi Ara- riod in 2008. However, when that Glenn and Gaelene found them- On the subject of Vision 2030, they bia in 1982 to work as a locum dental time frame was extended, he asked selves pleasantly surprised by the were keen to offer their perspective hygienist at a local public hospital. wife Gaelene to come and join him in sheer generosity that they have been on the future of the Kingdom. Now working at a private dental Saudi Arabia. The couple have been shown while camping outside the “To be able to see those things, to clinic in Riyadh 36 years later, Louise living in Riyadh since 2010 and have city. Glenn recalled the time they see how much things have changed has found a comfortable (and perma- been watching the progression of came across a Bedouin man in the recently, it’s amazing to witness,” nent) place for herself in Riyadh. things in Saudi Arabia with a mix of desert during their search for the Louise said. “It’s extremely different, She lives with her two Pomeranian astonishment and delight. Mastodon Cave, who despite not but I think it’s a positive kind of dif- dogs — Besame and Tallulah — and “One of the things I love about speaking any English, managed to in- ferent,” Louise said. two cats — Lucy and Fico. In her Saudi is that when they decide to vite them to his house for dinner and “Saudi Arabia is right on the brink spare time, she tends to her home change something, they can change to put them up for the night. In the of a new age. I can’t wait to see them garden, which is embellished with it practically overnight,” Gaelene morning, they were escorted to the prove themselves in the next few distinctly Saudi touches. Beneath said, “things like the decision to let cave by members of his household. years.” shady palm fronds and local flowers, women drive. It feels like anything “And it’s happened more than Life here, however, has not been she even has a Bedouin tent in the can happen in an instant.” once,” Gaelene said, “they feed us, without its challenges for the three yard. Glenn and Gaelene, passionate ply us with coffee and dates, give us a Kiwis. “It’s not always been easy,” Given that most of the population travelers and enthusiastic desert ex- place to spend the night if we need it. Glenn admitted, “and of course, is under the age of 30, Louise has plorers, have devoted a fair chunk of It’s incredible.” we’ve seen problems, but for the lived in Saudi Arabia longer than their free time to exploring the coun- Glenn and Gaelene are impressed with Saudi Arabia’s progress. Photo/Supplied “Saudi people are the most gener- most part, we do love it here.”

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GREETINGS Envoys assure Riyadh of full support to achieve KSA’s ambitious goals

Noor Nugali Riyadh

Since the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932, it has enjoyed good relations with its neighbors and other countries around the world. Not only do the Saudi people celebrate their country’s National Day, but also the expatriates from around the world who live and work in the Kingdom, and the diplomats who serve them. Ambassadors and other en- voys shared with Arab News their thoughts and best wishes to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its people on their National Day. In a video message, French Ambas- sador François Gouyette expressed his warmest congratulations. “Working together with the Saudi people is an honor that my country has embraced since the Kingdom’s The end of driving ban has been crowning achievement so far of Saudi Vision 2030. Women started their engines and hit the roads throughout the Kingdom on June 24, 2018. birth,” he said. “Dear people of Saudi Arabia, let CAREER TARGETS me assure you of my highest esteem. We will set ambitious goals and achieve them together and I seize this opportunity to express my best wishes for the continuous progress, Providing a voice for and prosperity of your Kingdom.” Ridwan Jadwaat, the newly ap- pointed Australian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, said: “I would like to congratulate and extend my sincere the Kingdom’s Vision best wishes to King Salman and the government and people of the King- dom of Saudi Arabia on their Nation- proud to be part of the local team 2030. I wish to have tackled ma- al Day. Arab News Jeddah who has the ability to report these jor issues going on in the world by “Australia recognizes the key role Arab News journalists changes to the rest of the region then, and bring a sense of hope, Our goals for that Saudi Arabia plays in the world, reflect on the recent and the world, helping others to relief and joy to all those I have and as a leader in the global Islamic changes in the Kingdom and rediscover Saudi Arabia and re- interviewed and written about, community. We are grateful for the share their hopes shape their ideas and misconcep- and make a difference in all the To raise our hospitality extended to the thou- position from for themselves and the tions. forums I will have participated in 26 to 10 in sands of Australian Muslims who the Social country by the time Vision By the year 2030, I am hoping by 2030. Capital Index perform Hajj and Umrah each year. 2030 is realized that with the implementation of Being a journalist is a very ful- “Australia and Saudi Arabia enjoy the Kingdom’s Vision we will be filling job as you have the chance looking at an entirely different Lojien Ben Gassem to give a voice to people and make Over many decades Saudi Arabia, and an entirely dif- a difference in their lives. I wish ferent universe. I would love to Before I became a journalist, I to be recognized as a journalist hundreds of thousands say that being a journalist had al- always wanted people to see Saudi who made a difference. accurately through a keyboard of Saudi and ways been my dream, but it was Arabia through the eyes of the Sau- I aspire to be a prime example and a blank Word document. American officials, not. di citizens. Unfortunately, today’s of integrity in this field, make my tourists, business However, nothing I worked on media politics play a huge role in country and Arab News proud of representatives, and before felt this right. I would love shaping a country, through biased me, and to learn so much more to picture myself as a senior edi- ideas and false assumptions. When about the world and how to make students have traveled tor, walking in to this same office, Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed it a better place to live in day by between our countries Aisha Fareed greeting the same kind faces that bin Salman revealed Saudi Vision day. and in the process have smile at me every day, a little older 2030, “The National Transforma- cemented our strong Reporting news in a rapidly chang- and wiser, and newer faces too, as tion Program,” on April 25, 2016, ties. ing country is, in itself, an honor. To eager and hungry as I was on my people started to wonder what Christopher Henzel, Chargé d’Affaires be part of “The Voice of a Changing first day to acquire the skills that was happening to the country. US Embassy. Region” is quite an achievement will enable them to be journalists Basically, Vision 2030 promises I have carefully shaped and built (in digitized forums that will suit people a better future and bet- Ruba Obaid strong commercial ties and growing since 2014, when I joined Arab News the journalism of the future). ter governance, which is raising With the rapid growth of virtual links between our peoples, includ- as a fresh graduate. hopes and expectations among data and the information available ing through education and tourism. Leading the team of Saudi report- Saudis. That vision led me to be- online, as well as the fast techno- We look forward to strengthening ers is a responsibility I never imag- come a journalist in particular be- logical developments, newspapers our collaboration with Saudi Arabia, ined I would assume at a young age, cause people were becoming more Noor Nugali will mostly disappear by 2030. including in support of Vision 2030 but, somehow, it gives me a better curious about Saudi Arabia. Today Even in terms of language, we may and as Saudi Arabia prepares to host vision of how my career will look I get the chance to write about the My first article was published invent another word in the near the G20 in 2020. Mabruk.” by the year 2030. Twelve years from transformation step by step, by when I was 16 years old. I wanted future to describe the new digital Adnan V. Alonto, the ambassador now, I picture myself being a senior covering events and stories about to change the world and thought interactive news-delivery tool. of the Philippines in Riyadh, said the managing editor with even greater young Saudi entrepreneurs, artists if not by actions than most defi- News reports will be written by embassy joins the Kingdom in cel- responsibilities. Although, I am and empowered women. There- nitely by words, always trusting in computers, or most of them, which ebrating its 88th National Day. blessed to work with such a dedi- fore, my aspirations as a journal- the idea that “the pen is mightier means the concept of competition He added: “Saudi Arabia continues cated team, I see our family growing Abdulaziz Alaquil ist for the year 2030 are: to help to than the sword.” Many years have between competitors in the media to play a vital role in maintaining and our foreign bureaus expanding. My aspirations as a journalist by increase the demand for tourism in passed, and I still believe this, industry will change. The more peace and stability in the region and Another dream I hope to realize by the year 2030 are not so much at- Saudi Arabia and create an attrac- with a broader understanding that an agency depends on developed in pushing global initiatives that aim 2030 is to be among the elite, hand- tributed to any specific goals, such tive and welcoming environment not everything is black and white technology, the more successful it to advance the interests of the inter- picked journalists who are asked to as being recognized with any par- for tourists who are interested but different shades of all the col- can be. national community. interview leaders and high-profile ticular awards or accolades, but to get to know the country; to ors under the glorious sun. In this regard, I predict more These have been made possible figures in the world. rather how this industry offers a educate Saudis on how to under- In the course of just 3 years, the competition in producing creative, by the bold economic and social re- Before I reach my 40s (I will be 39 platform for continued growth in stand and accept other cultures world has witnessed the Kingdom interactive, entertaining and high- forms recently implemented under in 2030), I should also be able to say my self-development. and ethnicities; and to help create of Saudi Arabia start to bear the value content that depends on in- the Vision 2030 platform. that, throughout my career, I man- I believe I am constantly refining a culture that accepts constructive fruits of its labor through Vision vestigative journalism and feature Christopher Henzel, Chargé aged to report the humanitarian sto- both my professional and social and purposeful criticism. 2030. It has given its people hope, stories, more so than broadcast d’Affaires at the US Embassy, said: ries that usually go unheard, from skills, which is greatly rewarding inspiration and, most important- journalism, which might have less “Our partnership with Saudi Arabia the least-fortunate places, such as to me. ly, a higher purpose that can be reliance on news reporters and extends from our close security war-torn countries. There are plenty of occupations achieved. correspondents, and more jobs for cooperation to our strong relations that serve simply as a means to an The reforms we at Arab News people with creative, critical and in business and exchange programs.” end in the sense of generating an have covered show how rapidly analytical skills in the media indus- He said: “Together we are working income. things are moving, in the right try. Journalist will need to obtain to promote the security and A unique aspect of the field of direction. I feel honored and knowledge in basic journalism, and prosperity of both our countries.” journalism though, is the added blessed to not only witness them more in technology, and creative Through our educational and benefits in the sense of how well but to actually be a part of them. content production. cultural exchange programs, he informed I am on world events, Vision 2030 is a realization that On the basis of Saudi Arabia’s said, we learn from each other and which in turn translates heavily to change on a large scale is a team ambitious Vision 2030, I would deepen our partnership. my social development. effort that takes millions of believ- expect the media industry in Saudi “Over many decades hundreds of The element of spontaneity Deema Al-Khudair ers that share a vision of prosper- Arabia to be more diversified, and thousands of Saudi and American in this field is also ever present, I aspire to be an accomplished ity and hope. prosperous, since the Kingdom is officials, tourists, business represen- Aseel Bashraheel which can lead to some very inter- journalist who has made a posi- The inner child in me still be- investing a developed digital infra- tatives, and students have traveled I’m lucky to be working at Arab esting travels. My aspirations are tive impact in the world through lieves I can change the world, but structure, as well as in the enter- between our countries and in the News during the transformational being met every day in this job. It her writing. I hope to have had a this time not alone. It might not be tainment and sports sectors, and process have cemented our strong era in Saudi Arabia, and I am very is the gift that keeps on giving. hand in making a difference by through pen and paper, but more culture and heritage. ties,” he added.