Saudi Arabia Announces Inaugural Protected Areas Forum ‘HIMA’

The site at Hima, the sixth to be enlisted in Saudi Arabia, is home to one of the largest rock art complexes in the world and ancient wells. (SPA)
The site at Hima, the sixth to be enlisted in Saudi Arabia, is home to one of the largest rock art complexes in the world and ancient wells. (SPA)
TT
20

Saudi Arabia Announces Inaugural Protected Areas Forum ‘HIMA’

The site at Hima, the sixth to be enlisted in Saudi Arabia, is home to one of the largest rock art complexes in the world and ancient wells. (SPA)
The site at Hima, the sixth to be enlisted in Saudi Arabia, is home to one of the largest rock art complexes in the world and ancient wells. (SPA)

Saudi Arabia announces the Inaugural Protected Areas Forum ‘‘HIMA’’, a groundbreaking event in the region dedicated to the conservation and preservation of natural habitats and wildlife, SPA reported.

Under the patronage of Engineer AbdulRahman Al-Fadli, the Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and Chairman of the Board of the National Center for Wildlife (NCW), this forum organized by the National Center for Wildlife will be held in Riyadh from April 21-24, marking a significant milestone with both local and international participation.
The forum will feature a comprehensive agenda filled with panel discussions and presentations by renowned experts in the field of protected areas from around the globe.

Attendees will include representatives from protected areas, educational institutions, major projects, companies, and the non-profit sector, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability.
Dr. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife, emphasized that the organization of the "HIMA" forum stems from the Kingdom's leading position in global environmental initiatives and closely aligns with NCW's mandate as the
national authority for the wildlife sector. This initiative is part of a strategic plan to enhance the national system for protected areas, setting a clear direction for the Kingdom's efforts to safeguard vital natural sites for biodiversity.
Dr. Qurban highlighted the Kingdom's ambitious 30×30 initiative, aimed at protecting 30% of Saudi Arabia's land and sea area by 2030. This initiative, announced during the Green Saudi Initiative, underscores the Kingdom's dedication to
global biodiversity goals and environmental sustainability. The roadmap includes specific targets for the protection of land and marine areas by 2025 and 2030, demonstrating a proactive approach towards conservation.
The forum serves as a platform for global leaders in protected area management to exchange knowledge and best practices, fostering collaboration and ensuring alignment with international standards.
Since its establishment in 2019, the National Center for Wildlife has been dedicated to implementing strategic plans to address the challenges facing wildlife and marine ecosystems. With a vision for flourishing and sustainable wildlife
and biodiversity, the NCW is committed to preserving environmental systems and enhancing community engagement to achieve long-term environmental sustainability and maximize societal and economic benefits.



Prince Mohammed bin Salman Development Project Preserves Al-Abbasa Mosque's Heritage

The renovation will maintain the mosque's unique features - SPA
The renovation will maintain the mosque's unique features - SPA
TT
20

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Development Project Preserves Al-Abbasa Mosque's Heritage

The renovation will maintain the mosque's unique features - SPA
The renovation will maintain the mosque's unique features - SPA

The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques (Phase Two) has initiated the restoration of Al-Abbasa Mosque in Abu Arish Governorate, Jazan Region.

According to SPA, this mosque, dating back to 1262 AH, stands as one of the region's oldest and most significant heritage structures.
Under the project, Al-Abbasa Mosque will be restored to its original architectural grandeur, utilizing natural building materials and ensuring the preservation of its distinctive three domes.

The renovation will maintain the mosque's unique features, including the mihrab adorned with Quranic verses and the engraved panel denoting its construction date. The mosque's stone construction and use of brick will be preserved to uphold its historical and architectural significance.
Upon completion, the mosque will cover an area of 435.38 square meters, accommodating 165 worshippers.

In addition to protecting the mosque from deterioration, this restoration project also preserves its historical significance, securing its legacy for future generations.