Sunday, 21 October 2007
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The traditional village at Obhur Cove built for the recent Jeddah Festival at Eid will be expanded five times over to become the city's tourist front and cultural and recreational center.
The decision by Jeddah Municipality to enlarge the village to cover 210,000 square meters from 45,000 square meters was prompted by the overwhelming number of sightseers - approximately 600,000 - that visited the site during the Jeddah Festival. The municipality has also selected the poets to participate in "The Poet of Jeddah" contest to be held at the traditional village.
Sami Nawar, director of tourism department in Jeddah Municipality, said that apart from cultural and intellectual activities, the village will also be used for the benefit of amateur craftsmen, artists, and actors.
Maher Mutairi, a young poet, lauded the municipality for providing them with plenty of opportunities to hone their crafts.
"Such a contest takes us back to the days when Arabs held meetings for poets in places like the well-known Souk of Okaz," he said.
A film documentary that traces the history of Jeddah from 3,000 years back will also be shown in the village.
The movie will show the role Jeddah plays in the development of Islamic history and its importance as the gateway to the Two Holy Mosques and as one of the Kingdom's largest cities.
Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, Media Director at the municipality, said a report on the economic returns of the village is being prepared.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Jazeera Bank in takeover Talks
Sunday, 21 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
Al-Jazeera Bank is now engaged in bilateral discussions with the National Installment Company for the bank's offer to acquire 51 percent ownership of the company by increasing its SR100 million capital.
Taha Al-Guaiz, CEO of Al-Jazeera Bank said that by acquiring the National Installment Company, the bank aims to expand in the individual financing sector, which is considered one of the strategic priorities of Islamic individual banking services. Yousef Al-Hamdan, CEO of the National Installment Company, expressed his satisfaction with the bank's plans, noting that by becoming a larger entity they can serve a larger sector of clients in the Kingdom.
By Adel Al-Malki
Al-Jazeera Bank is now engaged in bilateral discussions with the National Installment Company for the bank's offer to acquire 51 percent ownership of the company by increasing its SR100 million capital.
Taha Al-Guaiz, CEO of Al-Jazeera Bank said that by acquiring the National Installment Company, the bank aims to expand in the individual financing sector, which is considered one of the strategic priorities of Islamic individual banking services. Yousef Al-Hamdan, CEO of the National Installment Company, expressed his satisfaction with the bank's plans, noting that by becoming a larger entity they can serve a larger sector of clients in the Kingdom.
Consumers Complain of Holiday Price Bump
Sunday, 07 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
JEDDAH'S branch of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has set up a plan to monitor prices during Eid, responding to shoppers' complaints that stores are taking advantage of both Ramadan and Eid to raise prices, and even sell them products that are not genuine. The office has even started sending out inspectors to make sure prices are in their usual ranges.
Mohammed Al-Harbi, director of the branch, said that they want to make sure that items are available for people at a fair price, adding that a main objective is to check expiry dates.
"We also tour factories and warehouses to ensure consumers get safe products," he said.
Despite the rise in prices during Ramadan, Harbi expected that prices of Eid staples - confections, dates, beverages and even clothes - would be normal.
"We have more than 15 inspectors to watch markets beginning the last 10 days of Ramadan running through Eid," Harbi said.
He added that his inspection group works 24 hours a day, and that inspectors are authorized to seize any expired products.
Abdullah Mohammed, a shopper in Al-Bawadi Market, said he believed that the postponement of shopping until the last 10 days of Ramadan makes shoppers easy prey.
Umm Hani, 35, also complained that the majority of goods sold were supposedly brands but weren't.
"Many of the pieces we bought changed color as soon as the first washing ... in addition to the big differences in price this time of year, this "holiday season" is a game and a sham and a lie and propaganda to get rich off the backs of us shoppers," she said.
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
JEDDAH'S branch of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has set up a plan to monitor prices during Eid, responding to shoppers' complaints that stores are taking advantage of both Ramadan and Eid to raise prices, and even sell them products that are not genuine. The office has even started sending out inspectors to make sure prices are in their usual ranges.
Mohammed Al-Harbi, director of the branch, said that they want to make sure that items are available for people at a fair price, adding that a main objective is to check expiry dates.
"We also tour factories and warehouses to ensure consumers get safe products," he said.
Despite the rise in prices during Ramadan, Harbi expected that prices of Eid staples - confections, dates, beverages and even clothes - would be normal.
"We have more than 15 inspectors to watch markets beginning the last 10 days of Ramadan running through Eid," Harbi said.
He added that his inspection group works 24 hours a day, and that inspectors are authorized to seize any expired products.
Abdullah Mohammed, a shopper in Al-Bawadi Market, said he believed that the postponement of shopping until the last 10 days of Ramadan makes shoppers easy prey.
Umm Hani, 35, also complained that the majority of goods sold were supposedly brands but weren't.
"Many of the pieces we bought changed color as soon as the first washing ... in addition to the big differences in price this time of year, this "holiday season" is a game and a sham and a lie and propaganda to get rich off the backs of us shoppers," she said.
Residents Complain of Smoke from Garbage
Saturday, 06 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
SOME residents of North Jeddah have vacated their homes to escape the smoke emitted by a garbage yard located in the east of the city.
"It's only the second day but we can't stand it anymore. I had to take my family to my brother's house," said Ahmad Al-Sheikh, of the Al-Marwah neighborhood. Al-Sheikh said the residents have complained to the municipality about the proximity of the garbage yard to residents. He pointed out that in other countries, garbage yards are located in remote areas with a private entity tasked to responsibly look after the disposal of the gas.
Many children and elderly people sought refuge in the Al-Salaam Clinic.
Sa'ad Al-Sayali, another affected resident, said he had stayed in the clinic for two nights in a row because the smoke from the garbage yard has been worsening the asthma of his kids.
"The smoke just keeps following us," he said.
Other residents also reported developing chest diseases since the pollution started.
Al-Marwah resident Ali Hadi said that they thought the municipality had taken care of the problem when they stopped smelling and detecting smoke for two months.
However, the smoke returned stronger than ever and lasted longer, usually overnight.
Salem Al-Harbi of Al-Rabee district said the smoke has driven family away. He recounted inviting his cousin to stay in his house who then left just two weeks later - with bad memories of the smoke and a bad case of asthma.
The municipality is said to be working on relocating the garbage yard to 25 km away from Jeddah in the next three years, and turning the current site into a park.
By Adel Al-Malki
SOME residents of North Jeddah have vacated their homes to escape the smoke emitted by a garbage yard located in the east of the city.
"It's only the second day but we can't stand it anymore. I had to take my family to my brother's house," said Ahmad Al-Sheikh, of the Al-Marwah neighborhood. Al-Sheikh said the residents have complained to the municipality about the proximity of the garbage yard to residents. He pointed out that in other countries, garbage yards are located in remote areas with a private entity tasked to responsibly look after the disposal of the gas.
Many children and elderly people sought refuge in the Al-Salaam Clinic.
Sa'ad Al-Sayali, another affected resident, said he had stayed in the clinic for two nights in a row because the smoke from the garbage yard has been worsening the asthma of his kids.
"The smoke just keeps following us," he said.
Other residents also reported developing chest diseases since the pollution started.
Al-Marwah resident Ali Hadi said that they thought the municipality had taken care of the problem when they stopped smelling and detecting smoke for two months.
However, the smoke returned stronger than ever and lasted longer, usually overnight.
Salem Al-Harbi of Al-Rabee district said the smoke has driven family away. He recounted inviting his cousin to stay in his house who then left just two weeks later - with bad memories of the smoke and a bad case of asthma.
The municipality is said to be working on relocating the garbage yard to 25 km away from Jeddah in the next three years, and turning the current site into a park.
Emaar, Saudi Bin Laden Group Partnership
Friday, 05 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
Emaar, The Economic City (Emaar.E.C), has signed a SR129 million contract with the Saudi Bin Laden Group to build a 13-kilometer road from the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) main gate to the Bay La Sun Village, a residential community within KAEC. Dr. Abdulraouf Mannaa, managing director of Emaar.E.C, signed the contract with Engr. Omar Bin Laden, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Binladen Group.
The road will be finished in seven months, a company statement noted.
KAEC is the single largest private sector-led project with six key components: the seaport, the industrial zone, the central business district, the resort district, the educational zone and the residential Communities.
Work is progressing according to schedule on the various zones while industrial and residential areas have already been opened for investors.
By Adel Al-Malki
Emaar, The Economic City (Emaar.E.C), has signed a SR129 million contract with the Saudi Bin Laden Group to build a 13-kilometer road from the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) main gate to the Bay La Sun Village, a residential community within KAEC. Dr. Abdulraouf Mannaa, managing director of Emaar.E.C, signed the contract with Engr. Omar Bin Laden, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Binladen Group.
The road will be finished in seven months, a company statement noted.
KAEC is the single largest private sector-led project with six key components: the seaport, the industrial zone, the central business district, the resort district, the educational zone and the residential Communities.
Work is progressing according to schedule on the various zones while industrial and residential areas have already been opened for investors.
New Stock offerings Up
Friday, 05 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Capital Market Authority (CMA) has approved the public subscription of three insurance companies. All companies will be floated above SR10 per share from October 27 to November 3, the CMA noted. Union Cooperative Insurance, with a capital of SR250 million, will float 10.5 million representing 42 percent of the company's total shares, Eagle Insurance Company, with a capital of SR200 million, in turn will float 8.4 million shares or equal to 42 percent of all issued shares while the Arab Cooperative Insurance Company, with a capital of SR200 million will float 8 million shares public subscription, representing 40 percent of its total stock issuances.
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Capital Market Authority (CMA) has approved the public subscription of three insurance companies. All companies will be floated above SR10 per share from October 27 to November 3, the CMA noted. Union Cooperative Insurance, with a capital of SR250 million, will float 10.5 million representing 42 percent of the company's total shares, Eagle Insurance Company, with a capital of SR200 million, in turn will float 8.4 million shares or equal to 42 percent of all issued shares while the Arab Cooperative Insurance Company, with a capital of SR200 million will float 8 million shares public subscription, representing 40 percent of its total stock issuances.
Complaints on Price Hikes Prompt Meeting
Wednesday, 03 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki & Mohannad Sharawi
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has received no less than 2,156 calls from consumers complaining about the price hike in commodities in the last six months despite the establishment of the Department of Consumer Protection.
To follow-up on the issue, Minister of Commerce and Industry Hesham Yamani recently held a meeting with the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and importers of vegetable oil, sugar, meat, milk powder and others. Almost all the factors identified in the meeting that caused the price increase are external: low production of agricultural crops on a global scale, the increased demand and purchase of products by China, India, Iran and other European and Asian countries, the Dollar-Riyal exchange rate, high oil price that pushed import and export cost, and inflation.
Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, the director of Media Department in JCCI, emphasized, however, that the prices of commodities in the Kingdom are still competitive with neighboring countries.
The authorities pledged to continue monitoring prices and to find solutions to prevent more escalations.
The Shoura Council in the last six months has received more than 40 questions on the high prices of food items, construction and real state.
By Adel Al-Malki & Mohannad Sharawi
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has received no less than 2,156 calls from consumers complaining about the price hike in commodities in the last six months despite the establishment of the Department of Consumer Protection.
To follow-up on the issue, Minister of Commerce and Industry Hesham Yamani recently held a meeting with the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and importers of vegetable oil, sugar, meat, milk powder and others. Almost all the factors identified in the meeting that caused the price increase are external: low production of agricultural crops on a global scale, the increased demand and purchase of products by China, India, Iran and other European and Asian countries, the Dollar-Riyal exchange rate, high oil price that pushed import and export cost, and inflation.
Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, the director of Media Department in JCCI, emphasized, however, that the prices of commodities in the Kingdom are still competitive with neighboring countries.
The authorities pledged to continue monitoring prices and to find solutions to prevent more escalations.
The Shoura Council in the last six months has received more than 40 questions on the high prices of food items, construction and real state.
Tourism Festival in Jeddah at Eid
Monday, 01 October 2007
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
A PARADE of boats, a fishing contest and a safe diving event will be held in the five-day Obhur Tourism Festival beginning on the first day of Eid.
Private citizens will join the Coast Guard in the boat parades daily from 4 to 6 P.M. The fishing contest will be held on the fourth day of the festival from 5 A.M. to 5 P.M. Also, a safe diving event that aims to raise awareness among divers on how to preserve the marine environment will be held on the third and fourth day of the festival.
Saleh Al-Turki, head of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) that organized the festival, said holding these activities in Jeddah is apt since the city "is different from others with many visitors marveling at the sites they see here."
The Obhur Festival will be held under the patronage of Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah region.
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
A PARADE of boats, a fishing contest and a safe diving event will be held in the five-day Obhur Tourism Festival beginning on the first day of Eid.
Private citizens will join the Coast Guard in the boat parades daily from 4 to 6 P.M. The fishing contest will be held on the fourth day of the festival from 5 A.M. to 5 P.M. Also, a safe diving event that aims to raise awareness among divers on how to preserve the marine environment will be held on the third and fourth day of the festival.
Saleh Al-Turki, head of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) that organized the festival, said holding these activities in Jeddah is apt since the city "is different from others with many visitors marveling at the sites they see here."
The Obhur Festival will be held under the patronage of Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah region.
Pakistan Consulate to Build New Facilities
Sunday, 30 September 2007
By Abdullah Al-Hariri And Adel Al-Malki
THE 175,000 Pakistanis who are expected to arrive in the Kingdom for Haj this season will be well taken care of, said Pakistan Consul General Zaigham Uddin Azam.
"We are there every step of the way from the moment they arrive in the Haj terminal, to helping them book accommodations according to their budget in Makkah and Madinah," he said.
Azam said Pakistani pilgrims need special attention since many of them are between the ages of 70 and 80. "(And) there are very few rich people in Pakistan, so it is likely that those who perform Umrah took a long time to save up for it," he said.
To further aid their citizens year round, a new building to house the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah is being constructed.
The new building will have a portion with dining and sports facilities, another portion to house small clinics, a third portion holding marriages, a fourth with an exhibition hall, among others.
"Our aim is to be able to serve up to 1,000 people in 30 minutes," he said.
When asked about the Pakistanis who were arrested by the Saudi police during the celebration of Pakistan Day last month, Azam said their citizens should have respected Saudi law.
"What they did is something not approved by anyone - not even their parents. The police have already freed eight people out of 28 arrested, and I think the sentence of one month incarceration has already been completed," said Azam.
Also, he said, the economy of Pakistan remains stable despite the ongoing political situation there that Azam describes as not uncommon for a democratic society.
"Sometimes the opposition has the upper hand, sometimes it's the government," he said. "It's a see-saw."
Fortunately, he said, legislation has been put in place to protect outside and domestic investors in Pakistan.
The Consul General added that the government has been in constant dialogue with opposition parties whose demands are considered and accommodated "if these are suitable to the government."
Does he expect Benazir Bhutto to be the next Prime Minister?
"The law says that a Prime Minister can only be elected for two terms and Benazir Bhutto wants to be Prime Minister for a third time," he said.
"For that to happen, the constitution has to be amended with a two-thirds majority."
By Abdullah Al-Hariri And Adel Al-Malki
THE 175,000 Pakistanis who are expected to arrive in the Kingdom for Haj this season will be well taken care of, said Pakistan Consul General Zaigham Uddin Azam.
"We are there every step of the way from the moment they arrive in the Haj terminal, to helping them book accommodations according to their budget in Makkah and Madinah," he said.
Azam said Pakistani pilgrims need special attention since many of them are between the ages of 70 and 80. "(And) there are very few rich people in Pakistan, so it is likely that those who perform Umrah took a long time to save up for it," he said.
To further aid their citizens year round, a new building to house the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah is being constructed.
The new building will have a portion with dining and sports facilities, another portion to house small clinics, a third portion holding marriages, a fourth with an exhibition hall, among others.
"Our aim is to be able to serve up to 1,000 people in 30 minutes," he said.
When asked about the Pakistanis who were arrested by the Saudi police during the celebration of Pakistan Day last month, Azam said their citizens should have respected Saudi law.
"What they did is something not approved by anyone - not even their parents. The police have already freed eight people out of 28 arrested, and I think the sentence of one month incarceration has already been completed," said Azam.
Also, he said, the economy of Pakistan remains stable despite the ongoing political situation there that Azam describes as not uncommon for a democratic society.
"Sometimes the opposition has the upper hand, sometimes it's the government," he said. "It's a see-saw."
Fortunately, he said, legislation has been put in place to protect outside and domestic investors in Pakistan.
The Consul General added that the government has been in constant dialogue with opposition parties whose demands are considered and accommodated "if these are suitable to the government."
Does he expect Benazir Bhutto to be the next Prime Minister?
"The law says that a Prime Minister can only be elected for two terms and Benazir Bhutto wants to be Prime Minister for a third time," he said.
"For that to happen, the constitution has to be amended with a two-thirds majority."
Pakistan Consulate to Build New Facilities
Sunday, 30 September 2007
By Abdullah Al-Hariri And Adel Al-Malki
THE 175,000 Pakistanis who are expected to arrive in the Kingdom for Haj this season will be well taken care of, said Pakistan Consul General Zaigham Uddin Azam.
"We are there every step of the way from the moment they arrive in the Haj terminal, to helping them book accommodations according to their budget in Makkah and Madinah," he said.
Azam said Pakistani pilgrims need special attention since many of them are between the ages of 70 and 80. "(And) there are very few rich people in Pakistan, so it is likely that those who perform Umrah took a long time to save up for it," he said.
To further aid their citizens year round, a new building to house the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah is being constructed.
The new building will have a portion with dining and sports facilities, another portion to house small clinics, a third portion holding marriages, a fourth with an exhibition hall, among others.
"Our aim is to be able to serve up to 1,000 people in 30 minutes," he said.
When asked about the Pakistanis who were arrested by the Saudi police during the celebration of Pakistan Day last month, Azam said their citizens should have respected Saudi law.
"What they did is something not approved by anyone - not even their parents. The police have already freed eight people out of 28 arrested, and I think the sentence of one month incarceration has already been completed," said Azam.
Also, he said, the economy of Pakistan remains stable despite the ongoing political situation there that Azam describes as not uncommon for a democratic society.
"Sometimes the opposition has the upper hand, sometimes it's the government," he said. "It's a see-saw."
Fortunately, he said, legislation has been put in place to protect outside and domestic investors in Pakistan.
The Consul General added that the government has been in constant dialogue with opposition parties whose demands are considered and accommodated "if these are suitable to the government."
Does he expect Benazir Bhutto to be the next Prime Minister?
"The law says that a Prime Minister can only be elected for two terms and Benazir Bhutto wants to be Prime Minister for a third time," he said.
"For that to happen, the constitution has to be amended with a two-thirds majority."
By Abdullah Al-Hariri And Adel Al-Malki
THE 175,000 Pakistanis who are expected to arrive in the Kingdom for Haj this season will be well taken care of, said Pakistan Consul General Zaigham Uddin Azam.
"We are there every step of the way from the moment they arrive in the Haj terminal, to helping them book accommodations according to their budget in Makkah and Madinah," he said.
Azam said Pakistani pilgrims need special attention since many of them are between the ages of 70 and 80. "(And) there are very few rich people in Pakistan, so it is likely that those who perform Umrah took a long time to save up for it," he said.
To further aid their citizens year round, a new building to house the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah is being constructed.
The new building will have a portion with dining and sports facilities, another portion to house small clinics, a third portion holding marriages, a fourth with an exhibition hall, among others.
"Our aim is to be able to serve up to 1,000 people in 30 minutes," he said.
When asked about the Pakistanis who were arrested by the Saudi police during the celebration of Pakistan Day last month, Azam said their citizens should have respected Saudi law.
"What they did is something not approved by anyone - not even their parents. The police have already freed eight people out of 28 arrested, and I think the sentence of one month incarceration has already been completed," said Azam.
Also, he said, the economy of Pakistan remains stable despite the ongoing political situation there that Azam describes as not uncommon for a democratic society.
"Sometimes the opposition has the upper hand, sometimes it's the government," he said. "It's a see-saw."
Fortunately, he said, legislation has been put in place to protect outside and domestic investors in Pakistan.
The Consul General added that the government has been in constant dialogue with opposition parties whose demands are considered and accommodated "if these are suitable to the government."
Does he expect Benazir Bhutto to be the next Prime Minister?
"The law says that a Prime Minister can only be elected for two terms and Benazir Bhutto wants to be Prime Minister for a third time," he said.
"For that to happen, the constitution has to be amended with a two-thirds majority."
Drive Down a Street, Drive back a Road
Sunday, 30 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
THE Numbering and Labeling Department in Jeddah Municipality has completed renumbering streets and improving sign boards all over the city.
Al-Shareef Hussein, the department director, said they renumbered roads from north to south with double-digit numbers, and from west to east with one-digit numbers. The number increases the farther an establishment is from the coast. The new numbering system divided Jeddah into four main sectors, each subdivided into districts, then into small neighborhoods with main streets in-between.
Numbers 1001 to 1999 are for streets in the north-western part of the city; 2001 to 2199 for the north-eastern part; 3001 to 3199 for the south-eastern parts; and 4001 to 4199 for the southern-western parts.
Hussein said that the 60 and 70 Streets will retain their old names and numbers while residents acquaint with the changes in the rest.
"The new number system will make it easier for visitors and drivers to know and locate each place," said Hussein.
Jeddah Municipality has also completed classifying streets into major roads, streets and paths. It defined main road as one that cuts across districts and have at least three lanes.
"The combined streets are the streets that have no service lines and cross more than a district, like Hera'a Street," he said.
"Subsidiary streets serve only one district and have one or two lanes."
According to the new classification, there will be 16 main roads in Jeddah. Among these are Mohammad bin Abdul Aziz, Prince Sultan, Prince Mete'eb, Prince Majed, Al-Andalus, Sari, Al-Makaronh, Abdul-Allah Suliman and Palestine Street.
Around 50 newly designed signboards will be erected in the main road intersections.
Some 11 neighborhoods were given names. The signboards to be erected in the streets of these newly named neighborhoods will have a brief history of its namesakes.
Signboards in Mushrifah, Al-Aziziyah and in 42 other districts were improved.
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
THE Numbering and Labeling Department in Jeddah Municipality has completed renumbering streets and improving sign boards all over the city.
Al-Shareef Hussein, the department director, said they renumbered roads from north to south with double-digit numbers, and from west to east with one-digit numbers. The number increases the farther an establishment is from the coast. The new numbering system divided Jeddah into four main sectors, each subdivided into districts, then into small neighborhoods with main streets in-between.
Numbers 1001 to 1999 are for streets in the north-western part of the city; 2001 to 2199 for the north-eastern part; 3001 to 3199 for the south-eastern parts; and 4001 to 4199 for the southern-western parts.
Hussein said that the 60 and 70 Streets will retain their old names and numbers while residents acquaint with the changes in the rest.
"The new number system will make it easier for visitors and drivers to know and locate each place," said Hussein.
Jeddah Municipality has also completed classifying streets into major roads, streets and paths. It defined main road as one that cuts across districts and have at least three lanes.
"The combined streets are the streets that have no service lines and cross more than a district, like Hera'a Street," he said.
"Subsidiary streets serve only one district and have one or two lanes."
According to the new classification, there will be 16 main roads in Jeddah. Among these are Mohammad bin Abdul Aziz, Prince Sultan, Prince Mete'eb, Prince Majed, Al-Andalus, Sari, Al-Makaronh, Abdul-Allah Suliman and Palestine Street.
Around 50 newly designed signboards will be erected in the main road intersections.
Some 11 neighborhoods were given names. The signboards to be erected in the streets of these newly named neighborhoods will have a brief history of its namesakes.
Signboards in Mushrifah, Al-Aziziyah and in 42 other districts were improved.
Fasting Improperly leads to Weight Gain at Ramadan – Studies
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
STUDIES show that many people gain weight in Ramadan from bad eating habits including overindulgence in food high in oil and sugar.
Most who gain weight during the season eat breakfast for just under ten minutes followed by dessert. The fast and over consumption of food results to energy not being used up, thus, stored in the body as fats. Some Muslims have made fasting in Ramadan an excuse to overindulge in food between sunset and sunrise.
Muneera Al-Harbi , a nutritionist in the International Medical Center in Jeddah, said there is this wrong notion that if one eats large amount of food, it will serve as a reserve for them not to feel hungry the next day. Doing so only disrupts the metabolism, she said.
Housewives are advised to cook healthy food . "Go for more poached and barbecued food, while minimizing the use of margarine, butter, and corn oil," said Muneera.
Variety in food is key to healthy eating. Eating vegetables and fruits everyday is ideal. Do not skip the sahour meal but do not overeat by then, either.
Al-Harbi said a change in the preparation of sahour and iftar might help to make these healthier.
"And do not count the number of hours you spend on fasting. Doing so will only drive you to eat more before and after to ‘compensate.' Remember that after sahour, you will be inactive for several hours, thus, slowing down your metabolism," said Muneera.
Chew food slowly especially in breaking the fast to help the digestive system readapt to eating. Drink eight glasses of water and drink juice that have not been artificially sweetened. Exercise for 30 min. at least four times a week. Lessen intake of milk high on butterfat, meat, cream and fried food.
By Adel Al-Malki
STUDIES show that many people gain weight in Ramadan from bad eating habits including overindulgence in food high in oil and sugar.
Most who gain weight during the season eat breakfast for just under ten minutes followed by dessert. The fast and over consumption of food results to energy not being used up, thus, stored in the body as fats. Some Muslims have made fasting in Ramadan an excuse to overindulge in food between sunset and sunrise.
Muneera Al-Harbi , a nutritionist in the International Medical Center in Jeddah, said there is this wrong notion that if one eats large amount of food, it will serve as a reserve for them not to feel hungry the next day. Doing so only disrupts the metabolism, she said.
Housewives are advised to cook healthy food . "Go for more poached and barbecued food, while minimizing the use of margarine, butter, and corn oil," said Muneera.
Variety in food is key to healthy eating. Eating vegetables and fruits everyday is ideal. Do not skip the sahour meal but do not overeat by then, either.
Al-Harbi said a change in the preparation of sahour and iftar might help to make these healthier.
"And do not count the number of hours you spend on fasting. Doing so will only drive you to eat more before and after to ‘compensate.' Remember that after sahour, you will be inactive for several hours, thus, slowing down your metabolism," said Muneera.
Chew food slowly especially in breaking the fast to help the digestive system readapt to eating. Drink eight glasses of water and drink juice that have not been artificially sweetened. Exercise for 30 min. at least four times a week. Lessen intake of milk high on butterfat, meat, cream and fried food.
Car, Balad Parades Liven up Streets of Jeddah
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
IT took motorists more than an hour-and-a-half to cover the 3-km distance. In Jeddah's Al-Tahlia Street and Corniche Road, everybody was seeing green.
Cars, with Saudi flags, had posted King Abdullah's photos. Others redecorated their cars with green and white stripes. Saudi Arabia's National Day celebration was festive. There were signs everywhere: "For you my country", "Long live my country" and "Abdullah is in our Hearts".
"The National Day is one of our important days," Mohammed Al-Ghamdi said. "We should celebrate the day with love for our country and inspire the young to realize and recognize the victory of our great King Abdul Aziz."
A few were distributing flags for free. One of them, Mohammed Qurmali, said that the occasion renewed and reaffirmed Saudis' love and loyalty for their country and leadership.
"I went here early because I expected these people would come. I bought flags as well as a music player to play nationalist songs on the occasion," he said.
Jeddah celebrated the day by holding several activities in Jeddah's historic zone, during which citizens and expats alike participated.
"There will be lectures about the efforts of all of the Kings of Saudi Arabia," Sami Nawar, head of tourism and culture department in the municipality, said.
"There will also be competitions, prizes and an exhibition that will include pictures for King Abdul Aziz and his late sons," he added.
Traditional singers performed songs that praised the country and the King.
Nawar said that these events are to remind people of the history and successes of King Abdul Aziz.
"The historic area will remain open for people for four days so that visitors can take part in the celebrations," he added.
For the first time, Jeddah is using the latest technology to celebrate the national day, through sending Bluetooth messages. The technology is called Blue Media, which can send 30 messages a minute.
"This service will be in Al-Balad area and many other parts of Jeddah to allow mobile users to send and receive a group of messages along the year, and on various occasions," Nawar said.
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
IT took motorists more than an hour-and-a-half to cover the 3-km distance. In Jeddah's Al-Tahlia Street and Corniche Road, everybody was seeing green.
Cars, with Saudi flags, had posted King Abdullah's photos. Others redecorated their cars with green and white stripes. Saudi Arabia's National Day celebration was festive. There were signs everywhere: "For you my country", "Long live my country" and "Abdullah is in our Hearts".
"The National Day is one of our important days," Mohammed Al-Ghamdi said. "We should celebrate the day with love for our country and inspire the young to realize and recognize the victory of our great King Abdul Aziz."
A few were distributing flags for free. One of them, Mohammed Qurmali, said that the occasion renewed and reaffirmed Saudis' love and loyalty for their country and leadership.
"I went here early because I expected these people would come. I bought flags as well as a music player to play nationalist songs on the occasion," he said.
Jeddah celebrated the day by holding several activities in Jeddah's historic zone, during which citizens and expats alike participated.
"There will be lectures about the efforts of all of the Kings of Saudi Arabia," Sami Nawar, head of tourism and culture department in the municipality, said.
"There will also be competitions, prizes and an exhibition that will include pictures for King Abdul Aziz and his late sons," he added.
Traditional singers performed songs that praised the country and the King.
Nawar said that these events are to remind people of the history and successes of King Abdul Aziz.
"The historic area will remain open for people for four days so that visitors can take part in the celebrations," he added.
For the first time, Jeddah is using the latest technology to celebrate the national day, through sending Bluetooth messages. The technology is called Blue Media, which can send 30 messages a minute.
"This service will be in Al-Balad area and many other parts of Jeddah to allow mobile users to send and receive a group of messages along the year, and on various occasions," Nawar said.
Young Saudis Paint their Cars Green
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
Turki A'al Ashaikh brought his car at a car shop and stayed there for four hours to watch his car painted with green and white stripes.
Thousands of young Saudis like Ashaikh celebrated the National Day that way.
"I wanted to express how much I love my country," he said. "And I'm not the only one who's doing this. I thought it wouldn't take me more than half an hour, but I was surprised to see ten more cars waiting." Coloring a car costs nearly SR200. And Ashaikh was ready to pay more than that just to be able to drive his car with green and white colors on the National Day.
Mishary Sabban is another young Saudi who did the same with his car. He even posted King Abdullah's picture on both sides of his car. He wished it was not Ramadan time.
"I wanted to play songs to celebrate this event, but it's Ramadan, he said. "I know many people don't want to hear music during Ramadan."
Unlike Ashaikh, Sabban colored the car himself.
"I went to one car shop and they wanted me to pay SR300. What I did instead is, I visited a stationery, picked some green colors and did it myself. It cost me no more than SR70," he said.
Fathers encourage their sons to celebrate the national day on their own way.
"I gave my son some money to paint his car in a way that goes with the event," Abdul Aziz Omari, a schoolteacher, said. "I even discussed with him where to post the leader's photos. He promised me not to take advantage of the occasion to do silly things," Omari added.
"Such support help instill patriotism in our youth," he said. "Our children should grow up loving their motherland. And we should continue handing these values down to the next generation," he said.
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
Turki A'al Ashaikh brought his car at a car shop and stayed there for four hours to watch his car painted with green and white stripes.
Thousands of young Saudis like Ashaikh celebrated the National Day that way.
"I wanted to express how much I love my country," he said. "And I'm not the only one who's doing this. I thought it wouldn't take me more than half an hour, but I was surprised to see ten more cars waiting." Coloring a car costs nearly SR200. And Ashaikh was ready to pay more than that just to be able to drive his car with green and white colors on the National Day.
Mishary Sabban is another young Saudi who did the same with his car. He even posted King Abdullah's picture on both sides of his car. He wished it was not Ramadan time.
"I wanted to play songs to celebrate this event, but it's Ramadan, he said. "I know many people don't want to hear music during Ramadan."
Unlike Ashaikh, Sabban colored the car himself.
"I went to one car shop and they wanted me to pay SR300. What I did instead is, I visited a stationery, picked some green colors and did it myself. It cost me no more than SR70," he said.
Fathers encourage their sons to celebrate the national day on their own way.
"I gave my son some money to paint his car in a way that goes with the event," Abdul Aziz Omari, a schoolteacher, said. "I even discussed with him where to post the leader's photos. He promised me not to take advantage of the occasion to do silly things," Omari added.
"Such support help instill patriotism in our youth," he said. "Our children should grow up loving their motherland. And we should continue handing these values down to the next generation," he said.
Charity Raises SR4.6 Million in Shares
Sunday, 23 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
AL-NOUR is the first charity project to have such valuable shares because each share aims to give Islamic aid to the poor people in the world, it was announced Wednesday during the Makkah Charity Association's first ceremony in Leilaty.
Each share, worth SR450, will financially help various charitable projects, believe members of the organization, who are devoted to printing the Holy Qura'n and distributing the income to the needy throughout the world. "The project aims to care for Muslim orphans and build care centers, schools and hospitals which sponsor orphans and systematically make them worthy members in their communities," Abdullah Nassif , the charity's chairman of the board, said during the ceremony.
A documentary about the institution and its role in charity work with orphans was shown during the ceremony.
Attendees donated over SR4,600,000 to Al-Shfa'a Center, which will care for orphans and the needy.
By Adel Al-Malki
AL-NOUR is the first charity project to have such valuable shares because each share aims to give Islamic aid to the poor people in the world, it was announced Wednesday during the Makkah Charity Association's first ceremony in Leilaty.
Each share, worth SR450, will financially help various charitable projects, believe members of the organization, who are devoted to printing the Holy Qura'n and distributing the income to the needy throughout the world. "The project aims to care for Muslim orphans and build care centers, schools and hospitals which sponsor orphans and systematically make them worthy members in their communities," Abdullah Nassif , the charity's chairman of the board, said during the ceremony.
A documentary about the institution and its role in charity work with orphans was shown during the ceremony.
Attendees donated over SR4,600,000 to Al-Shfa'a Center, which will care for orphans and the needy.
Prince asks for Patience
Thursday, 20 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
PRINCE Khaled Al-Faisal, the Emir of the Makkah region, has asked the citizens of Jeddah to be more patient with the ongoing projects undertaken by the municipality during the launch of the King Abdullah Road on Wednesday.
Prince Al-Faisal said that the completion of King Abdullah Road that serves to help ease the traffic jams in the city is but an example of the many projects the municipality has lined up that stands to transform Jeddah within five years' time. "I am sure the results (of all these projects) will be excellent," he said.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqih said completing the King Abdullah Road, which links the east and west sides of the city, cost SR290 million.
The project involved the ongoing construction or reconstruction of the King Fahd Street, Al-Tawbah Street, Ra'as Al-Khaymah, and Khaled bin Al-Waleed Street, all of which intersect with the King Abdullah Road.
The municipality also installed lighting and traffic signs at the project sites.
Some 30,000 tons of cement approved by the Ministry of Transport was used in asphalting the roads.
By Adel Al-Malki
PRINCE Khaled Al-Faisal, the Emir of the Makkah region, has asked the citizens of Jeddah to be more patient with the ongoing projects undertaken by the municipality during the launch of the King Abdullah Road on Wednesday.
Prince Al-Faisal said that the completion of King Abdullah Road that serves to help ease the traffic jams in the city is but an example of the many projects the municipality has lined up that stands to transform Jeddah within five years' time. "I am sure the results (of all these projects) will be excellent," he said.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqih said completing the King Abdullah Road, which links the east and west sides of the city, cost SR290 million.
The project involved the ongoing construction or reconstruction of the King Fahd Street, Al-Tawbah Street, Ra'as Al-Khaymah, and Khaled bin Al-Waleed Street, all of which intersect with the King Abdullah Road.
The municipality also installed lighting and traffic signs at the project sites.
Some 30,000 tons of cement approved by the Ministry of Transport was used in asphalting the roads.
12-Month Multiple Entry Visa Boon for Business
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Council of Ministers on Monday met a long-standing demand of the private sector by making it far easier for foreign businessmen to visit Saudi Arabia.
Meeting in its weekly session chaired by King Abdullah at Al-Salama Palace in Jeddah, the Council approved 12-month multiple-entry visas for foreign businessmen. The visa issuance process has also been simplified under a fast-track procedure that avoids much of the cumbersome and delay-prone paperwork of the past.
From now on, Saudi embassies abroad will issue such visit visas to foreign businessmen and those in their category without the need for an invitation from a Saudi company or letter of introduction from a Saudi Chamber of Commerce, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Foreigners who qualify for business visas include businessmen, investors, representatives of foreign companies, managers, sales managers, sales representatives, accountants, production managers, administrative managers and consultants, according to Saudi embassy websites.
Monday's decision was made after the Council reviewed a proposal to grant non-Saudi businessmen visit visas at Saudi airports, said Iyad Amin Madani, Minister of Information and Culture, in a press briefing after the session.
For the business community, the new arrangement greatly eases up interaction with foreign businesses wanting to engage the Saudi market.
Abdul Rahman Al-Jeraisy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry lauded the decision as a big step forward.
Simplification of the business-visa process removes an obstacle that Saudi businessmen have been complaining about for years, he said.
The step will accelerate the flow of investments into the country and pave the way for more partnerships between foreign and Saudi investors, he said.
Al-Jeraisy said the Cabinet's response to the private sector's demand would give the national economy a strong thrust.
Business visas do not grant to the applicant the right to work or to reside in Saudi Arabia.
Nonetheless, business sources in Jeddah told The Saudi Gazette, the new arrangement will make it easier for Saudi companies to tap into highly skilled foreign manpower who prefer to be based in neighboring countries - Dubai in the United Arab Emirates or Bahrain, for example.
"They can now easily fly in and out as consultants," one source said.
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Council of Ministers on Monday met a long-standing demand of the private sector by making it far easier for foreign businessmen to visit Saudi Arabia.
Meeting in its weekly session chaired by King Abdullah at Al-Salama Palace in Jeddah, the Council approved 12-month multiple-entry visas for foreign businessmen. The visa issuance process has also been simplified under a fast-track procedure that avoids much of the cumbersome and delay-prone paperwork of the past.
From now on, Saudi embassies abroad will issue such visit visas to foreign businessmen and those in their category without the need for an invitation from a Saudi company or letter of introduction from a Saudi Chamber of Commerce, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Foreigners who qualify for business visas include businessmen, investors, representatives of foreign companies, managers, sales managers, sales representatives, accountants, production managers, administrative managers and consultants, according to Saudi embassy websites.
Monday's decision was made after the Council reviewed a proposal to grant non-Saudi businessmen visit visas at Saudi airports, said Iyad Amin Madani, Minister of Information and Culture, in a press briefing after the session.
For the business community, the new arrangement greatly eases up interaction with foreign businesses wanting to engage the Saudi market.
Abdul Rahman Al-Jeraisy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry lauded the decision as a big step forward.
Simplification of the business-visa process removes an obstacle that Saudi businessmen have been complaining about for years, he said.
The step will accelerate the flow of investments into the country and pave the way for more partnerships between foreign and Saudi investors, he said.
Al-Jeraisy said the Cabinet's response to the private sector's demand would give the national economy a strong thrust.
Business visas do not grant to the applicant the right to work or to reside in Saudi Arabia.
Nonetheless, business sources in Jeddah told The Saudi Gazette, the new arrangement will make it easier for Saudi companies to tap into highly skilled foreign manpower who prefer to be based in neighboring countries - Dubai in the United Arab Emirates or Bahrain, for example.
"They can now easily fly in and out as consultants," one source said.
A Million ‘Quitters’ in Ramadan
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
The Anti-smoking Charitable Association has a program to help at least a million people quit smoking starting in Ramadan.
The association offers checkups in their office to determine how much help a smoker needs. "We measure the ratio of carbon monoxide in the body to the efficiency of the lung and heart," said Mohammed Al-Harthi, director of the association in the Makkah region. "There are also psychologists and social workers to counsel the patients."
Al-Harthi advises smokers to get rid of all ashtrays and lighters they have, and to drink more fresh juices. They should also stay away from other smokers during the first week and to avoid drinking coffee and tea.
Mosa'ad Telmes, a smoker who has decided to quit the habit this Ramadan, said that if a person can abstain from smoking for 12 hours while fasting, then it means he can extend doing so until he completely stops.
He admitted to have not initially gone cold turkey the first day. However, when his kids pointed out that he has already abstained from morning till breakfast time, Telmes realized that he has the willpower to drop the habit for good.
Yosef Ahmad, another smoker who has been into the habit for 32 years , stopped smoking on the eve of Ramadan upon advice of a friend.
He admits to have initially resented the advice, arguing that he began smoking at a young age and that "nicotine, not blood" courses through his veins.
"But the man insisted on his advice and before long, we found ourselves praying to Allah to help me quit smoking," said Ahmad who uses nicotine patches and chewing gum whenever he craves for cigarettes.
The biggest obstacle to quitting the habit is the craving during breakfast time, according to 21-year-old Saeed Saleh.
"Lighting a cigarette is the first thing some of my friend's do at breakfast," he said.
By Adel Al-Malki
The Anti-smoking Charitable Association has a program to help at least a million people quit smoking starting in Ramadan.
The association offers checkups in their office to determine how much help a smoker needs. "We measure the ratio of carbon monoxide in the body to the efficiency of the lung and heart," said Mohammed Al-Harthi, director of the association in the Makkah region. "There are also psychologists and social workers to counsel the patients."
Al-Harthi advises smokers to get rid of all ashtrays and lighters they have, and to drink more fresh juices. They should also stay away from other smokers during the first week and to avoid drinking coffee and tea.
Mosa'ad Telmes, a smoker who has decided to quit the habit this Ramadan, said that if a person can abstain from smoking for 12 hours while fasting, then it means he can extend doing so until he completely stops.
He admitted to have not initially gone cold turkey the first day. However, when his kids pointed out that he has already abstained from morning till breakfast time, Telmes realized that he has the willpower to drop the habit for good.
Yosef Ahmad, another smoker who has been into the habit for 32 years , stopped smoking on the eve of Ramadan upon advice of a friend.
He admits to have initially resented the advice, arguing that he began smoking at a young age and that "nicotine, not blood" courses through his veins.
"But the man insisted on his advice and before long, we found ourselves praying to Allah to help me quit smoking," said Ahmad who uses nicotine patches and chewing gum whenever he craves for cigarettes.
The biggest obstacle to quitting the habit is the craving during breakfast time, according to 21-year-old Saeed Saleh.
"Lighting a cigarette is the first thing some of my friend's do at breakfast," he said.
Canadian Minister to Talk Trade in Saudi
Monday, 17 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Canadian Commerce Minister will visit the Kingdom during the next two months to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral relations at an economic level.
A focus on investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia is expected during the visit. Additionally, Jeff Blackstone, Commercial Counselor at the Canadian Embassy in Riyadh, said developing co-operation between the private sectors in both countries, especially in the fields of environmental conservation and construction, will be another important issue. Blackstone praised the construction drive which has led to increased investment flows in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia.
Ahmad Sabri, Secretary-General of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce, said Saudi Arabia has seized 40 percent of the investment that is going into the Middle East and that figure is expected to grow in the next few years.
The government recently increased the number of student scholarships to Canada and the two countries hope to strengthen their bilateral trade, which exceeds SR4 billion according to 2004 estimates.
Five months ago a delegation of 40 Saudi businessmen, representing a number of Saudi companies as well as governmental institutions, visited Canada and signed trade contracts.
Trade trends are in the Kingdom's favor since Canada buys $5 billion of oil from here while Canadian companies are involved in economic projects, costing $540 million, in the Kingdom.
"A large number of Canadian companies want to contribute to these projects as well as railway plans in the Kingdom, as Canadian companies are very experienced in rail projects," Blackstone said.
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Canadian Commerce Minister will visit the Kingdom during the next two months to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral relations at an economic level.
A focus on investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia is expected during the visit. Additionally, Jeff Blackstone, Commercial Counselor at the Canadian Embassy in Riyadh, said developing co-operation between the private sectors in both countries, especially in the fields of environmental conservation and construction, will be another important issue. Blackstone praised the construction drive which has led to increased investment flows in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia.
Ahmad Sabri, Secretary-General of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce, said Saudi Arabia has seized 40 percent of the investment that is going into the Middle East and that figure is expected to grow in the next few years.
The government recently increased the number of student scholarships to Canada and the two countries hope to strengthen their bilateral trade, which exceeds SR4 billion according to 2004 estimates.
Five months ago a delegation of 40 Saudi businessmen, representing a number of Saudi companies as well as governmental institutions, visited Canada and signed trade contracts.
Trade trends are in the Kingdom's favor since Canada buys $5 billion of oil from here while Canadian companies are involved in economic projects, costing $540 million, in the Kingdom.
"A large number of Canadian companies want to contribute to these projects as well as railway plans in the Kingdom, as Canadian companies are very experienced in rail projects," Blackstone said.
Hospitals to raise Cancer Awareness
Monday, 17 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
A CAMPAIGN to raise awareness on the early detection of breast cancer will be mounted by the King Saud Hospital and King Fahd Hospital in Jeddah next month.
Iman Baroom, head of the organizing committee, said billboards will be put up along main roads, atop the biggest buildings, and in front of stoplights. Books and posters will be distributed in clinics, hospitals, schools and universities. A projector that flashes messages about the disease will be put up in the Jeddah fountain area.
The campaign will utilize SMS, include commercial spots to be aired over some satellite channels, and slogans on some food products.
A seminar on how health practitioners are to deal with and administer treatment to breast cancer patients was attended by more than 20 nurses at the Al-Hamra's Clinic Center.
The importance of using the mammogram for early detection of breast cancer was highlighted.
According to the MInistry of Health, there are 5,541 cases of breast cancer in the Kingdom. The annual total cost of treatment per patient is SR500,000.
Baroom said that most women hesitate to check if they have breast cancer until the disease has reached the stage when it is no longer treatable.
A study by King Abdulaziz Hospital in Jeddah show that the highest incidence rates of breast cancer in the Kingdom are in the eastern province, Riyadh, the Makkah region, Tabuk and Al-Qassim.
The same study shows that women who breast-feed and bear children frequently are less prone to breast cancer.
By Adel Al-Malki
A CAMPAIGN to raise awareness on the early detection of breast cancer will be mounted by the King Saud Hospital and King Fahd Hospital in Jeddah next month.
Iman Baroom, head of the organizing committee, said billboards will be put up along main roads, atop the biggest buildings, and in front of stoplights. Books and posters will be distributed in clinics, hospitals, schools and universities. A projector that flashes messages about the disease will be put up in the Jeddah fountain area.
The campaign will utilize SMS, include commercial spots to be aired over some satellite channels, and slogans on some food products.
A seminar on how health practitioners are to deal with and administer treatment to breast cancer patients was attended by more than 20 nurses at the Al-Hamra's Clinic Center.
The importance of using the mammogram for early detection of breast cancer was highlighted.
According to the MInistry of Health, there are 5,541 cases of breast cancer in the Kingdom. The annual total cost of treatment per patient is SR500,000.
Baroom said that most women hesitate to check if they have breast cancer until the disease has reached the stage when it is no longer treatable.
A study by King Abdulaziz Hospital in Jeddah show that the highest incidence rates of breast cancer in the Kingdom are in the eastern province, Riyadh, the Makkah region, Tabuk and Al-Qassim.
The same study shows that women who breast-feed and bear children frequently are less prone to breast cancer.
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