The announcement took place during the fifth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, a four-day event that brought together local and international experts to explore innovations and technologies designed to improve the Hajj and Umrah experience.

The initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the National Center for the Non-Profit Sector, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s drive to integrate professional expertise into volunteering work.

It seeks to empower organizations and entrepreneurs who serve pilgrims, ensuring high-quality services that align with the Kingdom’s broader vision for sustainable development and community participation.

By focusing on professional volunteering, the program encourages specialists from diverse fields to contribute their skills toward supporting nonprofit and Hajj-related organizations.

The initiative also aims to enhance institutional efficiency, strengthen human capabilities, and improve the overall management of Hajj services through modern methods and innovative technologies.

Key areas of focus include financial sustainability, developing business models for nonprofit organizations, and identifying investment opportunities that ensure long-term success.

Additionally, it emphasizes the integration of digital transformation and artificial intelligence to streamline operations, improve service delivery, and boost volunteer engagement across all sectors serving pilgrims.

This initiative also contributes directly to the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to increase volunteer participation in national development and position Saudi Arabia as a global leader in humanitarian service.

Through these efforts, the Kingdom continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a culture of giving, innovation, and collaboration.

The Hajj Conference served as a dynamic platform where experts, innovators, and decision-makers from around the world gathered to share ideas on enhancing the pilgrim experience.

Delegates from Islamic countries, government agencies, and private companies showcased new systems designed to ensure smoother, safer, and more efficient Hajj operations.

Exhibits featured advanced smart transport solutions, digital health monitoring systems, and crowd management technologies, all aimed at ensuring the safety and comfort of millions of pilgrims.

These innovations reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing investment in smart infrastructure and technological transformation to make every aspect of the pilgrimage seamless.

One of the most engaging panels at the conference focused on photography and documentary filmmaking, highlighting their crucial role in preserving the spiritual and cultural memory of Hajj.

Experts discussed how photography captures not only the rituals of Hajj but also the profound emotions, unity, and faith that define the experience.

Speakers noted that visual documentation serves as an educational bridge, connecting generations and promoting global understanding of the pilgrimage’s significance.

They emphasized developing Saudi photographers’ talents to tell compelling stories that reflect the values of peace, compassion, and humanity that lie at the heart of Hajj.

Another session explored Hajj’s cultural and social dimensions, focusing on symbols, traditions, and customs that shape the collective memory of Muslim societies.

Scholars and researchers stressed that Hajj is not only a religious obligation but also a cultural journey that deepens the shared consciousness of the Muslim world.

Participants highlighted the importance of documenting oral histories, preserving heritage artifacts, and promoting collaboration between universities, museums, and research institutions.

These partnerships are vital for safeguarding the legacy of Hajj and ensuring that its stories and spiritual essence continue to inspire future generations.

Museums and cultural centers play a significant role in preserving the human dimension of Hajj, displaying photographs, artifacts, and personal belongings that tell stories of faith and devotion.

These exhibits provide visitors with an emotional connection to the journey of pilgrims through time, reinforcing the universal message of unity and peace that Hajj embodies.

The new professional volunteering initiative, combined with Saudi Arabia’s continuous innovation in pilgrimage services, represents a forward-looking approach to global service and community empowerment.

It stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to excellence, compassion, and cultural preservation — values that continue to shape its role as the spiritual and humanitarian heart of the Muslim world.

Osama Aljohani, Omar Alomran, and Osama Dabbousi will travel to the University of Oxford next October, joining an elite group of global scholars from over 100 countries.

The Rhodes Scholarship, established in 1902, is widely recognized as the world’s oldest and most respected postgraduate fellowship. It provides exceptional students with full financial support to study at Oxford University.

The program aims to nurture future leaders who combine intellect, character, and a desire to serve humanity. It stands as a symbol of global academic excellence and leadership development.

The Saudi Rhodes Scholarship was introduced in 2018 through a generous gift from Mohammed Alagil, co-founder of Jarir Bookstores, in partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Education.

Since then, it has supported 18 exceptional Saudi students who have gone on to make contributions in fields such as medicine, genetics, technology, and the creative arts.

This year’s scholars continue that legacy of excellence and ambition, representing Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in global academia.

Osama Aljohani, a senior chemical engineering student at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, specializes in hydrogen mobility and renewable energy.

Growing up in Yanbu Industrial City inspired his passion for energy innovation and environmental sustainability. His research explores crude-to-chemicals conversion and catalyst performance optimization.

Aljohani has also completed a research internship in Austin, Texas, as a data and chemometrics analyst, where he applied advanced data analytics in industrial applications.

Beyond academics, he has co-founded several initiatives supporting students and young innovators, including programs that encourage Saudi youth in technology, research, and game development.

At Oxford, Aljohani plans to pursue master’s degrees in energy systems and sustainability, with a focus on solving water scarcity challenges through renewable energy.

Fellow recipient Omar Alomran recently graduated in software engineering from King Fahd University and focuses on artificial intelligence and economic research.

He has received multiple academic awards, including the Oxford/KAUST AI Program Scholarship and a semester scholarship at Georgia Tech in the United States.

Alomran has conducted research in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Economy and Planning and published works on public policy and international relations.

He has also been part of Thmanyah Media, contributing to economic and political analysis that reaches millions across the Arab world.

At Oxford, he will pursue a Master of Public Policy, focusing on evidence-based economic reforms and social development aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

The third scholar, Osama Dabbousi, is currently pursuing a master’s degree in computer science at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

His research specializes in high-performance computing, with a thesis on GPU-accelerated large-scale acoustic simulation.

A Boston University graduate in data science, Dabbousi earned the CDS Academic Excellence Award and holds a U.S. patent from his research with Aramco Americas.

He co-founded a student initiative that helps peers prepare for competitive technical interviews and plans to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science at Oxford.

The Rhodes Trust praised the three Saudi scholars for their exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential.

Rick Trainor, interim warden and CEO of the Rhodes Trust, said the 2026 class embodies excellence and diversity from every region of the world.

Professor Christian Sahner, national secretary for the Rhodes Scholarships in Saudi Arabia, said the selected students represent “the best of their country — combining intellect, creativity, and service.”

He added that their accomplishments align closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of empowering youth and fostering innovation.

Education remains a key pillar of the Kingdom’s national transformation agenda, and the Rhodes Scholarships serve as an example of Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global academia.

Through opportunities like these, talented Saudis are helping shape the future by addressing global challenges through science, technology, and policy.

The Rhodes community continues to unite scholars worldwide with a shared mission — to use knowledge, leadership, and integrity to make a positive difference in the world.

In a world driven by rapid change, Saudi Arabia’s creative community is demonstrating that heritage is not a limitation but an inspiration.
Across industries — from jewelry to architecture and beauty — innovation is being redefined as an evolution of tradition rather than a departure from it.

At the heart of this movement are women innovators who are weaving cultural heritage into modern design. Their message is clear: the future of creativity lies in honoring the past while embracing the possibilities of tomorrow.

Princess Nourah Al-Faisal, founder of Nuun Jewels, captured this spirit at the Creative Women Forum. She emphasized that cultural roots give creativity its identity, while innovation gives it direction and strength.

Institutions like the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, known as Wrth, are leading this transformation. Dedicated to merging preservation with progress, Wrth ensures that traditional arts form the foundation for modern education.

Suzan Alyahya, CEO of Wrth, highlighted the dynamic nature of Saudi heritage. “We see traditional arts as a moving, dynamic force, not a static remnant of the past,” she said, describing how students are encouraged to link identity with innovation.

Founded in 2021, Wrth’s programs empower citizens in crafts and design, supporting sustainable cultural growth. Courses range from pottery and Sadu weaving to master’s degrees in product development and digital heritage.

Technology, often seen as a rival to human creativity, is being reimagined as a partner in artistic expression. In Wrth’s philosophy, innovation through digital tools is not about replacing heritage but enhancing it.

Amal Abduljabbar, general manager of education and research, believes technology extends rather than threatens cultural authenticity. “Technology is not a threat to authenticity in any way. It’s an extension of our human story,” she explained.

She described how AI and virtual reality can protect and promote heritage. From monitoring historical sites to creating immersive storytelling experiences, digital tools amplify the emotional power of culture.

Abduljabbar added that identity itself evolves through values that must remain embedded in education and research. By nurturing these values, Saudi creatives are ensuring their innovations stay true to their roots while embracing modern perspectives.

Innovation also extends beyond education and technology into lifestyle and design sectors. The beauty industry, for instance, is showcasing how local inspiration can lead to global relevance.

Asteri Beauty, founded by Sara Alrashed, is pioneering products tailored to the region’s climate and culture. Her brand challenges global norms by crafting makeup suited for Arab women’s unique features and the desert environment.

“In the beauty industry, there is nothing that truly caters to Arab women, not just for their features, but also for the weather,” Alrashed said. Her approach merges scientific innovation with cultural storytelling, giving beauty a sense of place and identity.

These efforts show how Saudi entrepreneurs are turning tradition into a platform for sustainable creativity. Whether through design, craftsmanship, or technology, they are proving that cultural heritage remains the ultimate muse.

The broader consensus emerging from these creative voices is deeply optimistic. Authenticity is no longer viewed as an anchor holding innovation back but as a compass guiding it forward.

Saudi Arabia’s cultural evolution is reshaping global conversations about creativity and identity. By bridging the gap between past and future, the nation is crafting a model of progress that values memory as much as imagination.

The movement demonstrates that when innovation and heritage walk hand in hand, creativity becomes limitless. It is a future where every design, product, and idea carries the essence of culture — alive, dynamic, and endlessly inspiring.

A recent report unveiled by the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) highlights the Kingdom’s remarkable progress toward becoming a fully connected, technology-driven economy.

The report — the Digital Economy Navigator 2025 — was launched in Qatar, presenting a comprehensive analysis of digital growth across 80 countries that represent 94 percent of the global GDP.

The DCO emphasized that Saudi Arabia has emerged as a pioneer in building strong digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, and creating inclusive digital access for all citizens.

This milestone showcases the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing Vision 2030 objectives, transforming its economy into one powered by data, innovation, and sustainable development.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah Alswaha, stated that this achievement reinforces the Kingdom’s dedication to helping global policymakers design strategies that strengthen innovation ecosystems and digital governance frameworks.

These efforts align with the broader goal of achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth for all participating nations.

The report revealed that Saudi Arabia’s progress in digital transformation is supported by over 145 measurable indicators and a survey involving more than 41,000 participants across the world.

This extensive research provides valuable insights into how countries are advancing in digital infrastructure, innovation capacity, business growth, and governance transparency.

The Kingdom’s leadership reflects a forward-thinking vision that prioritizes inclusivity, opportunity, and technological empowerment.

One of the most notable highlights is Saudi Arabia’s success in the field of digital health and education. The Kingdom operates the world’s largest virtual hospital network, connecting over 224 hospitals across the nation.

In addition, AI-powered platforms like Sehhaty and Wasfaty have revolutionized healthcare accessibility and efficiency, ensuring that citizens receive timely and effective medical services.

These advancements underline how digitalization can bridge service gaps and enhance the quality of life.

The report also found that digital transformation has expanded global internet accessibility, with more than four out of five people in participating countries now having online access.

Lower and middle-income nations have shown the greatest improvement, proving that progress can be achieved with the right investments and policies.

Saudi Arabia’s support for cross-border collaboration has been instrumental in this global movement toward inclusion and connectivity.

Furthermore, the DCO highlighted how digital innovation has strengthened international trade. Online service portals are now fully functional in 66 countries, enabling easier access to cross-border services.

Another 10 countries are in the process of implementing similar platforms, which will further enhance global economic integration.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership in promoting equality in the digital sector is also evident. Global gender participation in digital activities has reached an average of 70.8 percent, and the Kingdom continues to push for more investment in digital education, especially for women. This initiative aims to close gender gaps and ensure equitable opportunities in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

The DCO’s Secretary-General, Deemah Al-Yahya, stressed the importance of continued collaboration, stating that progress in digital transformation depends on governments adopting agile policies, businesses investing responsibly, and societies embracing innovation.

She added that through unity and innovation, countries can create a trusted, sustainable digital future where every nation can participate meaningfully.

Saudi Arabia’s continued advancements in AI, 5G technology, and digital infrastructure represent a significant stride toward building a knowledge-based economy.

The Kingdom’s digital transformation journey sets a global example of how technology, inclusivity, and visionary leadership can work together to drive progress and prosperity in the digital age.

The Crown Prince stressed the importance of ending the humanitarian suffering of Palestinians, ensuring a complete Israeli withdrawal, and advancing peace efforts in line with the two-state solution.

The cabinet reaffirmed the Kingdom’s support for ongoing regional and international initiatives aimed at strengthening global security and fostering sustainable peace.

Alongside international diplomacy, the council reviewed domestic initiatives focused on enhancing public services, improving productivity, and supporting sustainable growth.

Officials highlighted progress on government programs designed to deliver innovative solutions and benefit citizens across the Kingdom.

A key highlight was the launch of the King Salman Gate Project in Makkah, a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed at improving the experience for visitors to the Grand Mosque.

The project represents the Kingdom’s commitment to combining modern development with cultural and spiritual excellence.

Housing and real estate development were also central to the discussions. The cabinet reviewed strategies to expand housing supply, achieve market balance, and provide citizens with diverse housing options. These measures aim to attract investors, support urban growth, and enhance economic stability.

The council also celebrated Saudi Arabia’s recent achievements in education, rural development, and transport, reflecting the Kingdom’s dedication to innovation and global best practices.

The Saudi International Railway Exhibition and Conference further demonstrated this commitment, bringing together participants from over 20 countries and facilitating more than 50 agreements supporting the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services.

The Crown Prince emphasized that these initiatives reflect a balanced approach, combining leadership in global humanitarian issues with tangible progress in national development.

By addressing urgent needs abroad and advancing infrastructure and housing at home, Saudi Arabia continues to enhance quality of life for citizens while reinforcing its international influence.

Officials underscored that these efforts align with Vision 2030, promoting sustainable development, economic diversification, and international collaboration.

By integrating domestic growth with diplomatic engagement, the Kingdom aims to maintain its role as a proactive and responsible global actor, driving progress on multiple fronts.

Saudi Arabia’s achievements in diplomacy, infrastructure, and innovation demonstrate its commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity.

The government’s focus on both humanitarian leadership and domestic development exemplifies a forward-looking strategy that positions the Kingdom as a regional and international leader in governance, innovation, and social progress.

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has unveiled a national program to certify 100,000 Saudis in AI and data skills, part of a wider initiative aiming to train 1 million citizens in AI as outlined by the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA).

The program, launched in partnership with software development company Incorta, is one of the largest and most ambitious AI upskilling efforts in the region, reinforcing the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of building a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.

The program, revealed at Incorta’s No Limits 2025 event in Riyadh, is designed to prepare students, professionals, and executives with applied AI and data skills that are immediately applicable across industries.

Participants will gain hands-on experience, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world AI applications, thereby building a pipeline of work-ready professionals.

Osama El-Kady, CEO and Co-Founder of Incorta, emphasized the forward-looking nature of the program:

“While the new generation is already highly adept with current AI technology, our program is designed to prepare participants for what lies ahead. We focus on practical AI applications, enabling employees across ministries, government entities, and private companies to harness data effectively and make informed, data-driven decisions that contribute to the Kingdom’s growth and Vision 2030.”

The program will be delivered through the National eLearning Center and will adopt a phased rollout to ensure maximum impact. The first cohort, launching in early 2026, will include 50 to 75 top-performing university students and early-career professionals. These participants will engage in projects sourced directly from Incorta and industry partners, earning certifications, internships, and even potential full-time roles.

Safa Al-Rashed, Acting Deputy Minister for Capabilities and Future Work at MCIT, highlighted the broader significance of the initiative:

“Equipping our citizens, especially youth and women, with future-ready AI and data skills is crucial. By certifying 100,000 individuals, we are upskilling our workforce, building a new foundation for sustainable growth, and reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global leader in AI.”

The program emphasizes three key areas: future talent development, workforce skills and career readiness, and executive leadership. University pilots and live industry challenges will begin in late 2025, followed by internships and hackathons in early 2026, enabling participants to tackle national priorities such as renewable energy optimization, trade resilience, and industrial efficiency.

Over five years, 100 students will receive summer internships at Incorta’s U.S. offices, gaining exposure to applied AI projects and global best practices.

In addition to student and professional training, the program offers executive development through multi-day leadership programs and roundtables with global partners like Gartner, Wipro, and Google, scheduled to begin mid-2026.

These initiatives are designed to equip senior leaders with frameworks to translate AI strategies into measurable business outcomes.

Noha Rizk, Chief Marketing Officer at Incorta, emphasized the global significance of the program:

“This program will serve as a model for how nations can proactively build a people-centered, AI-powered future.”

The Saudi initiative reflects a broader regional trend in the Gulf, where digital transformation strategies are increasingly centered on human capital rather than technology alone.

Surveys indicate that over 80 percent of employees in Saudi Arabia and the UAE view AI with optimism, reflecting a workforce ready to embrace innovation.

With this initiative, Saudi Arabia is not only preparing its citizens for the AI-driven economy of tomorrow but also setting an example for other nations. The program reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to inclusive growth, innovation leadership, and the creation of a future-ready workforce that can thrive in a data-powered world.

Anchored in Al-Ahsa, home to the world’s largest date palm oasis and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the initiative blends heritage with innovation, positioning Saudi palm weaving as a platform for contemporary art, design, and international collaboration.

Palm weaving, locally known as khoos, has been a vital part of Saudi life for generations, producing functional objects such as baskets and mats. The Khoos Initiative reimagines this craft for the 21st century, transforming it from a traditional practice into a source of artistic and design inspiration. Artisans collaborate with designers, architects, and creatives from around the world to explore new forms while retaining the craft’s cultural roots.

Ala’a Al-Qahtani, creative programs specialist at Ithra, explained that the program moves palm weaving beyond practical objects into art, fashion, and architecture. “The goal is not only to preserve heritage but to evolve it into a space where tradition meets innovation,” Al-Qahtani said.

The initiative emphasizes cross-generational collaboration, with women artisans providing deep knowledge of traditional techniques and young creatives bringing fresh perspectives, ensuring the craft remains vibrant and relevant.

Al-Ahsa’s cultural and historical significance anchors the program. As the heart of Saudi palm weaving, it provides a strong local foundation while offering a gateway to global recognition.

The Khoos Initiative presents Saudi heritage to the world, highlighting the shared legacy of palm crafts across regions and cultures. Al-Qahtani noted that the initiative acts as a “cultural bridge, strengthening both local identity and global understanding.”

Maintaining authenticity while embracing innovation was a key challenge. The initiative addresses this by pairing traditional artisans with contemporary designers in signature commissions and residency programs. This collaboration safeguards centuries of knowledge while introducing new creative expressions suitable for fashion, design, and architecture.

The result is a dynamic exchange of skills and ideas that celebrates both history and modernity.

The Khoos Initiative also aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, supporting the growth of the creative economy and cultural diplomacy. By transforming traditional craft into a driver for innovation, education, and economic opportunity, the program strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position on the international cultural stage.

Through exhibitions like “The Palm Tree Exhibition” at Ithra, as well as presentations at UNESCO’s MONDIACULT 2025 in Barcelona and the ICOM General Conference in Dubai, the initiative showcases Saudi craftsmanship to a global audience.

Women’s involvement remains central to the initiative, reflecting their historical role in preserving palm weaving. At the same time, younger generations contribute energy and creativity, pushing the boundaries of traditional craft into modern contexts. This inclusive approach ensures that khoos is not just a preserved memory but a living, evolving art form with international relevance.

By linking heritage to contemporary design, education, and global collaboration, the Khoos Initiative positions Saudi palm weaving as both a cultural treasure and a source of innovation. Through this initiative, a craft once confined to local oases now thrives as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s creativity, bridging tradition and modernity for the world to experience.

The reforms are part of the broader Vision 2030 initiative that is rapidly modernizing the Kingdom—socially, economically, and culturally.

A recent Wall Street Journal review of veteran journalist Karen Elliott House’s latest book, “The Man Who Would Be King,” offers a sweeping view of Saudi Arabia’s transformation under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The book profiles the man universally known as MBS, depicting him as a transformative force reshaping the Kingdom’s destiny and influencing the emerging global order.

“MBS… will play a critical and perhaps decisive role in shaping the new regional order,” the book asserts—echoing a growing consensus among international analysts and regional observers alike.

A Kingdom Reimagined

At the heart of MBS’s long-term vision lies NEOM, a $500 billion smart city project meant to position Saudi Arabia at the cutting edge of technological and scientific advancement. “MBS hopes that his new city—known as NEOM—will make Saudi Arabia a dominant force in technological innovation,” House writes.

The reforms are part of the broader Vision 2030 initiative that is rapidly modernizing the Kingdom—socially, economically, and culturally. House highlights how “a younger generation is now free to live something much closer to what their Western peers would recognize as a normal life,” referring to greater social freedoms, entertainment, and job market access for youth and women.

In what the book describes as a high-stakes economic shift, MBS is “placing many multibillion-dollar chips on different alternatives to oil… some will hit big.” From investing in green energy and AI to developing tourism, the Crown Prince is crafting new revenue streams for a nation long reliant on fossil fuels.

One such alternative is tourism—once a niche, now a national priority. “New sources of revenue, like tourism, will have to supplement oil wealth,” the book points out. Major initiatives such as AlUla, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project are helping reposition the Kingdom as a global cultural and leisure destination.

A Leadership Redefined

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has also redefined the public face of Saudi leadership. “No Saudi ruler before him would be seen riding a dune buggy at a tourist attraction or posing for selfies at a restaurant,” House notes—an observation that underscores MBS’s populist appeal and generational relatability.

Yet this modern image is coupled with firm authority. “The MBS she describes is a formidable character bent on imposing his will,” writes House, underlining the intensity with which the Crown Prince is driving reforms, despite resistance from entrenched interests.

The scale of Saudi Arabia’s transformation is increasingly global in impact. With the Public Investment Fund (PIF) investing in sectors across the world—from tech and AI to entertainment and infrastructure—the Kingdom’s strategic decisions are shaping not just its own future, but also that of international markets and geopolitics.

“The decisions Saudi Arabia makes about investing its massive resources will help shape the global future,” House writes.

Saudi Voices Echo the Sentiment

Reacting to the review, Mohammed Alhamed, Founder and President of Saudi Elite, stated on X (formerly Twitter): “WSJ highlights MBS’s rising global impact through Karen Elliott House’s new book: ‘The Man Who Would Be King.’”

Alhamed added, “The MBS she describes is a leader who’s disrupting norms, reshaping the Kingdom, and steering the Middle East toward a modern and competitive future.”

His remarks reflect a broader sentiment within Saudi Arabia’s emerging elite class, who view the Crown Prince’s assertive agenda as a necessary leap toward relevance and resilience in a fast-changing world.

As the international community watches closely, MBS’s bold reforms continue to challenge perceptions of the Kingdom—and chart an ambitious course toward a post-oil, globally integrated Saudi Arabia.