Latest news with #Al-Tuwaijri
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia's head of human rights dispels Western misconceptions around school segregation
There's a lot of noise around gender-segregated education in Saudi Arabia. But the Kingdom's head of human rights says that if it wasn't for the system in place, many young girls would miss out on being educated—herself included. 'I can tell you that we received a lot of harsh criticism on segregating schools,' H.E. Dr. Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaij said on stage in Riyadh at Fortune's Most Powerful Women International Summit. 'But actually, those of us who come from this part of the world know that if schools were mixed, many conservative families would not have sent their girls to school in the first place,' she added. Al-Tuwaijri has been president of the Saudi Arabia Human Rights Commission, with the rank of minister, since September 2022. It's a job that, if it weren't for same-sex classes, she may not have been able to work up to. 'Many of the educated women you see today, including myself, would not be sitting here because our families back then would not have accepted the fact that we'll be sitting next to boys in high schools.' Before joining the world of work, Al-Tuwaijri earned a bachelor's degree in English literature in 1998, a master's degree in English literature and drama in 2004, and, in 2011, a Ph.D. in American literature and drama all from King Saud University. Looking back, she says the qualifications prepared her for her current role. 'For people who know a bit about studying literature, it's not about reading stories,' Al-Tuwaijri said. 'Actually, behind every story, there is a culture, history, philosophy, ideas …' 'My focus has always been on the issue of identity,' she said. 'What shapes people's identity and what actually informs the literature they write, whether it's theater, or performance, or art in general—and that, of course, took me to study the sociopolitical context of these areas, and the ideas, and the philosophical background to where all of this is coming from and where it's taking.' 'So, without knowing, I was actually preparing myself for looking into a more global platform of issues pertaining to identity, rights, stories, and all of that.' After graduating, Al-Tuwaijri joined KSU's staff as a lecturer and also worked as an assistant professor of English literature at the university. She worked her way up to vice chair of the English language department. Before becoming president of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, with the rank of minister, she was secretary-general of the Family Affairs Council. 'My career has been crowned and honored by this great country and our wise leadership, who celebrated women, elevated their status, and paved the way for their advancement,' she told Arab News soon after the appointment. Of her new role, Al-Tuwaijri said: 'Saudi Arabia has made great and honorable strides in the field of human rights, and the testimony of just countries and organizations is the best proof.' This story was originally featured on
Arab News
25-04-2025
- Health
- Arab News
The female-only wellness spaces in Riyadh that aim to empower women
RIYADH: A number of female-only wellness spaces in Riyadh are aiming to provide empowering communities for women, driven by the desire for privacy and comfort. Locations like gyms, pools and even some theme parks have created safe spaces exclusively for women on designated days. This allows women to dress freely and engage in activities that foster a sense of community. One such place is Sunsets Yoga, a serene studio environment dedicated solely to women. It offers an array of classes and programs focused on health and wellness and also has an entertainment center where women can unwind and connect. 'Sunsets Yoga was born out of my passion for yoga and my deep desire to help people,' owner Wateen Al-Tuwaijri told Arab News. Since moving to Saudi I have really noticed the benefits of going to a female-friendly Pilates studio. Not only is it comfortable but I feel confident in my own skin and body. The highlight for me has to be the networking. I have met some pretty incredible women who are not only inspiring but are like-minded. Emma Shirley 'I opened this space because I believe in the transformative power of yoga — not just for the body, but for the mind and soul as well. 'My goal for Sunsets Yoga is to create a welcoming, peaceful environment where individuals can escape the stresses of daily life, reconnect with themselves and grow both physically and mentally.' Al-Tuwaijri said it was 'especially important' to have places in Riyadh that cater exclusively to women. 'Yoga is a universal tool for balance and I wanted to ensure that women here have access to a space where they can focus on their health and well-being without any barriers. 'It's about supporting their journey of self-discovery and personal growth in a place where they can feel free, strong and inspired.' Al-Tuwaijri said she wanted to build 'a community that supports, encourages and nurtures' people. Another prominent female-only space is the reformer Pilates studio Bdn in Al-Rayyan District. 'I've been practicing reformer Pilates for over 15 years now and swear by it,' owner Najd Al-Hatlani said. 'It has given me impeccable self-awareness regarding my body and how the smallest muscles move to support the larger ones … it has completely changed my perspective regarding all workouts. She said she opened the studio to serve an untapped market in the east of Riyadh. 'Female-oriented spaces have always been part of our cultural heritage and experience. I think it's important to continue to offer these safe haven spaces for women in order to maximize their well-being. 'As kind as many people want to be, we as women have shared far too many similar experiences through life which makes it comforting to be in the same room as that unspoken supportive energy.' The studio offered a range of regular, pre/post-natal and customized private training sessions, Al-Hatlani said. Emma Shirley, an Australia living in Riyadh, is a regular at Bdn. 'Since moving to Saudi I have really noticed the benefits of going to a female-friendly Pilates studio. My go-to Pilates studio in Riyadh is Bdn. I have been going there for a few months. 'Not only is it comfortable but I feel confident in my own skin and body. The highlight for me has to be the networking. I have met some pretty incredible women who are not only inspiring but are like-minded.'
Zawya
21-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Visa recognizes Boubyan Bank with prestigious awards for outstanding performance in 2024
Al-Tuwaijri: Boubyan Visa Cards' Spending Growth Is an Indicator of Excellence in Designing Cutting-Edge High-Quality Banking Products Al-Mejhem: The Awards Are a New Milestone as We Continue Our Efforts to Cater for Market Needs for Banking Services in Line with the Best International Standards Kuwait city, Kuwait - In a move that reflects Boubyan Bank's leadership in Islamic banking and its commitment to performance excellence, Visa has recognized the bank with three prestigious awards in the categories of international cards' spending, premium cards, and prepaid cards for 2024. This recognition crowns the bank's ongoing efforts towards success and sustainable growth. The bank received the awards for the 'Best in class International Spends (ITV) growth - All Visa Cards', the 'Best in class Premium International Spends (ITV) growth for Premium Visa Cards', and the 'Kuwait Airways Prepaid Growth'. Each of these awards serves as a special testament to Boubyan Bank's leadership in Islamic banking and banking innovation. They also reflect the bank's successful strategy of developing banking solutions that cater for the needs of local and international markets, thus reinforcing the continued success and growth of the bank. To celebrate these awards, Mr. Abdullah Al-Tuwaijri, Boubyan Bank's Chief Executive Officer - Private, Consumer, and Digital Banking, and Mr. Abdullah Al-Mejhem, Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Private and Consumer Banking, received a delegation from Visa, headed by Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager for the GCC. Mr. Al-Tuwaijri commented: 'We feel proud and honored to be recognized with such prestigious awards from Visa since they serve as a testament to the excellence of Boubyan, emphasizing that the bank continues to reinforce its international standing, relying on innovative strategies which align well with the evolving customer needs in global markets through the launch of unique banking offerings, thereby achieving the best international spending growth of Visa cards in Kuwait for 2024.' 'Topping the list of major banks in Kuwait by achieving the highest growth rates in international card spending on Visa cards is a testament to our tireless work and crystal-clear strategic vision aimed at strengthening the bank's position and leadership in offering innovative solutions, whereby we deliver top service levels that befit our customers' modern lifestyles and exceed their expectations. Additionally, this serves as a special recognition, especially since it comes from an institution that is renowned for its fairness and professionalism.', he added. He elaborated: 'Our spending growth rates are very high in a competitive market such as the Kuwaiti market, and they reflect the extent to which Boubyan Bank's banking products are aligned with the requirements and interests of its premium customer segments. This demonstrates the bank's commitment to providing advanced, high-quality banking solutions that cater for market needs and adapts to market developments. These figures are not merely growth rates; rather, they serve as an indicator of excellence in growing the customer base, increasing market share, and consolidating the bank's leadership and pioneering status in designing products that achieve the maximum possible benefit for everyone.' Al-Tuwaijri went on to add: 'We have a strategic relationship with Visa, which has positively influenced our services and products to customers across various sectors. We are confident that the future holds much promise for improving this important relationship.' Continuing the Journey of Success and Leadership On his part, Al-Mejhem stated: 'These awards are an international recognition of Boubyan Bank's high performance levels, particularly in the areas of international Visa card spending and market growth. The bank led the list of local banks in these areas, recording growth in international spending categories for all Boubyan Bank Visa cards and premium Boubyan Visa cards in Kuwait. Additionally, the bank was further recognized for the growth of Kuwait Airways Prepaid Visa Cards in the spending area.' He added: 'These awards are a new milestone in Boubyan Bank's journey towards leadership in the banking sector, and they demonstrate its commitment to offering the best banking solutions to its customers, coupled with the best tech and innovations, while focusing on reinforcing excellence in international banking services and unique products that meet the expectations of all customer segments, thus contributing to an ideal banking experience. We continue our efforts to develop our products to cater for market needs for banking services in line with the best international standards.' Al-Mejhem elaborated: 'The banking cards sector is one of the most dynamic and highly-competitive sectors in the banking industry, which prompts institutions to focus more on offering innovative solutions that meet the growing needs of various customer segments. Accordingly, it can be said that Boubyan Bank has been able to consolidate its position as a leading bank through its range of cards, which offer the highest levels of quality, security, and ease of use both inside and outside Kuwait. The bank's record growth in card spending highlights the success of its strategy to offer integrated banking solutions that enhance the customer's experience and consolidate its position among the most outstanding financial institutions in the market.' In this connection, Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, Visa's Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager for the GCC, stated: 'We are honored to recognize Boubyan Bank's exceptional achievements driving growth in international spending on Visa cards and offering payment solutions that meet the needs of its customers.' 'At Visa, we are proud of our longstanding partnership with Boubyan Bank, and we look forward to continuing our strategic partnership to achieve more future successes in delivering seamless and secure banking and payment experiences for consumers in Kuwait.', she added. Boubyan Bank continues its success through strengthening its partnership with Visa and launching new initiatives, such as Boubyan Xperience launched at the beginning of this year. This collaboration aims to offer innovative solutions that enhance customer experience, thus reinforcing the status of Boubyan Bank as a banking leader. Boubyan Bank's Awards from Visa: 1. Best in class International Spends (ITV) growth - All Visa Cards in Kuwait in 2024 Boubyan Bank was recognized with this prominent award owing to its excellence in international spending. This recognition is a significant indicator of Boubyan Bank's ability to grow and expand internationally by offering innovative and diverse banking services to customers. This is the fruit of the ongoing efforts of Boubyan Bank to offer banking services that enhance the experience of customers who frequently travel abroad or those who make international financial transactions. 2. Best in class Premium International Spends (ITV) growth for Premium Visa Cards in Kuwait in 2024 This is a special recognition for the best growth in premium Boubyan Visa cards' international spends, which include Visa Platinum, Visa Signature, and Visa Infinite. This award demonstrates the excellence of Boubyan Bank in offering the best outstanding banking products that cater for the needs of affluent customers. The award reflects the success of the bank's strategy in attracting premium customers who seek financial solutions that meet their specific needs and cater for their international needs whether for online shopping, travel, or others. 3. Kuwait Airways Prepaid Growth This award recognizes the excellent performance of an innovative product launched two years ago. Thanks to the tireless efforts, Boubyan Visa Kuwait Airways Prepaid Card now contributes to a significant percentage of spends of the Visa prepaid cards' market in Kuwait. This significant growth within a short period of time reflects the quality of the bank's services in the prepaid cards' segment. Additionally, the award demonstrates Boubyan Bank's commitment to providing innovative solutions that make customers' lives easier since this card allows customer to have access to seamless and secure payment transactions for travel or for touristic tours, thus increasing the level of customers' confidence in the bank's products while offering them added value.
Arab News
25-02-2025
- Politics
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia urges greater focus on human rights in Palestine
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia called for greater focus on the human rights situation in Palestine and other occupied Arab territories at a UN meeting in Switzerland. The Kingdom also reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, the Saudi Press Agency reported. This was part of the speech delivered by the president of the Saudi Human Rights Commission and head of the Kingdom's delegation, Hala Al-Tuwaijri, at the high-level segment of the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Al-Tuwaijri said Saudi Arabia has made significant reforms in human rights, driven by Vision 2030, which is based on principles of equality, non-discrimination, and the right to development. 'This vision has empowered women, youth, and vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and migrant workers, while enhancing the quality of life for all,' Al-Tuwaijri said. 'Moreover, Vision 2030 has increased the efficiency of relevant authorities to host major global events and initiatives, with people and their rights at the heart of national priorities.' Al-Tuwaijri emphasized the Kingdom's commitment to strengthening its legislative framework, which has built a strong legal system to protect and uphold human rights. Through comprehensive legal reforms and new legislation, Saudi Arabia has reinforced protections for all individuals. The Kingdom now embraces a diverse society with over 15 million foreigners from more than 60 nationalities — making up over 44 percent of the population — who enjoy their rights under the highest standards of legal protection, she said. Al-Tuwaijri reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to promoting international peace and security, guided by its core values and adherence to the UN Charter. She also highlighted the Kingdom's support for just causes and its proactive role in resolving global crises, including its efforts in the Ukrainian crisis. Notably, mediation led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman resulted in several successful prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, Al-Tuwaijri said. 'For human rights to be universally upheld, we must cultivate strong societies by confronting harmful practices that undermine social harmony, including contempt for religions, hate speech, and the weakening of family values,' she concluded. Al-Tuwaijri reaffirmed the Kingdom's commitment to deepening cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms, stressing the importance of respecting diverse values and embracing cultural and civilizational diversity to protect and promote human rights.
Saudi Gazette
25-02-2025
- Politics
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia hosts 15 million expatriates with full rights protection: HRC chief
Saudi Gazette report GENEVA — Saudi Arabia emphasized the importance of doubling attention to the human rights situation in Palestine and other occupied Arab territories, in light of the unfortunate events taking place in Palestine. Addressing a high-level segment of the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Dr. Hala Al-Tuwaijri, president of the Human Rights Commission and head of the Saudi delegation, called for rejecting any attempts to undermine Item 7 of the Council's agenda items referring to "Human rights situation in Palestine and other Occupied Arab Territories", and activating it until an independent Palestinian state is established on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. Dr. Al-Tuwaijri noted that Saudi has witnessed many reforms and developments in human rights at various levels within the framework of Vision 2030. 'This is based on human rights principles, including equality and non-discrimination in the enjoyment of the right to development, empowering women, youth and groups subject to special care such as persons with disabilities, the elderly, and migrant workers, in addition to achieving an ideal quality of life for all. The vision has also contributed to enhancing the efficiency and ability of the relevant authorities to host major global events and activities, placing people and their rights at the top of their priorities,' she said. The HRC chief said that the Kingdom has worked to develop its legislative system, which has contributed to building a solid legal framework that protects and enhances human rights, as many laws have been amended and issued. 'Saudi Arabia now hosts a diverse society that includes more than 15 million foreigners from more than 60 nationalities, constituting more than 44 percent of the population, who enjoy their rights without discrimination and with the highest levels of protection,' she said. Dr. Al-Tuwaijri emphasized that the Kingdom has spared no effort in promoting international peace and security based on its established values and its commitment to implementing the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, starting with its support for just causes and seeking to end crises, including the Ukrainian crisis. She specially noted the mediation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, which culminated in the release of a number of prisoners as part of the prisoner exchange process between Russia and Ukraine. 'If we want respect for human rights to prevail anywhere in the world, we must maintain strong and cohesive societies by confronting practices that harm the entire society, such as contempt for religions and religious symbols, hate speech, and the importance of preserving the family,' she said.
