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Arab News
4 days ago
- General
- Arab News
Indian school in Jeddah hosts Phase 1 of cluster meet
The annual interschool sports and co-curricular meet 'XXXIII CBSE Cluster Meet 2025' kicked off at the International Indian School Jeddah, which is the host school for the event this year. The zonal level competitions were conducted in April, following which the finalists participated in the cluster meet, which was inaugurated on May 17 at IISJ boys' section. Consul General of India Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri was the chief guest for this event. IISJ Managing Committee Chairman Dr. Mohammed Abdul Saleem, members of the managing committee, officials of the Saudi Basketball Academy, principals from participating schools, officials and staff of the host school, in addition to coaches, managers and participants from 18 CBSE schools across the Kingdom were part of this program. Chapter Convener and Principal of IISJ Dr. Mohammed Imran welcomed the gathering, urging participants to compete with true sportsmanship and camaraderie. The chief guest along with all the dignitaries hoisted the CBSE flag and declared the cluster meet open. Suri, who attended the event despite his commitments to ongoing Hajj preparations, said he was eager to meet the 715 participants. Wishing them luck, he advised students to participate with zeal and enjoy every moment. The cluster meet mascot 'Altius' was introduced in a grand manner leaving the crowd excited. Students of the III-V blocks welcomed the gathering with a musical performance. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Vice Principal of the Girls' Section Farhadunnisa. Phase 1 included badminton (under ages 14,16 and 17 for boys and girls), basketball (under 19 for girls), volleyball (under 19 boys), and football (under 19 boys) These teams came from the central, eastern and western regions of the Kingdom to participate in the final matches to clinch the championship. IISJ won the rolling trophies for volleyball (boys) and basketball (girls), while IISR and NMEIS Riyadh bagged the rolling trophies for badminton for boys and girls, respectively. Al-Mawarid International School won the rolling trophy for football. In the first phase, IISJ and IISR are leading with equal points. The second phase, which will be held in September, will determine the school that will bag the coveted overall championship of the cluster meet. Prominent among those who attended the valedictory event and gave away the prizes were Dr. Prince Mufti Ziaul Hasan, Dr. Hemalatha Mahalingam and Dr. Mohammed Shafee. The managing committee chairman praised the coaches and participants of the schools and appreciated the host school for all the arrangements. Adil Akther, head of department of sports at IISJ, presented a report on the events held during the five-day meet. Mohammed Sirajuddin, senior PE teacher from IIS-Riyadh, presented the report on behalf of the participating schools. The valedictory event concluded with the vote of thanks presented by the Controller of Examinations and officiating vice principal of IISJ Boys Section Syed Abdul Haq. The medals and trophies were given away during the closing ceremony, attended by Managing Committee chairman Saleem as chief guest, Managing Committee Member Prince Zia and other guests. Saleem lauded the coaches and participants of the participating schools and appreciated the host school for the impeccable arrangements. Adil Akther, head of department of sports in IISJ, presented a report on the events held during the five-day meet. Mohammed Sirajuddin, a senior PE teacher from IISR, presented the report on behalf of the participating schools. The event concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Dr. Najeeb Qais Ammar, the officiating vice principal of the boys section.


Hans India
24-05-2025
- Hans India
Indian Haj pilgrims praise Centre for quality facilities, seamless conduct of holy journey
Riyadh: Indians who embarked on Haj pilgrimage appreciated arrangements and the quality of facilities offered by the Indian government to ensure a smooth and seamless journey for all in Saudi Arabia. "Indian pilgrims who went for Haj 2025 through the Haj Committee of India are very happy with the management of the Government of India and the facilities being provided there. It is the constant endeavour of the Ministry of Minority Affairs to ensure a comfortable and dignified journey for every Haj pilgrim," the Ministry of Minority Affairs posted on X on Saturday. Meanwhile, Minister of State for Minority Affairs, George Kurian, on Friday highlighted the dedicated efforts of the Centre in ensuring a smooth and successful Haj for pilgrims. Earlier on Friday, Indian Consul General of Jeddah, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, led 'Team India' deployed in Haj 2025, in facilitating the movement of pilgrims from Haram Shareef to their accommodations in Azizia (Mecca) after offering Friday prayer. The huge rush of pilgrims coming out from Haram Shareef after offering Friday prayer required coordination among 'Team India' members to guide the pilgrims to their designated bus points and provide on-the-spot required medical care and assistance. Medical care and assistance are being provided to the pilgrims by the mobile medical care team of the Indian Haj Mission. From dispensaries near pilgrims' accommodation to fully equipped hospitals, the Indian Haj Mission has ensured accessible medical care. Additionally, doctors, nurses, and ambulances are made available round-the-clock for any health concerns. On Thursday, Indian Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri reviewed the arrangements for the movement of pilgrims from Mecca and 'Mina' and their stay at 'Arafat' to perform the rituals of Haj. Last week, India's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Khan, met pilgrims in Mecca to ensure a comfortable Haj pilgrimage for all. "Ambassador Suhel Khan visited pilgrims from various states and enquired about their welfare and issues of concern in Mecca today. The Government of India remains committed to ensuring the comfort and safety of the Indian pilgrims and making their spiritual Haj journey hassle-free," the Embassy of India in Riyadh posted on X. The Indian Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri earlier held a review meeting with the officials and staff deployed in temporary branch offices and dispensaries, various cells and desks set up by the Indian Haj Mission.


Arab News
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
‘Mango Mania' sweeps LuLu, with 119 varieties on offer
LuLu Hypermarkets across the Kingdom are hosting Mango Mania Festival — the biggest festival of its kind in Saudi Arabia celebrating the popular summer fruit. The festival, officially launched by Consul General of India in Jeddah Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, will run until May 10, offering a flavorful journey across borders with over 119 global varieties of mangoes sourced from more than 12 countries. Leading the event are Saudi Arabia and India, contributing an impressive 24 and 60 mango varieties, respectively. Other participating countries adding their tropical treasures to the mix include Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Yemen, Uganda, Kenya, Colombia, and Peru. 'This is more than just a fruit festival — it's a cultural showcase,' said Suri. 'India's deep-rooted connection with the mango is well-known, and it's wonderful to see LuLu bringing that legacy to Saudi Arabia, along with a global flavor palette. Mango Mania offers a delicious experience that bridges taste and tradition,' he added. The festival highlights mangoes in every imaginable form — from fresh harvests to curated culinary experiences. Shoppers can expect an exciting lineup in the Hot Food and Cold Food counters, featuring innovative dishes such as mango chicken curry, mango fish curry, honey mango stuffed chicken breasts, and classic favorites like aamras (mango puree) with puri (deep-fried bread), mango pickles, and vegan mango smoothies with flaxseed. The dessert section is a tropical dream, showcasing mango pudding, mango cheesecake, mango mousse, mango pastries, offering something sweet for every palate. Shehim Mohammed, director of LuLu Hypermarkets Saudi Arabia, said: 'We're thrilled to bring back Mango Mania, one of our most loved seasonal fests. It's not just about showcasing variety — it's about celebrating the health, flavor, and joy this fruit brings. We're also proud to shine a spotlight on Saudi-grown mangoes, reinforcing our commitment to supporting local agriculture.'


Gulf Today
04-05-2025
- Gulf Today
Saudi announces fines up to SAR 100,000 for performing Hajj without permit
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has emphasised the necessity of obtaining an official permit to perform the Hajj pilgrimage for the 1446 AH season, noting that this is a fundamental requirement for organising the performance of the rituals and maintaining the safety and security of the pilgrims. This comes within the framework of implementing the regulations and instructions governing Hajj affairs, and ensuring the facilitation of the rituals with ease and tranquility. The Ministry clarified that the relevant authorities will apply the prescribed penalties against anyone who violates Hajj instructions, including those caught attempting to perform Hajj without a permit. Indian Ambassador Dr Suhel Ajaz Khan, Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, receive pilgrims in Madinah. Photo / X Violators will be subject to a fine of up to (20,000) Saudi Riyals. The same fine will also be applied to holders of all types of visit visas if they enter or attempt to enter Makkah Al Mukarramah or remain there during the period from the 1st of Dhu Al Qidah until the end of the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah. Furthermore, penalties can reach (100,000) Saudi Riyals for those who facilitate visit visas for individuals who perform or attempt to perform Hajj without a permit, or for those who transport, shelter, or conceal them. Muslim pilgrims go through passport control upon their arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. AFP Fines will be multiplied according to the number of violating individuals, with the application of procedures including the deportation of trespassing residents and a ten-year ban from entering the Kingdom, as well as the confiscation of any land transportation vehicle proven to have been used in transporting holders of all types of visit visas to the city of Makkah Al Mukarramah and the Holy Sites. Kashmiri Muslim pilgrims wave to relatives and others as the first batch departs for the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, in Srinagar. AP The Ministry pointed out that Hajj is only permissible with an official permit for domestic pilgrims or a regular Hajj visa for pilgrims from abroad, stressing that all other types of visas do not authorise their holders to perform the pilgrimage, with the exception of the Hajj visa. It also warned against being misled by fraudulent campaigns and promoters of deceptive advertisements, urging everyone to report them immediately through official channels. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah continues its efforts in coordination with relevant authorities to raise awareness, organise the performance of the pilgrimage, and provide the best services to ensure the comfort and tranquility of the pilgrims, and to achieve the objectives of the comprehensive organization of the Hajj season. Associated Press


Arab News
15-03-2025
- Politics
- Arab News
Spirituality meets sustainability at Indian Consulate iftar in Jeddah
JEDDAH: Warmth and unity reigned supreme at an iftar organized by the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to celebrate Ramadan. The event featured organic flavors to highlight the theme of sustainability and brought together a distinguished group of guests including representatives of the Saudi government, diplomatic community, Indian diaspora, and leaders from sectors such as business, media and culture. The Indian ambassador, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, spoke about the significance of Ramadan, highlighting its values of reflection, compassion and service. He emphasized the strong ties between his country and the Kingdom, particularly in areas like trade, cultural exchange and sustainable development. Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri reflected on 'Organic Iftar,' the theme of the evening, and discussed the consulate's focus on sustainability and the growing importance of organic farming in India and beyond. The iftar featured a variety of dishes representing the rich flavors of India, made using organic ingredients to reflect not only a commitment to health and wellness but also to protect the environment for future generations. These were supplied by the Agricultural and Processed Foods Products Exports Development Authority and the Indian government, with additional support from local partners like LuLu Group and Siafa Dates.