Latest news with #KingFaisalUniversity
Arab News
22-05-2025
- Science
- Arab News
Saudi university develops smart sensor designed to help reduce fruit vegetable spoilage
AL-AHSA: Researchers at King Faisal University in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province have developed a low-cost smart sensor meant to reduce fruit wastage of fruits and vegetables. A report by the Saudi Press Agency on Thursday said the device, which is now registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), is designed to predict spoilage early during transportation and storage. Developed by a team from the KFU College of Science, the device operates by detecting volatile organic compounds, particularly ethylene gas, a key indicator of the onset of spoilage in fresh produce. "The compact and lightweight prototype is designed for easy installation in refrigeration units or transport containers," the report said. As the device can be connected to Internet of Things (IoT) networks, real-time remote monitoring and early alerts can be done by stakeholders across the food supply chain. It can be integrated into cooling and distribution systems, offering a practical solution for the food and logistics sectors, the report said. It added that the device was showcased by KFU during the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Riyadh last December, drawing significant interest from visitors and investors due its "practical value in supporting smart agriculture and minimizing food waste in supply chains."
Asharq Al-Awsat
15-05-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Experts Say US Partnership to Boost Saudi Economy to $2.6 Trillion
Saudi Arabia's signing of a strategic economic partnership with the United States marks a major shift in the Kingdom's economic trajectory and reinforces its ambitions to become a top-12 global economy with a GDP target of $2.6 trillion, economic experts said. The agreement was signed on Tuesday at the Al-Yamamah Royal Palace in Riyadh in the presence of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and US President Donald Trump. A series of deals and memoranda of understanding were also inked during the ceremony. Mohammed Duliem AlQahtany, an economics professor at King Faisal University, told Asharq Al-Awsat the agreement represents a long-term strategic move that will reshape bilateral ties. 'This partnership ushers in a new phase of comprehensive cooperation,' he said, citing its focus on security, energy, space, environment, health, and scientific research. 'It's a multi-dimensional framework that positions Saudi Arabia as a credible and capable global partner for the United States.' AlQahtany added that the agreements support the Kingdom's drive to diversify its economy away from oil and toward innovation and technology. The move is central to Riyadh's plans to localize key industries, boost non-oil exports, reduce imports, and strengthen the trade balance. He said the initiatives are also aligned with Saudi Arabia's vision of becoming a major logistics hub connecting key global economies and continents. Newly signed Saudi-US agreements in energy, defense, and mining are expected to accelerate the Kingdom's transformation into a global industrial and technological power while bolstering environmental protection and national security, the Saudi economist said. AlQahtany also said the energy sector deals will enhance efficiency and environmental sustainability by deploying advanced technologies for carbon capture and emissions reduction, a major challenge in the global energy transition. He added that agreements in the mining sector could position Saudi Arabia as a key global player in an industry he described as 'the future of industrial development.' The deals aim to localize supply chains, foster innovation, and help Saudi mining companies scale up to compete internationally in the coming years. On the defense front, Al-Qahtani said the agreements would modernize the Kingdom's defense systems through advanced US technologies, strengthening regional deterrence and deepening the Saudi-American alliance. Additional agreements focus on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, space exploration, and advanced scientific research, he noted. They also aim to build human capital, improve customs data exchange, and promote collaborative medical research. AlQahtany said the broader partnership also seeks to showcase Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage, particularly the historical treasures of AlUla, on the global stage, while promoting biodiversity and environmental protection across the Kingdom. The recently signed Saudi-US agreements represent a comprehensive model of strategic partnership that spans security, economy, technology, and culture, reflecting a shared vision to deepen cooperation in areas central to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a senior executive said. Mohamed Omar, CEO of told Asharq Al-Awsat that the Trump administration is actively forging new alliances in the region to advance its strategic goals, with Saudi Arabia playing a pivotal role due to its economic strength and growing regional and global influence. 'These agreements go far beyond traditional security and energy ties,' Omar said. 'They encompass diverse sectors including conventional and renewable energy, defense, space, health, culture, mining, industry, trade, and transport, forming the foundation of a knowledge-based, diversified economy.' He noted that the energy deals will enhance sectoral security and support the green transition, while cooperation with NASA and American research institutions will facilitate technology transfer and innovation, boosting local capabilities. Omar said the defense agreements aim to modernize Saudi Arabia's military systems and expand domestic manufacturing, reinforcing the Kingdom's local defense industry. He also highlighted efforts to develop the tourism and heritage sectors, particularly through AlUla projects, as part of a broader push to establish Saudi Arabia as a global cultural destination. 'These agreements will attract foreign investment in critical sectors such as mining, space, and clean energy, all of which are vital for income diversification,' he said. 'They will also create job opportunities in high-tech, military, and research fields, while helping to develop national talent.' Omar described the partnership as a 'transformational leap' in Saudi-US relations - one that moves beyond traditional models to embrace a forward-looking, innovation-driven alliance that strengthens Saudi Arabia's status as a regional economic and scientific powerhouse.
Asharq Al-Awsat
01-04-2025
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Tourists Explore Al-Ahsa's Rich Heritage During Eid Celebrations
During Eid al-Fitr, the archaeological and historical landmarks of Al-Ahsa Governorate emerge as popular destinations for citizens, residents, and visitors seeking enjoyable exploration of the region's rich heritage. Dr. Sattam Al-Wahb, a faculty member at the King Faisal University, highlighted the diverse tourist, heritage, and historical assets of Al-Ahsa Governorate, including its historic palaces and abundant natural resources, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday. The UNESCO-listed Al-Ahsa Oasis, with its blend of natural, historical, and archaeological landmarks, has become a popular destination during Eid al-Fitr, attracting visitors from across the Kingdom and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
Leaders
19-03-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Taif University Secures Prestigious Position in QS World University Rankings
Taif University has reached a remarkable global milestone by earning a place in the QS World University Rankings for Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2025. The university announced that its College of Pharmacy has been ranked in the 351–400 range worldwide, showcasing its outstanding academic and research contributions in the field of pharmacology. This achievement underscores the university's dedication to advancing its academic and research initiatives, fostering innovation and scientific discovery, and making meaningful contributions to society at both local and international levels. Related Topics : Taif University Holds Top 500 Global Spot for Third Year King Faisal University Hosts Innovative Factory for Food, Environmental Industries Umm Al-Qura University Receives International Certification for Tourism, Hospitality Taif Investment Forum Concludes with $2.9 Billion Contract Bonanza Short link :
Asharq Al-Awsat
18-03-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
‘Saudi Architecture Characters Map' Boosts City Appeal for Investment
Economic and architectural experts have described Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's launch of the 'Saudi Architecture Characters Map' as a strategic shift, transforming architecture into an economic asset for investment. In statements to Asharq Al-Awsat, they emphasized that the initiative will enhance Saudi Arabia's competitive edge in the tourism and cultural real estate development sectors. Additionally, it is expected to boost the sustainability of the tourism economy and stimulate the manufacturing industries, from local stone production to carpentry, traditional carvings, and decorative arts. The move could also lead to the creation of specialized companies focused on reviving traditional crafts, gradually transforming them into export industries. Featuring 19 distinct architectural styles inspired by the Kingdom's diverse geographical and cultural characteristics, the initiative is expected to contribute over 8 billion riyals ($2.13 billion) to the cumulative GDP and create more than 34,000 jobs in engineering, construction, and urban development sectors by 2030. This move is part of a broader effort to transform and develop Saudi cities. As Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Saudi Architectural Design Guidelines, the Crown Prince said that Saudi architecture reflects the cultural and geographical diversity of the Kingdom. 'Saudi architecture blends our rich heritage with contemporary design thinking. We are enhancing urban landscapes and quality of life as well as building an architectural framework that balances the past and the present. This model will serve as a global source of inspiration for innovation in architectural design,' he said. Dr. Mohammed Al-Qahtani, an economics professor at King Faisal University, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the launch of the Map by the Crown Prince is more than just a cultural or architectural announcement. It represents a move with deep economic implications that redefines the investment and real estate landscape in Saudi Arabia, in line with a developmental vision that transcends traditional urban growth. He emphasized that 'the architectural identity of any country is one of the pillars of soft power, and when this identity becomes a standard for developmental projects, we are witnessing a strategic shift. Architecture becomes an economic asset to be invested in, extending beyond just aesthetic value.' Al-Qahtani added that the unification of architectural identity means both local and international investors will reassess their plans in light of new requirements that demand higher quality, thereby increasing real estate market value and attracting capital seeking authentic and sustainable projects.
