Latest news with #Nubian
Saudi Gazette
4 days ago
- General
- Saudi Gazette
Prince Mohammed bin Salman Reserve celebrates birth of two endangered Nubian ibexes
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve has announced the birth of two Nubian ibexes, marking a milestone in its wildlife rehabilitation program and a major step toward restoring native species in the Kingdom. The births are part of a broader effort to reintroduce 23 indigenous species that historically inhabited the region. The Nubian ibex is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with fewer than 5,000 mature individuals believed to remain in the wild globally. Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve Development Authority, hailed the successful birth as a significant achievement within the reserve's rehabilitation efforts. 'This is the fourth key species to reproduce successfully in our program, following the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, and mountain gazelle,' he said.'These milestones contribute directly to our vision of restoring the region's native ecosystems.'Zaloumis also noted the growing population of ibexes across the Kingdom's royal reserves, reflecting Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to protecting wildlife and preserving 24,500 square kilometers, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve is one of eight royal reserves in Saudi stretches from volcanic plateaus to the Red Sea coast, linking strategic giga-projects such as NEOM, the Red Sea Project, AlUla, and reserve is also home to the PIF-backed Wadi Al Disah reserve encompasses 15 distinct ecosystems and accounts for 1% of the Kingdom's land and 1.8% of its marine area. Despite this, it hosts more than 50% of Saudi Arabia's biodiversity, making it one of the richest natural areas in the Middle East in terms of ecological diversity.
Al-Ahram Weekly
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Mohamed Mounir, Tamer Hosny first ever collaboration trends big on YouTube - Music - Arts & Culture
Released on 15 July, the new music video El-Zou' El-Aali, which brings together Mohamed Mounir and Tamer Hosny, reached #1 on 'Charts for Trending music' and almost 6 million views on YouTube. The success comes shortly before Hosny's appearance at the New Alamein Festival. The duet between The King and The Star of the Generation - as both are often referred to - marks their first-ever collaboration. It is part of Tamer Hosny's album Leena Maad (We Have a Date). Composed by Mohamed Raheem to lyrics by Tamer Hussien, the song blends two generations of Egyptian music—Mounir's deep traditional voice and Hosny's modern pop sensibility. The song extols elegance and beauty, describing the muse's high taste and charm that lifts spirits and evokes springtime imagery. Commenting to the media about his new album, Hosny described working with Mounir as a monumental artistic honour and a career milestone. The King Born on 10 October 1954, in Manshiyat Nubia, a village in Aswan, southern Egypt, Mohamed Mounir's music and distinctive voice have captivated millions across the Arab world for decades. Mounir has become one of Egypt's most iconic singers, known for blending Nubian roots with modern genres, like pop and jazz. As his popularity grew significantly, Mounir quickly became beloved by many fans. Mounir's musical repertoire comprises 20 albums and numerous singles, each showcasing his ability to blend Nubian sounds with contemporary music. His lyrics often tackle themes of love, freedom, retrospection, and social justice, resonating with audiences across generations. Tamer Hosny's collaborations Creative collaborations are among the highlights of the 47-year-old singer and songwriter. Hosny came to the limelight in early 2002 through his mixtape collaborations with Egyptian star Sherine. Since then, Hosny has become one of the most prominent pop stars in Egypt and the wider Arab world, releasing over 13 top-selling albums. His music has been featured in several television series and is performed extensively across the region. Hosny has collaborated with international artists, including Snoop Dogg and Shaggy. He also collaborated with Arab musicians, such as Rim Banna, Latifa, Souad Massi, and Ramy Sabry. Besides Mohamed Mounir, the Leena Maad album also includes other collaborations with artists such as Karim Osama, El-Waili, Reda El-Bahrawy, and Ahmed Bahr Kozbara. 3rd New Alamein Festival The new album comes shortly before Hosny's appearance at the star-studded New Alamein Festival, scheduled on Friday, 25 July. The upcoming performance will mark Hosny's third consecutive appearance at the festival's three editions. The festival launched on Friday, 18 July, with a concert by Angham and will continue until 29 August. The festival's stellar lineup of top artists from Egypt and the Arab world will also feature Amr Diab, Tamer Ashour, Marwan Pablo, Lege-Cy, Wegz, Cairokee, among many others. New Alamein is one of Egypt's fastest-growing tourist cities, thanks to its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast and its massive urban development in recent years. The previous edition of the festival aimed to draw 2 million visitors and tourists. It was praised for its diverse mix of musical, cultural, and sports events. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Entrepreneur
15-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
One Routine for All: Why I Chose to Create a Unisex Brand in a Gendered Beauty Market
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. A few years ago, while packing for a trip, I watched my brother casually reach for my moisturizer. "It's the only thing that actually works," he said. It was such a normal exchange - but it stayed with me. Why did something as universal as skincare feel like something he wasn't supposed to own? That memory followed me, and the more I paid attention, the more I saw how something as personal and human as skincare had been divided and packaged along gender lines. Women were steered towards radiance and softness. Men toward control and grit, and in the process, we lost something simple: skin. Skin doesn't care what label it carries- it responds to stress, climate, sleep, and consistency. It responds to being looked after, simply and gently. I created Ashri Skin to blend the beauty rituals passed down through generations of Nubian women with the science-backed simplicity of modern Korean skincare. My goal wasn't to create a brand that felt trendy. It was to create a space where people could feel seen-whatever their gender, tone, or type. Ashri means "beautiful" in Nobin, my ancestral mother tongue. It's a word rooted not in appearance, but in presence. In wholeness. In how we tend to ourselves and the people around us. I wanted Ashri to reflect that kind of beauty-quiet, rooted, and free from labels. A beauty that moves beyond gender, beyond rigid definitions - something more fluid, honest, and universally human. I didn't set out to build a "gender-neutral brand". I set out to build something that made sense. And the people around me-friends, family, customers-kept affirming that choice. I've seen firsthand how younger customers, especially Gen Z and millennials, gravitate toward Ashri's inclusive ethos. For them, it's not just about skincare. It's about feeling recognised in the choices they make. Ashri offers straightforward routines that take the guesswork out of daily skincare. In a market flooded with influencer hype and overwhelming steps, I wanted to offer calm. Our products are clean, cruelty-free, and designed to work synergistically-no matter your skin type, gender, or shade. We're not here to fix you. We're here to support you. Source: Ashri Skin The numbers reflect what I've experienced. 70% of skincare users now prefer products suitable for all genders (NPD Group, 2023). Gen Z and Millennials are 2.5 times more likely to seek out gender-neutral brands (Accenture). In the MENA region, unisex skincare has seen a 21% increase in online engagement year-over-year (GWI, 2024). These aren't just market shifts-they're reflections of lived reality. People are tired of having to decode who a product is "for." But building Ashri hasn't just been about filling a gap only- it's taught me so much about what people need from a brand today. Here's What I've Learnt: People want simplicity. Life is complex. Skincare shouldn't be. When we launched Ashri with intentionally minimal routines, we heard again and again how much customers appreciated being able to care for their skin without second-guessing steps or ingredients. Inclusivity builds trust. Every element of Ashri-from our tone to our packaging, is built to reflect a real-world audience. When people see themselves in your brand, they feel welcomed, and more importantly, like they belong there. Storytelling creates resonance. By sharing my Nubian heritage and the reasons behind Ashri's name and philosophy, we've been able to create deeper, more personal connections with our community. Listening shapes everything. Ashri's most thoughtful improvements-from texture adjustments to packaging tweaks, have come directly from the people who use our products. Their voices are a constant part of how we grow. Ashri was never about covering every need. It's about showing up for the people who often feel left out. You don't need to perform your gender, or decode a ten-step routine, to deserve good skin. Just a few minutes and a product that feels familiar, uncomplicated, and made with you in mind. That's who Ashri is made for. I believe we all deserve that. A moment to look in the mirror and feel held-not judged, not marketed to, just supported. That's what Ashri offers: a return to yourself, not performance. A quiet ritual that reminds you you're allowed to take up space. Source: Ashri Skin So when I conceptualized Ashri, rooted here in the Middle East and developed in Korea, I did so with one clear intention: to craft skincare that honors skin, not stereotypes, and to contribute to a vision of beauty that isn't divided by gender, but shared by all. Because in the end, I built Ashri for anyone who's ever felt left out of the beauty aisle. For anyone who's borrowed someone else's moisturizer and thought: this is what works, and for anyone who, like me, is learning that the simplest rituals often become the most powerful. Ashri is for real people, living real lives. Honest. Uncomplicated. And rooted in something universal-a little time to feel at home in our skin.
Observer
24-06-2025
- Observer
Five Natural Parks in Oman You Have to Visit for Stunning Views and Wildlife
Waking up early and sitting atop a cliff watching the sea turtles lay their eggs is a memory you won't forget any time soon. Seeing a gazelle or an oryx for the first time is so remarkable that it feels like one of those moments you'll always cherish. Oman's natural parks are like pages from an adventure story, full of life and history. They invite you to step outside the city and into a world where pristine landscapes and vibrant wildlife share their stories — stories that make Oman truly unforgettable for every traveller. From rugged mountains to unspoilt beaches, Oman offers a diverse range of scenery that will leave any visitor in awe. With so much to see and do, here are five of the most incredible parks that highlight Oman's rich wildlife and stunning vistas. Each one provides a unique experience, whether it's spotting rare animals, enjoying breathtaking views, or exploring the country's ancient history. Here's a closer look at what awaits when you visit these natural marvels. Five Natural Parks in Oman You Have to Visit for Stunning Views and Wildlife Al Wusta Wildlife Reserve — Witness the revival of the Arabian oryx Once declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Wusta (previously the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary) is a shining example of wildlife comeback. It's now home to a thriving herd of around 750 Arabian oryx, a species once considered extinct in the wild. The reserve spans over 2,800 square kilometres of plains, rugged slopes, and sand dunes, recolonised through dedicated breeding programs. You can also see species like the Nubian ibex, striped hyena, and Arabian wolf here. To explore the reserve, visitors need a 4WD and a permit from Muscat's Office for Conservation of the Environment. Guided tours are recommended to spot animals and learn about conservation efforts. What makes this place so remarkable is the successful reintroduction of the oryx and the ongoing commitment to restoring Oman's natural heritage. Five Natural Parks in Oman You Have to Visit for Stunning Views and Wildlife Al Saleel National Park — Home to the Arabian gazelle This 220-square-kilometre reserve is renowned for its efforts to protect the Arabian gazelle, a vulnerable species that makes up a significant part of the park's population. You'll find acacia and gum trees covering the plains, while Egyptian eagles and vultures soar overhead. The park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 30 species of birds and several reptiles, including the Egyptian ultramarine. Reaching Al Saleel is straightforward; it's less than an hour from Sur, making it an ideal stop for those traveling along the coast or heading into the desert. Activities include safaris—where you can spot wildlife in their natural habitat—and birdwatching. What makes this park truly special is its dedication to conserving indigenous species, especially the Arabian gazelle. Before visiting, check if you need a permit, as regulations can change. Five Natural Parks in Oman You Have to Visit for Stunning Views and Wildlife Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve — Drenched in dramatic views The highest mountain in Dhofar, Jebel Samhan, offers vistas that are hard to beat, with layered limestone cliffs and deep canyons. Covering an area of 4,500 square kilometres, it's a crucial habitat for some of the last remaining Arabian leopards. Though elusive, these big cats symbolise the success of local conservation efforts. Visitors can also see Nubian ibex, Arabian gazelles, and the Arabian wolf. The viewpoint at Jebel Samhan provides panoramic views over the coastal plain — perfect for photography. Reaching the reserve is easiest from Salalah, but remember, access requires prior permission. It's best to visit during the khareef (monsoon), when the landscape transforms into a lush haven. The reserve's wild beauty and chance to glimpse rare creatures make it truly special. Five Natural Parks in Oman You Have to Visit for Stunning Views and Wildlife Ras Al Hadd — Turtle-watching paradise One of Oman's most famous natural attractions, Ras Al Hadd is where visitors flock to witness the nesting of sea turtles. Between May and September, green, loggerhead, and hawksbill turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the beaches of the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. Guided tours in the evening and early morning let guests watch these incredible animals in their natural nesting behaviour. The hatchlings emerge after about 55 days and make an incredible dash to the sea. To ensure safety, tours must be booked in advance, and flash photography isn't permitted to protect the turtles. The beach's remote beauty, combined with the chance to see one of nature's most remarkable reproductive rituals, makes Ras Al Jinz a must-visit for eco-travellers. Five Natural Parks in Oman You Have to Visit for Stunning Views and Wildlife Dhofar Lagoons (Khor) — Rich in birdlife and history In the monsoon season, the Dhofar region blossoms with greenery, and its lagoons burst into life. The khors — or lagoons — along the coastline host countless birds, from flamingoes to herons, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Khor Rori, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also home to archaeological ruins from the ancient frankincense trade, including the fortified city of Sumhuram. These wetlands are not only teeming with wildlife but also rich in history, offering a glimpse into Oman's ancient past. Visiting during the khareef from June to September ensures lush scenery and vibrant birdlife. Combine your trip with a visit to the Museum of the Frankincense Land to deepen your understanding of the region's fascinating heritage. Five Natural Parks in Oman You Have to Visit for Stunning Views and Wildlife Oman's parks and andscapes are a testament to its commitment to preserving nature and culture. Each offers a unique experience — whether it's spotting rare wildlife, enjoying breathtaking vistas, or exploring ancient trade routes. To get the most out of your visit, plan your trip during the cooler months from October to April when the weather is most pleasant and wildlife sightings are at their peak. Remember to respect local guidelines, especially around sensitive habitats like turtle nesting beaches or wildlife reserves. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Oman's natural parks promise an unforgettable journey into some of the most stunning landscapes in the Middle East.
Edinburgh Reporter
23-06-2025
- General
- Edinburgh Reporter
Edinburgh's tallest residents enjoy World Giraffe Day
Edinburgh Zoo's tallest residents were enjoying the high life as the attraction celebrated World Giraffe Day at the weekend. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) attraction has since 2021 been home to five male Nubian giraffes named Ronnie, Arrow, Fennessy, Gerald and Gilbert. They live in a £2.8 million state of the art bachelor pad including high level walkways to allow visitors to meet them face-to-face, with an outdoor enclosure the size of a football pitch with some of the best views in the city. The world's tallest animals at up to 18 feet tall, they arrived in Scotland four years ago thanks to a partnership involving the RZSS, the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) and sponsors Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The lofty creatures help to educate the public about giraffes' plight in the wild, while the partnership also helps save declining wild populations by funding vital conservation work in Africa. Keepers in Edinburgh marked World Giraffe Day on Saturday with special enrichment for the animals and a range of giraffe-related activities including crafts and games for children. The Zoo said: 'We're proud of our partnership with Giraffe Conservation Foundation and Glenmorangie which helps protect giraffes in Uganda through science and genetic expertise. 'Every ticket to the zoo and giraffe adoption purchased helps protect the species in the wild. Together we can stand tall for giraffes and make a difference.' World Giraffe Day is a GCF initiative to raise awareness and support for giraffe conservation in the wild. It is celebrated each year on June 21, dubbed 'the longest day for the tallest animal'. The Foundation's newly published State of Giraffe 2025 report reveals conservation initiatives are having a positive effect. Despite decades of decline and ongoing threats, three of the four distinct giraffe species in Africa are showing positive population trends as a 'direct result of effective conservation actions, dedicated research, and growing global awareness'. Stephanie Fennessy, GCF's Executive Director, said: 'Not only are our conservation efforts paying off, but with the support of our partners, we are getting better at monitoring and protecting these iconic creatures.' 21/6/2025 World Giraffe Day at Edinburgh Zoo Picture Alan Simpson 21/6/2025 World Giraffe Day at Edinburgh Zoo Picture Alan Simpson 21/6/2025 World Giraffe Day at Edinburgh Zoo Picture Alan Simpson 21/6/2025 World Giraffe Day at Edinburgh Zoo Picture Alan Simpson Like this: Like Related
