Shoura Council calls for metro systems in major Saudi cities
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's Shoura Council has called for studies into developing metro systems in the Kingdom's major cities, Asharq Al-Awsat has reported.
On Tuesday, the council urged the Public Transport Authority to expand the training programs offered by the Saudi Logistics Academy.
Council members also emphasized the importance of improving the standards used to evaluate the quality of shuttle transport services for pilgrims to ensure efficiency.
They stressed the need to increase the passenger capacity of the Kingdom's railway network and to raise train speeds to match those of the Haramain High-Speed Railway, which spans the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah and offers transport for pilgrims.
Riyadh's metro network opened in December last year and became fully operational in January.
The Kingdom also has a passenger railway network connecting Riyadh with the Eastern Province and Northern Borders regions.
One of the country's goals under Vision 2030 is to improve the public transport network with the aims of easing traffic congestion in cities and lowering carbon emissions.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab News
32 minutes ago
- Arab News
Rooted in earth: Rafha's mud structures tell a story of sustainability
RIYADH: In the heart of northern Saudi Arabia, the mud buildings of Rafha stand as 'a vibrant narrative of traditional architecture, reflecting authenticity, creativity, and cultural identity,' the Saudi Press Agency said in an article on Saturday. These structures tell the story of an ancient past, 'embodying traditional architectural ingenuity that connects people to the land.' Located along one of the Kingdom's most significant tourist routes, the buildings 'integrate cultural heritage with the natural environment,' the SPA wrote, and 'serve as living records of generational memory, preserved through architectural details.' This makes them an appealing destination for anyone interested in history, heritage, and traditional craftsmanship. • The buildings in Rafha were constructed using indigenous methods and natural materials including mud, stone, wood, and palm fronds. • Local authorities are making efforts to restore and maintain these mud structures, preserving their historical and cultural value. The buildings were constructed using indigenous methods and natural materials including mud, stone, wood, and palm fronds. Their design responds to the local environment, maintaining balanced indoor temperatures during scorching summers and cooler winters. Most feature an inner courtyard, surrounded by rooms arranged in a circular layout, reflecting a strong sense of community. These mud buildings illustrate 'a deep harmony between humans and their environment,' the SPA wrote, adding that they also 'reflect sustainable building principles that long predate modern green architecture.' Local authorities are making efforts to restore and maintain these mud structures, preserving their historical and cultural value while promoting them as distinct parts of the Saudi tourism landscape.
Arab News
8 hours ago
- Arab News
Beit Hail Festival showcases regional heritage, attracts tourists
RIYADH: Now in its fourth year, the Beit Hail Festival has established itself as a prominent cultural, tourism, and entertainment event, attracting many visitors to the region. The festival showcases traditional handicrafts that reflect Hail's historical roots and offers interactive activities and performances, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday. These elements celebrate the region's heritage and community identity while blending tradition with modern touches, the SPA reported. Held under the patronage of the Hail governor and supported by his deputy, the two-week festival aims to highlight local folkloric heritage and strengthen national identity. It includes artistic performances, traditional crafts, authentic foods, and tourism-focused events aligned with Vision 2030 goals. Over the past three editions, the festival has drawn steady attendance from local and international visitors, especially during summer holidays. Visitors appreciate the diverse pavilions, cultural displays, performances, and art exhibitions, according to the report. The festival also helps promote community participation and support the local economy by offering opportunities and events for productive families and small businesses. Samia Suleiman Al-Jabri, associate professor of modern history at Hail University, said handicrafts remain a vital part of Hail's heritage, preserving ancient traditions through crafts such as sadu weaving, pottery, wickerwork, and other arts rooted in Bedouin culture. Al-Jabri added that over its three editions, the festival has organized events and launched numerous initiatives and workshops to document and safeguard traditional crafts, teach them to younger generations, and connect artisans directly with the public.
Argaam
13 hours ago
- Argaam
Saudi Arabia records 1,300 daily flights amid recent tensions
Saudi Arabia kept its airspace open to maintain smooth air traffic amid the recent regional tensions. The Kingdom mobilized all human and material resources as well as necessary preparations to accommodate the increase in transit flights. The state recorded an average of more than 1,330 daily flights, leaping 95% compared to pre-crisis levels, according to the SPA. The flights were managed safely and efficiently within Saudi airspace, supported by advanced technical systems and stringent security measures that ensured compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards for air traffic facilitation. During the period of heightened tension, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) exerted efforts to open additional air routes to absorb the significant pressure on Saudi airspace. The capacity of the airspace was expanded, and flight times were reduced, using advanced navigation procedures that ensure the protection of the Kingdom's airspace and the safety of its air traffic. More than 220 air carriers passed through Saudi airspace during this period, prompting the activation of pre-prepared airspace expansion measures. Rigorous security protocols were also enforced in airports and throughout the airspace, while advanced capabilities of air-traffic surveillance systems and relevant technical infrastructure were utilized. Furthermore, predefined risk management plans were activated, enhancing the speed of crisis response and ensuring continued air navigation under the highest safety standards.
