Latest news with #Al-Shawi
Shafaq News
13-07-2025
- Business
- Shafaq News
Petroleum graduates stage second protest in Basra over oil jobs
Shafaq News – Basra Unemployed petroleum and engineering graduates staged a second protest in Basra on Sunday, demanding jobs in the oil sector. Dozens rallied outside the Basra Oil Company headquarters, accusing the government of ignoring their repeated appeals. 'Rights are taken, not handed out,' protest representative Hassan al-Shawi told Shafaq News. 'After more than five months of sit-ins with no results, we're escalating through peaceful, sustained demonstrations,' he added. 'Remaining silent in the face of injustice is no longer an option.' Al-Shawi explained that most demonstrators hold degrees in petroleum engineering, geology, or related fields and are seeking daily-wage positions at operational oil companies or contract jobs under the Oil Ministry's Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) project. 'These demands are legitimate and backed by a letter from Prime Minister [Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's] Office,' he noted, stressing that the proposed jobs are exempt from the federal budget law's hiring restrictions. He also rebuked Oil Minister Hayan Abdul-Ghani—himself a Basra native—for not intervening despite his familiarity with the graduates' situation. Earlier today, another group of graduates blocked access to the al-Barjisiya oil zone, demanding permanent employment under Resolution 315 and exemption from recent hiring freezes. Protests near Basra's oil fields have grown more frequent, driven by surging unemployment among local graduates and mounting frustration over limited access to jobs, inadequate services, and lack of inclusion in both public and private energy firms operating in the province.
Asharq Al-Awsat
14-03-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Ramadan Season in Jeddah : ‘Year of Handcrafts' Boosts Business Growth
The historic Jeddah area (western Saudi Arabia) blends authentic heritage with the modernity of the city during Ramadan nights, offering visitors a unique experience to explore traditional Ramadan atmospheres. Visitors are immersed in unforgettable moments of charm and inspiration in this historic area, which has transformed into a vibrant living artwork and a tourist destination for locals, residents, and visitors from around the world. Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Ramadan Season is being celebrated across cities nationwide, highlighting Saudi traditions through cultural and community events. Under the slogan 'Our Nights Have Returned,' the streets and public spaces have been adorned with decorative lights and installations, creating a magical atmosphere. Ramadan Season in Jeddah offers a variety of events and activities that provide visitors with an immersive experience full of joy, set against the backdrop of cafes adorned with designs inspired by the region's heritage. This creates a unique atmosphere where the rich past meets a thriving present. Additionally, traditional crafts take center stage as a key element of Saudi culture, with specialized workshops held to teach these age-old skills, promoting awareness and highlighting their cultural significance. In this regard, artisan and soap maker Hashim Al-Shawi told Asharq Al-Awsat: 'The designation of 2025 as the Year of Handcrafts has had a positive impact on us, both in terms of support and empowerment, helping us reach more customers.' 'This has contributed to the expansion of our business and increased our participation in the workforce,' added Al-Shawi. He explained that all of his soap-making tools and materials are 100% locally sourced, noting that the soap is made from seven natural oils. Al-Shawi also highlighted that he has created 21 different scents, driven by his passion for the craft that has, over the past nine years, evolved into a steady source of income. Ramadan Season has played a key role in supporting local entrepreneurs by providing small and medium-sized businesses with the opportunity to showcase their products in heritage markets. This boosts the local economy and offers artisans and artists a platform to display their work. The Ministry of Culture aims, during the Season, to offer a rich cultural experience that combines enjoyment with knowledge. It highlights the cherished Ramadan customs and traditions, enhancing cultural awareness and reinforcing the social values that distinguish Saudi society during the holy month.
