Latest news with #Jeddah
Arab News
6 hours ago
- Arab News
How Saudi Arabia's quails became both a delicacy and a conservation priority
JEDDAH: At dawn over the Arabian Peninsula, the sky comes alive with birds tracing ancient migratory paths through Saudi Arabia — a natural crossroads linking East Asia, Europe and Africa. They are more than mere travelers. They serve as sensitive indicators of ecosystem health, playing vital roles in seed dispersal, plant pollination and insect control — all essential for maintaining ecological balance. Among the many species passing through is the small but mighty quail. Though modest in size, quails carry outsized environmental and cultural significance, deeply woven into the region's heritage. 'Quail' is a general term referring to various genera of small, ground-dwelling birds in the order Galliformes — the same group that includes chickens, leading Saudi ornithologist and biodiversity expert Hany Tatwany told Arab News. Globally, quails are classified into two groups: Old World quails and New World quails, with around 130 species found across Europe, Asia and Africa. 'Quails are similar in size to doves, and their rounded shape resembles that of a partridge,' said Tatwany. 'They typically live in social groups called coveys, especially outside the breeding season.' These coveys often include a breeding pair and their young, sometimes merging with other families during key times of the year. 'This behavior reflects their gregarious nature and cooperative instincts,' Tatwany added. Quails are omnivores, feeding on grains, plant buds and insects. They breed in Europe and Central Asia before migrating south to Africa for the winter. Saudi Arabia serves as a critical stopover on both legs: 'They cross the Kingdom on both journeys,' said Tatwany. Upon arrival, quails settle in fields and wild areas with dense grass cover, where they hide during the day and continue migrating by night. Saudi Arabia's geography places it on one of the world's most critical bird migration routes. The Kingdom acts as a seasonal refuge for hundreds of species, with 550 recorded to date — including 219 breeding birds, 280 migratory species, and 51 vagrants. Of these, 27 are listed as globally threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Thirteen bird species — including various quails — are found nowhere else other than in or near the Arabian Peninsula, further underlining the region's biodiversity. Tatwany, widely recognized as Saudi Arabia's first wildlife veterinarian, with over 36 years of experience, highlighted how quails call and crow nonstop while hiding, 'indicating their presence in the area' to other birds. 'They do not flush except when approached very closely,' he said. 'If alerted, the rapid flapping of their wings produces a distinctive sound. They usually flee a short distance and stay in the area, especially if the grass is dense and thick.' Unfortunately, these traits have made quails vulnerable to hunters. Along migration routes, they are often targeted using firearms, nets and devices that mimic quail calls to lure them into traps. Rising threats have prompted Saudi Arabia to introduce laws to protect both quail species. 'In the Kingdom, hunting quail is illegal,' said Tatwany. The fine for failing to comply is SR1,500 ($400) per bird, while the estimated compensation value is SR3,000 for the common quail and SR7,000 for the harlequin quail. 'In Saudi Arabia, two species of quails have been recognized: the common quail, known scientifically as Coturnix coturnix, and the harlequin quail, Coturnix delegorguei,' said Tatwany, who co-founded the Kingdom's ungulate breeding program and has led major wildlife reintroduction efforts. The common quail measures 16-18 centimeters in length, with a wingspan of 32-35 centimeters and a weight of 70-155 grams. It is both a migrant and partial breeder in Saudi Arabia. 'This species occurs throughout the Kingdom during migration seasons in March-April and September-October,' said Tatwany. 'It also overwinters in some areas and breeds in patches, particularly in the central regions. The best place to see the common quail is in Haradh.' The harlequin quail, slightly larger at 16-19 cm and weighing 49-95 grams, is a resident breeder. 'It is best observed in the southern Tihamah grasslands and in Sabya in the Jizan Area,' said Tatwany. Quails nest on the ground in shallow scrapes lined with grass and leaves. The male defends the territory while the female builds the nest and cares for the eggs and chicks. A female typically lays between eight and 13 eggs, which hatch after 17 to 20 days. The chicks leave the nest shortly after hatching and begin flying about 19 days later. Known for being extremely cautious, quails are more often heard than seen. The male frequently produces a rhythmic series of calls that repeat every few seconds. Quails have a long history of interaction with humans, especially as a food source. Today, they are farmed domestically. Quails live in 'coveys,' social groups of adult pairs and their young that flock together in dense grasslands. They respond to each other's calls, a behavior exploited by illegal hunters using calling devices. Commercial quail farming began in Saudi Arabia in the 1980s, initially to feed falcons and later as a culinary delicacy. While several species have been domesticated worldwide, the common quail remains the primary type used in farming. Due to their size and high egg yield, Coturnix quails are highly valued in poultry production. 'This breed has more meat and lays more eggs than the others,' said Tatwany. 'The poultry industry in the Kingdom started around the late 1970s to early 1980s, mainly as feed for falcons used in falconry, serving as a preferred substitute for pigeons. 'This also marked the beginning of quail meat and eggs becoming available in commercial outlets within the Kingdom for human consumption. Additionally, quail recipes have become increasingly popular in Saudi cuisine.' Quail eggs, in particular, have gained favor in Saudi kitchens. Their small size, delicate flavor and high nutritional value make them a staple ingredient in both traditional and modern dishes. They appear in appetizers and salads, adding both taste and nourishment. In main courses like kabsa and mandi, quail eggs often top rice and meat dishes, lending color and flavor. They are also featured in dishes such as masabeeb and qursan and are popular as boiled or fried snacks. Nutritionally, quail eggs are rich in protein, vitamins A, B and D, and essential minerals such as iron and phosphorus — making them a small but powerful addition to the Saudi table. Efforts to protect quails are part of a broader initiative led by the Saudi National Center for Wildlife. Its Bird Management Division surveys bird species and their distribution across the Kingdom, focusing on protected and proposed conservation areas, biodiversity hotspots, and wetlands. By studying migration routes, species abundance, and spatial distribution, the division aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of Saudi Arabia's avian biodiversity.
Arab News
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Where We Are Going Today: Chii restaurant in Jeddah
Located in Al-Naeem district in Jeddah, Chii restaurant brings a bold twist to casual Mexican dining with a Saudi edge. With its neon-lit signs and vibrant atmosphere, Chii draws you in for what promises to be a flavor-packed experience, and, for the most part, it delivers. Visitors may start with the shrimp bites and guacamole. The shrimp are perfectly crisped and seasoned, and the guacamole is creamy with just the right citrusy tang, though a pinch more salt wouldn't hurt. The taco section is where Chii shines. The birria taco, featuring slow-cooked meat, mixed cheese, and their signature sauce, is a standout — rich, juicy, and indulgent. The chili smashed tacos echo similar flavors but pack more heat, perfect for spice lovers. On the lighter side, the grilled chicken tacos are fresh but a bit underwhelming compared to the rest of the bold menu. For something more filling, the birria bowl is a hearty mix of rice, corn, beans, and all the fixings. Every bite felt thoughtfully layered, though the bowl can benefit from a bit more sauce to tie it all together. The birria fries and nachos are perfect for sharing and greasy in a satisfying way, though not for the faint of heart or diet-conscious. The chicken quesadillas are cheesy and comforting but do not stand out much. As for dessert, it changes daily, which keeps things interesting. For more, check the location's Instagram @
Arab News
12 hours ago
- Business
- Arab News
‘We will make our country proud': Joy as Saudi graduates take first professional steps
JEDDAH: Hundreds of Saudi students on Thursday graduated from a specialized program targeting job creation in the Kingdom's fast-growing tourism sector. The Red Sea Global Vocational Training Program, held in partnership with King Abdulaziz University and the Human Resources Development Fund, celebrated the graduation of 466 Saudis, the scheme's third cohort of students, across specializations including wellness tourism and hospitality. The ceremony was attended by Jeddah Gov. Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi and John Pagano, CEO of the Red Sea Development Company. The two officials delivered a speech highlighting the importance of achieving Saudi Vision 2030 by empowering the nation's youth, building a thriving Saudi industry, and showcasing the Kingdom's natural beauty and hospitality to the world. Pagano said: 'We are proud to see our skill development initiative empower youth and transform lives. By providing access to high quality and job-oriented training programs, we empower the students with the tools they need to confidently enter the workforce and contribute meaningfully to the tourism industry of Saudi Arabia.' RSG is committed to offering employment opportunities for outstanding graduates within its workforce or with partners, he added. The graduation, held at King Faisal Auditorium, saw the signing of an agreement between the Human Resources Development Fund and Red Sea Global to train and employ 1,000 young Saudi men and women in specialized fields, including wellness tourism, hospitality, tourism security and technical services. Turki bin Abdullah Al-Jawini, HRDF director general, said that the fund helped more than 153,000 Saudi men and women find employment in the private sector during the first half of 2024. Al-Jawini showcased the fund's most prominent campaigns, and said that the HRDF develops its programs in partnership with various sectors, with the aim of improving job opportunities and developing human capital. The event also included a keynote address by Raed Al-Basseet, group chief environment and sustainability officer at RSG. He praised the graduates for their resilience, hard work and dedication. 'From the first day you entered the Red Sea Vocational Training Program, you've proven to us that ambition has no limits, and that those with determination and passion can go further than they imagined. Your hard work has become an accomplishment. Your efforts are the beginning of a great professional journey, filled with opportunities and successes that exceed our expectations,' Al-Basseet said. 'Don't stop at this achievement; let it be the beginning of a great and prosperous future. We are always behind you, and we are proud of you.' Later, graduates Naif Najmi, Mishari Al-Jehani, Ghala Al-Buhairi and Ghada Al-Jehani gave thank-you speeches on behalf of their cohort. They highlighted the importance of the support they received, reflected on their journeys and described their hopes for the future. The ceremony was full of emotion and joy among students and their parents. Amer Al-Marawani, a graduate student of tourism security, told Arab News: 'I'm feeling really happy and excited for the beginning of my new journey. In the future, I hope I can contribute to the tourism sector of my country.' Hala Nadri, a graduate specializing in hospitality, said: 'After graduation, it is an outstanding honor for us to serve the country, we are really looking forward to join the workforce anywhere in our touristic sites.' Meanwhile, Jood Majed, a graduate of tourism safety, praised the program's technical depth and encouraged other Saudi women to apply: 'The training programs have been a resounding success and we learned a lot from it. Now, it is our time to pay back our leadership who supported us all these years by working hard, and eventually, we will make our country proud.' Yousef Al-Amri, a graduate in information technology, said: 'I consider myself very lucky to be equipped with these invaluable skills and I am forever grateful to RSG and KAU.'
Al Arabiya
18 hours ago
- General
- Al Arabiya
Saudia airline cabin manager dies aboard London-bound flight
Saudia airline mourned the death of cabin manager Mohsen al-Zahrani, who died while working on an international flight King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah to Heathrow Airport in London. The flight SV119 made an emergency landing in the Cairo, where he was pronounced dead after having suffered a fatal heart attack. Saudia described al-Zahrani's passing as 'a painful moment in which we have lost one of our loyal colleagues.' 'Our heartfelt condolences go out to al-Zahrani's family, colleagues, and friends,' the airline said in a statement, adding that he had been 'a model of commitment, integrity, and professionalism.' Saudia has confirmed that it is working in coordination with the Saudi embassy in Egypt to complete the necessary procedures.
Khaleej Times
21 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
'Heartbreaking moment': Saudia plane diverted to Cairo after crew member dies onboard
A tragedy unfolded in the skies on Thursday aboard a Saudia flight departing from Jeddah, when a crew member suffered a sudden medical emergency that resulted in his death. Saudia flight SV119, en route to London, was diverted to Cairo following the onboard medical emergency. Sadly, the cabin manager, Mohsen bin Saeed Alzahrani, was pronounced dead upon arrival. The Saudi carrier took to X to mourn its staff member saying: "Despite the immediate and valiant efforts of fellow crew members and medically licensed individuals onboard, he was pronounced deceased upon the aircraft's arrival at Cairo International Airport." Describing the event as "a heartbreaking moment in which we lost one of our most dedicated team members", it went on to say that Alzahrani was "a shining example of commitment and discipline, admired by his peers for his integrity, professionalism, and high moral character". Saudia extended its condolences to his family and fellow team members, stressing that it is committed to providing all the necessary support to his family and everyone affected by his loss. Commending on the flight crew's "remarkable courage and professionalism in managing the situation and ensuring the continuation of the journey under exceptional circumstances", the airline also thanked the travellers for their understanding and cooperation during this ordeal. Sudden deaths mid-flight often result in flight diversions and emergency landings. In October 2024, a Turkish Airlines pilot died after collapsing mid-flight, forcing the Turkish national carrier to make an emergency landing in New York. In another incident, a flydubai flight from Dubai to Dhaka was diverted to Karachi in February 2023, after a passenger passed away during the journey.
