His Excellency the Minister of Municipalities and Housing, Mr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail, issued a ministerial decree appointing Mr. Mohammed Al-Rasasmeh as the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing. This strategic step comes as part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to develop its communication system and enhance effective communication channels with all segments of society and various media outlets.

Media skills and academic expertise

The new spokesperson, Mohammed Al-Rasasmeh, possesses a strong academic and professional background that qualifies him to lead the ministry's media strategy at this crucial juncture. Al-Rasasmeh holds a master's degree in media and strategic communication, reflecting a combination of in-depth theoretical knowledge and modern communication practices. He also has a wealth of accumulated practical experience in media work and corporate communications, making him a valuable addition to the ministry's team.

The objectives of the assignment and unifying the media discourse

The ministry explained that this directive comes in support of its ongoing efforts to regulate and unify its media messaging. The decision aims directly to:

• Enhancing the Ministry's communication presence across various platforms.
• Enabling the public and the media to access accurate and reliable information.
• Highlighting the development initiatives and projects launched by the ministry.
• This reflects the vital role the ministry plays in developing the municipal and housing sectors.

General context and importance of institutional communication

This decision is particularly important given the significant transformations taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing is one of the service providers most directly impacting the daily lives of citizens and residents, whether through municipal services and urban development or through housing programs and support initiatives. Therefore, having a highly qualified official spokesperson is essential to ensuring transparency, rapid response to inquiries, and clear communication of facts to the public.

The implications of the decision on the local scene

The appointment of these communicators is expected to enhance interaction between the ministry and its beneficiaries. Strategic communication extends beyond simply disseminating news; it encompasses building trust, explaining new policies, and promoting the investment and development opportunities offered by the ministry. This approach reinforces the concept of effective government, which prioritizes communication with the public, positively impacting the quality of life and services provided in Saudi cities.

The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued its daily report on the expected weather conditions for today (Thursday), indicating the continuation of weather fluctuations witnessed in several regions of the Kingdom, which range between thunderstorms and surface wind activity that stirs up dust and sand.

Expected rainfall map

The center explained in its report that the chance of thunderstorms accompanied by surface wind activity and reduced horizontal visibility remains high in parts of the southern and southwestern regions. This weather pattern includes the highlands of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha of Makkah region and reaching the southern parts of Madinah . These forecasts are part of the seasonal rainy season that affects mountainous areas due to the topography and the flow of moisture.

Surface winds and dust

Regarding the central, eastern, and northern regions, the National Center for Meteorology noted a significant increase in surface winds stirring up dust and sand, which could lead to near-zero horizontal visibility in open areas and on highways. This warning includes the eastern parts of the aforementioned rainy regions, as well as large parts of Najran, Riyadh, Qassim, Hail, and Al-Jawf regions, and the western parts of the Northern Borders .

Possibility of rain in central Saudi Arabia

The report did not rule out the possibility of rain-bearing thunderclouds extending to parts of central Saudi Arabia, noting the possibility of light rain that could cool the atmosphere and contribute to improving air quality after the dust storms.

General context and safety recommendations

These weather fluctuations are part of the Kingdom's typical climatic patterns during transitional periods, as different air masses interact, causing atmospheric instability. These reports are of particular importance to citizens and residents, especially drivers on highways connecting different regions, given the impact of dust and rain on visibility.

Weather experts and relevant authorities always advise caution in such conditions, staying away from flood channels and valleys in rainy areas, using warning lights, and reducing speed while driving in areas experiencing wind and dust activity to maintain public safety.

The Madinah Region Development Authority, represented by the "Madinah Buses" project, announced the launch of its operational plan for shuttle bus services during the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH. This strategic step aims to facilitate the movement of worshippers, visitors, and pilgrims to and from the Prophet's Mosque and Quba Mosque, ensuring smooth traffic flow in the central area.

Service routes and main stations

The authority explained that the service will include dedicated routes covering various parts of Medina to ensure accessibility for the widest possible range of users. The buses will pass through a number of key and strategic stations, and the approved list includes:

• King Fahd's plan.
• Haramain High-Speed ​​Railway Station.
• Shatha station.
• Al-Khalidiyah neighborhood.
• Sayyid al-Shuhada area.
• College of Peace.
• The sports stadium.
• The garden.

In addition, a vital route has been designated that extends from the Al-Aliya area to the Quba Mosque, to connect the prominent religious landmarks with each other and facilitate the visit of worshippers to the Quba Mosque.

The importance of shuttle transport during peak seasons

The shuttle bus service becomes crucial during the holy month of Ramadan, as Madinah witnesses an influx of millions of visitors from within the Kingdom and abroad. This project directly contributes to alleviating the severe traffic congestion that can occur on roads leading to the central area surrounding the Prophet's Mosque. By utilizing high-capacity buses, the number of private vehicles entering the city center is reduced, thus lowering carbon emissions and protecting the environment, in addition to saving visitors time and effort in searching for parking.

Enhancing the experience of pilgrims

This announcement comes as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the experience of visitors and pilgrims, aligning with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the Guests of God Service Program. Authorities in Madinah are committed to providing highly reliable transportation services that ensure passenger comfort and safety. The shuttle bus system has proven highly successful in managing crowds and regulating pedestrian and vehicle flow during previous seasons, making it a cornerstone of operational plans for religious seasons.

The authority affirmed its commitment to applying the highest standards of safety and comfort in the buses used, while providing accurate timetables to reduce waiting times, allowing worshippers to devote themselves to worship and perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind.