Local News
The death of Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Suwailem, a pioneer in medicine and humanitarian work
Details of the death of Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Suwailem, former head of the Red Crescent and member of the Shura Council. Learn about his career in establishing pediatric medicine and his humanitarian role in the Kingdom.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the medical and humanitarian community lost today (Friday) a prominent national figure with the passing of Dr. Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Suwailem, former head of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority and former member of the Shura Council, who passed away after a long and distinguished journey dedicated to serving the nation and humanity, leaving behind a medical and administrative legacy that will remain engraved in the memory of the health sector.
Official mourning and grief in the medical community
The Minister of Health, Dr. Fahd Al-Jalajel, offered a heartfelt eulogy for the deceased, praying to God Almighty to grant him His abundant mercy. In his eulogy, Al-Jalajel emphasized that Dr. Al-Suwailem was not merely a physician or official, but a man of immense generosity whose benevolent deeds extended across the globe during his tenure as head of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority. He also praised Dr. Al-Suwailem's significant role in supporting charitable organizations and establishing public health principles in the Kingdom.
A pioneer in medical establishment
Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Suwailem was among the pioneers who laid the foundations for the modern healthcare system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Historically, he graduated from the University of Munich in Germany in 1966, at a time when the Kingdom was taking its first steps toward building a comprehensive healthcare system. Upon his return, Dr. Al-Suwailem was equipped with knowledge and experience to contribute to the localization of medical expertise.
Among his most notable historical achievements, which will remain a landmark, is his active contribution to establishing the first pediatric diploma program in the Kingdom in 1400 AH (1979/1980). This step was not merely an academic program, but a national strategy for developing local talent, as more than 400 Saudi doctors graduated from this program, later assuming leadership positions and becoming pillars of the health sector in various regions of the Kingdom.
Footprints in humanitarian and legislative work
Al-Suwailem's contributions were not limited to clinical or academic medicine; they extended to international humanitarian work through his leadership of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority. During this period, the Kingdom strengthened its international presence in relief and disaster response, with Al-Suwailem leading the Authority's efforts to provide aid to those affected in various countries around the world, thus solidifying the Kingdom's image as a humanitarian nation.
The deceased also had a prominent role in legislative and regulatory work through his membership in the Shura Council, where his accumulated experience contributed to the formulation and review of many regulations related to health and social affairs, reflecting the comprehensiveness of his vision and his influence on decision-making.
Proactive vision and community awareness
Dr. Al-Suwailem was known for his forward-thinking vision and early interest in health awareness, long before it became a widespread concept. He was a pioneer in launching innovative programs to connect doctors with the community, such as the "Doctor on the Phone" program, which was a game-changer in its time, facilitating medical consultations. Throughout his career, he was committed to fostering international cooperation and building partnerships with prestigious institutions like King Faisal Specialist Hospital and leading global research centers, ensuring the Kingdom kept pace with the latest medical advancements.
Local News
Two establishments referred to the Public Prosecution for practicing accounting without a license in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Organization for Auditors and Accountants refers two establishments to the Public Prosecution for practicing accounting and auditing activities without a license, warning against violating the profession's regulations and misleading the public.
As part of its ongoing efforts to regulate the professional services market and protect the national economy, the Saudi Organization for Certified Public Accountants (SOCPA) announced that it has referred two commercial establishments to the Public Prosecution, in direct coordination with the relevant security authorities. This decisive action was taken after it was proven that the two establishments were engaged in accounting, auditing, and financial consulting activities without obtaining the necessary licenses from SOCPA.
Details of observed violations
The investigations and oversight conducted by the Authority's teams revealed details of the violations. It was found that a licensed financial advisory firm (excluding securities) exceeded the scope of its license by publishing promotional advertisements on its website and social media platforms offering "financial statement certification" services. This constitutes a clear violation of the provisions of the Accounting and Auditing Profession Law, as the firm does not possess the license authorizing it to provide auditing services.
In a related context, the Authority detected another commercial establishment that offered auditing services through its website, in addition to placing an external sign in front of its headquarters containing phrases that suggest to the public that it practices the profession of accounting and auditing, without obtaining any regulatory license that allows it to practice this sensitive activity.
Regulatory context and protection of the profession
These actions are part of the oversight role undertaken by the Saudi Organization for Certified Public Accountants (SOCPA) to ensure adherence to professional and ethical standards. These violations are considered offenses under Article 10 of the Accounting and Auditing Profession Law, given their potential to mislead the public and investors, and to seriously harm the integrity of the profession and the credibility of financial reports, which are fundamental to sound economic decision-making.
The importance of monitoring the investment environment
This measure is of paramount importance both domestically and economically, as the Kingdom seeks to enhance transparency and credibility in the business sector. The existence of financial reports issued by unlicensed entities can lead to misleading financial information, jeopardizing shareholders' rights and negatively impacting the confidence of local and international investors in the Saudi market. Therefore, addressing such violations is an integral part of protecting the investment environment and ensuring the quality of financial outputs.
The authority concluded its statement by affirming its continued commitment to taking all regulatory and supervisory measures firmly, stressing the need for all individuals and establishments to comply with the relevant regulations and bylaws to avoid legal accountability and the resulting penalties.
Local News
Passport control completes procedures for guests of the World Defence Exhibition 2026
The General Directorate of Passports has completed the entry procedures for guests of the World Defense Show 2026 at King Khalid International Airport through technological platforms and qualified personnel to ensure smooth movement.
The Saudi Ministry of Interior, represented by the General Directorate of Passports at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, announced the successful and seamless completion of entry procedures for guests and visitors of the World Defence Exhibition 2026. The Directorate mobilized all its human and technological resources to ensure an exceptional arrival experience for participants in this major global event, by allocating modern passport control counters equipped with the latest digital systems and staffed by highly trained personnel to handle international delegations.
The General Directorate of Passports explained that this step comes within the framework of the integrated efforts undertaken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to enhance the experience of visitors and exhibitors coming from around the world, and to facilitate their entry procedures to participate in the third edition of the exhibition. This high level of logistical preparedness reflects the Kingdom's commitment to providing smart and efficient government services befitting its status as a global destination for major exhibitions and conferences.
World Defence Exhibition: A global platform with a Saudi vision
The third edition of the World Defense Show 2026 will take place in Riyadh, specifically at the exhibition site in Malham, north of the city, from February 8 to 12. The exhibition is held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and is organized and supervised by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI). This event is considered one of the world's leading defense and security exhibitions, bringing together major international companies, military experts, and decision-makers to discuss the future of defense and security.
Strategic importance and its alignment with Vision 2030
The World Defence Exhibition (WDE) holds significant strategic importance as it represents a cornerstone in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly regarding the localization of military industries. The Kingdom aims to localize more than 50% of government spending on military equipment and services by 2030. The exhibition provides an ideal environment for exchanging expertise, forging strategic partnerships between local and international companies, and showcasing the latest technologies in the field of operational interoperability.
Integration of defense and security fields
The exhibition is distinguished by its comprehensiveness, covering the five main defense domains: land, sea, air, space, and security. This edition is expected to feature a significant presence of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence in the military field, further solidifying the Kingdom's position as a pivotal hub for the defense industry in the region. The successful facilitation of entry for delegations by the General Directorate of Passports is a key factor in the success of this international event, reflecting positively on the Kingdom's organizational readiness.
Local News
Saudi Falcons prepare for their first display with the T-165 Hawk at the 2026 Defense Exhibition
The Saudi Falcons aerobatic team is preparing to deliver its first-ever global air show with T-165 Hawk aircraft at the 2026 World Defence Exhibition in Riyadh. Details of the historic event and its launch date.
In a move reflecting the significant development of the Royal Saudi Air Force, the Saudi Falcons aerobatic team arrived at the World Defence Exhibition 2026, preparing to deliver exceptional air displays that will be the first of their kind globally. This event marks a turning point in the history of air shows, as the team will be using the advanced T-165 Hawk aircraft system for the first time, making it the first aerobatic team in the world to utilize this modern system in its official displays.
Official photos released by the Ministry of Defense showed the arrival of the team's aircraft and technical and aircrews at the exhibition grounds in Riyadh, amid intensive preparations for the start of the events next Sunday. Aviation enthusiasts and participating official delegations eagerly anticipate witnessing the precise aerial formations for which the team is renowned, which will be enhanced by the advanced technical capabilities of the new aircraft.
World Defence Exhibition: A global platform for innovation
This historic display is part of the World Defence Exhibition 2026, which has established itself as one of the most important defense and security events on the international stage. The exhibition features wide participation from leading global companies specializing in defense and security industries, in addition to high-level official delegations from around the world. The exhibition's role extends beyond simply showcasing the latest military technologies; it also serves as a strategic platform for strengthening international partnerships and exchanging expertise, reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's pivotal position in this vital sector.
Saudi Falcons: The Kingdom's Ambassadors in the Sky
The Royal Saudi Air Force's "Saudi Falcons" aerobatic team is a source of pride for the Kingdom on both the local and international stages. Since its inception, the team has been committed to representing the Kingdom in the best possible light, its aircraft adorned in green and white, creating artistic displays in the sky that reflect the national identity. The team's pilots are distinguished by their exceptional skills and professionalism, enabling them to execute complex aerial maneuvers that demand meticulous precision and perfect coordination among all members of the squadron.
Signs of modernization and development
The Saudi Falcons' transition to the T-165 Hawk system is not merely an equipment upgrade; it carries profound implications regarding the Kingdom's commitment to developing its military capabilities and keeping pace with the latest global technologies. This achievement reflects the Saudi pilot's competence and ability to adapt modern technology to deliver performances befitting the reputation of the Royal Saudi Air Force. Furthermore, this event contributes to enhancing the Kingdom's image as a leading nation in organizing major international events, aligning with the ambitious goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to localize military industries and strengthen its defense capabilities.
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