Day: October 6, 2024

Al-Jouf Urban Observatory has been officially accredited as a member of the Global Urban Observatory Network (GUO-Net), part of the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat) that includes a group of urban observatories from around the world. This achievement enables Al-Jouf Urban Observatory to connect with its global counterparts, benefiting from their experiences and expertise to support the implementation of urban development strategies, the global urban agenda, and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. These efforts aim to enhance urbanization, improve citizens' quality of life, and contribute to the objectives of the Kingdom Vision 2030. The Mayor of Al-Jouf Region and Vice Chairman of the Urban Observatory Council, Eng. Atef bin Mohammed Al-Sharan, expressed his gratitude to Prince Faisal bin Nawaf bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Al-Jouf and Chairman of the Urban Observatory Council, for his continuous support and wise directives that have boosted the region's urban standing. He noted that th is membership will improve decision-making and future urban planning. The Director General of Geographic Information Systems and the Al-Jouf Urban Observatory, Eng. Mohammed bin Jumah Al-Ali, said that the observatory will leverage this membership to enhance its capabilities in data collection and analysis, which he added will contribute to sustainable urban development. Source: Saudi Press Agency

The Iranian Mehr News Agency quoted an Iranian official as saying that all flights at Iranian airports were canceled tonight from 9:00 am to 6:00 am on Monday, local time. Source: National News Agency - Lebanon

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) has achieved a new medical breakthrough by repairing a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm using branched stent technology. The procedure was performed on a 61-year-old patient with complex health conditions, including hypertension and kidney dysfunction, via arterial catheterization. This life-saving intervention is the first of its kind in the Middle East. According to a KFSHRC press release, the minimally invasive approach employed in this surgery reduces patient trauma and speeds up recovery times. The method is a safer treatment option that minimizes risks and complications for patients with health conditions, for whom traditional surgery is ruled out. The patient had complex conditions, including vasculitis and a ruptured aortic aneurysm that causing internal bleeding and a high risk of death with conventional surgery. Utilizing high-resolution 3D imaging and real-time cerebral blood flow monitoring system, the medical team was able to visu alize precise details of the patient's anatomy, which facilitated the accurate placement of the branched stent, ensuring continued blood flow to the kidney and intestines and thus avoiding potential damage. Aortic aneurysms near the chest and abdomen can be life threatening as they affect vital organs like the kidneys and the intestines. The patient was at a high risk of vessel rupture and internal bleeding, which could have increased the likelihood of fatality if not for the timely and precise medical intervention that saved his life. This procedure is a significant achievement, especially considering the high mortality risk associated with traditional open surgery. The hospital's medical team demonstrated remarkable expertise in utilizing advanced medical technologies, effectively overcoming all challenges to save the life of the patient. This accomplishment underscores KFSHRC's leadership in healthcare innovation, continuously advancing treatments to provide cutting-edge care to patients across the regi on and globally. "KFSHRC has been ranked first in the Middle East and Africa and 20th globally in the list of the world's top 250 Academic Medical Centers for the second consecutive year, and recognized as the most valuable healthcare brand in the Kingdom and the Middle East, according to the 2024 Brand Finance rankings. Additionally, it has been listed among the world's best smart hospitals for 2025 by Newsweek," reads the release. Source: Saudi Press Agency

National News Agency correspondent in Marj'Ayoun indicated that the Israeli enemy carried out two raids from a drone on Jdeidet Marjeyoun near the industrial city of Ain al-Saghira, noting that injuries and civilian martyrs have been reported. NNA correspondent in Nabatieh indicated that the enemy warplanes launched an air strike at around 4:30 pm today targeting the town of Arnoun, and several raids on the towns of Aita al-Shaab and Yaroun in Bint Jbeil district. NNA correspondent also indicated the enemy warplanes launched two raids on the town of Baraachit and a third targeting the town of Tebnine. NNA correspondent in Western Bekaa reported that the wreckage of an Israeli Air Force drone was found in a mountainous area on the outskirts of the town of Bakka, Rashaya al-Wadi District, adding that the relevant authorities inspected the Hebrew writings on the body of the drone, which was conducting reconnaissance missions in the region's airspace reaching the nearby Syrian border. Source: National News A gency - Lebanon

The AlUla Skies Festival 2024 has concluded its third edition after providing visitors with a range of experiences and activities that integrated with the splendor of the ancient oasis's desert nature. The 10-day festival, which kicked off on September 26, highlighted AlUla as one of the world's leading destinations for astrotourism. The festival included a series of hot air balloon tours that took enthusiasts of aviation and heights on private trips over the picturesque landscapes of the ancient oasis. It also celebrated AlUla's starry skies and captivating terrain, home to more than 200,000 years of human history, which provided unique experiences that took visitors to new heights at altitudes exceeding thousands of feet. Guests who missed out on this year's AlUla Sky Festival, which also included a series of concerts, can enjoy the AlUla Wellness Festival from October 17 to November 2 Source: Saudi Press Agency

The Royal Crescent, one of Bath's most iconic landmarks designed by John Wood the Younger, is a stunning crescent of 30 Georgian houses built between 1767 and 1774, is Bath's most iconic landmark. The city is renowned for its exquisite Georgian architecture, showcasing the brilliance of design and engineering during the 18th century. Bath boasts a rich history, with over 5,000 listed buildings that testify to the Roman civilization in Britain. The Roman Baths Museum and the city's natural hot springs are among its most prominent landmarks. Recognizing its historical significance, UNESCO designated Bath as a World Heritage Site in 1987. The city's Roman ruins and 18th-century architecture have earned it a place among the most important historical cities in the UK. The Roman Baths Museum offers a unique experience with an audio guide that provides visitors with insights into the site's history and architecture. Exploring the museum's exhibits, featuring carefully preserved Roman artifacts such as tombston es and statues, one delves into the city's rich past. Source: Saudi Press Agency