The Chinese J-10C fighter jet has been sold to Pakistan, marking a significant milestone in its export journey.

Pakistan began receiving deliveries of the J-10C in February 2022, with the aircraft being formally inducted into the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) during a ceremony at Kamra Airbase.

The Pakistan Air Force has ordered a total of 36 J-10CE fighters, which is the export version of the J-10C, to enhance its air defense capabilities.

China is expected to deliver 25 of these J-10C fighter jets to Pakistan, significantly bolstering the country's combat readiness.

The J-10C is considered a strong alternative to the U.S. fourth-generation F-16 fighter jet, which has led some countries to consider acquiring it.

Turkey has shown interest in the J-10C as a potential replacement for the U.S. F-16 fighter jets, with Turkish officials citing its perceived advantages.

A Turkish presidential official indicated that Ankara might abandon its requests for American-made F-16s in favor of the Chinese J-10C due to its cost-effectiveness and performance.

The J-10C is an upgraded export version of the aircraft, specifically designed to meet the needs of international buyers.

The J-10C is equipped with advanced features such as a larger active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and fourth-generation air-to-air missiles, including the PL-10 and PL-15.

Chinese analysts have highlighted that the J-10C will significantly improve the combat capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force while promoting China's aviation equipment globally.

The J-10C is classified as a 4.5-generation medium-sized fighter jet, offering more power and advanced features compared to the jointly developed JF-17 currently in service with Pakistan.

The J-10C is a lightweight single-engine fighter jet with low operating costs and improved fifth-generation avionics, making it an attractive option for buyers.

One of the main advantages of the J-10C is its very low cost, which is attributed to China's large-scale manufacturing capabilities.

Chinese aircraft, including the J-10C, require less maintenance and have faster delivery times compared to their American counterparts.

The J-10 fighter jet was developed by Chengdu Aircraft Company, with its first model, the J-10A, entering mass production in 2000.

The J-10A features a single engine, single vertical tail, and dual delta wing configuration, which provides excellent high-altitude and high-speed performance.

However, the J-10A faced export challenges due to poor reliability and bottlenecks in domestic engine development.

The J-10B, an improved version of the J-10A, was successfully tested in December 2008 and featured a redesigned intake channel.

The J-10C, introduced in 2017, includes further advancements such as an active phased array radar, enhancing its combat capabilities.

The J-10C offers multiple features and performance advantages over the F-16, particularly in terms of armament, flight, and overall performance.

The Chinese J-10C fighter jet has been sold to Pakistan, marking a significant milestone in its export journey.

Title:

Content: Turkey replaces F-16 with Chinese fighter jet
Wednesday 08 March 2023 - 12: 09 GMT
Kagri Erhan, a member of the Security Council and Foreign Policy of the Turkish Presidency, announced that Ankara is expected to abandon its requests for American-made fourth-generation F-16C / D fighter jets due to the availability of a better alternative.
World - Turkey
The Turkish official noted that the “$20 billion cost package ” and the availability of more cost-effective options, notably the Chinese J-10C, could make such a rollout a reality.
"Now we have other options such as the Chinese plane that was sold to Pakistan, the Russian planes and also the Eurofighter," he said.
According to Miltary Watch, Pakistan began receiving Chinese J-10C fighters in February 2022.
The Chinese fighter is of the same weight as its American counterpart, the F-16, but it is several decades newer with multiple features and performance advantages, especially in terms of armament, flight and flight performance.
It is a lightweight single-engine fighter with low operating cost and improved fifth-generation avionics.
Chinese aircraft also have similar capabilities and in most respects are superior to their American counterparts, in addition to requiring less maintenance needs and much faster delivery time.
Although Turkey is the largest foreign operator of the US F-16, with about 250 in service, which means the new aircraft can be easily integrated with existing training and logistics systems and weapons, China has in the past modified its fighters to be able to operate US weapons at the request of foreign customers.
One of the main advantages of the Chinese fighter is its very low cost compared to its American counterpart, due to the fact that China manufactures large quantities of them, unlike the American.
Turkey ’ s preference for lightweight fighters makes the Chinese single-engine aircraft an effective and pioneering option.

An advanced export model of J-10 Fighter

Which countries' airforces are the purchasers of China's J-10 FIghter?

Pakistan began receiving deliveries of the J-10C in February 2022, with the aircraft being formally inducted into the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) during a ceremony at Kamra Airbase.

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Content: Adsence Ads 300X250
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PAF formally inducts Rafale rival China-made J-10C fighter jets

Web Desk BOL News

11th Mar, 2022. 02:25 pm
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KAMRA: The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) formally inducted a modern Chinese-made J-10C multi-role combat aircraft also known as “vigorous dragon” during a ceremony held at Kamra Airbase on Friday.

Prime Minister Imran Khan attended the induction ceremony of the single-engine fighter jet at the invitation of Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar, along with other federal ministers and the Chinese ambassador.

During the ceremony, The Prime Minister has witnessed a thrilling flypast of various aircraft formations, including the newly inducted J10C, F-16s, JF-17s, and Mirages, which displayed a sophisticated array of avionics and weaponry.

Read more: PAF’s acquisition of J10-C

Following the flypast, the Prime Minister witnessed the landing of five J-10C aircraft, which have been inducted into the 15 Squadron.

The J-10C is larger and can be outfitted with a bigger active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar than the JF-17 Block 3 uses.

The aircraft can carry fourth-generation air-to-air missiles such as the short-range PL-10 and the beyond-visual-range PL-15.

According to a foreign media report, China will deliver a total of 25 J-10C fighter jets to Pakistan, significantly increasing the country’s military capability to defend airspace.

Read more: J-10C induction ceremony: Pakistan knows how to protect its boundaries, says Imran

After being tested in Chengdu, the first batch of combat aircraft arrived in Pakistan a few days ago.

Images of a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) J-10C fighter jet with the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) markings recently surfaced on social media and were widely circulated by media outlets.

Chinese analysts have praised the latest defence cooperation between China and Pakistan, saying that the move is significant for both countries because it strengthens the Pakistani military’s combat capabilities, promotes China’s aviation equipment, and serves regional security interests.

“The J-10C will significantly improve the Pakistan Air Force’s combat capabilities,” Chinese analysts predicted.

“The J-10C is a 4.5-generation medium-sized fighter jet that is more powerful than the China-Pakistan jointly developed lightweight fighter jet, the JF-17, which is currently in service with the Pakistan Air Force,” Shi Hong, Executive Chief Editor of Shipborne Weapons, told the Global Times.

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Which countries' airforces are the purchasers of China's J-10 FIghter?

The Pakistan Air Force has ordered a total of 36 J-10CE fighters, which is the export version of the J-10C, to enhance its air defense capabilities.

Title:

Content: Chinese Army J-10 Crossing the Strait Central Line Ministry of Defense: Strict Monitoring of Missiles
Reporters Lu Chiung-chang / reporting from Taipei
The Ministry of Defense said that since 0600 hours yesterday (8) to 0600 hours, six sorties (including one over the middle line of the strait) and three ships have been detected, and activities around the Taiwan Strait have continued.
The military uses mission aircraft, ships and shore missile systems to closely monitor and respond.
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According to the plan released by the Ministry of Defense, the Chinese People's Liberation Army entered the airspace around the Taiwan Strait, and one of the PLA's J-10 fighters crossed the northern end of the Strait Central Line and immediately turned back.
In the 1980s, Israel Aerospace (IAI) developed the Lavi based on the F-16, but production was canceled due to opposition from the United States.
Since then, Chengdu Aircraft Company has cooperated with Lion to develop new fighters. Although Israel and China ended cooperation after 1989, Chengdu Aircraft Company continued to develop and develop the J-10A in 1998, and completed the test flight of the J-10A, and completed mass production two years later.
The J-10A adopts a single engine, a single vertical tail, and a single wing pneumatic configuration in the dual delta wing, which is characterized by excellent high altitude and high speed performance, and the front delta wing can improve the maneuverability of medium and low altitude, which can effectively shorten the take-off and landing distance.
J-10 fighter after service with Su-27SK, Su-30MKK, J-11 and other fighters formed a high and low match. Although the price of the J-10A is only half that of the F-16, but due to poor reliability, the supporting domestic engine development into a bottleneck, resulting in poor export performance.
After the production of the J-10A, Chengdu Aircraft Company started a performance improvement and improvement program in 2004, and the J-10B was successfully tested in December 2008. The J-10B abandoned the rectangular intake channel design and switched to a Rampless integrated intake channel similar to the FC-1, and continued to improve the launch of the J-10C. 2017 In June, the J-10C participated in the 90th anniversary parade of the People's Liberation Army, making its first public appearance, and the J-10C was replaced with an active phased array radar.
The Pakistan Air Force is the only foreign procurement unit of the J-10, ordering 36 J-10CE fighters, and J-10CE is the export model of the J-10C.
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How many J-10 Fighters has Pakistan imported from China?

Which countries' airforces are the purchasers of China's J-10 FIghter?

China is expected to deliver 25 of these J-10C fighter jets to Pakistan, significantly bolstering the country's combat readiness.

Which countries' airforces are the purchasers of China's J-10 FIghter?

The J-10C is considered a strong alternative to the U.S. fourth-generation F-16 fighter jet, which has led some countries to consider acquiring it.

Title:

Content: The American F-16...
Information on the Chinese J-10C fighter
© AFP 2023 / KARIM SAHIBChinese J-10 fighter
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The Chinese J-10 is touted as the best alternative to the US fourth-generation F-16, which has led some countries to consider acquiring it.
China has produced about 350 such aircraft since they entered service in 2005, according to Military Factory.
The aircraft has a single crew and is used by China and Pakistan and is designed for aerial combat missions with a variety of weapons.
Turkey to replace F-16 with Chinese fighter jet
Photos & Videos
What are the technical specifications of the J-10?
Length: 15.5 meters.
Distance between wings: 9.7 meters.
Height: 4.7 meters.
Weight of empty aircraft: 9.7 tons.
The total weight of the aircraft is 18.5 tons.
Speed: 2,336 km / h.
Altitude: 20,000 meters.
Range: 1800 kilometers.
What is the arming of the J-10?
The Chinese J-10 has six under-wing and five under-hull external suspension points that allow it to carry a large external payload of weapons, including air-to-air missiles, laser-guided bombs and other types of conventional bombs, as well as a 23 mm internal machine gun.
There are several versions of the aircraft, some with one seat and others with two seats for training tasks, including:
The J-10A is a single-seat multirole fighter.
J-10B: Marine version with twin-engine engines.
J-10C: An upgraded version of the B version with an electronic radar and infrared guidance system for missiles.
© AFP 2023 / WANG ZHAO Chinese J-10 fighter
The Chinese J-10 fighter.
The J-10C is an upgraded export version, which Turkey may acquire as a replacement for the U.S. F-16 fighter jets.
Earlier, a Turkish presidential official said Ankara was expected to abandon the U.S. F-16 fighter jets due to the availability of a better alternative in the Chinese J-10 signal.
© SputnikWhat are the capabilities of the Chinese J-16 fighter?
What are the capabilities of the Chinese J-16 fighter?
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An advanced export model of J-10 Fighter

Turkey has shown interest in the J-10C as a potential replacement for the U.S. F-16 fighter jets, with Turkish officials citing its perceived advantages.

Which country may purchase China's J-10 Fighter as an alternative to the U.S. F-16 Fighters?

A Turkish presidential official indicated that Ankara might abandon its requests for American-made F-16s in favor of the Chinese J-10C due to its cost-effectiveness and performance.

What is the price of J-10 Fighter that China exports?

Which country may purchase China's J-10 Fighter as an alternative to the U.S. F-16 Fighters?

The J-10C is an upgraded export version of the aircraft, specifically designed to meet the needs of international buyers.

An advanced export model of J-10 Fighter

The J-10C is equipped with advanced features such as a larger active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and fourth-generation air-to-air missiles, including the PL-10 and PL-15.

How is J-10C Fighter compared with JF-17, another jet fighter that China exports?

J-10 can be outfitted with a bigger active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar.

What has Taiwanese meida said about China's J-10 Fighter?

J-10 series are a fourth-generation fighters.

Substantial improvements have been made on it.

An advanced export model of J-10 Fighter

What missiles can China's J-10 FIghters carry?

What specific models of missiles can China's J-10 FIghters carry?

Chinese analysts have highlighted that the J-10C will significantly improve the combat capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force while promoting China's aviation equipment globally.

Which countries' airforces are the purchasers of China's J-10 FIghter?

The J-10C is classified as a 4.5-generation medium-sized fighter jet, offering more power and advanced features compared to the jointly developed JF-17 currently in service with Pakistan.

An advanced export model of J-10 Fighter

The J-10C is a lightweight single-engine fighter jet with low operating costs and improved fifth-generation avionics, making it an attractive option for buyers.

What has China said about its J-10C Fighter?

It is the most competitive fighter jet in the international arms market in recent years.

What has Taiwanese meida said about China's J-10 Fighter?

Substantial improvements have been made on it.

An advanced export model of J-10 Fighter

One of the main advantages of the J-10C is its very low cost, which is attributed to China's large-scale manufacturing capabilities.

What is the price of J-10 Fighter that China exports?

Chinese aircraft, including the J-10C, require less maintenance and have faster delivery times compared to their American counterparts.

The J-10 fighter jet was developed by Chengdu Aircraft Company, with its first model, the J-10A, entering mass production in 2000.

The J-10A features a single engine, single vertical tail, and dual delta wing configuration, which provides excellent high-altitude and high-speed performance.

However, the J-10A faced export challenges due to poor reliability and bottlenecks in domestic engine development.

What are the consequences of the problems that China's J-10 Fighters have?

What problems have J-10 Fighters that China exports had?

The J-10B, an improved version of the J-10A, was successfully tested in December 2008 and featured a redesigned intake channel.

What has Taiwanese meida said about China's J-10 Fighter?

Substantial improvements have been made on it.

The J-10C, introduced in 2017, includes further advancements such as an active phased array radar, enhancing its combat capabilities.

How is J-10C Fighter compared with JF-17, another jet fighter that China exports?

J-10 can be outfitted with a bigger active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar.

What has Taiwanese meida said about China's J-10 Fighter?

Substantial improvements have been made on it.

An advanced export model of J-10 Fighter

The J-10C offers multiple features and performance advantages over the F-16, particularly in terms of armament, flight, and overall performance.

What has China said about its J-10C Fighter?

It is the most competitive fighter jet in the international arms market in recent years.

What has Taiwanese meida said about China's J-10 Fighter?

Substantial improvements have been made on it.

What may some improvements made in China's J-10 Fighter help Pakistan Airforce?

Enable Pakistan Air Force to carry more missiles to perform combat missions


Saharan dust storms, originating from North Africa, travel across the Atlantic Ocean and peak during late June to mid-August, impacting regions in the Americas, including South Texas and San Antonio.

These storms carry a mix of sand, dust, and microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, which can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health concerns, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD.

In addition to health risks, Saharan dust can reduce visibility, disrupt transportation systems, and impair the performance of solar panels, posing challenges to urban infrastructure and daily life.

The dust also affects air quality, creating hazy skies and potentially causing breathing difficulties for sensitive populations, with conditions expected to worsen as dust levels increase throughout the week.

Despite these challenges, Saharan dust provides environmental benefits, such as delivering nutrients like phosphorus to ecosystems, fertilizing ocean waters, and supporting biodiversity in regions like the Amazon rainforest and the Caribbean Sea.

However, excessive dust deposition can harm ecosystems, including coral reefs, by blocking sunlight and reducing photosynthetic activity, which may lead to biodiversity loss.

Climate change is influencing the frequency and intensity of these storms, as evidenced by events like the massive 2020 'Godzilla' dust storm, highlighting the need for proactive environmental strategies.

To mitigate the impacts of Saharan dust storms, individuals with respiratory conditions should stay indoors, while broader measures such as afforestation and environmental sustainability projects can address long-term challenges.

City planners should also consider reviewing environmental regulations and raising public awareness to prepare for the increasing frequency of dust storms.

Saharan dust storms, originating from North Africa, travel across the Atlantic Ocean and peak during late June to mid-August, impacting regions in the Americas, including South Texas and San Antonio.

Title:

Content: Breaking News
More () »

San Antonians may want to stay indoors next week. Here's why.

A noticeable change in the air will arrive to the Alamo City next week.

SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio skies could look quite different next week but not in the way we're hoping for.

As San Antonians eagerly wait for rain to break our triple-digit temperatures another common occurrence will pick-up next week known as Saharan dust.

The dust is a combination of sand and dust traveling from North Africa across the Atlantic that peaking in late June through mid-August.

Light amounts of Saharan dust have arrived to the Alamo City this past week but will become more noticeable. Therefore, if you have asthma, COPD or any other type of respiratory illness you will want to stay indoors as much as possible during this time.

Timing of Saharan dust:

Monday - Little changes will be in the forecast as heavier amounts of dust remain over the gulf coast.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Tuesday - A large moderate level of Saharan dust will move into South Texas and San Antonio by late afternoon. San Antonians may notice hazy skies and trouble breathing if you're more sensitive to dusty air. But the dust doesn't stop here.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Wednesday - By mid-week Saharan dust ramps up continuing to build and push farther north stretching to the Dallas area. The continuing flow of the dust is partly due to a high pressure bringing a southeasterly flow to help pump the dust toward South Texas.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Thursday - As the week progresses dust levels continue to rise and could affect air quality levels. For those with any respiratory illnesses they should avoid outdoor activity including vigorous exercise. Also try to keep windows and doors closed. We will continue to monitor this development next week.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

As dust increases across the area, San Antonians will notice more vibrant sunrises and sunsets. However, during the afternoons the sky appears a more milky white color.

Before You Leave, Check This Out

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

These storms carry a mix of sand, dust, and microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, which can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health concerns, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD.

Title:

Content: 03-27-2024

Sahara desert dust storms carry harmful bacteria and fungi around the globe

We often dismiss springtime allergies as reactions to local pollen. Yet, something else might cause our sniffles and sneezes: a massive dust storms that originate thousands of miles away in Africa’s Sahara region.

These gargantuan dust plumes travel the globe every summer, carrying a cocktail of pollutants and potential pathogens across continents.

Dr. Shankar Chellam, a Texas A&M University professor is leading the charge to understand the biological hitchhikers within dust storms.

He and his team are working to determine what microbes, specifically bacteria and fungi, migrate with the dust and explore their potential impact on human health.

Hidden passengers in Sahara dust

“We all get allergies and potentially other more severe health effects when we breathe in dust, and it’s not fully known as to what causes those allergies,” said Dr. Chellam.

“Some people may think it is just the sand or clay minerals in the dust. Others think it is the metals or organics in the dust, and then some think it’s the bacteria and fungi.”

The Saharan dust cloud carries vast amounts of sand particles that transport bacteria and fungi.

Dr. Chellam’s research uniquely addresses how Saharan dust storms introduce these microbes into North America.

What the dust storm from Sahara tells us

Dr. Chellam and his team analyzed samples from a Saharan dust event that reached Houston in 2018. They measured metals, bacteria, and fungi to investigate any connections.

Fascinatingly, their findings revealed strong links between the biodiversity of the microbes and specific elements, especially calcium.

While these elements occur naturally in the Sahara, they also exist in our local environments. Pinpointing the exact origin of the dust and its cargo remains a challenge that scientists continue to tackle.

Our air – Not as empty as we think

Perhaps the most startling discovery is that even seemingly lifeless clouds of dust brim with biological activity.

“A key takeaway from this study is that a lot of biodiversity is not scientifically described. It doesn’t have a name, it can’t be cultured, and because it can’t be cultured, it’s difficult to study,” explained Dr. Daniel Spalink, assistant professor at Texas A&M.

The team’s high-tech DNA analysis allowed them to create an inventory of bacteria and fungi, even if the microbes themselves weren’t active.

Surprisingly, they found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“It doesn’t tell us if they are going to be able to infect us and make us sick,” Spalink cautions, “But at least the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in the African dust.”

Impact of climate change on Sahara dust

Climate change is altering weather patterns globally. This transformation affects dust storm behavior, leading to variations in their frequency and intensity.

In 2020, the United States experienced the most massive Saharan dust storm ever recorded, which experts named “Godzilla.”

This event highlighted the potential for increasing occurrences of such dust invasions. “The whole dynamics of the Saharan dust coming to Houston is primarily driven by atmospheric processes,” said Dr. Sourav Das, a former student of Dr. Chellam.

Global connection of Sahara dust

Sahara dust storm travels far beyond the borders of North America, affecting global environmental systems in profound ways.

This dust, originating from the vast Sahara Desert, embarks on transcontinental journeys that influence climate, ocean biology, and ecosystems far removed from its source.

The Saharan dust plays a critical role in climate regulation. As it travels across oceans and continents, it reflects sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth’s surface.

This natural phenomenon acts as a counterbalance to the warming effects of greenhouse gases, showcasing how desert dust can influence global temperatures.

However, the dust also carries microorganisms and nutrients, such as phosphorus, that fertilize remote ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean Sea, demonstrating nature’s complex nutrient cycles.

Benefits to oceans

Ocean biology benefits from the nutrient-rich dust as well. When Saharan dust settles on ocean waters, it delivers essential minerals that stimulate the growth of phytoplankton.

These microscopic plants form the foundation of the oceanic food chain, supporting a diverse array of marine life.

The influx of nutrients from the Sahara can thus boost marine productivity, affecting fish populations and the global fishing industry.

Disadvantages

The impact of Saharan dust is not universally beneficial. In ecosystems unaccustomed to the influx of foreign particles and nutrients, the dust can disrupt local environments.

For example, excessive dust deposition can smother coral reefs, blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis. This can stress coral ecosystems, leading to bleaching events and loss of biodiversity.

Moreover, the health implications of Saharan dust extend across continents. The dust carries not only nutrients but also pollutants and pathogens that can affect air quality and public health.

Communities in the path of these dust plumes may experience increased respiratory issues, allergies, and diseases, highlighting the need for global health monitoring and preparedness.

Study insights

It’s crucial to gather data across multiple dust events, spanning many years, to get a clearer picture of these airborne microbial communities and how they might transform over time.

While a lot remains unknown, research like this shines a spotlight on the hidden travelers swirling in the air we breathe — travelers who might be affecting our health in surprising ways.

The next time you catch a glimpse of a dust storm rolling in, remember the globe-trotting microbes it carries!

The findings of the study are published in Environmental Science & Technology.

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Check us out on EarthSnap, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

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How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

In addition to health risks, Saharan dust can reduce visibility, disrupt transportation systems, and impair the performance of solar panels, posing challenges to urban infrastructure and daily life.

Title:

Content: Dust storms.
sources and danger.
|
At the beginning of this year's spring season, the incidence of dust storms increased significantly.
Their frequency varies from year to year, but generally increases in the transitional periods between seasons, especially spring and autumn, for many reasons, some natural and others of a human nature, that is, by man.
Dust storms are fast winds that transport dust and plankton, causing a lack of visibility at short distances.
Despite the great controversy over the causes of dust or dust storms and the fact that the camel bears full responsibility for their occurrence, as stated in one of the videos circulated on social media, the reasons are not limited to the poor camel alone, even if it is one of the reasons!
The causes of dust storms are many, including: (1) Desertification as a result of drought resulting from low rainfall.
(2) Desertification due to human activities associated with overgrazing as a result of increasing numbers of camels and sheep on pasture capacity.
(3) Extensive agricultural activities, especially ploughing the land and leaving it exposed for long periods.
(4) Soil movement as a result of development and military actions and absurd car tracks in deserts that led to the breaking and dismantling of the soil and the destruction of vegetation cover.
(5) The reduction of the surface groundwater table, which led to the drying of the soil and thus the impact on the vegetation cover.
Globally, sub-Saharan Africa is the main contributor to Earth ’ s dust storms, which travel to the Americas via the Atlantic Ocean via tropical east winds.
But the Fertile Crescent has also become a source of dust, due to the halving of agricultural production as a result of climate change.
Iraq is one of the sources of dust storms as a result of the decline of the level of rivers, which led to the drought of the marshes and lakes in Iraq and Iran, and add to the list of sources open deserts of the Kingdom, which suffer environmental degradation as a result of human tampering of unfair grazing and wood and the like.
Dust storms are one of the factors responsible for increased allergic reactions, asthma attacks and chronic breathing problems, as well as blood vessels and heart disease.
Dust storms are also carriers of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, germs and viruses that cause certain diseases.
Besides, dust storms have economic effects, they adversely affect agricultural production by transporting agricultural pests, reducing photosynthetic activity, destroying crops, as well as affecting infrastructure, by reducing visibility, disrupting energy and air and road transport systems, burying railways, as well as contributing to the deterioration of the performance of solar panels, as well as damaging residential property.
There is no doubt that dust storms and their increased frequency are a warning sign that requires a rapid response through a review of environmental regulations, the need to raise the environmental awareness of the population, the organization of grazing seasons based on the identification of the pastoral capacity of each region, as well as innovative solutions to mitigate desertification that benefit from tremendous technical progress.
Finally, it follows from the above that the problem is not country-specific, but a regional problem that requires concerted efforts.
The Green Middle East initiative by Prince Mohammed bin Salman is designed to design innovative solutions to address climate change and promote environmental sustainability through a number of projects, including: planting 50 billion trees across the Middle East region and reclaiming 200 million hectares of degraded land through afforestation, which contributes to a 2.5 per cent reduction in global carbon emissions.
Publish it.

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on infrastructure?

harms solar energy production
Worsens visibility on roads

The dust also affects air quality, creating hazy skies and potentially causing breathing difficulties for sensitive populations, with conditions expected to worsen as dust levels increase throughout the week.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

Despite these challenges, Saharan dust provides environmental benefits, such as delivering nutrients like phosphorus to ecosystems, fertilizing ocean waters, and supporting biodiversity in regions like the Amazon rainforest and the Caribbean Sea.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

delivers essential minerals for phytoplankton

carries microorganisms and nutrients that act as fertilizer

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

However, excessive dust deposition can harm ecosystems, including coral reefs, by blocking sunlight and reducing photosynthetic activity, which may lead to biodiversity loss.

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on the ecosystems?

smothers coral reefs by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis

Climate change is influencing the frequency and intensity of these storms, as evidenced by events like the massive 2020 'Godzilla' dust storm, highlighting the need for proactive environmental strategies.

To mitigate the impacts of Saharan dust storms, individuals with respiratory conditions should stay indoors, while broader measures such as afforestation and environmental sustainability projects can address long-term challenges.

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

City planners should also consider reviewing environmental regulations and raising public awareness to prepare for the increasing frequency of dust storms.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?


Saharan dust storms are known to carry bacteria and fungi, including potential allergens and pathogens, which can have significant implications for human health.

These dust storms can introduce pathogens identified by the World Health Organization into North America, although the extent to which they cause illness remains uncertain.

Communities exposed to Saharan dust plumes often experience increased respiratory issues, allergies, and diseases due to the pollutants and microorganisms present in the dust.

Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are particularly vulnerable and are advised to stay indoors during dust events.

Dust storms have been linked to a rise in allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and chronic respiratory problems, as well as cardiovascular diseases.

These storms also act as carriers of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which can contribute to the spread of certain diseases.

In terms of air quality, moderate levels of Saharan dust are expected to move into South Texas, including San Antonio, causing hazy skies and potential breathing difficulties for sensitive individuals.

As the week progresses, dust levels are anticipated to increase and spread farther north, reaching areas such as Dallas due to southeasterly winds driven by high-pressure systems.

By mid-week, the rising dust levels may significantly affect air quality, necessitating precautions such as avoiding outdoor activities and keeping windows and doors closed, especially for those with respiratory illnesses.

While Saharan dust can create visually striking sunrises and sunsets, it also causes afternoon skies to appear milky white, altering the visual landscape.

Dust storms, characterized by fast-moving winds that transport dust and plankton, can severely reduce visibility over short distances.

Saharan dust plumes are a global phenomenon, traveling across continents every summer and transporting pollutants and microorganisms.

These dust events typically peak between late June and mid-August, as sand and dust from North Africa are carried across the Atlantic Ocean.

Currently, light amounts of Saharan dust have already reached San Antonio, with heavier concentrations expected in the coming week.

Sub-Saharan Africa is the primary source of the Earth's dust storms, which are transported to the Americas via tropical east winds over the Atlantic Ocean.

On the positive side, Saharan dust reflects sunlight back into space, contributing to a cooling effect that helps counteract global warming caused by greenhouse gases.

The dust also delivers essential nutrients, such as phosphorus, to ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest and the Caribbean Sea, thereby supporting biodiversity.

Additionally, Saharan dust fertilizes ocean waters, stimulating phytoplankton growth and enhancing marine productivity, which benefits fish populations and the fishing industry.

However, excessive deposition of Saharan dust can harm ecosystems, such as coral reefs, by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis, leading to biodiversity loss.

Dust storms also negatively impact agriculture by transporting pests, reducing photosynthetic activity, and damaging crops, thereby threatening food security.

In terms of infrastructure, dust storms can reduce visibility, disrupt energy systems, and interfere with air and road transportation, posing challenges to daily operations.

They can also damage residential properties and contribute to the deterioration of solar panel performance, further complicating urban management.

The frequency and intensity of Saharan dust storms are being influenced by climate change, as evidenced by the massive 2020 'Godzilla' dust storm that affected the United States.

The increasing prevalence of dust storms serves as a warning sign, emphasizing the need for rapid responses, including the review of environmental regulations and raising public awareness.

To mitigate the impacts of dust storms, innovative solutions such as afforestation and environmental sustainability projects can be implemented to combat desertification.

For individuals, especially those with respiratory conditions, staying indoors and minimizing exposure during dust events are critical preventive measures.

Saharan dust storms are known to carry bacteria and fungi, including potential allergens and pathogens, which can have significant implications for human health.

Title:

Content: 03-27-2024

Sahara desert dust storms carry harmful bacteria and fungi around the globe

We often dismiss springtime allergies as reactions to local pollen. Yet, something else might cause our sniffles and sneezes: a massive dust storms that originate thousands of miles away in Africa’s Sahara region.

These gargantuan dust plumes travel the globe every summer, carrying a cocktail of pollutants and potential pathogens across continents.

Dr. Shankar Chellam, a Texas A&M University professor is leading the charge to understand the biological hitchhikers within dust storms.

He and his team are working to determine what microbes, specifically bacteria and fungi, migrate with the dust and explore their potential impact on human health.

Hidden passengers in Sahara dust

“We all get allergies and potentially other more severe health effects when we breathe in dust, and it’s not fully known as to what causes those allergies,” said Dr. Chellam.

“Some people may think it is just the sand or clay minerals in the dust. Others think it is the metals or organics in the dust, and then some think it’s the bacteria and fungi.”

The Saharan dust cloud carries vast amounts of sand particles that transport bacteria and fungi.

Dr. Chellam’s research uniquely addresses how Saharan dust storms introduce these microbes into North America.

What the dust storm from Sahara tells us

Dr. Chellam and his team analyzed samples from a Saharan dust event that reached Houston in 2018. They measured metals, bacteria, and fungi to investigate any connections.

Fascinatingly, their findings revealed strong links between the biodiversity of the microbes and specific elements, especially calcium.

While these elements occur naturally in the Sahara, they also exist in our local environments. Pinpointing the exact origin of the dust and its cargo remains a challenge that scientists continue to tackle.

Our air – Not as empty as we think

Perhaps the most startling discovery is that even seemingly lifeless clouds of dust brim with biological activity.

“A key takeaway from this study is that a lot of biodiversity is not scientifically described. It doesn’t have a name, it can’t be cultured, and because it can’t be cultured, it’s difficult to study,” explained Dr. Daniel Spalink, assistant professor at Texas A&M.

The team’s high-tech DNA analysis allowed them to create an inventory of bacteria and fungi, even if the microbes themselves weren’t active.

Surprisingly, they found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“It doesn’t tell us if they are going to be able to infect us and make us sick,” Spalink cautions, “But at least the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in the African dust.”

Impact of climate change on Sahara dust

Climate change is altering weather patterns globally. This transformation affects dust storm behavior, leading to variations in their frequency and intensity.

In 2020, the United States experienced the most massive Saharan dust storm ever recorded, which experts named “Godzilla.”

This event highlighted the potential for increasing occurrences of such dust invasions. “The whole dynamics of the Saharan dust coming to Houston is primarily driven by atmospheric processes,” said Dr. Sourav Das, a former student of Dr. Chellam.

Global connection of Sahara dust

Sahara dust storm travels far beyond the borders of North America, affecting global environmental systems in profound ways.

This dust, originating from the vast Sahara Desert, embarks on transcontinental journeys that influence climate, ocean biology, and ecosystems far removed from its source.

The Saharan dust plays a critical role in climate regulation. As it travels across oceans and continents, it reflects sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth’s surface.

This natural phenomenon acts as a counterbalance to the warming effects of greenhouse gases, showcasing how desert dust can influence global temperatures.

However, the dust also carries microorganisms and nutrients, such as phosphorus, that fertilize remote ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean Sea, demonstrating nature’s complex nutrient cycles.

Benefits to oceans

Ocean biology benefits from the nutrient-rich dust as well. When Saharan dust settles on ocean waters, it delivers essential minerals that stimulate the growth of phytoplankton.

These microscopic plants form the foundation of the oceanic food chain, supporting a diverse array of marine life.

The influx of nutrients from the Sahara can thus boost marine productivity, affecting fish populations and the global fishing industry.

Disadvantages

The impact of Saharan dust is not universally beneficial. In ecosystems unaccustomed to the influx of foreign particles and nutrients, the dust can disrupt local environments.

For example, excessive dust deposition can smother coral reefs, blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis. This can stress coral ecosystems, leading to bleaching events and loss of biodiversity.

Moreover, the health implications of Saharan dust extend across continents. The dust carries not only nutrients but also pollutants and pathogens that can affect air quality and public health.

Communities in the path of these dust plumes may experience increased respiratory issues, allergies, and diseases, highlighting the need for global health monitoring and preparedness.

Study insights

It’s crucial to gather data across multiple dust events, spanning many years, to get a clearer picture of these airborne microbial communities and how they might transform over time.

While a lot remains unknown, research like this shines a spotlight on the hidden travelers swirling in the air we breathe — travelers who might be affecting our health in surprising ways.

The next time you catch a glimpse of a dust storm rolling in, remember the globe-trotting microbes it carries!

The findings of the study are published in Environmental Science & Technology.

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How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

These dust storms can introduce pathogens identified by the World Health Organization into North America, although the extent to which they cause illness remains uncertain.

Communities exposed to Saharan dust plumes often experience increased respiratory issues, allergies, and diseases due to the pollutants and microorganisms present in the dust.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are particularly vulnerable and are advised to stay indoors during dust events.

Title:

Content: Breaking News
More () »

San Antonians may want to stay indoors next week. Here's why.

A noticeable change in the air will arrive to the Alamo City next week.

SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio skies could look quite different next week but not in the way we're hoping for.

As San Antonians eagerly wait for rain to break our triple-digit temperatures another common occurrence will pick-up next week known as Saharan dust.

The dust is a combination of sand and dust traveling from North Africa across the Atlantic that peaking in late June through mid-August.

Light amounts of Saharan dust have arrived to the Alamo City this past week but will become more noticeable. Therefore, if you have asthma, COPD or any other type of respiratory illness you will want to stay indoors as much as possible during this time.

Timing of Saharan dust:

Monday - Little changes will be in the forecast as heavier amounts of dust remain over the gulf coast.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Tuesday - A large moderate level of Saharan dust will move into South Texas and San Antonio by late afternoon. San Antonians may notice hazy skies and trouble breathing if you're more sensitive to dusty air. But the dust doesn't stop here.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Wednesday - By mid-week Saharan dust ramps up continuing to build and push farther north stretching to the Dallas area. The continuing flow of the dust is partly due to a high pressure bringing a southeasterly flow to help pump the dust toward South Texas.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Thursday - As the week progresses dust levels continue to rise and could affect air quality levels. For those with any respiratory illnesses they should avoid outdoor activity including vigorous exercise. Also try to keep windows and doors closed. We will continue to monitor this development next week.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

As dust increases across the area, San Antonians will notice more vibrant sunrises and sunsets. However, during the afternoons the sky appears a more milky white color.

Before You Leave, Check This Out

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

Dust storms have been linked to a rise in allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and chronic respiratory problems, as well as cardiovascular diseases.

Title:

Content: Dust storms.
sources and danger.
|
At the beginning of this year's spring season, the incidence of dust storms increased significantly.
Their frequency varies from year to year, but generally increases in the transitional periods between seasons, especially spring and autumn, for many reasons, some natural and others of a human nature, that is, by man.
Dust storms are fast winds that transport dust and plankton, causing a lack of visibility at short distances.
Despite the great controversy over the causes of dust or dust storms and the fact that the camel bears full responsibility for their occurrence, as stated in one of the videos circulated on social media, the reasons are not limited to the poor camel alone, even if it is one of the reasons!
The causes of dust storms are many, including: (1) Desertification as a result of drought resulting from low rainfall.
(2) Desertification due to human activities associated with overgrazing as a result of increasing numbers of camels and sheep on pasture capacity.
(3) Extensive agricultural activities, especially ploughing the land and leaving it exposed for long periods.
(4) Soil movement as a result of development and military actions and absurd car tracks in deserts that led to the breaking and dismantling of the soil and the destruction of vegetation cover.
(5) The reduction of the surface groundwater table, which led to the drying of the soil and thus the impact on the vegetation cover.
Globally, sub-Saharan Africa is the main contributor to Earth ’ s dust storms, which travel to the Americas via the Atlantic Ocean via tropical east winds.
But the Fertile Crescent has also become a source of dust, due to the halving of agricultural production as a result of climate change.
Iraq is one of the sources of dust storms as a result of the decline of the level of rivers, which led to the drought of the marshes and lakes in Iraq and Iran, and add to the list of sources open deserts of the Kingdom, which suffer environmental degradation as a result of human tampering of unfair grazing and wood and the like.
Dust storms are one of the factors responsible for increased allergic reactions, asthma attacks and chronic breathing problems, as well as blood vessels and heart disease.
Dust storms are also carriers of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, germs and viruses that cause certain diseases.
Besides, dust storms have economic effects, they adversely affect agricultural production by transporting agricultural pests, reducing photosynthetic activity, destroying crops, as well as affecting infrastructure, by reducing visibility, disrupting energy and air and road transport systems, burying railways, as well as contributing to the deterioration of the performance of solar panels, as well as damaging residential property.
There is no doubt that dust storms and their increased frequency are a warning sign that requires a rapid response through a review of environmental regulations, the need to raise the environmental awareness of the population, the organization of grazing seasons based on the identification of the pastoral capacity of each region, as well as innovative solutions to mitigate desertification that benefit from tremendous technical progress.
Finally, it follows from the above that the problem is not country-specific, but a regional problem that requires concerted efforts.
The Green Middle East initiative by Prince Mohammed bin Salman is designed to design innovative solutions to address climate change and promote environmental sustainability through a number of projects, including: planting 50 billion trees across the Middle East region and reclaiming 200 million hectares of degraded land through afforestation, which contributes to a 2.5 per cent reduction in global carbon emissions.
Publish it.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

respiratory issues
cardiovascular diseases
allergies

These storms also act as carriers of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which can contribute to the spread of certain diseases.

In terms of air quality, moderate levels of Saharan dust are expected to move into South Texas, including San Antonio, causing hazy skies and potential breathing difficulties for sensitive individuals.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

As the week progresses, dust levels are anticipated to increase and spread farther north, reaching areas such as Dallas due to southeasterly winds driven by high-pressure systems.

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

By mid-week, the rising dust levels may significantly affect air quality, necessitating precautions such as avoiding outdoor activities and keeping windows and doors closed, especially for those with respiratory illnesses.

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

While Saharan dust can create visually striking sunrises and sunsets, it also causes afternoon skies to appear milky white, altering the visual landscape.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

Dust storms, characterized by fast-moving winds that transport dust and plankton, can severely reduce visibility over short distances.

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on infrastructure?

Saharan dust plumes are a global phenomenon, traveling across continents every summer and transporting pollutants and microorganisms.

These dust events typically peak between late June and mid-August, as sand and dust from North Africa are carried across the Atlantic Ocean.

Currently, light amounts of Saharan dust have already reached San Antonio, with heavier concentrations expected in the coming week.

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

Sub-Saharan Africa is the primary source of the Earth's dust storms, which are transported to the Americas via tropical east winds over the Atlantic Ocean.

On the positive side, Saharan dust reflects sunlight back into space, contributing to a cooling effect that helps counteract global warming caused by greenhouse gases.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

cools the Earth's atmosphere
reflects sunlight back into space

The dust also delivers essential nutrients, such as phosphorus, to ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest and the Caribbean Sea, thereby supporting biodiversity.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

carries microorganisms and nutrients that act as fertilizer

Additionally, Saharan dust fertilizes ocean waters, stimulating phytoplankton growth and enhancing marine productivity, which benefits fish populations and the fishing industry.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

delivers essential minerals for phytoplankton

carries microorganisms and nutrients that act as fertilizer

However, excessive deposition of Saharan dust can harm ecosystems, such as coral reefs, by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis, leading to biodiversity loss.

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on the ecosystems?

smothers coral reefs by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis

Dust storms also negatively impact agriculture by transporting pests, reducing photosynthetic activity, and damaging crops, thereby threatening food security.

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on agriculture?

In terms of infrastructure, dust storms can reduce visibility, disrupt energy systems, and interfere with air and road transportation, posing challenges to daily operations.

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on infrastructure?

harms solar energy production
Worsens visibility on roads

They can also damage residential properties and contribute to the deterioration of solar panel performance, further complicating urban management.

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on infrastructure?

The frequency and intensity of Saharan dust storms are being influenced by climate change, as evidenced by the massive 2020 'Godzilla' dust storm that affected the United States.

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

The increasing prevalence of dust storms serves as a warning sign, emphasizing the need for rapid responses, including the review of environmental regulations and raising public awareness.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

To mitigate the impacts of dust storms, innovative solutions such as afforestation and environmental sustainability projects can be implemented to combat desertification.

For individuals, especially those with respiratory conditions, staying indoors and minimizing exposure during dust events are critical preventive measures.

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?


Since his appointment as Crown Prince in 2017, Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has spearheaded Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing the kingdom's economy and society.

A cornerstone of Vision 2030 is the empowerment of women, with reforms enabling them to drive, travel, and run businesses, significantly increasing their participation in the workforce and leadership roles.

Saudi women now make up over a third of the workforce, marking a 17.4 percent increase in five years, while their unemployment rate has dropped to its lowest level in two decades.

The percentage of women in middle and senior management positions rose from 28.6 percent in 2017 to 39 percent by 2022, reflecting the kingdom's commitment to gender equality.

Vision 2030 also seeks to diversify Saudi Arabia's economy by reducing dependence on oil and investing in sectors such as tourism, entertainment, technology, and fashion.

Initiatives like the Saudi 100 Brands program and participation in global events such as Paris Fashion Week highlight efforts to foster a homegrown fashion industry and redefine the kingdom's global image.

Cultural reforms under MBS have reshaped Saudi society, introducing movie screenings, music concerts, and art exhibitions, which were previously restricted.

The influence of the Wahhabi religious establishment has been curtailed, with religious leaders stripped of power, enabling MBS to implement his reform agenda with fewer obstacles.

MBS has promoted a more moderate form of Islam, convincing the clergy to support his vision and advocating for tolerance and reduced sectarianism through figures like Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa.

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 has not only transformed its domestic landscape but also positioned the kingdom as a global advocate for peaceful coexistence and against Islamophobia.

Since his appointment as Crown Prince in 2017, Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has spearheaded Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing the kingdom's economy and society.

Title:

Content: Moderate ideology: The silent Saudi revolution

Sports events, movie screenings, art exhibitions and music concerts are becoming increasingly common in the kingdom, and Saudi citizens are lapping them all up.

Published: 25th July 2023 12:34 AM  |   Last Updated: 25th July 2023 12:45 AM   |  A+A-

It has been ‘work in progress’ for some time now. Saudi Arabia is changing the tone and texture of its ideology from what has always been considered obscurantist to something that keeps with the times. Sports events, movie screenings, art exhibitions and music concerts are becoming increasingly common in the kingdom, and Saudi citizens are lapping them all up.

The kingdom has rapidly secured its position as a centre for cultural events, art exhibitions and film screenings. The nation’s Vision 2030 envisages and fully supports the expansion of the entertainment market to SR30 billion. Almost every domain of entertainment for which Saudi citizens earlier travelled far and wide is now available at home. This is thanks to a break from the past that the de facto ruler, Mohammad bin Salman (MbS), the Crown Prince, has initiated. It makes eminent sense in a nation seeking to develop itself beyond the energy sector with three visionary themes: a vibrant society, a thriving economy and continuity in terms of ambition in comprehensive development.

All this translates into a modern civilisational outlook with technology, intellectualism, private investment, trade, tourism, academics and more, all becoming the prime domains of functioning. The traditional worldwide perception of Saudi Arabia as the centre of the obscurantist ideology of Islam and a nation with an anti-reformist outlook has persisted, and not without reason. A brief understanding of this is important to appreciate the degree of change that Prince MbS has been able to generate.

As the custodian of the Holy Shrines of Mecca and Medina and the land where Islam’s first message was delivered, the Saudi rulers and clergy have always been all-powerful, even more so after adopting the core ideology expounded by Saudi thinker Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab. There is a long history behind this.

A virtual pact between the powerful clergy and the Royal Family has existed to promote the Wahhabi ideology in return for the powers that the Royals enjoyed. The pact saw enhanced clergy power after 1979 when the Shia Revolution occurred in Iran, the Saudi Ikhwan attempted a takeover of the Holy Shrine at Mecca, and the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. Wahhabi ideology was about going back to the basics and making the faith much less tolerant by supporting ‘Takfir’, or the power of declaration of a believer as an apostate if Wahhabi tenets are not adhered to. The militant part of the ideology started to come to the fore after 1979. From segments of the Arab world to Afghanistan, Pakistan, parts of India, Indonesia, Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations, militancy promoting the Saudi brand flourished, giving rise to the notion of a clash of civilisations.

Saudi Arabia’s energy resources always dictated US policy. A grey zone existed here with simultaneous US support to Israel and Saudi Arabia, stacked primarily against Iran and the collective Arab will against Israel. A couple of factors brought the trigger for change. Among them were the discovery of shale gas in the US and the progressive decline in US dependency on Saudi energy resources. Second was the dwindling Saudi economy and the realisation that in an energy-based economy, without expansion into other domains of economic development, such as trade, technology, tourism, investments, entertainment and intellectual research, Saudi Arabia would waste its opportunities and resources. The tremendous advantage of being the centre of the Islamic world could give it enduring leadership status if it could neutralise the rising militancy within Islam. Nations all around, such as the UAE, had fully utilised their possessions and drawn major economic attraction due to pragmatism followed in all domains, including faith issues. The position of women in Saudi society, in particular, had a damning effect on the nation.

Nothing changes without a leader and a vision. Saudi Arabia was fortunate to get MbS, although his personal equation with the US has remained strained for various reasons, not the least being the Khashoggi factor. However, none of that has affected his intent of modernising the nation and for that, a more moderate form of Islam within the kingdom is necessary. To his credit, he has convinced the clergy of the need to follow his vision, which will also project Islam differently to many others who follow the Saudi guidelines on faith.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, from Saudi Arabia, who recently visited New Delhi for six days, is the Secretary General of the Muslim World League. The organisation was once at the forefront of promoting obscurantist ideology but is now transformed, as is evident from Sheikh al Issa’s message in New Delhi. The Sheikh’s belief which he transparently shared is that a whole generation of Muslims has grown up with an ideology that has given them a negative view of other faiths and an intolerantly sectarian understanding of their own.

In his several meetings with intellectuals, leaders and clergy from diverse faiths in India, he emphasised the role of the clergy in any faith. He admitted that Islam had earned a bad name for itself due to the acts of a few and the refusal of the followers to condemn those acts. He spoke of the role of family and education and decried religious teachers’ unsupervised education of young Muslim children. He mentioned that when intolerance and militancy were rising, people feared confronting them. His most poignant argument was that such obscurantism and militancy cannot be eliminated in the typical military way; they have to be removed from the roots by narratives stronger than the ones expounded.

Sheikh Al-Issa’s visit to India was symbolic of what appears to be the fading of the intolerant and militant element of Islam, but we cannot read too much into this. That change is taking place at the ideological centre is positive, but there is no guarantee of permanency. It is also not necessary that the message from Saudi Arabia is gelling with the vast Muslim populations worldwide. These populations are enmeshed with their local cultures and unlikely to follow examples. What is true is that a message supporting reformation has emanated from the nation considered the custodian of the shrines and, by many, of the faith. Nurturing this and taking it beyond is now the challenge.

Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd)

Former Commander, Srinagar-based 15 Corps. Now Chancellor, Central University of Kashmir

(atahasnain@gmail.com)

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What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

To lessen reliance on oil.
To diversify Saudi Arabia's economy

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

A cornerstone of Vision 2030 is the empowerment of women, with reforms enabling them to drive, travel, and run businesses, significantly increasing their participation in the workforce and leadership roles.

Title:

Content: Saudi National Day: kingdom's women celebrate drive towards equal opportunity

Female executives cite "progressive leadership" for their achievements

Beta V.1.0 - Powered by automated translation

As they prepare for the 92nd Saudi National Day on Friday, Saudi women are celebrating the nation's progress and their rise to leadership positions across different sectors.

Saudi women have always coveted more visible and pertinent roles in society, and the kingdom's Vision 2030 is the catalyst that has made them possible.

Saudi Arabia had developed a diversified economy thanks to its “progressive leadership”, Dr Manar Al Moneef, Chief Investment Officer at the kingdom's $500 billion city of the future Neom, told The National.

“We are proud of the incredible accomplishments that have ignited the pride of our people all over the kingdom and we continue to strive for greatness,” she says.

“Neom will continue to be a powerful enabler” of the Saudi Vision 2030, she said.

Dr Manar believes Saudi Arabia is committed to women’s empowerment and has enabled women to obtain the “highest levels” of education and encouraged them to participate in various aspects of “economic, political, and social life”.

“As part of Vision 2030, I am grateful for the major reforms and the continuation of the leadership’s efforts to empower women to occupy leadership positions in various sectors.”

She said Neom’s approach is no different, “we are committed” to creating a working environment that supports, develops, and promotes equality and diversity”.

Vision 2030 aims to boost female participation in the workforce to 30 per cent by 2030.

Saudi women make up more than a third of the country's workforce, statistics released in March this year by the General Authority for Statistics show, a 17.4 per cent increase from five years ago.

Also, the female unemployment rate fell to its lowest level in 20 years in the first quarter of 2022.

Many female leaders attribute this achievement to the kingdom's ambitious programme to completely reshape its economy into one that is self-sufficient, progressive and diversified.

Saudi women have always demonstrated resolve and “Vision 2030 catalysed this determination into action”, said Dr May Taibah, board member and corporate financial controller at the Community Jameel Saudi Foundation.

She has been working in social enterprise for more than a decade, most recently with Bab Rizq Jameel Services and Nafisa Shams Academy for Arts and Crafts.

Vision 2030 caters to the diverse needs of Saudi Arabia’s citizens, as it enables every member of society, “especially women,” to be veritable contributors to the country’s socio-economic growth, she said.

“This gives me a front-row seat to witness first-hand the impact of collaboration between the public, private, and governmental sectors in fuelling human capability,” she told The National. “It is truly inspirational what can be achieved through the right support framework.”

In the first quarter of 2022, the percentage of women in middle management and senior positions rose from 28.6 per cent compared with 39 per cent in first quarter of 2017, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development said.

However, the exponential value added by the growth of the female workforce in the kingdom was not limited to statistics and numbers, said Deema Al Bashrawi, Head of Operations at Tanmiah, a manufacturer and distributor of food and agricultural products.

She attributed her professional success to a culmination of factors including the strength of the kingdom’s educational framework, which enabled her to earn a degree in economics, and the support of her family.

She added that “Tanmiah continues to support my sustained growth” since she joined in 2012 as a manager.

“Today, I look forward to continuing to serve my country, customers, partners, and investors as we continue to support the achievement of Saudi Arabia’s goals towards improving food security, reducing waste, and achieving self-sufficiency,” Ms Al Bashrawi said.

Dr Taibah believes that an entrepreneurial mindset is vital to prosperity and extends beyond entrepreneurship.

“The value extends beyond that, to the personal stories of lives, businesses and industries transformed through supportive socio-economic empowerment across the entire framework,” she told The National.

The World Bank’s Women, Business and Law report for 2020 and 2021 found that Saudi Arabia was among the top countries when it came to implementing reforms and rights related to women.

“Vision 2030 was developed to extend equal support, whether a person is a craft worker, start-up CEO or employee,” Dr Tabiah said.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development introduced policies that promote inclusivity, and diversity in the labour market.

These were “to enhance the positive image of women in the workplace, and to create a supportive and inclusive environment to facilitate women’s entry into the labour market”, a ministry representative said earlier this year.

“Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been a champion for women's progress and has helped empower women in the labour market by giving us ease of running businesses and authority which does not require a man,” said Ghalia Abdul, who runs a retail store in Jeddah.

Women's right to drive, travel and run their own businesses had helped her to hire more female workers in the last four years, Ms Abdul said.

The Arab Institute for Women’s Empowerment has said that investing in targeted training for Saudi women would have a return on investment of $400 billion by 2030.

“Most young Saudis have an entrepreneurial spirit and the new changes have helped people like me not just run my own business, but also contribute to the economy and create jobs for women,” Ms Abdul added.

Updated: September 22, 2022, 5:15 AM
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How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

And women's workforce participation doubled to 36%

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

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What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

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Saudi women now make up over a third of the workforce, marking a 17.4 percent increase in five years, while their unemployment rate has dropped to its lowest level in two decades.

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What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

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How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

gender equality
Strengthened women's rights

Vision 2030 also seeks to diversify Saudi Arabia's economy by reducing dependence on oil and investing in sectors such as tourism, entertainment, technology, and fashion.

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What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

Initiatives like the Saudi 100 Brands program and participation in global events such as Paris Fashion Week highlight efforts to foster a homegrown fashion industry and redefine the kingdom's global image.

Title:

Content: Paris Fashion Week: Mohammed Ashi brings CHANGE in Saudi Arabia's culture to the ramp

The Saudi fashion industry is just one facet of a broader strategy pursued by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to diversify the country's economy and foster social changes.

First Published Jul 6, 2023, 2:10 PM IST

In a remarkable milestone for Saudi Arabia's cultural evolution, Mohammed Ashi, a Saudi designer, made his debut at Paris Fashion Week, marking a significant moment in the kingdom's push into the global fashion scene. Ashi, known for dressing top celebrities, described this achievement as the pinnacle of his career. The event coincided with Saudi Arabia's announcement of its own fashion week scheduled for October, as the country aims to tap into new retail opportunities valued at $32 billion annually.

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The Saudi fashion industry is just one facet of a broader strategy pursued by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to diversify the country's economy and foster social changes. This approach involves redirecting the nation's oil wealth towards investments in movies, sports, video games, tourism, and other cultural endeavors. While skeptics initially viewed these initiatives as mere smokescreens to deflect attention from human rights concerns, the reforms have surpassed expectations by introducing substantial and transformative changes.

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Yousef Akbar, a fashion designer who established his brand in Australia and has dressed renowned celebrities like Nicole Kidman and Rita Ora, expressed his astonishment at the magnitude of the transformation. He never anticipated such progress while growing up, and starting his fashion label in Australia seemed to determine the course of his career. However, he now operates his business from Jeddah, highlighting the growing opportunities within Saudi Arabia's burgeoning fashion scene.

"For the first two years, I almost didn't believe it was real, but then I realised, wow, it IS real," said 37-year-old Yousef Akbar, who began his eponymous fashion label in Australia in 2017.

"I really never thought when I was growing up that this would happen. When I started my brand in Australia, I thought my whole life would be there since I'm a fashion designer," Akbar added.

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The Saudi Fashion Commission aims to capitalize on newfound freedoms regarding public dress and the flourishing private sector, projecting a remarkable 48 percent surge in retail sales to $32 billion between 2021 and 2025. In line with this vision, the commission has launched the Saudi 100 brands program, fostering local designers and nurturing a homegrown industry.

Burak Cakmak, the CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission, believes that the country's rich heritage and existing brand presence lay the groundwork for a thriving fashion industry, dispelling the notion that Saudi Arabia is starting from scratch.

"Just because the country wasn't exposed to the rest of the world doesn't mean they are starting now," he told AFP in Paris. "I had an event for a brand this week that's been running since the 70s."

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It is important to acknowledge that LGBTQ individuals face severe repression in Saudi Arabia, as the country criminalizes same-sex relations. Despite this, the authorities are apparently turning a blind eye to the influence of queer designers and couturiers within the fashion industry.

Susanne Koelbl, author of "Behind the Kingdom's Veil," suggests that as long as individuals maintain loyalty to the ruler and their families approve, the authorities are choosing to overlook these aspects.

"Maybe you can't dance naked on the table, but almost anything else is possible now, as long as your family is OK with it and you are loyal to the ruler," Koelbl told AFP.

With opposition largely repressed and religious leaders stripped of power, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman faces few obstacles in implementing his well-planned and long-scheduled reform agenda, which is dramatically reshaping Saudi society. This process of change brings new and significant opportunities, particularly for women, who are experiencing a shift in societal roles and expectations.

"It's a well-planned, long-scheduled reform process which is about to change the society completely," said Koelbl. "The Saudi people don't tend to be revolutionary and for the vast majority there are indeed new and big opportunities now, especially for women."

For those benefiting from these reforms, the excitement is palpable and inspiring. Witnessing the realization of what was once deemed impossible serves as a powerful motivation for individuals like Yousef Akbar, who see tremendous potential for their own businesses.

"It sounds cliched, but seeing something happen that we all thought was impossible is very inspiring for my own business," said Akbar.

Also read: Arab youth sees India as stronger ally than the US: New survey

Saudi Arabia's presence at Paris Fashion Week and its broader efforts to embrace cultural transformation are indicative of a nation striving to redefine itself on the global stage. As the kingdom continues to invest in various aspects of global culture, it signals a desire to not only diversify its economy but also to foster social progress and create opportunities for its people.

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What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

Cultural reforms under MBS have reshaped Saudi society, introducing movie screenings, music concerts, and art exhibitions, which were previously restricted.

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

The influence of the Wahhabi religious establishment has been curtailed, with religious leaders stripped of power, enabling MBS to implement his reform agenda with fewer obstacles.

How has the role of the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice changed under Muhammad bin Salman?

No longer acts as the de facto religious police.

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

Has consolidated his power and removed potential rivals

What internal changes has MBS implemented in Saudi Arabia?

Suppressed dissent--especially Islamist opposition

MBS has promoted a more moderate form of Islam, convincing the clergy to support his vision and advocating for tolerance and reduced sectarianism through figures like Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa.

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

What is one of the first priorities of Vision 2030 regarding ideological extremism?

Combating extremist and ideological thinking

Avoiding actions that cause dissent, encourage violence, or spread dangerous ideas

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 has not only transformed its domestic landscape but also positioned the kingdom as a global advocate for peaceful coexistence and against Islamophobia.

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Content: Saudi National Day: Kingdom's women and young people shaping the future

UN official Jood Alharthi tells The National that young people in the kingdom are becoming 'change-makers'

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Saudi women are taking charge of representing the kingdom across different sectors and positions regionally and globally, some of its most well-known women told The National.

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, champions women empowerment, which is a key component of reforms in the kingdom.

Jood Al Harthi, the first woman to be appointed as political affairs officer at the Executive Office of the Secretary General of the UN in New York, spoke to The National ahead of Saudi National Day on Saturday.

She said “today more than ever”, the kingdom is making an impact in the space of international co-operation, development, multilateralism and diplomacy.

She said the King Salman Relief Centre had “unarguably expanded” its global reach and scale, with its top projects the previous year focusing on emergency relief co-ordination, food security and early recovery.

“It’s worthy to note that more and more young Saudis have rushed to become volunteers and change-makers for such causes,” she said.

The empowerment of women and youth engagement are top priorities within the kingdom's Vision 2030 initiative.

It is through such initiatives that the kingdom can create a platform for the next generation of Saudi women to “thrive”, said Princess Reema bint Bandar, the kingdom's ambassador to the US.

“We can contribute to break down the barriers in the biases that hold women back and we can foster a world where the next generation of women can thrive,” she said.

“And when we do that, we’ll not only create a more equal and inclusive society but also a more prosperous one. We need more women in leadership roles paving the way.”

Princess Reema, who was appointed ambassador to the US by the Saudi Crown Prince in 2019, said the kingdom needs more female business leaders to reach its potential.

“We need more women in middle management positions continuing the work,” she said.

“We need more women business owners, more mentorship programmes focused on female success, and more people investing in women-led start-ups.”

In 2023, Saudi Arabia sent its first Saudi female astronaut, Rayyanah Barnawi, to the International Space Station.

And Saudi women are rising to top positions across the world, from astrophysics, politics, technology and other industries.

The kingdom has hosted high-level summits over the past year, including the Arab League Summit.

It has allowed the kingdom to further empower its women to take leading roles in its international vision, Ms Alharthi said.

“We’ve seen an increase of women ambassadors, youth representatives and recruitment,” she said.

“As the kingdom marks its National Day, we must recall the huge contributions that make headlines, but most importantly, let us also celebrate the unheard successes and the many transformative plans and dreams in progress.”

She said Saudi Arabia continues to support the voices of the Muslim community globally, and speak against cases of Islamophobia and hate speech to boost peaceful coexistence.

Updated: September 23, 2023, 3:00 AM