Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard to positively impact residents’ fitness culture, survey reveals

Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard to positively impact residents’ fitness culture, survey reveals
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Updated 26 December 2023
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Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard to positively impact residents’ fitness culture, survey reveals

Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard to positively impact residents’ fitness culture, survey reveals

JEDDAH: In a survey conducted by Sports Boulevard, the exercise habits and attitudes of Riyadh residents have been unveiled for the first time, providing valuable insights into the city’s fitness landscape.

The Riyadh Sports Index, based on responses from 1,000 residents, sheds light on the enthusiasm for fitness among the capital’s population.

The survey revealed that a significant portion of Riyadh’s residents are actively engaged in physical activity, with 49 percent exercising at least twice a week.

A positive sign for the city’s health, 43 percent express enjoyment in exercise but express a desire to do more. However, the survey highlights that 76 percent feel they still do not engage in enough physical activity, with 46 percent expressing a wish to exercise more frequently.

Several barriers to regular exercise were identified, with respondents citing a lack of time (45 percent), unfavorable weather conditions (39 percent), and the cost of gym memberships (36 percent).

Moreover, 18 percent of those surveyed indicated that easier access to facilities would motivate them to exercise more.

As development progresses on the Sports Boulevard, poised to become the world’s largest urban linear park, spanning over 135 km and connecting Wadi Hanifah to Wadi Al-Sulai, the survey underscored the potential transformative impact on the city’s sports culture.

Over 50 state-of-the-art sporting facilities are set to be created, addressing the current challenges related to accessibility and promoting grassroots sports.

Currently, only 11 percent of respondents live within 1 km of a sports facility, highlighting the need for increased access. The Sports Boulevard aims to revolutionize the city’s landscape, providing safe, green, and shaded pathways for pedestrians, cyclists, athletes, and horse-riders.

This initiative is expected to encourage residents and visitors alike to embrace a better sports routine, fostering a healthier and more active community.

Jayne McGivern, CEO of the Sports Boulevard Foundation, said: “For the first time, this survey shines a light on how the people of Riyadh exercise and play sport, and more importantly, how they want to stay fit, healthy, and connected to each other.

“Our first Riyadh Sports Index perfectly demonstrates how the Sports Boulevard will overcome barriers to exercise and deliver for the city’s residents and visitors, transforming the landscape and people’s lives within it, and welcoming a new era of sports and well-being for all.”

Two residents of Riyadh, eagerly anticipating the completion of the Sports Boulevard, shared their excitement and positive outlook on how the project will impact the city.

Asrar Al-Shumrani, a Riyadh resident who works at Prince Sultan Military Medical City, told Arab News: “The Sports Boulevard is a game-changer for us. With more facilities and accessible spaces, I am excited to incorporate regular exercise into my routine. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about community and well-being.”

Mansour Al-Enazy, another resident, shared his optimism, saying: “I believe the Sports Boulevard will redefine our approach to sports and fitness. The diverse range of facilities will cater to different interests, making it easier for everyone to find an activity they enjoy. This project will undoubtedly elevate Riyadh’s sports culture.”

The survey identified walking (63 percent), running (47 percent), and football (44 percent) as the most popular sporting activities among Riyadh residents. The majority (74 percent) cited improving physical health as their motivation for staying fit, while 53 percent acknowledged the mental health benefits of exercise.

With 36 percent of respondents going to the gym and 24 percent cycling, the city’s diverse fitness interests are evident.

Launched by King Salman in March 2019 and supported by Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman, the Sports Boulevard aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

As a mega project, it contributes to making Riyadh one of the top 10 cities globally by 2030, emphasizing the importance of health, well-being, and community connectivity in achieving this vision.


Prince Turki discusses Middle East stability at Harvard

Prince Turki discusses Middle East stability at Harvard
Updated 26 sec ago
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Prince Turki discusses Middle East stability at Harvard

Prince Turki discusses Middle East stability at Harvard

RIYADH: Prince Turki bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, chairman of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, recently visited Harvard University.

Invited by the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at the Kennedy School, the prince spoke about Saudi Arabia’s leadership role in the Middle East and its efforts to reduce conflicts and promote regional stability, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

He also spoke to members of the faculty about matters related to research and international relations and addressed members of the Harvard Club of Saudi Arabia, including its president, Abdullah Al-Dosari.

Prince Turki emphasized the importance of the club’s role in supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative through academic and social programs.


Ancient Kingdoms Festival honors history in AlUla and beyond

Ancient Kingdoms Festival honors history in AlUla and beyond
Updated 19 min 44 sec ago
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Ancient Kingdoms Festival honors history in AlUla and beyond

Ancient Kingdoms Festival honors history in AlUla and beyond
  • Artifacts from Vesuvius eruption on show for first time in Kingdom

RIYADH: The Ancient Kingdoms Festival, being held in AlUla until Nov. 30, is celebrating the rich history of the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region.

The festival combines heritage and culture through a variety of events, including daytime activities, exploratory tours, and night excursions inspired by ancient stories, all guided by specialized teams, Saudi Press Agency reported.

A highlight is an exhibition from the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, “Masterpieces of the MANN,” hosted at the Maraya cultural venue.

For the first time in Saudi Arabia, visitors can explore the legacy of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79 through artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Roman cities buried under volcanic ash.

Pieces from the renowned Farnese Collection housing ancient Greek and Roman art are also on show.

Other unique experiences include the “Hegra After Dark” event at Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, drone shows, and the Hegra Candlelit Classics series of concerts.

Visitors can also join the “Quest for the Ancient Kingdoms” tour in Wadi Al-Naam, or Valley of the Ostriches, known for its dramatic rock formations.

“The Incense Road Experience” in AlUla’s Old Town offers an immersive journey through narrow alleys lined with traditional mud-brick buildings.

The experience blends live performances and modern technology to tell interactive stories, unveiling archaeological treasures in a captivating mix of past and present.

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples recently joined the commission’s network of cultural partners, aligning with heritage and educational institutions from the UK, France, China, and Italy to collaborate on preserving, studying, and celebrating AlUla’s 20,000-year-old heritage.

Established in 1777, the museum is a prominent landmark in one of Italy’s heritage capitals.

It houses some of Europe’s most treasured cultural artefacts, including exceptionally well-preserved Roman and Greek statues, bronze pieces, mosaics, and other artworks.


‘Craftsman Bus’ to promote traditional arts across Kingdom

‘Craftsman Bus’ to promote traditional arts across Kingdom
Updated 29 min 24 sec ago
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‘Craftsman Bus’ to promote traditional arts across Kingdom

‘Craftsman Bus’ to promote traditional arts across Kingdom

RIYADH: A platform on wheels has been rolled out to celebrate and promote traditional arts through a tour across the Kingdom’s regions.

The “Craftsman Bus,” an initiative of the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, will run until Nov. 23, offering cultural and creative experiences with live performances, interactive activities, parades, creative workshops and community art showcases.

Each weekend, the bus stops at King Faisal Park (Education Park) in Hafr Al-Batin governorate, the historic market in Dumat Al-Jandal governorate, and concludes its journey at the heritage village in Jazan.

The event features live demonstrations by skilled local craftsmen, showcasing traditional arts such as Sadu weaving, hand embroidery, wickerwork, leather tanning, incense making, stone carving and metal crafting to create ornaments and jewelry with a traditional flair.

It offers visitors the opportunity to learn traditional crafts and unleash their creativity through interactive artistic workshops.

The bus travels to selected locations, showcasing performances that highlight the unique cultural heritage of each region.

The journey begins with Samri art in Hafar Al-Batin governorate, continues with Dahha art in Dumat Al-Jandal governorate and concludes with the vibrant Azzawi art in Jazan, bringing traditional performing arts closer to communities.

The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts is a pioneering institution dedicated to showcasing Saudi Arabia’s national identity and elevating traditional arts on both the local and global stages.

Its mission is to preserve the heritage of these arts, celebrate living treasures and pioneers, and recognize distinguished individuals in the field.

By supporting national talent and encouraging the mastery and development of traditional crafts, the institute is ensuring that the rich legacy of Saudi Arabia’s creative arts remains vibrant, innovative and celebrated for generations to come.


Young falcon fetches record $56,000 at Riyadh auction

Young falcon fetches record $56,000 at Riyadh auction
Updated 09 November 2024
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Young falcon fetches record $56,000 at Riyadh auction

Young falcon fetches record $56,000 at Riyadh auction

RIYADH: A young peregrine falcon fetched a record price of SR210,000 ($56,000) on the 18th night of this year’s Saudi Falcons Club auction near the Saudi capital.

The event is being held at the club’s headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, and will continue until Nov. 15.

Starting at SR50,000, the bidding was intense, ultimately leading to the impressive final sale price of SR210,000, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Saudi Falcons Club offers extensive services to falconers throughout the hunting season, including housing and transporting birds to the auction site from various regions.

The auction is broadcast live on television and social media, making for fast-paced, competitive bidding, the SPA reported.

It plays a significant role in preserving and promoting Saudi Arabia’s cultural, economic, and historical heritage in line with Vision 2030.

The event supports falconry activities and aims to develop the local falcon auction market, positioning it as a global hub for enthusiasts.

Moreover, it seeks to regulate the buying and selling of falcons in the Kingdom, while protecting endangered species.


Translation bridges cultures, fuels Vision 2030, Riyadh forum told

Translation bridges cultures, fuels Vision 2030, Riyadh forum told
Updated 09 November 2024
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Translation bridges cultures, fuels Vision 2030, Riyadh forum told

Translation bridges cultures, fuels Vision 2030, Riyadh forum told
  • Experts discuss translation’s role in fostering global relations, driving growth

RIYADH: Translation is the “backbone” of Saudi Arabia’s transformation, building bridges with the world, and supporting Vision 2030, an international forum in Riyadh has been told.

The International Translation Forum, which concluded in Riyadh on Saturday, explored how translation can foster cultural exchange, improve global dialogue, and attract investment.

Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the two-day summit attracted professionals, scholars and industry leaders from around the world.

The forum highlighted translation’s crucial role in building international relations, attracting investment, and promoting Saudi culture worldwide.

It also covered the latest developments in translation, showcased new practices and technologies, and addressed local and international challenges for translators.

Notable speaker Amer Qobti, a Ph.D. candidate at Kent State University in Ohio, emphasized translation’s essential role in the nation’s transformation.

“Translation is actually the backbone of this transformation. The country’s vision is actually built on opening to other cultures, attracting outside interests, and all of these initiatives need translation,” Qobti said.

“Without translation, there is no international dialogue, no contact with other investors to come to Saudi Arabia, and without it, foreign companies won’t explore Saudi culture. I would say for any success in the country’s transformation, translation should be part of it.”

The forum featured over 10 panel discussions, seven “Translation Tales” sessions, and six discussion circles, allowing participants to explore various translation specializations and strategies.

With contributions from over 45 local and international experts, the event highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing translation industry and its alignment with the Kingdom’s ambition to become a cultural and economic powerhouse.

The Publishing Association, under the Ministry of Culture and the National Center for the Development of the Non-Profit Sector, introduced initiatives to support Saudi publishers, launched during the Riyadh International Book Fair in October 2023.

Aimed at Saudi publishing houses, the association seeks to strengthen industry ties, provide essential resources, and advocate best practices in publishing. These initiatives empower local publishers to expand their reach and connect with international markets.

In addition to talks, the forum offered interactive translation experiences and specialized workshops on topics such as “Digital Presence and Translators’ Professional Identity” and “Integrating GenAI into CAT Tools,” equipping participants with practical skills and insights into the latest tech advancements.

A unique feature of the forum was its focus on fostering both competition and collaboration among translation professionals. It aimed to give translators and publishers an opportunity to share insights, engage in high-level discussions, and explore innovative solutions to enhance professional standards.

The forum included an exhibition featuring about 30 entities specializing in translation, showcasing the latest technologies and tools to support the sector.

The exhibition offered opportunities to enhance cooperation and build strategic partnerships with academic institutions, technology companies, and media outlets, aiming to develop and modernize translation methods.