AlUla comes to life with the sound of the Paris National Opera for launch of Villa Hegra

Villa Hegra, at the heart of the celebration, transforms into a bridge connecting antiquity to modernity, a space where the art of the Paris Opera will resonate harmoniously within the Arab heritage. (Paris National Opera)
Villa Hegra, at the heart of the celebration, transforms into a bridge connecting antiquity to modernity, a space where the art of the Paris Opera will resonate harmoniously within the Arab heritage. (Paris National Opera)
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Updated 25 January 2024
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AlUla comes to life with the sound of the Paris National Opera for launch of Villa Hegra

AlUla comes to life with the sound of the Paris National Opera for launch of Villa Hegra
  • Culture and artistic expression to serve as a bridge connecting antiquity to modernity, and uniting Saudi heritage with the excellence of French lyrical art 

PARIS: In AlUla, an iconic site of history and civilization, a major event is unfolding, marking the launch of Villa Hegra.

This project, the result of a collaboration between the Villa and the Paris National Opera, promises to unite Saudi heritage with the excellence of French lyrical art.

Under the banner of cultural dialogue, the initiative aims to enrich the artistic landscape by providing an immersive experience in a setting that is both ancient and renewed in Saudi Arabia. Villa Hegra, at the heart of the celebration, transforms into a bridge connecting antiquity to modernity, a space where the art of the Paris Opera will resonate harmoniously within the Arab heritage.

Renowned talents

This event shines with the prestigious Paris National Opera, with its renowned artists bringing their expertise to an inspiring environment. Each of them, with an international career, offers a unique perspective on opera and dance classics. A myriad of talents that promises remarkable performances, showcasing the diversity and richness of lyrical art.

The Paris National Opera collaborates with renowned artists and opera singers trained at the Paris National Opera Academy and Saudi singer Sawsan Albahiti. These exceptional talents, acclaimed on the international stage, will enrich the event with their virtuosity and universally praised interpretation.

The Paris National Opera Orchestra, will interpret iconic works, offering a diverse musical palette ranging from opera classics to contemporary compositions.

The event will also feature the participation of prima ballerina Alice Renavand, who will bring a choreographic dimension to the celebration. Her art, combining grace and technique, will enter into a dialogue with the millennia-old architecture of AlUla, creating a visual and emotional spectacle.

The event in AlUla is presented as a true ode to art, illustrating how culture and artistic expression can serve as bridges, bringing people together through an immersive and enriching experience.

* This article appeared originally on Arab News en Francais, click here to read it.


Saudi crown prince arrives in UAE on private visit

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is greeted by UAE president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed on arrival in the country.
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is greeted by UAE president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed on arrival in the country.
Updated 8 sec ago
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Saudi crown prince arrives in UAE on private visit

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is greeted by UAE president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed on arrival in the country.

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in the UAE on Sunday on a private visit, Saudi Press Agency reported.  

He was greeted by the country’s president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed on arrival.

Earlier on Sunday, the crown prince participated in a Gulf Cooperation Council summit held in Kuwait.


Saudi and Ethiopian diplomats discuss cooperation in Riyadh

Saudi and Ethiopian diplomats discuss cooperation in Riyadh
Updated 01 December 2024
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Saudi and Ethiopian diplomats discuss cooperation in Riyadh

Saudi and Ethiopian diplomats discuss cooperation in Riyadh
  • Talks focus on regional and international affairs and ways to strengthen the relationship between Riyadh and Addis Ababa

RIYADH: Saudi and Ethiopian diplomats held a round of political consultations and talks in the ministry of foreign affairs’ official diwan in Riyadh on Sunday to discuss cooperation in various fields. 

Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji chaired the meeting with the Ethiopian delegation led by Mesganu Arga Moach, the state minister of foreign affairs at the foreign ministry in Addis Ababa, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

The two sides discussed the latest developments in regional and international affairs, ways to strengthen cooperation, and the friendly relationship between Riyadh and Addis Ababa. 

In August, the two countries established the Saudi-Ethiopian Business Council to strengthen economic ties and enhance trade and investment opportunities for the period 2024 to 2028 term. 

The meeting on Sunday was attended by Fahad Alhumaydani, the Saudi ambassador to Ethiopia; the director of the general department of expatriate affairs at the foreign ministry, Mohammed Al-Shammari; and the Ethiopian ambassador


King Abdulaziz Camel Festival starts in Al-Sayahid

King Abdulaziz Camel Festival starts in Al-Sayahid
Updated 01 December 2024
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King Abdulaziz Camel Festival starts in Al-Sayahid

King Abdulaziz Camel Festival starts in Al-Sayahid

RIYADH: The ninth King Abdulaziz Camel Festival began on Sunday in Al-Sayahid in the southern part of Al-Dahna Desert under the theme “Pride of its People.”

The event continues its mission to preserve and promote the camel as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s cultural identity, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Camel Club Chairman Fahd bin Falah bin Hathleen said the one-month festival reflects the significant attention the Saudi leadership gives to national heritage.

He added that this year’s edition is set to be the largest and most diverse in the festival’s history, with more activities and participants.

Bin Hathleen said various cultural and heritage activities blending authenticity with innovation will take place, including camel beauty competitions that attract owners and visitors from around the world.

He emphasized cultural attractions such as the Aqilat Museum, which offers insights into the Arabian Peninsula’s history, and exhibitions that celebrate the creativity of Saudi artisans.

Visitors can engage in interactive experiences such as camel riding, milking and feeding.

Bin Hathleen said poetry holds a central role at the festival, with a poetic duel — a prominent traditional art form — expected to captivate enthusiasts in a lively, engaging atmosphere.

There will also be innovative competitions that highlight camel heritage through photography and filmmaking, presented in a contemporary style to appeal to younger generations.


Prominent artworks at Riyadh Metro stations blend daily life, creativity

Prominent artworks at Riyadh Metro stations blend daily life, creativity
Updated 01 December 2024
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Prominent artworks at Riyadh Metro stations blend daily life, creativity

Prominent artworks at Riyadh Metro stations blend daily life, creativity

RIYADH: Riyadh Art, one of the world’s largest public art programs, has unveiled four monumental public artworks with the launch of the Riyadh Metro, transforming stations into cultural landmarks, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

At the King Abdullah Financial District Metro Station, designed by the internationally acclaimed Zaha Hadid Architects, Alexander Calder’s “Janey Waney” takes center stage.

The lofty and colorful sculpture exemplifies Calder’s pioneering spirit in kinetic art, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors.

Nearby, Robert Indiana’s “LOVE (Red Outside Blue Inside)” — one of the world’s most recognizable artworks — captivates visitors with its vibrant interplay of color and universal themes of connection and hope.

Together, these masterpieces transform the daily commute into a celebration of art, architecture and creativity.

At the Qasr Al-Hokm Downtown Metro Station, designed by the renowned architectural firm Snohetta, Ugo Rondinone’s “The Sun” makes a striking golden centerpiece, symbolizing energy and renewal.

Complementing this is Zaman Jassim’s “When the Moon is Full,” a reflective and poetic piece inspired by Riyadh’s cultural heritage.

“These permanent artworks embody our vision of transforming Riyadh into an open-air gallery that enriches the quality of life and fosters a deeper connection between people and art,” said architect Khalid Al-Hazani, executive director of Riyadh Art.

“By collaborating with some of the most creative minds of our time, we’re not just adding art to public spaces — we’re creating cultural landmarks that inspire and engage generations,” he added.

Led by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, Riyadh Art is championing cultural innovation and economic diversification, and positioning the Kingdom’s capital as a global center for contemporary art and culture.

Since its launch in 2019, Riyadh Art has seamlessly integrated art into the urban fabric, displaying over 500 artworks by more than 500 local and international artists, hosting more than 6,000 community engagement activities, and engaging more than 6 million visitors.

As the program continues to expand, the number of artworks and initiatives is expected to grow significantly, fostering a sense of community, enriching the city’s identity, and elevating Riyadh’s standing as a global arts destination. 


World’s falconers set for fierce contest in Riyadh

World’s falconers set for fierce contest in Riyadh
Updated 01 December 2024
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World’s falconers set for fierce contest in Riyadh

World’s falconers set for fierce contest in Riyadh
  • With $9.6m in prizes, King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival preserves and promotes Arab tradition

RIYADH: The Saudi Falcons Club has finalized preparations for the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, scheduled to take place from Dec. 3 to 19 at the club’s headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh.

Recognized as the largest world’s gathering of falcons, the festival will feature a distinguished group of falconers, including amateurs, professionals and falcon owners from Saudi Arabia and abroad.

They will compete in Al-Mellwah (falcon racing) and Mazayen (falcon beauty pageant) competitions, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The club's CEO, Talal Al-Shamaisi, said that the festival’s primary aim is to advance falconry as a cultural hobby while preserving and promoting this Arab tradition.

He said that the club strives to position falconry as a major heritage tourism attraction, fostering national pride and engaging younger generations in a competitive yet spirited environment.

The festival also aligns with efforts to promote environmental conservation and protect wildlife, Al-Shamaisi added.

He said that the festival has earned a spot in the Guinness World Records three times for hosting the world’s largest gathering of falcons.

This year, the competition will span 17 days and feature 138 rounds, with more than 900 prizes up for grabs, totaling SR36 million ($9.6 million).

In addition to the main competitions, the festival will feature various accompanying events.

The club’s spokesman, Walid Al-Taweel, said that one of the highlights will be the Falconer of the Future Pavilion, aimed at engaging and educating the next generation of falconers.

This initiative will incorporate interactive activities blending modern technologies with traditional falconry knowledge, history and hunting techniques.

Al-Taweel said that the festival will have 10 internal pavilions displaying falconry and hunting gear, as well as trip equipment. These pavilions will offer a comprehensive experience for visitors, combining authenticity with adventure.

Al-Mellwah, the racing competition, will have 49 qualifying rounds, while the Mazayen competition will feature six rounds for falcons sourced from international production farms, in addition to special rounds for emerging young falconers.

Falconers will compete for prestigious prizes, including the King Abdulaziz Cups and the coveted King’s Sword, underscoring the festival’s role in celebrating the cultural heritage of falconry and pushing the boundaries of competitive spirit.