New collection pays homage to Saudi architectural heritage

The Banat Al-Balad bridal look features a roshan pattern inspired by the one in Beit Nassif. (Photos by Jaleel Felemban/ AN photo)
1 / 6
The Banat Al-Balad bridal look features a roshan pattern inspired by the one in Beit Nassif. (Photos by Jaleel Felemban/ AN photo)
New collection pays homage to Saudi architectural heritage
2 / 6
Rae Joseph. (AN photo by Nada Hameed)
New collection pays homage to Saudi architectural heritage
3 / 6
The Banat Al-Balad bridal look features a roshan pattern inspired by the one in Beit Nassif. (AN photo by Nada Hameed)
New collection pays homage to Saudi architectural heritage
4 / 6
Rae Joseph and Makram Marzuki. (AN photo by Nada Hameed)
New collection pays homage to Saudi architectural heritage
5 / 6
Photo by Jaleel Felemban
New collection pays homage to Saudi architectural heritage
6 / 6
Photo by Jaleel Felemban
Short Url
Updated 18 February 2024
Follow

New collection pays homage to Saudi architectural heritage

The Banat Al-Balad bridal look features a roshan pattern inspired by the one in Beit Nassif. (Photos by Jaleel Felemban/AN photo
  • Banat Al-Balad by designer Makram Marzuki translates woodwork of rawashin into wearable garments

JEDDAH: In a remarkable fusion of tradition and modernity, Banat Al-Balad, a fashion collection by Saudi designer Makram Marzuki showcased at Zainal House in Jeddah’s historic district Al-Balad on Saturday, pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Jeddah.

Marzuki, originating from Jeddah, selected his hometown as the muse for this unique collection, aiming to encapsulate the essence of Al-Balad’s stone facades and decorative rawashin.

The collection, rooted in the intricate beauty of Hijazi architecture, draws inspiration from the ornate rawashin and mangour window screen patterns that have long been a distinctive feature of the region’s buildings.




The Banat Al-Balad bridal look features a roshan pattern inspired by the one in Beit Nassif. (Photos by Jaleel Felemban/ AN photo)

Rawashin are an architectural feature prominent in Hijazi architecture, particularly in the historic areas of Jeddah and Makkah in Saudi Arabia. The term roshan refers to elaborately carved wooden window frames or latticework screens that are an integral part of traditional houses in the Hijaz region. These ornate wooden screens serve several practical and aesthetic purposes. The mangour patterns are the primary inspiration adorning each piece of textile in the collection.

The collection features 23 dresses worn by Saudi models from all 13 regions of the Kingdom, highlighting the diversity of Saudi beauty.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Banat Al-Balad draws inspiration from the ornate rawashin and mangour window screen patterns that have long been a distinctive feature of the region’s buildings.

• Recent Royal Institute of Traditional Arts graduate Samaher Bashamakh reinterpreted the traditional wooden patterns for textile.

Each piece in the Banat Al-Balad collection is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Kingdom, brought to life through the collaborative efforts of artist Ahmed Angawi and recent Royal Institute of Traditional Arts graduate Samaher Bashamakh, who reinterpreted the traditional wooden patterns for textile. Traditional and innovative weaving techniques from some of the world’s most renowned mills helped bring it all together.

Marzuki told Arab News in an exclusive interview before the show: “We really tried to do a visual identity that is Saudi. So, when we thought about it, what is Saudi really rich in visually? It is geometry.”

Speaking about the significance of Zainal House to the collection, he said: “This is a really important house. It’s the first one to be built on brick. It’s a UNESCO heritage site. And we just thought of the grandeur of the double staircase … We thought about a new real entrance and the drama and what it could do.”




Rae Joseph, Creative Consultant. (Photo/Supplied)

Each of the models was crowned with a head scarf known in Hijazi tradition as “mihrama mudawara.”

Marzuki said: “I remember my great-grandmother wearing this. So, we tried to get it to match each look.”

The collection features several standout looks that demand attention. The velvet pieces are the result of intricate jacquard weaving, produced in one of the last remaining velvet mills.




Showcased at Zainal House in Jeddah’s historic district Al-Balad on Saturday, Banat Al-Balad by Saudi designer Makram Marzuki pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Jeddah. (Supplied)

Evening attire sparkles with hand-painted glitter film and velvet insertions on a lever lace base, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship involved.

A highlight of the collection is the bridal look, created with guipure mangour lace by a Swiss mill and complemented by a silk organza veil crafted with French embroidery, requiring around 400 hours of work. Each look is crowned with a mihrama mudawara, made from cotton voile and satin duchesse, honoring the traditional attire of the region.

Marzuki explained that the day looks focus on practical, wearable clothing suitable for the workplace — business casual and smart casual attire that is both stylish and comfortable.

Emphasizing modesty, the collection includes shirts, coats, skirts, and day dresses, addressing the need for a refreshed work wardrobe for women. The aim is to provide options beyond traditional abayas, offering a Saudi touch to smart casual wear for the global audience.

Regarding garment choices, the designer highlights the consideration of comfort in warm climates, incorporating lace and even bamboo fabric for heat-friendly options.

The collection explores negative and positive space with perforated designs showcasing roshan-like patterns. Additionally, some dresses feature the patterns translated into velvet, while custom-made shoes, crafted in collaboration with ZYNE, also integrate the unique elements of the roshan.

The patterns in the collection are inspired by different houses, including Matbouli, Ba Junaid, and Saloom House, each with its own unique story.

The bridal look features a roshan pattern inspired by the one in Beit Nassif — a restored coral house in Al-Balad that used to be a royal residence for King Abdulaziz— that has been faithfully translated into this garment through organza inserts applied by hand. The veil, also hand-embroidered by an atelier in France, follows the pattern but appears to be fading away.

Bashamakh’s creativity and skill translated the wooden roshan pattern into a stunning garment fit for a bride. It was worn by Rae Joseph, a Saudi vintage collector, fashion entrepreneur, and creative consultant.

She told Arab News: “Makram has always been a designer at heart … He knows fashion history, fashion archives, he speaks beautifully about fashion.

“It’s an honor for me to walk his first … I’m so proud to see everything that is happening now. This is just the beginning. Everyone here is lucky because they get to say later (that) they were at the first-ever Makram Marzuki show.”

Marzuki said: “When you look at the culture here, it is so rich, so … we have so much heritage, so much culture, so many stories to tell.”

Joseph praised the meticulous approach and exceptional quality with which Markuzi incorporates culture into his work. She said: “This is an independent show. The way they brought the community together and the way that the models are Saudi and everyone involved is Saudi is something to be noted. Because it’s an independent effort of Saudi creatives.”

Brand consultant Alaa Balkhy echoed the sentiments, telling Arab News: “We’re so happy to do the show to represent the community effort … the lead makeup artist is Saudi, the producers are Saudi, the show director is Saudi … We really wanted to represent with this show. We are doing our role in Saudi Vision 2030.”

Marzuki added: “We take extreme pride in this, the entire production team here is Saudi. This show would not have happened without also the support of MAC. They completely sponsored the makeup for the show.”

Banat Al-Balad, which translates to “Girls of Al-Balad,” is more than just a fashion collection; it is a celebration of Jeddah’s heritage, skillfully blending the old with the new to create a luxury textile line that pays tribute to the architectural beauty and cultural richness of the Kingdom.

 


Saudi Arabia embassy resumes diplomatic activities in Afghanistan

Saudi Arabia embassy resumes diplomatic activities in Afghanistan
Updated 23 December 2024
Follow

Saudi Arabia embassy resumes diplomatic activities in Afghanistan

Saudi Arabia embassy resumes diplomatic activities in Afghanistan
  • Afghan foreign ministry welcomes Kingdom’s decision to resume diplomatic operations in Kabul
  • Saudi Arabia to 'provide all services to the brotherly Afghan people'

RIYADH: The Saudi embassy in the Afghani capital, Kabul, resumed its diplomatic activities on Sunday.

"Based on the desire of the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to provide all services to the brotherly Afghan people, it has been decided to resume the activities of the mission of the Kingdom in Kabul starting on December 22," the embassy posted on X platform on Sunday.

The Afghan foreign ministry on Monday welcomed Saudi Arabia’s decision to resume its diplomatic operations in Kabul, more than three years after Riyadh withdrew its staff during the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.

“We are optimistic about the possibility of strengthening relations and cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan through the resumption of these activities,” said Afghan foreign ministry spokesman Zia Ahmad in a statement.

“We will also be able to respond to the problems of Afghans residing in Saudi Arabia.”

Riyadh had posted its decision to resume diplomatic operations in Kabul on social media platform X.

“Based on the desire of the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to provide all services to the brotherly Afghan people, it has been decided to resume the activities of the mission of the Kingdom in Kabul starting on December 22,” it said.

Ties between Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan date back to 1932 when the Kingdom became the first Islamic country to provide aid to the Afghan people during their ordeals.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia launched numerous projects in Afghanistan through its humanitarian arm KSRelief, focusing on aid relief, health, education services, water and food security.

Riyadh also participated in all international donor conferences and called for establishing security and stability in Afghanistan following years of armed conflicts.

Saudi Arabia withdrew its diplomats from Kabul in August 2021 when the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan following the US withdrawal from the country.

However, it said it was resuming consular services in the country in November 2021 and also provides humanitarian aid through its King Salman Relief Center organization.


Saudi delegation led by Royal Court advisor meets with Syria’s Al-Sharaa

Saudi delegation led by Royal Court advisor meets with Syria’s Al-Sharaa
Updated 23 December 2024
Follow

Saudi delegation led by Royal Court advisor meets with Syria’s Al-Sharaa

Saudi delegation led by Royal Court advisor meets with Syria’s Al-Sharaa
  • Earlier this week, Al-Sharaa praised progress made by Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: A Saudi delegation headed by an advisor from the Royal Court met with the head of the new Syrian administration, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, at the People’s Palace in Syria on Sunday, according to an Al Arabiya report.

Earlier this week, Al-Sharaa praised progress made by Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf countries in an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat.

“We admire the development in Gulf countries, particularly Saudi Arabia’s bold plans and vision, and we aspire to achieve similar progress for Syria,” he told the newspaper’s Bissane El-Cheikh during an interview the the Presidential Palace in Damascus.

“There are many opportunities for cooperation, especially in economic and developmental areas, where we can align our goals,” he added.


Shattering expectations: Saudi artist’s journey into glass art

The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth to create shapes and visuals.
The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth to create shapes and visuals.
Updated 22 December 2024
Follow

Shattering expectations: Saudi artist’s journey into glass art

The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth to create shapes and visuals.
  • Aseel Al-Maghlouth breaks glass to break through in the local art scene

RIYADH: Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth is hammering a niche for himself by using glass as his canvas.

He stumbled upon the technique while working on his graduation project in mechanical engineering. “I discovered the potential to employ broken glass to create distinctive artistic designs,” he told Arab News.  

The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired him to create shapes and visuals and developed a technique that reflected his artistic vision.

Al-Maghlouth turns broken glass into stunning art, showcasing the beauty in fragility and redefining artistic norms. (Supplied)

Al-Maghlouth had a love for drawing from a young age, but it was not until he discovered his ability to express ideas in unconventional ways that his true passion for art crystallized.

“I have always drawn inspiration from the surrounding nature and the intricate details of daily life,” he said. This connection to his environment, combined with his experiences in exploring artworks, helped shape his unique style.  

He finds beauty in the mundane and translates that into his creations, often using glass to convey emotions and narratives that might resonate with viewers.

HIGHLIGHT

By embracing the fragility of glass and transforming it into something beautiful, Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth challenges perceptions of what art can be.

Al-Maghlouth has gained significant recognition on social media, where his works are widely admired.

This newfound fame has allowed him to sell his works and create custom pieces for clients, including various artists and celebrities. “Creating for such esteemed individuals is an honor, and it motivates me to push my artistic boundaries,” he said.

"Each painting has its own place and story that distinguishes it.” (Supplied)

“The best work I own is the painting of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Frankly, I consider it the most valuable painting I have ever owned, but I refuse to sell it because it was a special gift from me to the crown prince,” he said.

“I have received many offers but I refuse to sell it. As for the rest of my paintings, I prefer not to mention the prices because the value of art for me is not limited to a number. Each painting has its own place and story that distinguishes it.”

One of the greatest challenges Al-Maghlouth faced as an artist was transforming his creations into messages that resonated with his audience. “The biggest challenge was ensuring that my art conveyed a clear idea,” he said.

I want to highlight the beauty of arts in our Saudi culture and connect it with Saudi Vision 2030.

Aseel Al-Maghlouth, Saudi artist

Through experimentation with the nature of glass fractures and the control of his technique, he minimized errors and created pieces that told meaningful stories.

Each strike of the hammer is deliberate, aimed at producing not just a fragment but a narrative that can be interpreted and appreciated by those who view it.

“I want to highlight the beauty of arts in our Saudi culture and connect it with Saudi Vision 2030,” he added, emphasizing the importance of cultural representation in his work.

Al-Maghlouth’s vision for the future is ambitious. He aspires to participate in international exhibitions, representing Saudi Arabia on a global stage. “I dream of organizing a personal exhibition in Riyadh to showcase my works and exchange inspiration with other artists,” he said.

For emerging artists, Al-Maghlouth has simple yet profound advice: “Don’t be afraid of trial and error. Each piece of art reflects a part of you.”

He encourages newcomers to continue developing and learning from every experience, and emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.

His journey is testament to the idea that creativity flourishes in an environment where risks are taken and failures viewed as stepping stones rather than obstacles.

Al-Maghlouth’s work serves as a reminder that art can emerge from the most unexpected materials and methods, encouraging others to explore their creativity without constraints.

By embracing the fragility of glass and transforming it into something beautiful, he challenges perceptions of what art can be.

Al-Maghlouth remains committed to honoring the stories behind each piece, proving that even the most broken fragments can come together to create something truly extraordinary.

 


Saudi Joint Forces commander meets Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council member for security cooperation talks

Saudi Joint Forces commander meets Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council member for security cooperation talks
Updated 22 December 2024
Follow

Saudi Joint Forces commander meets Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council member for security cooperation talks

Saudi Joint Forces commander meets Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council member for security cooperation talks
  • Meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Joint Forces Command and Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council

RIYADH: Lieut. Gen. Fahd bin Hamad Al-Salman, commander of the Joint Forces, met with Faraj Salmeen Al-Bahsani, member of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, at the Joint Forces Command headquarters in Riyadh on Sunday.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the Joint Forces Command and the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Discussions also centered on enhancing the ongoing support provided by Saudi Arabia through the Joint Forces to promote security and stability in Yemen.

During the reception, Al-Bahsani commended the Kingdom’s role in supporting Yemen’s efforts to achieve stability.

He emphasized the importance of continuing strategic cooperation between the two countries to address the challenges currently facing Yemen.

Al-Bahsani thanked the Saudi leadership for their unwavering support across various fields, noting that this collaboration plays a vital role in advancing stability in Yemen and the wider region, SPA reported.

The meeting underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering peace and stability in Yemen as part of its broader efforts to address regional security challenges, SPA added.


Saudi justice minister announces comprehensive legal system development project

Minister of Justice Walid inaugurated the Saudi Lawyers Conference in Riyadh on Sunday. (SPA)
Minister of Justice Walid inaugurated the Saudi Lawyers Conference in Riyadh on Sunday. (SPA)
Updated 22 December 2024
Follow

Saudi justice minister announces comprehensive legal system development project

Minister of Justice Walid inaugurated the Saudi Lawyers Conference in Riyadh on Sunday. (SPA)
  • The minister highlighted a range of training programs offered by the Judicial Training Center and Saudi Bar Association, targeting law graduates and practicing lawyers

RIYADH: The Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with the Saudi Bar Association, has announced the launch of a comprehensive project to review and develop the lawyers’ system, according to Saudi Justice Minister Walid Al-Samaani.

The project aims to strengthen the legal profession by empowering practitioners, improving access to legal services, and keeping up with the Kingdom’s legal, social and developmental advances, Al-Samaani, also chairman of the association, said.

On Sunday, Al-Samaani inaugurated the first Saudi Lawyers Conference in Riyadh, themed “Developments in the Lawyers and Legal Consultations Sector.”

A gathering of experts, specialists, and stakeholders attended the Saudi Lawyers Conference, held in Riyadh. (SPA)

With participation from government and private entities, the two-day conference focuses on the future of the legal profession within the Kingdom’s evolving legislative landscape.

It also highlights the significant impact of professional and educational developments on enhancing the local legal environment and fostering a vibrant business and investment climate.

About 30 experts and specialists are participating, leading discussions on various aspects of the profession. On Monday, 19 workshops will be held, led by specialists to enrich attendees’ knowledge and professional experience.

Al-Samaani said that the renewal of law licenses will be processed automatically and completed within 15 days of a complete application, aiming to empower and support lawyers.

He said that the demand for lawyers had grown significantly and would likely continue with the Kingdom’s expanding business landscape and ongoing developments.

“This growth is tied to strengthening institutional work, enhancing legal foundations, and developing model contracts, documentation systems and legislative tools,” he said.

The minister highlighted a range of training programs offered by the Judicial Training Center and Saudi Bar Association, targeting law graduates and practicing lawyers.

These programs combine practical and theoretical training, including the Lawyer Qualification Program, Lawyer Development Program, Saudi Professional Accreditation for Legal Practitioners, and Cooperative Training Program for university students, among others.