Jeddah Al-Balad’s new heritage hotels offer glimpse into bygone era

The opening of the first three heritage hotels in Jeddah Historic District marks a significant milestone in efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage. (Instagram/jeddahalbalad.sa)
The opening of the first three heritage hotels in Jeddah Historic District marks a significant milestone in efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage. (Instagram/jeddahalbalad.sa)
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Updated 01 March 2024
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Jeddah Al-Balad’s new heritage hotels offer glimpse into bygone era

Jeddah Al-Balad’s new heritage hotels offer glimpse into bygone era
  • Launched by the Historic District Program, the restored houses fuse region’s rich history with contemporary comforts

JEDDAH: Nestled in the heart of Jeddah’s historic district are heritage hotels launched by the Jeddah Historic District Program under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture and in partnership with Al-Balad Development Co.

These hotels, including Beit Jokhdar, Beit Al-Rayess and Beit Kedwan, have been meticulously restored while preserving their architectural features to provide guests with an authentic glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The restoration and rehabilitation of these heritage hotels was carried out in alignment with the highest international standards and the guidelines set out by UNESCO, which designated Jeddah Historic District as a World Heritage Site in 2014.




The opening of the first three heritage hotels in Jeddah Historic District marks a significant milestone in efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage. (Instagram/jeddahalbalad.sa)

Tariq Omar Al-Saggaf, the project manager, told Arab News about the extensive work involved in reviving about 600 heritage buildings in the area. “These buildings are not only being restored but also repurposed for various functions ranging from hotels to residential, administrative, commercial and cultural purposes,” he said.

Through a harmonious blend of historical restoration and modern hospitality, these hotels offer guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and architecture of one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic districts.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The recent agreement between the Jeddah Historic District Program and Al-Balad Development Co. signals a new chapter in the operation of the heritage hotels. • Beit Jokhdar has one of the largest wooden facades in Al-Balad and distinctive elements such as stained glass. • Beit Kedwan, facing Beit Nassif, stands out for its wooden rawasheen and mashrabiyyas.

During an exclusive tour at Beit Jokhdar, Milica Markovic, the general manager of Al-Balad Historic Hotels, told Arab News that the restoration process aimed to maintain the original charm of the buildings: “80 percent of the building has been restored to how it originally was. This building has the biggest roshan window in Jeddah. It has nine rooms and suites and it’s the biggest out of the three that we have.”

She added: “So, that’s why the architecture is actually very unique. It is very important for us to reflect for the guests, although these are hotels (they have) a very homey, elegant vibe.”




The opening of the first three heritage hotels in Jeddah Historic District marks a significant milestone in efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage. (Instagram/jeddahalbalad.sa)

The attention to detail in preserving elements such as the roshan window, wooden ornaments and oil lamp hooks gives guests an insight into the heritage of the region. Local craftsmanship and artistry are also integral to the interior design and ambiance of the hotels, reflecting the cultural richness of Saudi Arabia.

“The ceilings are also original with wood ornament carving that is handmade. We even preserved the old hooks, where they used to put the oil lamps to lighten up the room. Most of the art and furniture you see … most of it has been done locally, so we really try to showcase fully not just the interior design and architecture of Saudi Arabia but also ... the work of the artists,” Markovic said.

Each of the three heritage hotels showcases a different architectural design that highlights the historical and aesthetic value of the buildings.

Beit Jokhdar, for instance, has one of the largest wooden facades in Al-Balad and features distinctive elements such as plaster decorations, arches, stained glass and ornate wooden interiors.

Beit Kedwan, facing Beit Nassif, stands out for its wooden rawasheen and mashrabiyyas, while Beit Al-Rayess is celebrated for its location and architectural features both internally and externally.

Markovic said: “The whole renovation process, I believe, took a little bit more than two years. But to set it up at the hotel and the hotel operation … it’s been only actually three months so we’ve been hardcore working to set everything up for the year.

“The most beautiful thing about these hotels is we don’t have to come up with a fancy marketing strategy or anything, we can just embrace them and share this beautiful history story,” Markovic said.

“Prices go usually from SR5,000 ($1,333) and more per night, but depending on the seasonality event in Jeddah, it can go a certain percentage lower or higher depending on the occupancy.”

Hospitality and dining in all hotels is inspired by an authentic Saudi flavor, “We have hired fantastic young chefs that are basically developing dishes that are inspired by Saudi cuisine, but with a bit of a more modern fine dining and elegant twist,” Markovic said.

The recent agreement between the Jeddah Historic District Program and Al-Balad Development Co. signals a new chapter in the operation of the heritage hotels.

With 34 heritage houses set to be managed under this partnership, Al-Balad Hospitality aims to offer authentic hospitality experiences that celebrate the culture of the region.

The commitment to preserving the history and providing enriching experiences positions Jeddah Historic District as a sought-after destination for visitors worldwide.

The opening of the first three heritage hotels in Jeddah Historic District marks a significant milestone in efforts to preserve and promote cultural heritage.

 


UNESCO chair hosts translating cultures workshops

UNESCO chair hosts translating cultures workshops
Updated 03 November 2024
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UNESCO chair hosts translating cultures workshops

UNESCO chair hosts translating cultures workshops

RIYADH: The UNESCO Chair in Translating Cultures at the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, supported by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, recently hosted three online workshops.

The workshops were attended by members of the Translating Cultures Lab and researchers with an interest in translating cultures.

The lab unites renowned scholars and early-career Saudi researchers to publish papers on the 2024 theme, “Rethinking Translating Cultures and its Conceptual Framework,” focusing on knowledge transfer and translation in the Global South.

At the workshops researchers presented papers and received feedback from lab members to refine them for publication.

In the first two workshops, six papers were presented, addressing issues in translating cultures, including cultural narratives, religious concepts such as “mahr” in Islam, and humor translation in modern Saudi literature.

Other topics included foreignizing and domesticating Arab culture in translation, translation as knowledge transfer, and translating Plastic Arts into Arabic.

The papers were presented by scholars from King Khalid University (Saudi Arabia), Indira Gandhi National Open University (India), Jagiellonian University (Poland), Mohammed I University Oujda (Morocco), the Catholic University of America (US), and an independent Australian researcher.

The third workshop reviewed papers for an edited volume by the Translating Cultures Lab on the theme of “Rethinking Translating Cultures.”

The UNESCO chair views “translating cultures” as a concept tied to broader debates in the humanities, regarding it as a continuous process involving translation, cross-cultural communication, and knowledge sharing. 


From crocodiles to kangaroos — Riyadh Zoo thrills visitors

From crocodiles to kangaroos — Riyadh Zoo thrills visitors
Updated 03 November 2024
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From crocodiles to kangaroos — Riyadh Zoo thrills visitors

From crocodiles to kangaroos — Riyadh Zoo thrills visitors

RIYADH: Riyadh Zoo has added a bird show to its already extensive lineup as part of Riyadh Season 2024, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The zoo offers an exceptional experience for wildlife enthusiasts, as well as giving visitors of all ages an opportunity to learn about animal life, environmental care, and conservation awareness.

A farm area has been enhanced to provide interactive activities that promote an understanding of biodiversity and the importance of preserving nature.

One of the highlights is the Croc Cave, where visitors can safely observe crocodiles up close.

At Kangaroo Arena, visitors can enjoy a rare encounter with the Australian marsupials and capture memorable photos.

To enrich the educational experience, the new farm area provides hands-on activities that educate visitors on nature and wildlife conservation.

The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving visitors ample time to enjoy its diverse facilities, which span 161,000 square meters and house over 1,400 animals of various species.

A variety of outlets and mobile food trucks offer a wide range of food and beverages, as well as family-friendly seating areas for comfort.

In a move aimed at enhancing inclusivity, Riyadh Season offers free entry to senior citizens aged 60 and older for its entertainment areas.

The initiative was announced by Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, as part of efforts to make the season more accessible to all.

Seniors can enter select areas by showing their Tawakkalna application at designated gates.

The areas included in the offer are Boulevard World, Boulevard Runway, and Wonder Garden, along with the standard free-entry areas such as Riyadh Zoo, Al-Suwaidi Park, and Souq Al-Awaleen. They will also have access to Boulevard City and VIA Riyadh without the need for prior tickets.

However, the offer does not cover events with reserved seating, such as concerts, plays, boxing matches, or special experiences, which require separate ticketing arrangements.

The initiative underscores Riyadh Season’s commitment to ensuring that all segments of society can enjoy its diverse offerings.


Saudi project clears 636 Houthi mines in Yemen

Saudi project clears 636 Houthi mines in Yemen
Updated 03 November 2024
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Saudi project clears 636 Houthi mines in Yemen

Saudi project clears 636 Houthi mines in Yemen
  • The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly

Riyadh: Members of Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam removed 636 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week.

The total included four anti-personnel mines, 36 anti-tank mines and 596 unexploded ordnances, according to a recent report.

Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the initiative’s managing director, said a total of 468,067 mines had been cleared since its inception in 2018.

The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.

Project Masam is one of several initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia on the orders of King Salman to help the Yemeni people, clearing routes for humanitarian aid to reach the country’s citizens.

The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.

The initiative trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.

Teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate safe movement for civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.

About 5 million people have been forced to flee their homes since the start of the conflict in Yemen, many of them displaced by the presence of land mines.


Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Iwai Fumio hosts reception to celebrate JSDF’s 70th anniversary

Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Iwai Fumio hosts reception to celebrate JSDF’s 70th anniversary
Updated 03 November 2024
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Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Iwai Fumio hosts reception to celebrate JSDF’s 70th anniversary

Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Iwai Fumio hosts reception to celebrate JSDF’s 70th anniversary
  • Ambassador Iwai welcomed the enhanced cooperation in the field of defense and security between Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Japan: Japan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia IWAI Fumio recently hosted a reception at his residence on the occasion of the Japan Self-Defense Forces’ (JSDF) 70th anniversary.

H.E. Major General Shallah bin Thaar AlSalmi, Royal Saudi Land Forces, and a number of government officials and diplomats graced the occasion.

During his speech, Ambassador Iwai said the JSDF has now become a very active contributor to the international peace and stability through its participation in the international peace efforts such as counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden and the MFO in the Sinai Peninsula.

Ambassador Iwai welcomed the enhanced cooperation in the field of defense and security between Japan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia particularly after the visit of HRH Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman to Japan on July 31, 2023.

He mentioned the active communication on possible defense equipment and technology, cooperation on women’s empowerment and defense training and exchange programs.


18th KSrelief plane departs Saudi Arabia carrying vital aid to Lebanon

18th KSrelief plane departs Saudi Arabia carrying vital aid to Lebanon
18th Saudi relief plane departs for Lebanon with essential aid supplies. (SPA)
Updated 03 November 2024
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18th KSrelief plane departs Saudi Arabia carrying vital aid to Lebanon

18th KSrelief plane departs Saudi Arabia carrying vital aid to Lebanon

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief on Sunday sent an 18th plane to Lebanon carrying food, medical supplies and shelter kits.

The plane departed from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and landed at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut.

KSrelief chief Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabiah said the initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to helping people and countries in need worldwide.