Tourism ministry steps up inspections of Makkah, Madinah facilities
Tourism ministry steps up inspections of Makkah, Madinah facilities/node/2476156/saudi-arabia
Tourism ministry steps up inspections of Makkah, Madinah facilities
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb has issued instructions for an increase in inspections of tourist hospitality facilities, including hotels and serviced apartments, in Makkah and Madinah during the holy month of Ramadan. (SPA)
Tourism ministry steps up inspections of Makkah, Madinah facilities
This initiative is part of the “Our Guests are a Priority” campaign
Al-Khateeb inspected tourist facilities in Makkah and Madinah, emphasizing the goals of the campaign
Updated 14 March 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb has issued instructions for an increase in inspections of tourist hospitality facilities, including hotels and serviced apartments, in Makkah and Madinah during the holy month of Ramadan.
This initiative is part of the “Our Guests are a Priority” campaign, which sets out to ensure adherence to the tourism system and its regulations while enhancing the quality of services offered to Umrah pilgrims.
Accompanied by ministry officials, Al-Khateeb inspected tourist facilities in Makkah and Madinah, emphasizing the goals of the campaign.
At the beginning of the Umrah season in Ramadan, the ministry’s supervisory teams made at least 468 monitoring and inspection rounds in hospitality facilities in Makkah, uncovering more than 278 violations.
They also made at least 214 monitoring and inspection tours of facilities in Madinah, during which they identified more than 125 violations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Major violations included engaging in activities without a license, maintaining a low level of service, and neglecting proper maintenance. Additionally, there was a lack of commitment to announcing the price list of units and services in Arabic and English.
The supervisory and inspection tours are part of the Ministry of Tourism’s role in serving visitors and pilgrims, domestic and international. The goal is to provide high-quality services and to allow pilgrims to complete their rituals with ease and comfort.
Visitors and Umrah pilgrims are encouraged to share their feedback on services by contacting the Visitor Care Center on 930 or through the ministry’s official social media channels.
Saudi Arabia, Ukraine issue joint statement following Zelensky visit
Updated 5 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and Ukraine issued a joint statement Tuesday following the visit of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported Tuesday.
Saudi Arabia leads Arab nations in condemning Israel’s Gaza electricity cut
Updated 11 March 2025
Arab News AFP
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia led other Arab nations Qatar and Jordan in condemning Israel’s decision to cut electricity supply to the war-battered Gaza Strip, calling in separate statements for the international community to take action.
Israel announced on Sunday it was disconnecting the only power line to a water desalination plant in Gaza, in an effort to pressure Palestinian militant group Hamas into releasing hostages amid an apparent impasse in truce talks.
Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry expressed “condemnation in the strongest terms of the Israeli occupation authorities’ use of collective punishment against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip by cutting off electricity to the area.”
It reiterated its call on the international community to take urgent measures to restore electricity and the flow of aid to the Gaza Strip immediately without conditions or restrictions.
The Kingdom “renewed its call to activate international accountability mechanisms for these serious violations,” the statement concluded.
A Qatari foreign ministry statement said the Gulf state “strongly condemns the Israeli occupation’s act of cutting electricity to the Gaza Strip, considering it a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.”
Jordanian foreign ministry spokesman Sufyan Qudah called the electricity cut “a clear continuation of the policy of starvation and siege imposed by Israel,” about a week after Israeli authorities blocked the entry of aid into Gaza.
The United Nations has warned of “dire consequences” for Gaza’s population, while Britain said it was “deeply concerned” by the Israeli move.
Saudi Arabia called on the international community to “take urgent actions immediately,” while Qatar also urged “immediate action to provide the necessary protection for the Palestinian people.”
Jordan’s Qudah called on the world “to assume its legal and moral responsibilities, and oblige Israel to continue with the ceasefire agreement... restore electricity to Gaza” and reopen border crossings for aid deliveries.
Israeli negotiators were expected to hold talks with mediators in Qatar, part of efforts to extend a fragile truce since January that has largely halted the war in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Ramadan nights: A tapestry of tradition, community, modern elegance
Ramadan transforms nights into vibrant spectacles of commerce and community
You can immerse yourself in the bustling night markets and seasonal stalls that come alive throughout the month
Updated 11 March 2025
Ghadi Joudah & Nada Hameed
RIYADH/JEDDAH: As the sun dips below the horizon, signaling the end of a day of fasting and reflection, cities across the Muslim world awaken to a nocturnal pulse.
The holy month of Ramadan transforms nights into vibrant spectacles of commerce and community, with bazaars and night markets emerging as electrifying hubs of activity.
You can immerse yourself in the bustling night markets and seasonal stalls that come alive throughout the month, in which Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions take center stage.
Visitors weave through vibrant hubs adorned with handcrafted souvenirs, traditional attire, and unique local goods, pausing to savor flavorful iftar and sahoor specialties served at the stalls.
The air hums with laughter, the clatter of coffee cups, and the warmth of shared stories, embodying the essence of Ramadan in the city.
Among Riyadh’s after-dark attractions, the Ramadan Caravan by Harvey Nichols stands out as a beacon of cultural celebration and modern luxury.
Ramadan Caravan by Harvey Nichols will run from February 13 to April 4 at Al-Faisaliah Center in Olaya. (SUPPLIED)
Returning this year for its 10th anniversary, this annual pop-up event runs until April 4 at Al-Faisaliah Center in Olaya, with extended hours tailored to Ramadan rhythms.
Inspired by Najdi architecture, the caravan’s design pays homage to Saudi heritage, blending earthy geometric patterns and arched motifs with sleek, contemporary aesthetics.
“Ramadan Reflections with HN,” which is this year’s theme, invites visitors to embrace and celebrate the season.
(SUPPLIED)
A Harvey Nichols spokesperson told Arab News: “By curating such a diverse collection, Harvey Nichols Riyadh ensures that customers can find items that resonate with their cultural backgrounds and traditions.”
To honor Ramadan’s spirit, the caravan introduces immersive experiences, and the spokesperson added: “We focus on activities that foster connection — like scent workshops with local artisans and bespoke gifting corners.”
These elements, and collections spanning abayas, kaftans, and home decor, reflect the rituals of gathering and generosity that are central to the month.
Adding to Riyadh’s after-dark allure, Beast House has announced its Ramadan 2025 experience: a vibrant fusion of tradition, artistry, and family-centric celebration.
(SUPPLIED)
Guests can explore hands-on activities such as floral arrangement and candle-making, or unwind in the elegant Ramadan Majlis — a luxuriously appointed space with plush seating and soft lighting, ideal for sahoor gatherings.
Culinary excellence takes center stage with a bespoke sahoor menu crafted by chef Rawan Al-Muslimani, blending timeless Ramadan flavors with contemporary flair.
The JAX Ramadan Market is also poised to join Riyadh’s roster of seasonal highlights.
As Ramadan is a time of togetherness, reflection, and celebration, and one of the most cherished traditions is visiting bazaars and night events, Ramadan Season is taking place in Al-Balad, the historic district of Jeddah.
Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Ramadan Season is being celebrated across cities nationwide, highlighting Saudi traditions through cultural and community events.
Under the slogan “Our Nights Have Returned,” the streets and public spaces have been adorned with decorative lights and installations, creating a magical atmosphere.
(SUPPLIED)
In key locations such as Al-Ghadeer Walkway, Olaya Street, and Jeddah Corniche, areas shine with Ramadan-themed displays throughout the holy month.
In Jeddah’s historic district, visitors can experience traditional Ramadan nights, enjoy iftar and sahoor at restaurants and cafes, and explore the “Balad stalls,” at which food vendors and seating areas offer a warm and welcoming space.
For a grand Ramadan experience, the Ramadaniyat Promenade is open until the end of Ramadan and entry is free.
Fawanees Nights at the Galleria Hotel on Tahlia Street runs throughout the month and offers a luxurious setting.
Beast House Ramadan 2025 experience: a vibrant fusion of tradition, artistry, and family-centric celebration. (SUPPLIED)
The Jibna Al-Eid Bazaar features a variety of local brands and delicious food, while the Balqees Exhibition is a key destination at Ana Ghair Mall.
For those looking for a lively Ramadan carnival, the Lammat Ramadan Festival will be held at the Hilton Hotel from March 13-17.
Another must-visit is the Samra Bazaar which is being held until March 15 at Emaar Square. This features a Ramadan tent, traditional folklore, a gaming championship, physical and electronic games, a children’s area, and an array of arts, culture, and food stalls.
Hajar Bin Rafe’a, the founder of Rafe’a Abayas and Rafe’a Concept Store, told Arab News about her deep appreciation of Ramadan bazaars, particularly Jibna Al-Eid and Qamra, which are known for their high attendance, excellent organization, and exceptional shopping experience.
Beast House Ramadan 2025 experience: a vibrant fusion of tradition, artistry, and family-centric celebration. (SUPPLIED)
Rafe’a said: “These two events receive an overwhelming turnout and stand out for their organization, revenue, and unmatched customer engagement. They have become an integral part of Jeddah’s identity during Ramadan.”
Rafe’a stressed that her participation in the bazaars is not solely for financial reasons but also to remind customers of the presence and evolution of local Saudi brands.
In addition, the Ahl Awal Exhibition, which runs until March 26 at Basateen Center, welcomes visitors daily from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Meanwhile, Ramadan with MC Bazaar, which was organized by Monochrome Community, was a two-day event on March 6-7 at Diwan Al-Hijaz on the Corniche. The event provided an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Saudi culture at Ramadan and enjoy the company of loved ones in an unforgettable setting.
Saudi Arabia’s Masam project clears 1,058 bombs from Yemen
Updated 11 March 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Project for Landmine Clearance, or Masam, removed 1,058 explosive devices from several parts of Yemen during the first week of March.
The KSrelief-led project cleared 1,034 unexploded ordnances and 24 anti-tank mines, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
Since its launch, the Masam project has removed 484,401 explosive devices across the country.
The aid is a part of Saudi Arabia’s Etaam Ramadan food distribution project
Updated 11 March 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief recently distributed more than 1,900 food aid parcels to some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
In Mauritania’s Tiaret district of Nouakchott, 3,390 people benefitted from 565 food parcels.
Also, 751 packages were handed out in the Karaan district of Somalia’s Banadir governorate, benefiting 4,506 people.
In addition, 590 parcels were distributed in the Romania cities of Bucharest and Constanta, benefiting 2,950 people.
The aid is a part of Saudi Arabia’s Etaam Ramadan food distribution project.
