Tabuk collector opens museum featuring Saudi heritage artifacts dating back several centuries

Tabuk collector opens museum featuring Saudi heritage artifacts dating back several centuries
Ode bin Afanan Al-Sulaimi Al-Atwi, a resident of the Tabuk region has opened his museum to the public featuring his private collection of Saudi heritage artifacts. (SPA)
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Updated 14 March 2024
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Tabuk collector opens museum featuring Saudi heritage artifacts dating back several centuries

Tabuk collector opens museum featuring Saudi heritage artifacts dating back several centuries
  • Ancient garments, coins, and weapons among the showcases of the 2,200-square-meter The Hasmaa Museum
  • Ode bin Afanan Al-Sulaimi Al-Atwi collected the heritage pieces as a hobby in the past 25 years

RIYADH: A resident of Saudi Arabia's northwestern Tabuk province has opened his museum to the public featuring his private collection of the Kingdom's heritage artifacts dating back several centuries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The “Hasmaa Museum,” owned and operated by Ode bin Afanan Al-Sulaimi Al-Atwi, takes its visitors through the history, culture and civilizations that have contributed to shaping the Kingdom, with a special focus on the northwest.

In an interview with the Saudi Press Agency, Al-Atwi said that he began collecting rare items as a hobby about 25 years ago and has since amassed a significant collection of historical artifacts.

His passion culminated in the idea of establishing the museum just over four years ago, with the aim of sharing the rich tapestry of Saudi human history with a wider audience.

Spanning an area of about 2,200 square meters, the museum has a collection of more than 10,000 heritage pieces.

The collection includes ancient garments, coins, primitive and manufactured weapons, and the earliest devices marking the advent of human technology. It also contains automobiles and a vast array of items from both ancient and modern periods.

The museum features an extensive display of photographs and artifacts narrating the evolution of the Kingdom and its various government sectors.

Al-Atwi thanked the Kingdom’s Museum Commission for its encouragement and support in establishing his museum.
 


26 endangered animals return home — Al-Souda release marks conservation milestone

26 endangered animals return home — Al-Souda release marks conservation milestone
Updated 6 sec ago
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26 endangered animals return home — Al-Souda release marks conservation milestone

26 endangered animals return home — Al-Souda release marks conservation milestone
  • The initiative is part of NCW’s broader program to resettle and grow the numbers of endangered species
  • NCW CEO Mohammed Qurban explained the release location was carefully selected

RIYADH: The National Center for Wildlife has successfully reintroduced 26 endangered animals to their natural habitat in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Souda region.
Thursday’s ceremony was attended by Souda Development Company CEO Saleh Al-Arini and National Center for Wildlife Development General Supervisor of Planning and Empowerment Abdulmohsen Al-Shanif.
The initiative is part of NCW’s broader program to resettle and grow the numbers of endangered species while enhancing biodiversity and ensuring ecosystems thrive throughout the Kingdom. The project also aims to boost the region’s tourism appeal while supporting environmental sustainability.
NCW CEO Mohammed Qurban explained the release location was carefully selected following comprehensive biodiversity studies to assess both current conditions and potential future impacts.
“This project not only enhances our ecosystems but also strengthens ecotourism opportunities and creates new economic channels for the Kingdom,” he said, adding NCW’s breeding centers ranked among the world’s leading facilities for endangered species propagation. The centers maintain the highest international standards while conducting vital research on species’ living conditions.
The organization employs cutting-edge technology to monitor wildlife populations, collect data and assess potential risks to biodiversity in protected areas.
The initiative represents a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to preserve its natural heritage and promote sustainable development in the region.


Saudi Arabia advocates for quality of life during COP29

Saudi Arabia advocates for quality of life during COP29
Updated 23 min 56 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia advocates for quality of life during COP29

Saudi Arabia advocates for quality of life during COP29
  • One of the key initiatives driving this change is Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on oil and fostering economic diversification
  • This vision places significant emphasis on green development, which is essential for enhancing the overall quality of life for residents and citizens in the Kingdom

BAKU: While COP29, the 29th climate change conference, continues discussions for a 12th day in the capital city of Azerbaijan to elevate health and well-being for people all over the world, sustaining the level of quality of life after the implementation of policies is important.
Sustainability, in general, has emerged as a critical focal point for countries worldwide, and Saudi Arabia is no exception. As the Kingdom moves from a predominantly oil-based economy to a more diverse and sustainable model, the implications for quality of life are profound.
One of the key initiatives driving this change is Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on oil and fostering economic diversification.
This vision places significant emphasis on green development, which is essential for enhancing the overall quality of life for residents and citizens in the Kingdom.
The Saudi government is working to create a more resilient and prosperous future through various investments in sustainable urban planning and eco-friendly technologies and projects.
Sustainable urban development is central to enhancing the quality of life. Projects such as NEOM, a futuristic city planned to integrate smart technology and sustainable living, show how urban environments can be designed while keeping growth sustainable even after the completion of the city.
Such projects aim to provide residents with green spaces, efficient public transport and smart infrastructure, all contributing to a higher standard of living.
Aeon Collective is another example that shows the Kingdom’s commitment to raising living standards for people.
The company is an interdisciplinary, non-profit organization based in Riyadh, committed to advancing the concept of sustainability and development in Saudi Arabia, while at the same time focusing on the intersection of social, economic, and ecological well-being.
Aeon Collective is considered a Waqf, which is an Arabic word meaning assets that are donated, bequeathed, or purchased to be held in perpetual trust for general or specific charitable causes that are socially beneficial.
Princess Mashael Saud Al-Shalan, co-founder of Aeon Collective, explained to Arab News during COP29 the concept and objective of the organization.
“As you know, Waqf is one of the oldest legal Islamic structures, (established) almost 1400 years ago,” she said. “The intention was to reorient this legal structure (Waqf) into a space that allowed us to focus on sustainability in the longer run, but in the shorter run try to answer one key basic question, ‘what would it take to align opportunities for socio-economic mobility for individuals through the active action of repairing our planet?’”
Princess Mashael spoke further of the need to reclaim the Islamic framework Amarat Alardh, which, according to her, means “custodianship of the land.”
“It is within our own heritage, our culture, Islamic, Arabic, Saudi, that we have to be there to take care of our fellow citizens, our fellow humans, but importantly, every other being, plant, animal, that we share this planet with,” she said.
Moreover, public awareness and engagement in sustainability practices are being fostered through educational campaigns and community initiatives. By encouraging citizens to adopt sustainable habits, such as recycling and energy conservation, the government aims to create a culture of sustainability that enhances community well-being.
Throughout the conversation, Princess Mashael praised the perspectives Saudi Arabia is bringing to the table of negotiations during this event, yet stressed also the responsibility of individuals to raise the bar of ambition on a national level to ensure that those goals and ambitions are translated on the ground.
In addition, Princess Mashael was a speaker at one of the panels on Wednesday, regarding sustainability in cities.
“Cities tend to not only be the biggest congregators of carbon but also where most of the brains we are trying to attract, who solve these issues, live ... So it is having a mentality that goes beyond scarcity, beyond fear-mongering and eco-anxiety; to a mentality of growth, to a mentality of being able to do.”
Sustainability in Saudi Arabia is not merely a response to environmental concerns; it is a holistic approach to improving quality of life through strategic initiatives in numerous sectors, including urban planning and community engagement; the country is laying the groundwork for a healthier, more sustainable future for its people.


Women’s traditional market in Al-Baha: a cultural hub empowering local artisans

The market in Al-Aqiq distinctively features artisans creating handmade crafts in real time. (SPA)
The market in Al-Aqiq distinctively features artisans creating handmade crafts in real time. (SPA)
Updated 25 min 7 sec ago
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Women’s traditional market in Al-Baha: a cultural hub empowering local artisans

The market in Al-Aqiq distinctively features artisans creating handmade crafts in real time. (SPA)
  • Traditional marketplace provides a platform where local women gather to practice ancestral handicrafts

RIYADH: Women’s traditional markets in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Aqiq governorate have emerged as a vibrant center of cultural preservation and economic empowerment in Al-Baha region.

This traditional marketplace provides a platform where local women gather to practice ancestral handicrafts and trade indigenous products.

Through their participation, women play a vital role in safeguarding Saudi national identity and cultural heritage.

The marketplace enables them to use government support programs designed for productive families and small to medium enterprises, transforming traditional handicrafts into viable commercial products.

A recent tour by the Saudi Press Agency revealed the market’s rich tapestry of products, from woven carpets and jewelry to local delicacies and traditional spices.

Visitors can find authentic products including al-kadi (Pandanus) plants, rayhan (natural clothing fragrance), local honey, traditional ghee, various types of incense, metalwork, textiles, and traditional clothing.

The market distinctively features artisans creating handmade crafts in real time.

Umm Abdullah, a craftswoman, said the market’s significance goes beyond commerce. 

“This space has become a crucial meeting point for women to exchange news, experiences and expertise,” she said. 

“It is not just about trading goods — it is about discovering talents and creating job opportunities, while strengthening cooperation among women to pass our heritage to the next generation in innovative ways that reinforce national identity.”

Dr. Ali Mohammed Al-Sawat, Al-Baha region’s secretary, underscored the market’s role in supporting productive families by organizing women’s work and providing a secure environment for women entrepreneurs and their products while promoting cultural values.

Al-Sawat highlighted the municipality’s commitment to supporting community projects, praising Al-Aqiq Municipality’s initiative in establishing the market.

The facility covers an impressive 4,000 sq. meters and houses 47 shops. The space includes prayer facilities, restrooms and ample parking, complemented by landscaped green spaces, seating areas and children’s recreational facilities.

 


Saudi defense minister meets Swedish counterpart

Saudi defense minister meets Swedish counterpart
Updated 22 November 2024
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Saudi defense minister meets Swedish counterpart

Saudi defense minister meets Swedish counterpart
  • Discussions focused on bolstering cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Sweden

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s minister of defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman, met Johan Stuart, minister of state at the Swedish Prime Minister’s office, in Riyadh on Thursday.

They discussed ways in which relations and cooperation between their countries might be enhanced, along with other issues of mutual interest, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Other Saudi officials present during the discussions included Lt. Gen. Fayyad Al-Ruwaili, chief of the general staff of the Kingdom’s armed forces, and Hisham bin Abdulaziz bin Saif, director general of the defense minister’s office.

The Swedish minister was accompanied by a delegation that included Bjorn Kalvakov, charge d’affaires of the Swedish Embassy in Riyadh, and Sophie Becker, deputy head of the Middle East and North Africa department at Sweden’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.


Italian food festival highlights nation’s rich taste and culinary flavors

Italian food festival highlights nation’s rich taste and culinary flavors
Updated 22 November 2024
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Italian food festival highlights nation’s rich taste and culinary flavors

Italian food festival highlights nation’s rich taste and culinary flavors

JEDDAH: The Italian Consulate General in Jeddah hosted on Wednesday night a unique event celebrating the richness and uniqueness of Italian products and flavors on the occasion of the ninth edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World. 

The event is being celebrated all over the globe from Nov. 16-22 by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Italian Ministry of Agriculture as part of their drive to promote the beauty and quality of Italian gastronomy.

Leonardo Costa, the Italian consul general in Jeddah, said: “We are glad to hold this Italian food street festival in the framework of the 9th Week of Italian Cuisine in the World celebrating Italian food culture. The theme for this year’s events is ‘Mediterranean Diet: Traditional Cuisine and Healthy Food,’ which is not a list of healthy food but a lifestyle.”

He added: “All the communities of the Mediterranean Sea share the same idea of hospitality and friendship. All concepts that fully applied to the great generosity and hospitality to the Saudi people and their way of conceiving food.”

Held at Al-Basateen Compound, the Italian Consulate General in Jeddah set up an elaborate street food scene around the pool area, ranging from big local Italian brands from shops, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and hotels in Jeddah with the attendance of guests drawn from the diplomatic corps, journalists, Italian expatriates, Saudi guests, the business community, and other selected food enthusiasts.

The festival contained multiple food stalls displayed by the sponsors and participants such as Danub, Lallo restaurant, Assila hotel, Margherita KSA, Montana water by Sharbatly, Ferrero, Loacker, and other brands, where everyone showcased different distinctive Italian delicacies.

Music was also played for the guests by DJ Ahmed Can.

Saudi businessman Mohammed Al-Zahrani — who became fascinated by Italian coffee during his visits to Catanzaro, the capital of the Calabria region in Italy, is the founder of Dell’Oro Store. He told Arab News how he turned his passion into a business.

“I am glad to be part of the ninth Week of Italian Cuisine in the World for the first time, and I am here to promote our coffee,” he added.