Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan

Special Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan
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Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season in Diryah from March 11 to April 11. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
Special Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan
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Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season in Diryah from March 11 to April 11. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
Special Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan
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Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season in Diryah from March 11 to April 11. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
Special Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan
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Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season in Diryah from March 11 to April 11. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
Special Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan
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Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season in Diryah from March 11 to April 11. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
Special Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan
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Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season in Diryah from March 11 to April 11. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
Special Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan
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Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season in Diryah from March 11 to April 11. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
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Updated 19 March 2024
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Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan

Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan
  • Array of eating choices close to UNESCO world heritage site
  • Najdi-style architecture evokes images of country’s rich past

RIYADH: During Ramadan at Bujairi Terrace, starry nights with exceptional views of UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif ensure unforgettable experiences for the whole family. 

Bujairi Terrace is inspired by Najdi architecture to evoke images of the past. There are over 20 eateries, including several fine dining choices such as Chez Bruno, Tatel, Hakkasan and Long Chim.

Khaled Abdelazim Hassan, head of trade finance at Finance House, told Arab News that his visit was “nothing short of enchanting, offering a delightful fusion of tradition, flavor, and hospitality.”

He added that he was “greeted by an atmosphere buzzing with life. The terrace seemed to come alive with the laughter of families and friends, mingling with the gentle melodies of traditional music. It was a scene straight out of a cultural tapestry, where tradition met modernity in perfect harmony.” 

“Nestled in the heart of Diriyah, this cultural hub beckoned with promises of culinary adventures and immersive experiences,” said Hassan.

Hassan and his family dined at Maiz, a contemporary fine dining restaurant, because the authentic Saudi Arabia cuisine “stole the show.”

He added: “The mandi was a mixture of flavors and textures. The tender, succulent meat, marinated to perfection and slow-cooked until it practically melted in my mouth, was a revelation. Paired with fragrant saffron rice and traditional Saudi sauces, it was a culinary experience like no other.” 

“As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but marvel at the richness of Saudi culture and cuisine. Maiz not only satisfied my hunger but also fed my soul, offering a glimpse into the traditions and flavors of a distant land.” 

Hassan said that the venue provides a haven for those seeking to break their fast in a welcoming and culturally rich environment.

“From the vibrant ambiance to the tantalizing flavors, it was a celebration of culture, cuisine, and community. Whether you’re craving a culinary adventure or seeking a place to gather with loved ones during Ramadan, Bujairi Terrace offers an experience that will leave a lasting impression,” he said.

Visitors can walk over a bridge after dining at the Bujairi Terrace to visit the recently restored ruins of the original seat of the Al-Saud dynasty, taking the same steps as the country’s rulers did centuries ago.

Meanwhile, Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season at Diriyah. It began in the historic district of At-Turaif on March 11 and will end on April 11. It is open from 9:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. throughout Ramadan. 

Organized by the Diriyah Gate ‍Development Authority, the event showcases traditional markets, workshops and arts and crafts.

Abdulrahman Alsaigh, a storyteller at the souq, said: “I lived during the time of King Faisal. We lived in mud houses and life was great. We used to know all of our neighbors.”

Local brands are on sale including traditional Saudi Arabia dishes, clothes, essential oils and oud.


King Abdulaziz University launches Saudi Arabia’s first PET/MRI Alzheimer’s diagnostic service

King Abdulaziz University launches Saudi Arabia’s first PET/MRI Alzheimer’s diagnostic service
Updated 10 sec ago
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King Abdulaziz University launches Saudi Arabia’s first PET/MRI Alzheimer’s diagnostic service

King Abdulaziz University launches Saudi Arabia’s first PET/MRI Alzheimer’s diagnostic service
  • Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease plays a critical role in improving patients’ quality of life

JEDDAH: King Abdulaziz University unveiled on Thursday the first diagnostic service for Alzheimer’s disease using integrated positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, collectively known as PET/MRI.

The service is offered through KAU’s Molecular Imaging Center (I-One), operating under the umbrella of Wadi Jeddah, the university’s investment arm.

The center, the only facility in Saudi Arabia’s Western and Southern regions equipped with a cyclotron for radiopharmaceutical production, spearheads the initiative.

A PET/MRI scan works by creating a three-dimensional image of the body using a PET scan and an MRI scan.

The KAU’s Alzheimer’s diagnostic service utilizes Amyloid PET/MRI imaging, developed in collaboration with Oryx Isotopes.

Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease plays a critical role in improving a patient’s quality of life and slowing the progression of the condition.


UAE publishers take part in Jeddah Book Fair 

UAE publishers take part in Jeddah Book Fair 
Updated 54 min 28 sec ago
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UAE publishers take part in Jeddah Book Fair 

UAE publishers take part in Jeddah Book Fair 
  • Emirati writers sign books, speak with readers
  • Fair continues at the Jeddah Superdome until Dec. 21

JEDDAH: Over 20 Emirati publishing houses are taking part in the Jeddah Book Fair 2024, which features almost 1,000 publishers from 22 countries.

The Saudi Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission is hosting the fair in the Jeddah Superdome until Dec. 21.

UAE publishers have made a significant presence at the fair, with publications in literature, science, children’s stories, and comics, the WAM reported.

Emirati publishers said that the Jeddah Book Fair is one of the most important events in the Arab cultural calendar, praised for its high public turnout and the diversity of publications available in fiction and self-development genres, according to WAM.

The fair includes lectures, seminars, and workshops by nearly 170 speakers, writers, and experts from Saudi Arabia and other countries.

Emirati writers signed their books and communicated directly with readers at the fair, WAM added.

The fair has also dedicated a special area for children featuring educational and interactive writing and animation industry activities.

More than 450 pavilions and a cultural program with more than 100 events have been organized as part of the fair.

It is the third book fair organized by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission in 2024 after the Riyadh International Book Fair and Madinah Book Fair.


Madinah culinary arts club hosts Cooking Challenge 2 as part of winter events

Madinah culinary arts club hosts Cooking Challenge 2 as part of winter events
Updated 19 December 2024
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Madinah culinary arts club hosts Cooking Challenge 2 as part of winter events

Madinah culinary arts club hosts Cooking Challenge 2 as part of winter events
  • Event celebrated the distinctive culinary heritage of Madinah while enhancing the skills of local chefs
  • Two contestants were selected to compete in preparing Madinah’s traditional kabli dish, which was judged by a panel of experts

MADINAH: The Culinary Arts and Hospitality Club in Madinah on Wednesday hosted Cooking Challenge 2 as part of its winter activities in the region.

The event celebrated the distinctive culinary heritage of Madinah while enhancing the skills of local chefs, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

From a pool of 350 club members, two contestants were selected to compete in preparing Madinah’s traditional kabli dish, which was judged by a panel of experts. 

The evaluation criteria included taste, adherence to food health and safety protocols, professional safety standards, creativity and innovation, quality standards, and mastery of cooking techniques. 

The challenge featured Chef Alaa Al-Ahmadi and Chef Asmaa Al-Attas with the latter emerging as the winner.

Chef Enayat Khan, head of the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Club in Madinah, explained that the club’s mission is to unite chefs in Madinah under one platform to exchange knowledge and expertise. 

A key focus is preserving traditional Madinah dishes as well as Saudi cuisine as a whole.

Khan highlighted the club’s diverse pool of national talent, encompassing professionals and passionate amateurs, and expressed the club’s ambition to display Madinah’s culinary excellence on the global stage.

Chef Abdul Wahab Al-Dawi, director of public relations and marketing at the Culinary Arts Club, emphasized the richness and diversity of Saudi cuisine, shaped by the Kingdom’s geography and the integration of animal, marine, and agricultural products. 

He noted that Saudi cuisine has made a notable impact at international exhibitions, reflecting its growing global recognition. 

He said the club continues to host culinary events aimed at enhancing the skills of aspiring chefs, nurturing culinary talent, and discovering new creators in the Madinah region.


Saudi initiative launches pioneering care center for people with disabilities

Saudi initiative launches pioneering care center for people with disabilities
Updated 19 December 2024
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Saudi initiative launches pioneering care center for people with disabilities

Saudi initiative launches pioneering care center for people with disabilities
  • Integrated residential care facility is expected to serve over 280 beneficiaries annually
  • Project designed to serve as model for development of similar facilities

RIYADH: A Saudi social care project worth SR83 million ($22.1 million) is set to transform support services for people with disabilities in Saudi Arabia’s Qassim Region after a trilateral agreement was signed on Thursday.

The Sakhaa Program, the Abdulaziz Al-Ohali Charitable Foundation, and the Onaizah Association for Development and Human Services, known as Taheel, have joined forces to establish an integrated residential care facility which is expected to serve over 280 beneficiaries annually, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The initiative aligns with the program’s efforts to support the community through creating sustainable development opportunities and enabling benefactors to actively participate in achieving social and economic development in the Kingdom.

Deputy Secretary-General Nasser bin Mohammed Asiri signed on behalf of the Sakhaa Program, alongside Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, chairman of the Al-Ohali Foundation’s board of trustees, and Musaad bin Yahya Al-Saleem, vice chairman of Taheel Association.

The memorandum of understanding outlines an ambitious project to establish a center that will provide a comprehensive and supportive environment to meet the needs of people with disabilities, according to the SPA.

The facility will offer integrated services, including full residential care supported by specialized rehabilitation programs, comprehensive healthcare covering both therapeutic and preventive aspects, as well as recreational and educational activities to enhance residents’ social and psychological well-being, ensuring their independence and enabling active community participation.

The project’s funding model combines government support, community contributions, and nominal fees to ensure sustainable, high-quality care delivery. Infrastructure development, equipment, and operational costs are included in the total investment.

The project is designed to serve as a model for developing similar centers in the future, the SPA added.


AI cannot replace human creativity in literature, expert says

AI cannot replace human creativity in literature, expert says
Updated 19 December 2024
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AI cannot replace human creativity in literature, expert says

AI cannot replace human creativity in literature, expert says
  • Dr. Anas Al-Ghamdi: Certain fields will benefit by using AI, but it cannot create great literature
  • Al-Ghamdi: When you read a text translated by a machine, you feel the translator’s feelings, not the writer’s

JEDDAH: Artificial intelligence cannot replace the creativity of human beings in literature, according to an expert attending the Jeddah Book Fair 2024.

Dr. Anas Al-Ghamdi, an academic, researcher and author specializing in AI, made the statement in a discussion during a symposium titled: “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of the Book.”

The session was moderated by Mohammed Basalama, an entrepreneur in the cultural sector, who opened the symposium by raising a few questions about the impact of artificial intelligence in the book sector, asking: Will AI be a partner that enhances creativity or a competitor that threatens the human values of literary texts?

He mentioned the main themes of the symposium, which included: the role of AI in improving writing and publishing, its impact on literary creativity and the human value of books, as well as the ethical and legal challenges related to the ownership of produced texts, in addition to using AI as a tool to enhance innovation rather than compete with it.

Al-Ghamdi replied by saying that no doubt AI has become an integral part of life and it can provide a huge amount of information to people in no time, but it cannot create special feelings and the free flow of imagination as human authors do in their writings.

“If we do not use it, others will. Of course, certain fields will benefit by using AI, but it cannot create great literature,” he said.

Al-Ghamdi said that there is a role for AI in enhancing the work of publishing houses by improving marketing, production, and sales. 

But, he said, machine translation still suffers from emotional gaps, saying: “When you read a text translated by a machine, you feel the translator’s feelings, not the writer’s.”

The symposium explored how modern technology can reshape the writing and publishing experience, emphasizing the need to use AI as a tool to support human creativity.  

It also discussed the ethical and professional challenges related to the ownership of texts produced by AI, while presenting innovative visions for employing this technology to achieve a sustainable future that combines human creativity and technological innovation.

Al-Ghamdi affirmed that AI is not a substitute for human creativity, but a tool that can enrich this creativity if used properly.