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
Updated 19 March 2024
Sulafa Alkhunaizi & Haifa Alshammari
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.
Saudi interior minister visits Italian Civil Protection Department
Updated 13 sec ago
Arab News
ROME: Saudi Arabia’s Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif visited the Civil Protection Department (Protezione Civile) in the Italian capital of Rome, on Saturday.
He was received by Fabio Ciciliano, the head of the Civil Protection Department, and several senior officials, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Accompanied by the official delegation, Prince Abdulaziz toured the department’s sections and received a brief overview of its operations and assigned roles.
Perfumes Week brings luxurious showcase of niche fragrances to Jeddah
High-end brands in the spotlight
Updated 15 February 2025
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: Perfumes Week, hosted at the Benchmark Theater as part of the Jeddah Events calendar, attracted large crowds eager to explore a curated selection of premium fragrances.
The event, which was held from Feb. 6 to 14, featured both the rich cultural heritage of Arabian perfumes and modern Western fragrances, all crafted from high-quality ingredients.
Unlike other perfume events, Perfumes Week focused exclusively on high-end and niche brands only, offering a unique experience tailored to fragrance connoisseurs with a refined taste.
Omar Al-Ammari, a first-time attendee at Perfumes Week, said: “It was an amazing showcase of niche and luxury fragrances, with special promotions and discounts exclusive to the event, making high-end perfumes more accessible.
“From rare oud blends to stunning floral compositions, I came across scents I had never experienced before. It was also exciting to discover new brands I hadn’t known about.”
Ahmed Ghamdi, another visitor and a passionate perfume collector, said: “I’ve always loved collecting perfumes, particularly the finest Arabic fragrances.
“With Ramadan approaching, I usually focus on finding top scents like amber, cedarwood, and musk, and I was happy to find them here. Sometimes I even experiment with creating my own fragrance. At Perfumes Week I had the chance to mix and customize perfumes, which was an exciting experience.”
The event attracted 10,000 visitors daily and showcased over 20 brands specializing in both traditional Oriental and contemporary Western fragrances.
Yousef Al-Gharbawi, CEO of ALG Exhibitions, emphasized the event’s evolution, saying: “This year at Perfumes Week we were thrilled to introduce several exciting experiences that elevated the visitor experience. We incorporated technology with augmented reality features that allowed guests to engage with the fragrance stories and ingredients in a unique way.
“To keep the event fresh, we regularly seek feedback from past attendees and industry experts, ensuring that we incorporate new trends and ideas each year. Our partnerships with both local artisans and regional brands also helped us showcase a diverse range of fragrances, making the event a must-visit for enthusiasts.”
Beyond being a premier fragrance exhibition, Perfumes Week also plays a significant role in boosting Jeddah’s tourism industry.
Al-Gharbawi said: “Events like Perfumes Week play a pivotal role in elevating the tourism industry in Jeddah by creating a platform for both established and emerging brands.
“They foster networking opportunities, encourage collaboration, and stimulate interest in niche fragrances among consumers. Additionally, by attracting international visitors and media attention, we are helping to position Jeddah as a burgeoning hub for fragrance innovation in the region. This not only boosts local businesses but also contributes to the cultural exchange of ideas and trends in the global perfume industry.”
Suad Al-Shehri, an influencer from Makkah, who visited Perfumes Week with her family, said: “The moment you step into the hall you’re instantly surrounded by these amazing, aesthetic fragrances. I grew up watching my mom burn wood chips, and the scent of that would fill the furniture and stay on our clothes for weeks. She felt the same way about the brands here.”
In addition to the perfume showcase, a panel discussion featuring Kuwaiti perfumer Hassan Al-Sarraf and Saudi Sara Al-Dahlawi was held, with media professional Abdullah Al-Jredan moderating the session.
Titled “The Innovative Vision of Perfumer Hassan Al-Sarraf Through Scent Cinema,” the discussion explored Al-Sarraf’s unique approach to integrating perfumes with the entertainment industry.
Sharing details about his groundbreaking project, Al-Sarraf said: "My philosophy in perfume design revolves around the idea of capturing emotions and memories through fragrance notes.
“Perfume has evolved into an integral part of art and creativity. My project, ‘Perfume Design and Entertainment,’ aims to merge perfume design with the entertainment sector using innovative technologies.
“This unique initiative is already developed as a business plan, design, and concept, and I’m excited to bring it to life soon, with plans to launch it on a global entertainment platform like Riyadh Season or through the Saudi Entertainment Authority.”
Discussing “A Bright Future for the Industry … Designers Must Focus on the Creative Aspect,” Al-Dahlawi said: “Merging business with creative work is never easy, and designers must stay focused on their unique ideas and creative efforts.
“It’s crucial to carefully craft a fragrance identity and implement it according to the highest global standards and best practices.”
She also emphasized the power of fragrance in communication, adding: “Fragrances carry significant messages and meanings, and it’s important to understand how they convey these emotions.”
The event drew participation from famous regional perfume brands, including Thoughts of the Gulf, from Oman.
Amar Majed, sales manager at the Thoughts of the Gulf booth, said: “We came from Oman to showcase our exclusive range of products, including oud, amber, bakhour, incense, and perfumes that vary from strong to light scents.
“To make the experience even more special, we offered a 50 percent discount on most of our products, allowing customers to explore and enjoy the distinctive fragrances we bring to the market.”
RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 22,663 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
A total of 13,799 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 5,594 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,270 for labor-related issues.
The report showed that among the 2,133 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 63 percent were Ethiopian, 36 percent Yemeni, and 1 percent were of other nationalities.
A further 184 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 14 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, the SPA reported.
The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years and a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000).
Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.
60 Saudi trucks enter Syria with food, shelter, medical supplies
Delivery is part of Kingdom’s humanitarian aid to support Syrian efforts to rebuild after civil war
16 Saudi relief airplanes also arrive at Damascus International Airport
Updated 15 February 2025
Arab News
NASIB BORDER CROSSING: Sixty relief trucks carrying food, shelter and medical supplies entered Syria on Friday via the Nasib crossing on the border with Jordan, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The delivery is part of Saudi humanitarian aid in support of efforts by Syria’s new leadership to rebuild the country after years of civil war.
Organized by Saudi aid agency KSrelief, the delivery brings the total number of trucks to 174.
Sixteen relief airplanes have also arrived at Damascus International Airport as part of a Saudi air relief bridge launched last month, carrying similar supplies and a KSrelief team.
The agency’s supervisor general, Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s consistent support since the Syrian crisis began in 2011, with KSrelief continuously providing aid to internally displaced Syrians, refugees in neighboring countries, and victims of the February 2023 earthquake.
KSrelief has said the Kingdom’s total aid to the Syrian people from 2011 to the end of 2024 exceeded $856 million.
How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability
Unsustainable tourism is degrading ecosystems, harming biodiversity, and leading to cultural exploitation
Red Sea Global’s luxury destinations limit visitors to 1 million per year to ease pressure on the environment
Updated 15 February 2025
Sulafa Alkhunaizi
RIYADH: At the heart of Saudi Arabia’s environmental strategy is regenerative tourism, which aims to protect natural habitats through science-led approaches and sustainable practices.
Unlike sustainable tourism, which aims to minimize harm, regenerative tourism strives to improve destinations through conservation, community engagement and science-led initiatives.
This includes implementing eco-friendly infrastructure, protecting biodiversity, and involving local communities in conservation efforts to ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Raed Albasseet, group chief environment and sustainability officer at Red Sea Global, says the real estate company practices “regenerative tourism” with a commitment to operate on renewable energy alone.
“This commitment is not just a tagline; it’s woven into the very infrastructure of our destinations ... integrating sustainability into every phase of design and construction,” he told Arab News.
“Visitors can already experience this firsthand at The Red Sea, where eco-conscious designs are effortlessly integrated into every aspect of their stay.”
The Red Sea, a luxury regenerative tourism destination on Saudi Arabia’s west coast, features world-class resorts. By 2030, it will include 50 hotels, 8,000 rooms and more than 1,000 residences, while capping visitors at 1 million annually to help protect local ecosystems.
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As part of this plan, Red Sea Global has developed the Desert Rock Resort, a newly opened retreat that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Designed to reduce energy use and maximize natural light, its elevated rooms feature large openings that mimic cave mouths, allowing ample daylight to filter in.
Before construction began at the Desert Rock Resort, Red Sea Global partnered with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology to conduct a comprehensive marine spatial planning simulation.
“This was the largest study of its kind ever undertaken in Saudi Arabia, and it provided crucial data to inform our master plan and minimize our impact on the delicate marine ecosystem,” Albasseet said, adding: “As a result, we limited development to only 22 of the more than 90 islands at The Red Sea destination.”
The Desert Rock Resort, developed by Red Sea Global, is a retreat that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
The Desert Rock Resort even repurposed excavated materials, meaning no additional materials were brought in for the main infrastructure.
“We used the mountains’ natural stone for interior and exterior walls and concrete was mixed using local sources of sand and stone,” said Albasseet. “To further reduce on-site disruption and waste, we emphasize pre-fabrication and off-site manufacturing.”
Moreover, Red Sea Global’s hotels and resorts are powered by solar energy, allowing guests to enjoy an eco-friendly destination with a zero carbon footprint.
Albasseet said the backbone of the company’s renewable energy strategy was Red Sea’s vast solar farms, which include hundreds of thousands of photovoltaic panels — more than 750,000 are currently in place.
“These farms generate clean electricity, significantly reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing our carbon footprint,” he said.
“To ensure a consistent and reliable power supply, even when the sun isn’t shining, we’ve also built one of the world’s largest battery storage facilities at The Red Sea. This … allows us to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it to power our resorts at night.”
DID YOU KNOW?
• Diriyah, a historic landmark in Riyadh, is being developed sustainably under Vision 2030, earning platinum-level LEED precertification.
• The Farasan Islands, a biodiverse Red Sea archipelago, are being developed for conservation and ecotourism.
• Soudah Development is transforming Saudi Arabia’s southern region into a luxury destination with a focus on ecosystem restoration.
This reliance on solar power extends beyond Red Sea Global’s resorts and hotels.
“It also powers Red Sea International Airport, putting it on track to become the region’s first airport powered entirely by renewable energy,” Albasseet said. “Even our 5G network, a crucial component of modern connectivity, runs on solar energy, making it the world’s first sunlight-powered network.”
A wider view of the Desert Rock resort, a luxury destibation set in a hidden valley and nestled between the mountains near Umluj governorate in Tabuk region. (Red Sea Global photo)
Shebara and Desert Rock, which opened to guests last year, have integrated advanced water systems and water-saving strategies through smart irrigation systems that optimize water use.
“A key element of our water conservation efforts is the implementation of closed-loop systems. Notably, at Desert Rock we have advanced water retention and distribution systems that capture rainwater,” Albasseet said.
“This captured rainwater is being used to sustain the surrounding wadi, revitalizing the local ecosystem and minimizing reliance on external water sources.
“The resort’s design also incorporates water-efficient fixtures and landscaping, further reducing water usage in day-to-day operations. This integration of natural water systems into the resort’s design demonstrates our commitment to working with, rather than against, the natural environment.”
Soudah, a luxurious mountain destination 3,015 meters above sea level in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia, is more than just a mountain retreat. It offers a range of immersive natural experiences and the opportunity to celebrate the cultural abundance of the region. (Soudah Development photo)
The consequences of unsustainable tourism are far-reaching, ranging from the degradation of delicate ecosystems and biodiversity loss to the exploitation of local communities and cultural commodification. “The current trajectory is simply not viable,” Albasseet said.
“Encouraging sustainable tourism practices is no longer a choice but a necessity for the future of our planet and the travel industry itself … The industry’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, estimated at 8 percent globally, underscores the urgent need for transformative change.
“This is not simply about minimizing negative impacts; it’s about actively restoring and regenerating the destinations we cherish.”
Furthermore, he added: “These practices undermine the very foundation of the tourism industry, jeopardizing the natural and cultural assets that attract visitors in the first place.
“The increasing awareness of these issues among travelers, coupled with global commitments like the Paris Climate Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, further reinforces the need for the industry to embrace sustainability.”
