A creative Ramadan for the artistic soul

When contemplation has inspired creativity or you want a good time with loved ones, cafes and spaces like Hayy Jameel, Axes Café and Lift Studio among others offer artistic workshops and retreats for various ages. (Supplied)
When contemplation has inspired creativity or you want a good time with loved ones, cafes and spaces like Hayy Jameel, Axes Café and Lift Studio among others offer artistic workshops and retreats for various ages. (Supplied)
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Updated 02 April 2024
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A creative Ramadan for the artistic soul

A creative Ramadan for the artistic soul
  • Retreat to these art studios and cafes to nurture the creativity and inspiration that strikes during the month of reflection

JEDDAH: Ramadan is the month when some people are not only spiritually and religiously invigorated, but also find renewed creative energy.

Arab News prepared a list of art cafes and studios around the Kingdom that offer the space and tools to aspiring artists and creative minds to practice different art media.

Arty Cafe

Whether you want to paint, draw, sculpt, or do pottery, Arty Cafe has got you covered. The cafe provides guests with the tools, space, and hot beverages to unleash their creativity.




When contemplation has inspired creativity or you want a good time with loved ones, cafes and spaces offer artistic workshops and retreats for various ages. (Supplied)

The cafe is located at Ahmed Alattas Street, Al-Zahra district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @arty.cafe

The Art Cafe

Enjoy your cup of coffee surrounded by art pieces while making your own at this cafe. With its black and white modern interior which looks like a new canvas waiting for colors, the cafe also offers paper cups for those who love a challenge for drawing and painting.

It is located at Jeddah Park by Cenomi, Aziziyah district, in Jeddah, Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road in Riyadh, and at Cenomi Nakheel Mall in Dammam.




When contemplation has inspired creativity or you want a good time with loved ones, cafes and spaces offer artistic workshops and retreats for various ages. (Supplied)

Instagram: @artcafe_ksa

Cafe Ceramique

Cafe Ceramique is the perfect place for children to practice their creativity and engage with peers while parents can sit back with a cup of a coffee. The cafe also offers birthday party services.

It is located at Al-Makan Mall, Al-Malqa district in Riyadh.

Instagram: @cafeceramiquesa

Beehive Art

This artist hub cafe is one big umbrella for many things including a cafe, artists’ creative space, meeting center, and training hall. Beehive Art also provides workshops for painting, sculpting, mosaic, and pottery.

It is located in Al-Masiaf neighborhood in Riyadh.

Instagram: @beehive_arts

Axes Coffee

A special coffee is made for artists at Axes Coffee. With its modern-classic interior and eye-catching masterpieces displayed on the walls, the cafe serves as an inspiration itself.




When contemplation has inspired creativity or you want a good time with loved ones, cafes and spaces offer artistic workshops and retreats for various ages. (Supplied)

It is located at Al-Qadisiyah Street in Al-Yasmin district in Riyadh.

Instagram: @axes_coffee

Fun & Art Culture Cafe

As the name promises, Fun & Art Culture Cafe gives visitors the chance have a good time whether alone or with friends and family. It offers a wide variety of games, like darts, pool, video games, and board games. It also includes a corner for fine arts that allows creative minds to color the world and a small stage for musicians to enchant visitors with their melodies.

It is located in Auto Moto Complex in Alkhobar.

Instagram: @fun_and_art_culture_cafe

Art Studios:

Hayy Jameel

For culture lovers, foodies, art and film enthusiasts, and the curious at heart, Hayy Jameel offers entertaining artistic, film, and food activities. Equipped with an art space, a cinema hall, food stalls, and more, Hayy promises visitors a good time in the creativity-boosting neighborhood.




When contemplation has inspired creativity or you want a good time with loved ones, cafes and spaces offer artistic workshops and retreats for various ages. (Supplied)

It is located on Arwa bint Abdulmuttalib Street, Al-Mohammadiyah district, Jeddah.

Instagram: @hayyjameel

Saudi Center for Fine Arts

The first fine arts center founded in the Kingdom, this center trains aspiring artists of all ages to master the painting style they are interested in.

It is located on Rahmat Al-Islam Street in Al-Andalus district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @saudiartscenter

Art Edge Center

Art Edge Center is a multi-media art center that provides any type of craft that comes to mind, including carving on glass, crocheting, marbling, dada art, manga, pottery, portrait, embroidery, resin, dotting sculpting, and more. The center welcomes people of all ages to the art sessions provided.

It is located on Prince Naif Road, Al-Firdous district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @artedgecenter

Global Art

This is a school where children can establish themselves as young artists and sharpen their skills. The school is part of a chain of international art centers for children to practice their creativity.

It is located in Al-Mohammadiyah District in Jeddah.

Instagram: @globalart_moh 

Art Vision

Portraits, animation, painting on various surfaces, and jewelry workshops are all provided by this art studio for adults and youngsters. The center includes a gallery for artists to display their masterpieces to visitors.

It is located on Abdullah Al-Anqari Road, Al-Zahra district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @art_vision11

Modern Art Center

New experiences are waiting for individuals and groups to try at Modern Art Center. People can attend art sessions individually or make a reservation for a creative party with friends and family. The art sessions available are perfume and candle making, painting on canvas, bags, cups, or mirrors, and carving on clay.

It is located on Prince Saud Al-Faisal Street, Al-Rawdah district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @modernartcenter

Art Space Center

Every week, this art center offers a new painting workshop for enthusiasts, and each workshop introduces participants to a new art school and style. The center also offers workshops for children aged from 5 to 13.

It is located on Alqamah Ibn Al-Ghafwa Street, Al-Zahra district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @artspacecenter

Artistic Touch

Specializing in pottery and clay works, this studio helps people take the first step into the world of pottery and become professional potters. The studio also conducts workshops for aspiring potters, along with painting sessions on canvas and ceramics.

It is located in Alyusr Center in Al-Nahda district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @artistic.touch.jed

Cube Art

Enjoy a party in a new style filled with creativity at Cube Art. Choose the activity of your liking, whether it is painting, candle making, decorating mirrors, sculpting, pottery, farming, or tie-dye, and have a great time with your friends.




When contemplation has inspired creativity or you want a good time with loved ones, cafes and spaces offer artistic workshops and retreats for various ages. (Supplied)

The art studio is located on Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street, Al-Rawdah district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @cubeart.sa

Elements Studio

From cutting, kneading, shaping, sanding, coloring, and glazing the clay, Elements Studio’s instructors will make sure you thoroughly follow the tips and tricks to each step. There are other art media available at the studio, such as painting and candle making.

The studio is located on Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street, Al-Khalidiya district in Jeddah.

Instagram: @elements.ceramic

Lift Studio & Space

A gallery, studio, and an art space all in one place serving as a hub for traditional artists of all media, digital artists, fashion designers, and modern sculptors. With its white interior, this studio encourages artists to add lively colors to its space.

It is located in Al-Mathar Ash Shamali district in Riyadh.

Instagram: @lift.ksa

 

 


French fry revolution satisfies Ramadan night cravings in Jeddah

French fry revolution satisfies Ramadan night cravings in Jeddah
Updated 29 March 2025
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French fry revolution satisfies Ramadan night cravings in Jeddah

French fry revolution satisfies Ramadan night cravings in Jeddah
  • One of Crusty’s visitors, Sukinah Qattan, told Arab News: “This atmosphere doesn’t just enhance the joy of tasting food; it also enriches Saudi Arabia’s culinary sector, supports local chefs

JEDDAH: During the holy month of Ramadan, Jeddah’s streets come alive with food stalls, drawing crowds to savor local favorites such as the popular “basta” fries pop-up experience.

Stalls, particularly those selling French fries, line the streets, bringing people together in a celebration of local flavors.

Food carts and traditional kiosks set up in alleyways of residential areas and in public squares serve delicious dishes and beverages, evoking nostalgia and reviving the spirit of the past.

After years of perfecting his steak-cooking skills, Abdoush decided to elevate the French fries game by adding premium steak cubes, topped with his signature sauce. (AN photo by Hashim Nadeem/Supplied)

The word “basta” comes from the Arabic term for simplicity, “basata,” to represent an experience that is modest, affordable, and rich in flavor.

In these attractive settings, markets bustle with activity as the aroma of kebda (liver), balila (chickpeas), and French fries fills the air, bringing the warmth of social gatherings that define the holy month.

Keeping tradition alive

Abdulrahman Ghazi, owner of the food stall Balilat Ajdadna, spoke to Arab News about the city’s love for its street foods.

“French fries have always been a Ramadan favorite, along with balila and liver. We’ve been serving customers in Al-Safa district for 28 years, and our loyal patrons know us well,” he said.

“We prepare kebda using an old traditional method, but with our own twist. We cook it with natural oil, suet, and lamb fat, without using any additional oils. This technique is highly favored by many,” Ghazi explained.

The authentic way of preparing balila takes more time and requires at least three hours of slow cooking over low heat with plenty of water, he added.

“In the past, balila was soaked for 12 hours before cooking to ensure it was thoroughly cleaned of bicarbonate residue, a crucial step that many overlook today. Unfortunately, some now use bicarbonate with a pressure cooker to speed up the process, which takes away from its true flavor.”

He insisted that the correct way to prepare balila is to let the chickpeas soak overnight, wash it thoroughly, and then cook it slowly.

“That’s why we call it ‘Balila Ajdadna’ — because it is made just like our ancestors used to prepare it in Makkah, where we originally come from,” Ghazi added.

The stall’s balila is priced is SR5 ($1.30) for a small plate and SR10 for a large plate. The small plate of fries costs SR6 and the large goes for SR12, with all the sauces one could wish for.

Although rising costs, particularly for oil, have led to price increases, Ghazi said that they strive to keep prices stable.

“Our prices remain the same throughout the year, even during Ramadan. We do not impose additional taxes, and we have always absorbed the costs ourselves.”

French fries take a new turn

While some vendors have remained loyal to tradition, serving fries with classic Saudi sauces such as garlic and homar (tamarind), others have introduced elements from various cuisines, elevating the dish beyond its conventional form.

In an interview with Arab News, Saudi content creator Abdoush, who has over half a million followers on social media, shared his inspiration for launching his fries stall — one that locals call “The Rich Man’s Stall” because its fries sell for SR60.

After years of perfecting his steak-cooking skills, Abdoush decided to elevate the French fries game by adding premium steak cubes, topped with his signature sauce.

“For me, it’s all about taking something familiar and turning it into an unforgettable experience,” he said.

His steak fries stall Crusty is located on Ali Abou Al-Ola street, operating from the backyard of a neighborhood home and serving lines of eager customers.

With innovative ingredients, such as wok-tossed steak cubes finished with a torch, Abdoush’s stall has attracted thousands of visitors during Ramadan.

The stall is a bustling business, with four counters dedicated to fries. Around 20 workers manage the operation, going through over 100 kg of steak per day and an unmeasured amount of potatoes.

According to Aboush, Crusty serves an average of 500 customers on weekdays, while on weekends the number soars to over 700.

“We do this out of love and passion. Food is truly amazing, it’s a blessing,” he said.

But what makes Abdoush’s fries expensive?

“It’s all about the process of making the fries. We don’t just fry them in regular oil — we add tallow and beef fat from the steaks. The steak we use is Russian striploin, a high-grade cut known for its marbling and rich fat content. We add about half a steak on top of the fries,” he explained.

“We also make a special sauce that we drizzle over the steak fries, but I highly recommend adding some homar (tamarind). It gives the dish a unique touch.”

Abdoush’s inspiration behind the steak fries is connected to Jeddah’s culture, especially the rise of French fry pop-ups. “Personally, I love making steaks, and with five years of experience, this was the perfect concept to bring to life.”

Crusty started last year and its popularity this year has been on a whole new level.

After Ramadan, Abdoush plans to launch his first Crusty restaurant specializing in steaks. “We won’t just serve French fries and steaks, we’ll also be adding burgers to the menu,” he said.

Residents and visitors flock to these stalls, where they not only indulge in delicious food but also experience live cooking demonstrations.

One of Crusty’s visitors, Sukinah Qattan, told Arab News: “This atmosphere doesn’t just enhance the joy of tasting food; it also enriches Saudi Arabia’s culinary sector, supports local chefs, and reinforces the presence of traditional dishes in the modern cultural scene.”

Other fries stalls offer more affordable fries. For example, Adani Bar Cafe and Ma’loom restaurant serve fries for no more than SR15.

However, their innovation lies in cutting the potatoes into cubes, instead of the traditional fries shape, and topping them with a cilantro, garlic, and lemon sauce, which visitors love.

Anas Abbas, a fries enthusiast from Jeddah, told Arab News: “Every Ramadan, I make sure to visit Adani Bar. I love their fries. They’ve truly become a Ramadan tradition. I always bring some home for my mother after her Taraweeh prayers because she also appreciates this delicious treat.”

 

 


Saudi leaders receive Eid Al-Fitr greetings from Islamic heads of state

Saudi leaders receive Eid Al-Fitr greetings from Islamic heads of state
Updated 29 March 2025
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Saudi leaders receive Eid Al-Fitr greetings from Islamic heads of state

Saudi leaders receive Eid Al-Fitr greetings from Islamic heads of state
  • King Abdullah II of Jordan, King Hamad of Bahrain and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed among those to send messages

RIYADH: King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received congratulatory messages from the leaders of Islamic countries on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Eid Al-Fitr, which will begin on Sunday after an announcement from the Supreme Court on Saturday, marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is a time of joy, reflection and unity for Muslims around the world.

Among those who sent greetings were King Abdullah II of Jordan, King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa of Bahrain and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

The king and crown prince expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the messages and wished for “continued prosperity, security and stability for the Islamic nation, asking God Almighty to bless the occasion with goodness and peace,” the report said.


Ramadan reflections of a Brazilian in Riyadh

Ramadan reflections of a Brazilian in Riyadh
Updated 29 March 2025
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Ramadan reflections of a Brazilian in Riyadh

Ramadan reflections of a Brazilian in Riyadh

JEDDAH: Being in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan is a distinct cultural experience, providing non-Muslims with an opportunity to learn more about Islam and its traditions.

Brazilian teacher Talita Schneider Pereira moved to Riyadh in 2023 and says she has found inspiration in the warmth of a community that has welcomed her with open arms.

Speaking to Arab News about her second Ramadan in the Kingdom, Pereira said: “Even though fasting is not something I practice — coming from a different faith and cultural background — I try to take this month as a time for reflection and spiritual connection.”

Pereira was born in Sao Lourenco do Sul, a city located near the border with Uruguay in southern Brazil with 50,000 inhabitants. At the age of 27, she moved to Spain to pursue a master’s degree in teaching Spanish as a foreign language. 

“I have always been very curious, and in Spain, where there is a significant Muslim community, I had learned about Ramadan before moving here,” Pereira told Arab News. “I know it is a sacred month for Muslims; a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection, during which it is believed that the gates of hell are closed, and those of heaven are open. Beyond abstaining from food and drink, the most important aspect is the spiritual connection and the desire to strengthen one’s relationship with Allah.

“For me, it is a period I approach with complete normalcy, and perhaps that is why I do not find it difficult. It is true that schedules change and that the logistics of shopping or certain other activities are affected, but this is nothing compared to the profound significance of this month for Muslims. I try to embrace the experience and adapt to the country’s rhythms.”

This year, Pereira decided to wear the hijab at work to connect with her colleagues and students.

She said it is “wonderful” to see her students’ excitement when they talk about what Ramadan means to them.

“Their eyes light up as they share their traditions and beliefs. Even though I am not Muslim, hearing the call to prayer encourages me to engage in my own conversations with God more frequently,” she said.

Describing her own experience of the month of Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, she said: “When night falls, Riyadh transforms completely. It is as if the city changes clothes: the lights beautifully illuminate the monuments, the streets fill with people, and restaurants and malls remain bustling until late into the night. I am still amazed to see supermarkets open until 1 a.m. and shopping centers packed with people at midnight.”

As a teacher, the main challenge for Pereira is refraining from drinking water during classes. “It is not forbidden, but, out of respect for my Muslim students, I choose not to do it. Talking so much throughout the day often leaves my mouth very dry, which can be uncomfortable,” she said. “However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the beauty of experiencing this season.”

Although she has spent only two years so far in the Kingdom, Pereira already has special memories she will cherish.

“On my last birthday, my colleagues from the Arabic department organized a small surprise party for me. I believe this says a lot about the hospitality and warmth of Muslim women, who welcome us with open arms just as we are. That gesture touched me deeply, making me feel a genuine and sincere affection,” she said.

And Pereira added that she looks forward to joining in the fasting at some point in the future. “I believe it is an experience worth trying, both spiritually and physically,” she said.


Crescent moon sighted, Eid Al-Fitr on Sunday in Saudi Arabia

Crescent moon sighted, Eid Al-Fitr on Sunday in Saudi Arabia
Updated 29 March 2025
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Crescent moon sighted, Eid Al-Fitr on Sunday in Saudi Arabia

Crescent moon sighted, Eid Al-Fitr on Sunday in Saudi Arabia
  • Eid prayer will take place across Kingdom on Sunday shortly after sunrise
  • Prayers will be held in all designated Eid prayer areas and all mosques

RIYADH/JEDDAH: The crescent moon for the Hijri month of Shawwal has been sighted in Saudi Arabia, marking the end of the month of Ramadan, the Saudi Supreme Court said on Saturday.
Eid Al-Fitr — the annual Islamic celebration that runs for the first five days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Hijri calendar — begins on Sunday, March 30.
The Eid Al-Fitr prayer will take place across the Kingdom on Sunday shortly after sunrise.
Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Alsheikh has instructed the ministry’s branches that the prayer will be held in all designated Eid prayer areas and all mosques — except those adjacent to Eid prayer areas, as residents will use their local Eid prayer areas instead — and that all necessary preparations must be made, including maintenance and cleaning, to ensure a comfortable and tranquil experience.
There are currently 19,887 mosques and prayer areas in the Kingdom.
Riyadh resident Maher Aldossary shared his excitement for Eid. “The joy of Eid is already in the air. We are saying goodbye to the blessed days of Ramadan and eagerly welcoming Eid with open hearts,” he said.
“Families are busy preparing new clothes, collecting fancy chocolates, and making sure everything is set for the celebrations and breakfast feast. The streets are alive with hustle and bustle, and you can feel the excitement everywhere,” Aldossary added.
Samar Alwan, who is spending the final days of Ramadan in Istanbul, is cherishing the remainder of the holy month while eagerly anticipating Eid.
“Ramadan in Istanbul has been truly special, and part of me wishes it could last just one more day,” Alwan said.
“But now, the excitement for Eid is building. The streets are filled with lights, the markets are bustling, and everyone is getting ready, buying gifts, preparing sweets, and planning gatherings. It’s a beautiful time of joy and togetherness.”
Sami Hijazi, a teacher from Jeddah, shared how he and his family are fully immersed in Eid preparations.
“We have already taken down our Ramadan decorations and started setting up for Eid. The house is buzzing with activity, getting new clothes ironed, preparing delicious treats for the kids, and making sure everything is perfect,” Hijazi said.
“The anticipation is so high, and now we’re just waiting for the official announcement. No matter when it comes, we are ready to celebrate with full hearts.”
Earlier, on Thursday, the Supreme Court called on Muslims across the Kingdom to look for the crescent moon of Shawwal on Saturday evening, and called on anyone who sights the crescent moon with the naked eye or through binoculars to report to the nearest court and register their testimony.
Ramadan began on March 1.


Chadian president leaves Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah

Chadian president leaves Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah
Updated 29 March 2025
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Chadian president leaves Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah

Chadian president leaves Saudi Arabia after performing Umrah
  • The chairman of the Sudanese Transitional Sovereignty Council, Lt. Gen. Abdelfattah Al-Burhann, also left Jeddah on Saturday after performing Umrah

JEDDAH: Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno departed Saudi Arabia on Saturday, having performed Umrah. Governor of Jeddah Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi and several other officials accompanied the president to the airport to wish him farewell.

The chairman of the Sudanese Transitional Sovereignty Council, Lt. Gen. Abdelfattah Al-Burhann, also left Jeddah on Saturday after performing Umrah, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Al-Burhann was seen off at King Abdulaziz International Airport by Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, deputy governor of Makkah Region, and several other officials.