Riyadh workshop explores Saudi Arabia’s archaeological landscape

Special Riyadh workshop explores Saudi Arabia’s archaeological landscape
Director General of the Antiquities Sector at the Heritage Commission Abdullah Al-Zahrani. (AN Photo/Abdulrhman Bin Shalhoub)
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Updated 04 June 2024
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Riyadh workshop explores Saudi Arabia’s archaeological landscape

Riyadh workshop explores Saudi Arabia’s archaeological landscape
  • Experts share recent discoveries and plans for preservation
  • Paola Pesaresi: Heritage represents wealth for future generations

RIYADH: The Heritage Commission on Monday hosted a workshop on archaeological surveying and excavation to discuss survey and excavation projects with partners from universities, organizations and government agencies.

The workshop in Riyadh included a presentation of the annual report of exploration projects and discussion of future survey and excavation plans.

Abdullah Al-Zahrani, director general of the antiquities sector at the commission, told Arab News: “This workshop aims to introduce our archaeological fieldwork conducted in Saudi Arabia over the past year and the beginning of this year. We hope to gain knowledge about the latest results and discoveries from our archaeological endeavors in Saudi Arabia by the end.”

He added: “The Heritage Commission is now collaborating with various Saudi universities, including King Saud University, as well as other Saudi colleges and commissions specializing in archaeology. We’d like to thank all our partners for their excellent work at archaeological sites, collaborating with the Heritage Commission to share knowledge and the results of Saudi Arabia’s history.”

The Heritage Commission’s 2030 Archaeological Survey and Excavation Projects Plan was developed collaboratively with national and international universities, as part of its cooperation with entities such as the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, the Royal Commission for AlUla, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, the Jeddah Historic District Program, regional development authorities, royal reserves, the NEOM project, the Red Sea project, and others.

According to the presentation, 72 scientific initiatives marked the culmination of the Heritage Commission’s surveying and archaeological excavation work.

In 2023, 1,556 archaeological sites were registered in the National Register of Antiquities. Additionally, 1,900 stone structures were documented across the Kingdom, discovered in diverse locations, sizes and shapes. Moreover, 7,600 rock facades were recorded, documenting those featuring drawings and inscriptions.

Paola Pesaresi, senior director of heritage management at the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, expressed her admiration for the commission’s work.

“The Heritage Commission is doing wonderful work. I have been extremely astonished by the various presentations, gaining insight into the national level endeavors. The Kingdom is unveiling its history from north to south, and we are just one part of this ecosystem, which is remarkable. With support, cooperation, collaboration, and working together, the Heritage Commission plays a huge role in this.”

Pesaresi added: “Heritage is mentioned in its own word because it represents wealth for future generations; we are handing it down from our forefathers to the future, and this is our job.

“It is a legacy that will help people comprehend both their past and their present. And find their way in the future. That’s why it’s such a vital aspect of our work. And this country is growing rapidly.

“But,” she said, “we must ensure that we do not lose anything in the process, as this is the property of future generations, not our own.” 


Saudi Crown Prince congratulates Tunisian president on re-election, discusses relations

Saudi Crown Prince congratulates Tunisian president on re-election, discusses relations
Updated 30 sec ago
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Saudi Crown Prince congratulates Tunisian president on re-election, discusses relations

Saudi Crown Prince congratulates Tunisian president on re-election, discusses relations

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held a phone call with Tunisian President Kais Saied on Monday to discuss relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Tunisian Republic, focusing on enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors.

During the conversation, Prince Mohammed extended his congratulations to Saied on his recent re-election for a second term, reaffirming the Kingdom’s support and well-wishes for continued success.

President Saied won a resounding 90 percent of the vote in last month’s election, according to Tunisia’s electoral commission.

The two leaders reviewed opportunities to expand collaboration in areas that benefit both nations, underscoring the “strong and brotherly relationship between Saudi Arabia and Tunisia,” Saudi Press Agency reported.


Alliance Francaise opens new center at Jeddah’s Hayy Jameel

Alliance Francaise opens new center at Jeddah’s Hayy Jameel
Updated 17 min 25 sec ago
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Alliance Francaise opens new center at Jeddah’s Hayy Jameel

Alliance Francaise opens new center at Jeddah’s Hayy Jameel
  • Learning language ‘builds understanding,’ French ambassador to Kingdom says
  • New facility joins others in Riyadh and Alkhobar

JEDDAH: Alliance Francaise, the international institute and cultural center for the French language, on Sunday celebrated the grand opening of its new branch in Hayy Jameel, Jeddah.

The event was attended by various personalities and diplomats and included speeches from French Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Patrick Maisonnave, French Consul General Mohammed Nehad, Art Jameel founder Fady Jameel and Alliance Francaise President Zahir Al-Monajed.

“Learning a language, especially in today’s world, demonstrates a genuine curiosity and openness to other cultures. It fosters dialogue, builds understanding and ultimately contributes to a more peaceful global dynamic,” Maisonnave told Arab News.

“Through centers like Alliance Francaise, we can create partnerships beyond language such as in business, art and beyond to show the world that the French language is both accessible and enriching.”

Maisonnave said Alliance Francaise now operated in more than 150 countries and that its goal was to foster interest in the French language as a cultural bridge to connect societies.

Jameel said: “We are delighted that Alliance Francaise is joining Hayy Jameel to make a significant contribution to the cultural community here. In recent years, we have witnessed and proudly supported the growth of Saudi-French cultural ties.

“Our French partners have been instrumental in enhancing the Saudi art scene in the Kingdom and we look forward to further developing this relationship.”

Nehad said: “We chose Hayy Jameel as our new home because it’s a vibrant and cultural hub, which makes it an ideal place to reach more Saudi students and expand our activities.

“Our mission here in Jeddah is, first and foremost, to teach French to both Saudi and international students and to foster a creative atmosphere with activities in art, cinema and drawing.”

He described Alliance Francaise as “our cultural partner” and said several new initiatives were being considered, including a 48-hour film challenge and collaborative digital art projects.

“As the cooler season approaches, we view this as an ideal opportunity to roll out a variety of creative activities, from cinema and music to collaborations with French artists in Saudi Arabia,” he said.

Larry Lamartiniere, managing director of the Jeddah branch of Alliance Francaise said: “This is not just a language center, we aim to ensure that culture plays a significant role in our promotion of the French language. Relocating to Hayy Jameel was an ideal decision.”

The new location would allow the organization to screen French films at the independent Hayy Cinema and engage in art and culinary collaborations, he said.

Lamartiniere also noted the center’s close ties with the French Embassy and Consulate.

“Every cultural initiative organized by the officials includes Alliance Francaise as a partner,” he said.

The center currently has about 80 students per session and offers classes for various ages and proficiency levels, as well as weekly cultural workshops, storytelling and craft projects for children.

Lamartiniere said that a new session of classes would start later this month covering language, digital art, music and painting.

“Now that many people are fluent in English, they’re turning their curiosity to other languages. French remains one of the top languages globally and many Saudis want to learn it before traveling to France,” he said.


Treasure trove unveiled at Jewels of the World in Riyadh

Top local and international jewelry designers are displaying their latest pieces at the Jewels of the World exhibition in Riyadh
Top local and international jewelry designers are displaying their latest pieces at the Jewels of the World exhibition in Riyadh
Updated 04 November 2024
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Treasure trove unveiled at Jewels of the World in Riyadh

Top local and international jewelry designers are displaying their latest pieces at the Jewels of the World exhibition in Riyadh
  • The event will run until Nov. 6, and features brands showing watches, necklaces, rings, earrings, as well as a range of pieces incorporating diamond, gold, and silver

RIYADH: Everything that glitters could be gold at the Jewels of the World exhibition in Riyadh, where top local and international jewelry designers are displaying their latest pieces to entice the region’s clientele.

The event, inaugurated by Karim Al-Anzi, president of the National Committee for Precious Metals and Gemstones, will run until Nov. 6, and features brands showing watches, necklaces, rings, earrings, as well as a range of pieces incorporating diamond, gold, and silver.

The opening night drew crowds of jewelry enthusiasts eager to meet top designers and trendsetters in the industry.

The Jewels of the World is an exclusive boutique event “celebrating the elegant craftmanship of these distinctive pieces,” according to Nader Freiha, the organizer of the exhibition.

The event, inaugurated by Karim Al-Anzi, president of the National Committee for Precious Metals and Gemstones, is organized by Nader Freiha (R). (Supplied)

Saudi Arabia is making major strides toward solidifying its status as a global hub for many industries by hosting various events, he told Arab News.

The exhibition “gathers prominent talent from around the world to showcase their creativity and amazing designs,” he added.

“We are excited to celebrate our 10th jewelry and watches exhibition in the Kingdom, having started this journey in 2016,” Freiha said. “To mark this special occasion, we’ve created 10 unique AI-generated paintings, each reflecting one of the past editions we’ve held. You can view all 10 paintings on display as we commemorate this milestone.”

One of the exhibition highlights is designer Karen Suen’s display featuring a necklace crafted with about 80 carats of emeralds and diamonds.

Designer Karen Suen poses with her display. (Supplied)

The Jewels of the World exhibition features more than 60 jewelry brands from around the world whose collections reflect various styles, from contemporary to one-of-a-kind designs. With their diamond, gold and other precious gemstones, the intricate and innovative craftmanship on display is captivating guests.

Atef Nsouli, chairman of Nsouli Jewelry, noted a significant upward trend in jewelry design, with both local and regional markets showing great promise. He said that the Saudi community has a sophisticated taste for jewelry and diamonds, actively seeking the best pieces while keenly following the latest fashion trends and high-quality craftsmanship.

Nsouli expressed optimism about the sector’s future, emphasizing that quality lies at the forefront of competitiveness among manufacturers and retailers.

Rashid Al-Emadi, executive director of Qatar’s Blue Diamond Group, commented on the continuous evolution of the jewelry sector within the Qatari group to meet the needs of connoisseurs in the Gulf country and the region.

He said people in GCC countries have developed a deep understanding of jewelry, including its types and the precision involved in its production, adding that the regional audience has a refined sense of style and knows exactly what to wear for any occasion.

Al-Emadi also noted that the Saudi market is experiencing intense competition, particularly when it comes to innovative design.


Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla with sensory treats

Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla with sensory treats
Updated 04 November 2024
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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla with sensory treats

Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla with sensory treats
  • Celebration of culture, heritage, music and culinary delights from Dec. 19 to Jan. 11

Riyadh: The Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla from Dec. 19 to Jan. 11, offering a magical fusion of history, culture, music, and culinary delights that capture the spirit of this ancient city. 

Named after AlUla Old Town’s traditional sundial, this festival in the AlUla Moments calendar marks the start of the winter planting season.

According to a press release from AlUla Moments, Winter at Tantora will spotlight Saudi Arabia’s vibrant music scene. It will feature acclaimed Lebanese singer Abeer Nehme and the National Arab Orchestra for a unique classical music experience. 

The “Macintosh” show will reimagine iconic Arab hits with performances by contemporary stars Ayedh, Aziz Maraka, Zeina Imad and Daffy, under maestro Ahmad Al-Oud.

Music lovers will be captivated by Lebanese composer Marwan Khoury’s collaboration with Croatian cellist Hauser — a not-to-miss partnership.

The Immersive Theater Experience will merge stage action and film, transforming cinema into a sensory delight for fans of both mediums. 

Sanaam AlUla Night celebrates the Year of the Camel, blending traditional music with Saudi Arabia’s hospitality. The “In the Footsteps of Ibn Battuta – Discovery Tour” offers insights into AlUla’s historical role along the Incense Road.

In Tantora Old Town, vibrant traditional performances, crafts, masterclasses, and storytelling showcase AlUla’s rich cultural heritage.

The Shorfat Tantora concerts return, turning balconies into stages as local and regional orchestras fill the streets with enchanting melodies.

Visitors can also explore AlUla Citrus Season, which highlights the area’s seasonal bounty with a fresh fruit market, handmade products, and competitions.

The Al-Manshiyah Carnival will bring out one’s inner child, while the Future Ancient Makers Space offers families hands-on activities that bring history to life in AlUla Old Town. 

Culinary highlights include the return of chef Alain Ducasse’s oasis-to-table dining experience and SASS’ AlUla, a Mediterranean fine-dining establishment blending Monaco’s elegance with a Saudi twist.


KSrelief aids earthquake victims in Turkiye

KSrelief aids earthquake victims in Turkiye
Updated 04 November 2024
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KSrelief aids earthquake victims in Turkiye

KSrelief aids earthquake victims in Turkiye

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief recently concluded a week-long voluntary medical program for specialized surgeries at health clinics in Reyhanli, Turkiye, aimed at helping victims of the Feb. 6, 2023 earthquake.

During the campaign, the medical team treated 493 patients in the family medicine clinic, 355 in the dermatology clinic, 338 in the optometry clinic, and 173 in the endocrinology clinic, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

In February 2023, KSrelief launched a campaign through the Sahem platform to help earthquake victims in Syria and Turkiye. The appeal has so far raised more than SR524 million ($139.5 million) from over 3.4 million donations.

Since its inception in 2015, KSrelief has implemented 3,105 projects worth more than $7.1 billion in 104 countries, in cooperation with 454 local, regional, and international partners.

The bulk of the support has gone to Yemen ($4.5 billion), Palestine ($501 million), Syria ($447 million), and Somalia ($233 million).

KSrelief’s programs cover food security, health, sanitation, shelter, nutrition, education, telecommunications, and logistics.