Prince Majid Park blooms with entertainment, culture and fun for Jeddah Season

Characters dressed in costume greet guests with smiles and offer photo opportunities. (Supplied)
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Characters dressed in costume greet guests with smiles and offer photo opportunities. (Supplied)
Prince Majid Park blooms with entertainment, culture and fun for Jeddah Season
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Prince Majid Park goes beyond entertainment, providing a vibrant center for the community. (Supplied)
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Updated 12 July 2024
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Prince Majid Park blooms with entertainment, culture and fun for Jeddah Season

Characters dressed in costume greet guests with smiles and offer photo opportunities. (Supplied)
  • Little friend land is a paradise for young adventurers, where children can immerse themselves in a world of Lego, unleash their imagination with whiteboards and paper, and enjoy a variety of engaging activities

JEDDAH: The highly anticipated Jeddah Season 2024 has officially launched with the opening of Prince Majid Park, the season’s first free zone. The park, the largest in Jeddah, promises a wide range of entertainment for all ages, from exhilarating shows to captivating cultural experiences.

Visitors enter a whimsical world, beginning in flower land, where flower-themed characters dressed in costume greet guests with smiles and offer photo opportunities. The centerpiece of the zone is a magnificent fountain, its cascading water dancing to music and creating a breathtaking visual spectacle.




Prince Majid Park goes beyond entertainment, providing a vibrant center for the community. (Supplied)

Next, art land offers a haven for budding artists and art enthusiasts, where children can unleash their creativity in workshops, crafting candles and engaging in various art projects. Skilled artists display their creativity and talent in dedicated booths, offering visitors the opportunity to have their portraits painted. Exhibitions by local artists provide a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange.

“It’s incredibly enjoyable to share my art with the visitors,” said Mohammed Salim, an Egyptian artist, as he sketched a visitor’s portrait. “There are so many of us here, creating live drawings and paintings, either capturing the faces of the people who come by or working from images they bring us. It’s a wonderful way to showcase our talents and connect with people on a very personal level.”




Prince Majid Park goes beyond entertainment, providing a vibrant center for the community. (Supplied)

Little friend land is a paradise for young adventurers, where children can immerse themselves in a world of Lego, unleash their imagination with whiteboards and paper, and enjoy a variety of engaging activities.

Likewise, festival land is a vibrant hub for shopping, dining and games, where visitors can browse through a selection of shops, indulge in culinary delights at the food court, and enjoy live musical performances at the mini-stage.




Prince Majid Park goes beyond entertainment, providing a vibrant center for the community. (Supplied)

The main stage at Prince Majid Park transforms into a hub of entertainment, hosting four shows daily, with performances ranging from dazzling circus acts with breathtaking acrobatics to electrifying DJ sets that will leave audiences in wonder. For those seeking a tranquil escape, wood land offers a labyrinth game and a lush green area.  

Adding to the festive atmosphere, parade shows burst on to the scene every half hour, creating a whirlwind of energy and excitement. Each show lasts 30 minutes, adding a vibrant layer to the park’s atmosphere. A show by stilt walkers, with participants dressed in colorful costumes, adds a touch of eccentricity with three daily shows.




Prince Majid Park goes beyond entertainment, providing a vibrant center for the community. (Supplied)

For those seeking a break from the festivities, the park offers a spacious play area with swings and slides, ensuring fun for children of all ages.

“I’ve never seen a park quite like Prince Majid Park,” said Najm Fatima, a local resident. “It’s a vibrant explosion of colors, laughter and entertainment. It’s a place where everyone can find something to enjoy, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or just looking for a relaxing day out.”




Prince Majid Park goes beyond entertainment, providing a vibrant center for the community. (Supplied)

Her friend, Sarah, said: “The kids are having a blast, especially with the stilt walkers and the Lego building area. It’s truly a place for families to make memories together.”

Mohammed Ali said that he had never seen children so enthralled by art as he watched a group of children excitedly sketching alongside him. “Their energy at Prince Majid Park is infectious, reminding us that art and performance can bring joy and wonder to people of all ages,” he said.

Prince Majid Park goes beyond entertainment, providing a vibrant center for the community. This grand celebration of Jeddah Season 2024 promises a memorable experience, offering attractions that cater to all tastes and interests.

While entry to the park is free, visitors still need to book ticket online through the Saudi Events app.

 


MDLBEAST hosts first Onyx Arena music party in Jeddah

MDLBeast recently unveiled its new music venue, the Onyx Arena, as part of the Jeddah Season. (Supplied)
MDLBeast recently unveiled its new music venue, the Onyx Arena, as part of the Jeddah Season. (Supplied)
Updated 05 August 2024
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MDLBEAST hosts first Onyx Arena music party in Jeddah

MDLBeast recently unveiled its new music venue, the Onyx Arena, as part of the Jeddah Season. (Supplied)
  • Afrojack and Bebe Rexha set to perform at the Jeddah Season event later this month

JEDDAH: MDLBeast, Saudi Arabia’s leading music entertainment company, recently unveiled its new music venue, the Onyx Arena, as part of the Jeddah Season.

According to MDLBeast officials, the first night of the three-week extravaganza saw a packed house with around 5,000 attendees gathering to enjoy performances by renowned international and local electronic music artists.

The first night saw the stage ablaze with talent as DJ Shaolin set the tone with an energetic set, electrifying the audience with a mix of crowd-pleasing tunes.

Following his performance, Lil Eazy, a Somalian hip-hop artist born and raised in Jeddah, took the stage, bringing a dynamic energy and vibrant music that had the crowd grooving along.  

Lil Eazy told Arab News: “Performing for a big crowd is a completely different feeling. I’m thrilled to have played at MDLBeast; it’s a fantastic opportunity.”

Noting the changing landscape for musical talent in the Kingdom, he added: “Before MDLBeast, we played underground for limited audiences, and now having the chance to showcase our music on big stages is incredible.”

Lil Eazy said he is excited and preparing for Soundstorm 2024. “To aspiring DJs, I advise you to follow your passion,” he added. “The music industry in the Kingdom is growing, and leading music entertainment companies are providing equal opportunities to be seen and heard.”

The atmosphere, enhanced by laser displays, buzzed with excitement when American rap star Don Toliver took the stage. Fans went wild, singing along to every note.

Thrilled by the energetic crowd, Toliver remarked during his performance: “It’s amazing to see such an active crowd who can vibe with me. It was an amazing night performing for the Jeddah crowd.”

The night concluded with Swedish DJ Axwell delivering a powerful set with beats and tracks that kept the crowd engaged until the very end.

MDLBeast has partnered with Jeddah Season this year to bring the vibrant Onyx Arena parties to life every Friday until Aug. 16.

The highlights include performances by Jack Harlow, Salvatore Ganacci, Jeed, and Saud on Aug. 9, followed by DJ Loush, Bebe Rexha, and Afrojack on Aug. 16.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technical facilities, sound, and lighting equipment, the Onyx Arena is designed to host global music parties, events, and conferences.

Iman Abdullah, a visitor, was thrilled by the event, saying: “I had an incredible time at the party and couldn’t contain my excitement singing along with Don Toliver. He’s been my favorite for a long time, and vibing with him was fantastic. His tracks and energetic performance were outstanding.

“It’s great to have such entertainment in Jeddah, and the ticket prices were reasonable. I bought a VIP pass and enjoyed the view and the food.”

Another visitor, Hanouf Raheem, said: “The arena is huge, and the lighting perfectly matches the vibe. The best part is that it’s fully air-conditioned, allowing us to escape Jeddah’s summer heat and enjoy the party to the fullest.

“Everything was well-managed, and the crowd control was impressive. It’s amazing to have such options for weekend entertainment. I’ve already purchased passes for the rest of the parties.”

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Kingdom’s library brings Saudi culture to Chinese readers

King Abdulaziz Public Library is spearheading an initiative to introduce Saudi culture to Chinese-speaking audiences.
King Abdulaziz Public Library is spearheading an initiative to introduce Saudi culture to Chinese-speaking audiences.
Updated 05 August 2024
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Kingdom’s library brings Saudi culture to Chinese readers

King Abdulaziz Public Library is spearheading an initiative to introduce Saudi culture to Chinese-speaking audiences.
  • A series of scientific, cultural and literary works in Arabic were selected for translation into various languages, including Chinese
  • Purpose of program is to present comprehensive portrait of contemporary Saudi culture to Chinese readers

RIYADH: King Abdulaziz Public Library in Riyadh is spearheading an initiative to introduce Saudi culture to Chinese-speaking audiences through its publishing program.

A series of scientific, cultural and literary works in Arabic were selected for translation into various languages, including Chinese.

The purpose of the program is to present a comprehensive portrait of contemporary Saudi culture to Chinese readers, an official statement noted.

The first volume of “The Comprehensive Encyclopedia of Saudi Arabia” is one of the most prominent works the library has translated into Chinese, and represents the first step toward translating all 20 volumes of the encyclopedia.

The volumes will cover all regions of the Kingdom with a focus on their history, archeology, culture and geography, economy, social patterns, customs and traditions, tourism, and wildlife.

The library also translated the book “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the People’s Republic of China: A History of Trade Relations between China and the Arabian Peninsula,” which highlights the contributions of the Arab-Islamic nation and China, and their scientific achievements in many fields such as astronomy, sciences, geography, agriculture and medicine, among others.

The book also shows their long-standing relations before and after the emergence of Islam, as they exchanged trade and travel via the Silk Road. The book reveals the reality of their cooperation and mutual understanding and is an important source for researchers from both civilizations, the official statement explained.

Among works selected for translation into Chinese is Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Mana’s book “In the Footsteps of Al-Mutanabbi,” which documents the locations the Abbasid-era poet passed through during his journey from Cairo to Kufa.

Some of the books the library is also translating into Chinese include “Modern Woman in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Rights Challenges and Achievements” by Hend Al-Sudairy.

Al-Sudairy’s book places women in a broader cultural context, exploring diverse topics and historical developments and highlighting their social and economic contributions. It allows readers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the reality on the ground by examining and connecting Saudi women’s past with their present.

Other works to be translated into Chinese include “The Art of Sadu between the Past and the Present,” “Saudi Landmarks and Places,” and “Traditional Jewelry of Women in Central Arabian Peninsula.”

The library has also completed the translation of 11 children’s stories from Arabic to Chinese. These stories cover a wide range of topics, offering young Chinese readers a window into Saudi Arabia’s rich history and culture.

Since establishing its branch at Peking University in China six years ago, the library has been engaged in numerous activities aimed at introducing Chinese audiences to various elements of Saudi, Arab and Islamic culture.

The initiatives include facilitating seminars and workshops on traditional Saudi arts and the Arabic language.


Civil Defense warns of torrential rain, high winds in Saudi Arabia until Friday

Civil Defense warns of torrential rain, high winds in Saudi Arabia until Friday
Updated 05 August 2024
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Civil Defense warns of torrential rain, high winds in Saudi Arabia until Friday

Civil Defense warns of torrential rain, high winds in Saudi Arabia until Friday
  • Makkah city and surrounding areas will experience light to moderate rainfall

RIYADH: The General Directorate of Civil Defense has urged citizens and residents to exercise caution and prioritize their safety by avoiding areas prone to torrents, marshes, and valleys.

It strongly advised not to swim in these areas as they are unsuitable and pose a significant danger, and emphasized that individuals should strictly adhere to instructions given through various media and social network platforms.

This advice is particularly relevant as thunderstorms are expected to continue in some regions of the Kingdom until Friday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The directorate has said that the Makkah region will experience moderate to heavy rainfall, resulting in torrential rains and hail, and strong winds that will cause dust storms. This will primarily affect several governorates.

Makkah city and surrounding areas will experience light to moderate rainfall, SPA reported.

The Civil Defense has forecast light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds that may raise dust for the Riyadh region. These weather conditions will also impact various governorates.

The directorate said that Asir, Baha, and Jazan regions will have moderate to heavy rainfall, while the regions of Madinah and Najran will get moderate rainfall.


Jazan border guards foil attempts to smuggle more than 800 kg of qat

Jazan border guards foil attempts to smuggle more than 800 kg of qat
Updated 05 August 2024
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Jazan border guards foil attempts to smuggle more than 800 kg of qat

Jazan border guards foil attempts to smuggle more than 800 kg of qat

RIYADH: Border guards in Jazan foiled attempts to smuggle more than 800 kilograms of qat into the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

In Al-Aridah governorate, security patrols intercepted 500 kg of qat while in Ad-Dair governorate 90 kg were seized. A citizen was also arrested in Ad-Dair for trying to smuggle 226 kg of qat hidden in the vehicle he was driving.

Al-Aridah and Ad-Dair are on the border between Saudi Arabia and Yemen, a major producer and consumer of qat. Qat leaves are usually chewed for their stimulant effect, which are less intense compared with cocaine or methamphetamine.

Security authorities called on citizens and residents to report any information related to drug smuggling or selling to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control by calling 911 for Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Regions, or 999 for the rest of the regions, or by emailing [email protected].


Saudi Arabia is now self-sufficient in fig production, says agriculture ministry

Saudi Arabia is now self-sufficient in fig production, says agriculture ministry
Updated 05 August 2024
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Saudi Arabia is now self-sufficient in fig production, says agriculture ministry

Saudi Arabia is now self-sufficient in fig production, says agriculture ministry
  • Jazan, Riyadh provinces are Kingdom’s top producers
  • Figs have several health benefits and highly nutritious

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has achieved self-sufficiency in fig production, with annual output exceeding 28,000 tonnes on 1,421 hectares of land across the country, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has announced.

In a statement posted on its website over the weekend, the MEWA said Jazan and Riyadh are the biggest producers with annual production in tonnes of 9,906 and 8,010, respectively.

Asir is third with 3,970, Makkah 1,635, Hail 1,033, Al-Jouf 874, Al-Baha 790, Qassim 737, Najran 645, Tabuk 348, Madinah 245, and the Northern Border 36.

Fig production season is from February to November, with the Madani, Turkish, Waziri, Kadota, and White King varieties the most popular, in addition to local ones.

Figs are known to have multiple health benefits, including helping to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, regulate blood pressure, strengthen bones, and improve hair and skin, according to the MEWA statement.

The ministry is working to develop the production, processing and marketing of figs through the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program across the country.

The government wants to raise awareness about the Kingdom’s diverse fruit options, and to support farmers by improving marketing and distribution.

Local farmer Bassam Al-Haboub, who has also joined the production initiative, planted 1,200 fig trees in two years.

He said he focuses on having high-quality soil and water, and cultivates a fig variety known for its abundant yield, firmness and transportability.

A graduate in agriculture, Al-Haboub has leveraged his expertise to market his produce locally.

He thanked the MEWA for organizing festivals that provide a platform for farmers to display their products and access valuable support services.

With SPA