Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October

Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi will welcome back American group the Backstreet Boys on Oct. 23, less than 18 months after their previous concert there in May last year. (AN/File)

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Updated 08 August 2024

Arab News

August 07, 2024 19:30

Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October

After a presale on Thursday, tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday at noon; prices start at 295 dirhams
The concert comes less than 18 months after their previous concert at the venue, which was part of their DNA World Tour

Updated 08 August 2024

Arab News

August 07, 2024 19:30

BEIRUT: Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi will welcome back American group the Backstreet Boys on Oct. 23, less than 18 months after their previous concert there in May last year.
Tickets for the 2023 gig, which was part of their DNA World Tour, sold out within six hours, making it one of the fastest-selling arena shows in the UAE.
Emirati newspaper The National reported on Wednesday that Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean and Brian Littrell will perform but fellow member Kevin Richardson will be absent because of scheduling issues.
Presale tickets will be available on the Live Nation website on Thursday before general sales begin at noon on Friday. Prices start at 295 dirhams ($80).
In our review of last year’s DNA World Tour concert, Arab News described it as a polished show with high production values that was flawless from start to finish. We said the vocals were pitch perfect, the harmonies deep, strong and vibrant, and the dance moves smoother than butter. Band members also took plenty of time between songs to talk to the audience and among themselves, and the chemistry between them was clearly still strong.
At one point, Carter, who stole the show with his incredible solo showcases, especially on “Shape of My Heart,” stopped the show and said: “I have to say something. Honest to God, coming from me, Abu Dhabi is probably the most beautiful place I’ve been to in the entire world. We love it here. I think I’m going to buy a house here.”
In January the group, which formed in 1993 in Florida and found fame with debut album “Backstreet Boys” in 1996, were on fire when they performed in Riyadh, headlining the Diriyah E-Prix after-race concerts. They enthralled the crowd with their infectious energy, signature harmonies, and a set list packed with timeless tracks.

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Topics: Backstreet Boys Etihad Arena Abu Dhabi Kevin Richardson Nick Carter DNA World Tour

‘It was the darkest year of my life,’ Melissa Barrera says after Gaza support sparks backlash

Updated 58 sec ago

Arab News

November 27, 2024 10:37

‘It was the darkest year of my life,’ Melissa Barrera says after Gaza support sparks backlash

Updated 58 sec ago

Arab News

November 27, 2024 10:37

DUBAI: Mexican actress Melissa Barrera opened up about how she felt after facing backlash in Hollywood over her comments on the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Speaking to The Independent, Barrera said “it was the darkest and hardest year of my life, and I had to reevaluate everything. There were times when I felt like my life was over.”

The 34-year-old actress was fired from “Scream VII” after she took to social media to call for a ceasefire and criticised Israel’s response to the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas. As of Nov. 27, 2024, the death toll in Gaza has reached 44,200, according to Gaza’s health ministry.

“Gaza is currently being treated like a concentration camp,” she wrote in an Instagram story in October 2023. “This is genocide and ethnic cleansing.” In another post, she complained about the supposed bias in Western media reporting, saying: “Western media only shows the other side … why they do that, I will let you deduce for yourself. We don’t need more hate. No Islamophobia. No antisemitism.”

Spyglass, the studio behind the latest Scream films, dropped Barrera from the franchise in response. “We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech,” the company said in a statement.

Barrera says she then faced almost a year of difficulties in Hollywood.

“It was quiet for like 10 months,” Barrera told The Independent about her acting jobs. “I was still getting offers for small things here and there – I’m not going to lie and say there was nothing – but (the message) was, ‘Oh, she probably doesn’t have work, she’ll say yes to anything.'”

Instead, the actress spent much of 2024 promoting the films she made before the incident, including horror comedy “Abigail” and musical “Your Monster.”

The latter sees Barrera play a soft-spoken actress who finds love again when she meets a terrifying but charming monster that lives in her closet.

The “Your Monster” script came across Barrera’s desk soon after filming “Scream VI” in 2022.

“I kept getting horror scripts, and I wasn’t getting a lot of the really exciting parts I was auditioning for,” she told the newspaper of why she jumped at the role. “I would get (roles) that I wasn’t excited about, and I’ve never been a person that just wants to work for work’s sake. I give so much of myself to acting that if a part of me feels like it’s not worth it, I’m (going to) be miserable.”

Topics: Melissa Barrera Hollywood Gaza Palestine Israel

UK, Omani princes launch journey across historic Arabian route

Updated 26 November 2024

Arab News

November 26, 2024 17:59

UK, Omani princes launch journey across historic Arabian route

Camel trek first taken by British diplomat Bertram Thomas in 1928 to be retrodden by team of six travellers
Prince of Wales, crown prince of Oman sponsoring historic coastal journey

Updated 26 November 2024

Arab News

November 26, 2024 17:59

LONDON: A group of explorers, backed by royalty, is set to undertake a historic journey, retracing a route across the coast of Oman first trodden by a British diplomat almost a century ago.

The Jewel of Arabia expedition, supported by William, Prince of Wales and Omani Crown Prince Theyazin bin Haitham, will feature six travelers, led by Mark Evans, following in the footsteps of Bertram Thomas, who first made the journey over 42 days in 1928.

Thomas made the trek to document the area and local wildlife, and was congratulated on his achievement by King George V.

The new journey, featuring camels but also modern off-road vehicles, will “raise awareness among young people both in and outside of Oman of the value of Oman’s natural heritage and biodiversity as well as the environmental challenges the country and the wider world face,” The Telegraph reported.

It will also feature podcasts and radio interviews with local stations along the way, meetings with local children and an online tracker so people can view its progress in real time.

Prince William told the modern explorers at the Royal Geographical Society on Monday: “I wish I was able to join you, but will be following very closely.”

He added: “The expedition will walk in the footsteps of British explorer Bertram Thomas and take in the wonderful coastline of Oman.

“They will be able to take in the beauty of Oman, and also see the damage done by climate change.”

Prince William added: “The expedition will not only highlight Oman’s biodiversity and natural heritage, but also symbolize the enduring friendship between our two countries.”

The prince added to guests at the Royal Geographic Society that he would “try and make something happen” regarding a future visit to Oman, teasing: “We’re in the planning process.”

The trek will see daily starts around 5 a.m. local time, and will aim to cross 25-30 kilometers per day. The travelers will sleep under the night sky, surviving in the desert without tents.

Evans, 63, said: “The stars of the show will undoubtedly be the camels.”

He joked that the animals are now in a “camel boot camp” in Oman to prepare for the arduous trek.

Alongside Evans will be Nigel Harling, Ana-Maria Pavalache, Dhirka Al-Mawali, Ibrahim Al-Hasni and Amour Al-Wahibi, all of whom are experienced explorers.

Thomas’ original expedition came at a time when the region was considered one of the world’s most inhospitable, known as Rub Al-Khali, or the “empty quarter.”

He worked for the sultan of Oman, and became the first Westerner to make the journey along the coast, spending much of his spare time exploring the country, navigating harsh terrain and warring local tribes.

Upon completion, he received a congratulatory telegram from George V, and used the experience as the basis for a book, “Arabia Felix,” which contains a foreword by T.E. Lawrence.

Meanwhile, 2025 will also mark 225 years since the signing of a friendship treaty between Britain and Oman.

Topics: Oman Bertram Thomas Mark Evans Rub Al-Khali

Made with love — Saudi commission presents works by global artisans

Updated 26 November 2024

Nada Alturki

November 26, 2024 17:16

Made with love — Saudi commission presents works by global artisans

Northern Ireland, Japan and Mexico among countries represented in International Handicrafts Week
Through Banan and other initiatives, the Heritage Commission raises awareness about the importance of handicrafts as part of cultural heritage

Updated 26 November 2024

Nada Alturki

November 26, 2024 17:16

RIYADH: The second Saudi International Handicrafts Week — known as Banan — is offering a wealth of live music, interactive experiences and artisanal works from around the world in Riyadh this week.

Running until Nov. 29, the event is organized by the Saudi Heritage Commission and features artists and representatives from over 20 countries, exhibiting alongside the Kingdom’s own talent.

Katherine McDonald, director of Crafts Northern Ireland, told Arab News: “I think the craft of any country (paints) a picture about the people, the landscape, the culture … it’s an important part of the identity of a country. That's why it’s important that we can allow craft makers to flourish, to pass on skills, to train new craft makers, because they’re as important as the food, as the economy.”

The collective, exhibiting in Saudi Arabia for the first time, represents artisans in Northern Ireland whose work ranges from textiles and jewelry to ceramics and furniture. Items from 13 of them are on display at Banan.

“We try to have a range of work that's representative of what makers are doing in Northern Ireland,” McDonald said. “We have textiles made from local wool, ceramics ... there’s always something that allows an artist to express themselves and for people to find something they really like that suits their style.”

Award-winning contemporary silversmith Cara Murphy is largely inspired by the environment to create unique pieces such as bowls, clocks, and candle holders. She is the designer behind the past four Randox Grand National awards, often called the world’s greatest steeplechase.

Jakki Trainor crafts clay works that focus on the word “figment” to depict real or imaginative flora, fauna and folklore, while Joel Smyth creates eclectic pieces of jewelry inspired by European minimalist design, multifunctionality and interaction.

McDonald said: “Jewelry is always popular for gifting and for yourself. And we also have glass and some wooden articles as well. So, it’s a range of materials.

“This is what’s so interesting to see, what different countries and different artisans have done with the same materials. There’s such diversity. Everything is unique.”

In addition to the 500 artisans marketing and selling their work, the event features multiple interactive and immersive zones including the handicrafts arts village, a live craft performances pavilion, crafts exhibition and workshops pavilion, a platform for entrepreneurs and craft organizations, and a children’s activities pavilion.

Hailing from Hungary, woodworker Bela Zalai has been honing his craft for over 20 years. For his first visit to the Kingdom, he is exhibiting an array of his work including flutes, bowls, pots, jewelry and chairs.

Carving a flute at his booth, he told Arab News: “In Hungary, handicrafts is a very rich culture … it’s a very popular thing — pottery and leather work and a lot of things. In these times, everything is too modern and fast … handwork is very personal, unique and valuable.”

Zalai works as a zoologist, but since he started his handcrafting journey the day-job has taken second place: “Hand work is much more important for me than biology at the moment,” he said.

Through Banan and other initiatives, the Heritage Commission raises awareness about the importance of handicrafts as part of cultural heritage, ensuring they are preserved and passed on.

Saudi International Handicrafts Week is open to the public from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., except on Monday and Wednesday when hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Topics: Saudi Heritage Commission Saudi International Handicrafts Week (Banan) Crafts Northern Ireland

REVIEW: ‘Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster’ offers reanimated chaos in 4K

Updated 26 November 2024

James Denselow

November 26, 2024 16:00

REVIEW: ‘Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster’ offers reanimated chaos in 4K

Updated 26 November 2024

James Denselow

November 26, 2024 16:00

LONDON; The “Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster” has arrived, breathing new life into Capcom’s iconic open-world zombie classic.

Almost 20 years after the original’s release, this version strikes a fine balance between a remake and a remaster, modernizing visuals, controls and gameplay while retaining its chaotic charm. With 4K resolution, smoother frame rates and gameplay improvements, “Dead Rising’s” latest iteration has, in a sense, grown up with its audience — although “grown up” might not be the best description for a game where a cactus can be a weapon.

The remaster brings you back to Willamette, Colorado, where you play as the cocky, wise-cracking photojournalist Frank West. His mission? Survive a 72-hour real-time, in-game clock ticking down inside a mall overrun by zombies, with missions to complete, bosses to fight, and absurd items to wield.

The day-night cycle brings shifting challenges and horror-movie ambiance that change the feel of each hour. You’ll often find yourself toggling between planning missions and impulsively grabbing whatever is in sight to fend off the undead. The remaster’s refined graphics and 60fps frame rate make both these approaches more fluid, whether you’re grappling with zombies or sneaking a killer snapshot.

And yes, Frank’s camera skills still matter. In addition to navigating an endless crowd of brain-hungry zombies, the game rewards you for snapping high-quality photos, encouraging you to capture the grotesque and hilarious. This adds an amusing layer of strategy and humor to the game, which doesn’t take itself too seriously. The absurd world of Dead Rising still allows you to dress Frank up in a range of ridiculous costumes, turning him from a somber zombie slayer into a comical hero fighting against the cathedral of consumerism — the mall itself.

As you progress, Frank’s skills evolve, allowing you to transform him into a near-indestructible wrestler, body-slamming zombies and crowd-surfing his way to safety. Missions often involve rescuing NPCs and escorting them to safety, and a roster of larger-than-life “Psychopath” bosses keeps the action intense. Beneath the mindless zombie slaying lies a satirical critique of American consumerism that resonates more with time; the remaster’s updated look adds to the commentary, making the mall’s neon lights and cluttered shelves all the more biting.

Of course, not all issues have been exorcised in this remaster. Some glitches linger, like the odd lift button bug that can render what should be a deadly encounter into an easy escape. Plus, it’s a shame that Capcom didn’t implement a co-op mode — a feature that could have elevated the chaotic fun to new heights.

Ultimately, “Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster” is as humorous as it is brutal, blending laughs with thrilling tension. The game continues to draw players into Frank West’s absurdly dangerous world, now rendered in beautifully gruesome detail. It’s a fantastic journey back to a familiar, zombie-filled playground — ideal for longtime fans and newcomers alike who are ready to face the horde.

Topics: Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster

Princess Rajwa visits art gallery in Amman with Queen Rania

Updated 25 November 2024

Arab News

November 25, 2024 18:31

Princess Rajwa visits art gallery in Amman with Queen Rania

Visit marks another public engagement in Princess Rajwa’s calendar
Naqsh Collective was founded in 2009 by two sisters, Nisreen and Nermeen Abudail

Updated 25 November 2024

Arab News

November 25, 2024 18:31

DUBAI: Saudi-born Jordanian royal Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein visited Amman-based art gallery Naqsh Collective on her first joint engagement with her mother-in-law Queen Rania, on Sunday.

“Exquisite local designs, handcrafted with love. Had a lovely time with Rajwa at the Naqsh Collective workshop yesterday,” Queen Rania’s team posted on Instagram shortly after the visit.

The pair posted in front of an artwork titled “Wall Runner” at the gallery, which presents design works and artworks.

Naqsh Collective was founded in 2009 by two sisters, Nisreen and Nermeen Abudail. The gallery has participated in national and international events such as Milan Design Week, Amman Design Week, Design Days Dubai, and Saudi Design Week.

The visit marks another public engagement in Princess Rajwa’s calendar. Last week she attended a ceremony marking the inauguration of the first ordinary session of the 20th parliament in Amman, her second public appearance since the birth of her first child this summer.

The royal showed off an elegant black ensemble for the occasion, complete with an oversized belt by Dior and pumps by Chloe. The look was finished off with the Goji mini bag in black by Jill Sander.

Princess Rajwa was photographed alongside Queen Rania, who showed off a red look courtesy of Maison Valentino and Altuzarra.

Princess Rajwa made her first public appearance since the birth of Princess Iman bint Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II at a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match in October.

The royal welcomed her first child, Princess Iman, with Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah on Aug. 3.

Jordan’s King Abdullah posted a tribute to his granddaughter on social media to mark the occasion. Translated from Arabic, the post read: “I thank God for giving us our first granddaughter Iman bint Hussein. I congratulate beloved Hussein and Rajwa for their newborn.”

Princess Rajwa, who celebrated her 30th birthday in April, is the daughter of Saudi businessman Khalid bin Musaed bin Saif bin Abdulaziz Al-Saif, who died in January this year, and his wife, Azza bint Nayef Abdulaziz Ahmad Al-Sudairi.

Topics: Jordan Princess Rajwa Queen Rania Naqsh Collective

Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October

Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October

Backstreet Boys to headline Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah E-Prix closing concert

Backstreet Boys take their ‘DNA World Tour’ to Saudi Arabia

‘It was the darkest year of my life,’ Melissa Barrera says after Gaza support sparks backlash

‘It was the darkest year of my life,’ Melissa Barrera says after Gaza support sparks backlash

UK, Omani princes launch journey across historic Arabian route

UK, Omani princes launch journey across historic Arabian route

‘Early Women Explorers in Arabia’ exhibition on show in London

Men missing in Saudi’s Rub Al-Khali desert found safe, well by rescuers

Made with love — Saudi commission presents works by global artisans

Made with love — Saudi commission presents works by global artisans

Saudi Artisanal Co. showcases artisanry at Banan 2024 exhibition

‘Banan’ event weaves local, international heritage in Riyadh

REVIEW: ‘Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster’ offers reanimated chaos in 4K

REVIEW: ‘Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster’ offers reanimated chaos in 4K

Princess Rajwa visits art gallery in Amman with Queen Rania

Princess Rajwa visits art gallery in Amman with Queen Rania

Princess Rajwa attends parliament session in Jordan

Princess Rajwa makes first public appearance since giving birth

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Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October

Backstreet Boys returning to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi in October

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