Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador

Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally. (Supplied)
Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally. (Supplied)
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Updated 13 September 2024
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Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador

Saudi boy, 10, shines as summer ambassador
  • Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani considers it an honor and responsibility to represent nation’s tourism program

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia actor Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, 10, who has been an ambassador for the Saudi Summer Program 2024, has brought an intense passion and energy to the role.

With a career marked by appearances in commercials and TV series, Al-Qahtani’s journey from actor to ambassador highlights a deep connection to his cultural roots and commitment to promoting the country globally.

Al-Qahtani told Arab News: “I’ve always loved performing. I started by acting in ads for big brands like Infiniti Cars, Al-Rajhi Bank and Aramco. These opportunities allowed me to explore different facets of acting and build a solid foundation in the industry.”




Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Saudi actor

His experience includes campaigns for the ministries of health and environment, water and agriculture, as well as the Misk Foundation.

His acting career has been marked by outstanding performances in series including “Al-Deek Al-Azraq” and “Orim.”

Al-Qahtani’s upcoming film, “Shahd,” has also generated considerable excitement among his fans. “Acting is my real passion … Growing up, my culture deeply influenced the roles I chose. I feel fortunate to work on projects that resonate with my heritage and bring our stories to life.”

It’s a special chance to share the beauty and diversity of our country’s summer experiences with the world. I take this role very seriously and am dedicated to making the most of it.

Abdulaziz Al-Qahtani, Saudi actor

Transitioning to his role as the ambassador for the Saudi Summer Program, Al-Qahtani considers it an honor and responsibility.

“I’m thrilled … it’s a special chance to share the beauty and diversity of our country’s summer experiences with the world. I take this role very seriously and am dedicated to making the most of it,” he said.

As part of his duties, Al-Qahtani has been touring Saudi Arabia, exploring various summer destinations and participating in local events.

Al-Qahtani said: “Every place I visit has its own unique charm. Boulevard City in Riyadh is incredibly dynamic, while Jeddah Corniche offers a beautiful blend of sea and city. Abha, where I grew up, holds a special place in my heart, and I’m always excited to share its beauty with others.”

One of the standout moments of his tour was attending the King Cup final in Jeddah. “It was a significant event, and representing the summer program there was a source of immense pride for me. It felt like a perfect blend of sports and cultural celebration.”

A particularly memorable experience for him was meeting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb in Asir. The meeting offered Al-Qahtani insights into the ongoing efforts to boost the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

“Meeting the minister was an invaluable experience,” he said. “I learned a lot about the strategies and initiatives aimed at promoting tourism in Saudi Arabia. It was inspiring to see the commitment and vision behind these efforts.”

During the interaction, Al-Qahtani held a kite adorned with the program’s logo and Al-Khateeb drew a picture symbolizing summer on it. “(It) was a special moment for me. It felt like a meaningful connection to the program and underscored the collaborative spirit of this initiative.”

Looking ahead, Al-Qahtani is enthusiastic about continuing his acting career while remaining committed to his ambassadorial role.

“I’m excited to keep working as an actor and take on new challenges,” he added. “I’m also dedicated to promoting Saudi Arabia’s cultural and artistic scene. Football is another passion of mine, and I hope to explore opportunities in that area as well.”

The four-month Saudi Summer Program runs until the end of September and includes Asir, Baha, Taif, Jeddah, Riyadh, the Red Sea and AlUla. There have been hundreds of events offered with more than 100 partners.

 


Online registration for itikaf at Two Holy Mosques begins

Worshippers pray at the Grand Mosque in Makkah. (@AlharamainSA)
Worshippers pray at the Grand Mosque in Makkah. (@AlharamainSA)
Updated 59 min 34 sec ago
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Online registration for itikaf at Two Holy Mosques begins

Worshippers pray at the Grand Mosque in Makkah. (@AlharamainSA)
  • Itikaf is the act of remaining in seclusion at a mosque for the last 10 days of Ramadan
  • An applicant must be at least 18 years old and a citizen of the Kingdom, or hold valid residency status

RIYADH: Authorities are now accepting online applications for itikaf at the Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque.

Itikaf is the act of remaining in seclusion at a mosque for the last 10 days of Ramadan. While doing so, individuals devote themselves to the worship of God during what Muslims consider to be the best 10 nights of the year.

The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque urged those who wish to perform the ritual to choose a mosque, submit an application, watch an awareness video to familiarize themselves with the service, and review the conditions that must be fulfilled during the period of seclusion, which runs from Ramadan 20 until the end of the Isha prayer on the night before Eid Al-Fitr.

An applicant must be at least 18 years old and a citizen of the Kingdom, or hold valid residency status. Itikaf permits are free and registration requests can be submitted at eserv.wmn.gov.sa.


US-Saudi ties celebrated at 249th Independence Day event in Jeddah

US-Saudi ties celebrated at 249th Independence Day event in Jeddah
Updated 05 March 2025
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US-Saudi ties celebrated at 249th Independence Day event in Jeddah

US-Saudi ties celebrated at 249th Independence Day event in Jeddah

JEDDAH: The US Consulate General in Jeddah marked the 249th US Independence Day with its annual celebration, themed “Celebrating 80 Years of the Vision of President Roosevelt and King Abdulaziz: Shaping the Future Together.”

The event highlighted the long-standing US-Saudi partnership, focusing on business, innovation, and future collaboration.

Charge d’Affaires ad interim to Saudi Arabia Alison Dilworth and Consul General Ali Lejlic welcomed Jeddah Gov. Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi as the guest of honor.

It was attended by Fareed Al-Shehri, director general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs branch in Makkah region, members of the diplomatic corps, and distinguished guests from various regions of the Kingdom.

Dilworth emphasized that the historic 1945 meeting between President Roosevelt and King Abdulaziz established a deep and lasting friendship that continues to strengthen US-Saudi relations today.

The event featured an American Business Expo, showcasing US companies’ contributions to Saudi Arabia’s economic development, particularly in healthcare and infrastructure, aligned with Vision 2030.


Holy Qur’an Museum opens in Makkah

Holy Qur’an Museum opens in Makkah
Updated 05 March 2025
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Holy Qur’an Museum opens in Makkah

Holy Qur’an Museum opens in Makkah
  • Hira project provides immersive experience of Islamic history, Qur’anic heritage

MAKKAH: Makkah Deputy Gov. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz recently inaugurated the Holy Qur’an Museum in Makkah’s Hira Cultural District.

Developed under the supervision of and with support from the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, the museum highlights the Qur’an as the primary source of guidance for Muslims and is designed to enrich the religious and cultural experience for both locals and visitors.

It is home to rare manuscripts, historical copies of the Qur’an and interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the journey of Qur’anic transcription and its preservation through history, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Spanning about 67,000 sq. meters, the Hira Cultural District is a focal point for those keen to experience the spirit and history of Makkah. Centered on Mount Hira, where the first revelation descended, it includes various facilities designed to enhance the religious and educational experience.

Among them is the Revelation Exhibition, which offers an interactive portrayal of the descent of revelation, and another that allows visitors to ascend to Hira Cave which was the scene of the revelation.

Among the artifacts on display are a photographed copy of the Qur’an manuscript of Uthman bin Affan and several ancient stone inscriptions of Qur’anic verses.

The project also incorporates the Saudi Coffee Museum, the Cultural Library and Hira Park.

The Holy Qur’an Museum will remain open throughout Ramadan.


Ithra earns diamond certification for its green credentials

Ithra earns diamond certification for its green credentials
Updated 05 March 2025
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Ithra earns diamond certification for its green credentials

Ithra earns diamond certification for its green credentials
  • Cultural center first in class to achieve Mostadam’s highest commendation for sustainability
  • Award reinforces ‘our dedication to leading by example,’ technical manager says

DHAHRAN: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture was recently awarded the highest level of certification from the government’s green building rating system, Mostadam.

Ithra, as it is more commonly known, is the first project in the Kingdom to achieve the top level of certification in the operations and existing buildings category.

Abdullah Al-Buqami, technical services manager at Ithra, said: “This recognition reflects our commitment to making Ithra a model of sustainability. We believe that innovation in design and environmental practices can truly shape the future.

“Being the only project receiving a certification in this category in Saudi Arabia is a major milestone in our sustainability journey, reinforcing our dedication to leading by example and inspiring others to elevate sustainability standards across the Kingdom.”

The certification is awarded to existing projects that meet the highest environmental standards and reflect local values. Seen as a benchmark for environmental and social impact, the scheme promotes sustainable practices by enhancing energy and water efficiency, improving environmental performance, optimizing resource management and reducing carbon footprint.

Developed by the Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing, the Mostadam program is tailored to the local climate and environmental conditions. It promotes sustainability in building practices and aims to enhance the efficiency of energy, water and resource usage, while fostering economic growth and job creation. It also aligns with the wider goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Projects can achieve one of five ratings, from green to diamond, based on their adherence to the sustainability criteria.


Historic mosque in Northern Borders undergoes restoration

Historic mosque in Northern Borders undergoes restoration
Updated 05 March 2025
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Historic mosque in Northern Borders undergoes restoration

Historic mosque in Northern Borders undergoes restoration

RIYADH: The historic Al-Duwaid mosque in the Northern Borders region is among the places of worship undergoing restoration as part of a national project.

The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques focuses on preserving the building’s original Najdi architectural style, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The mosque is historically significant because of its location in Al-Duwaid village, which was a meeting point for traders from Najd and Iraq about 60 years ago.

The village is about 20 km from Rafha governorate and is the site of the remains of Souq Al-Mushahada, which still exist today.

The restoration will expand the area of the mosque from 137 sq. meters to 156 sq. meters, using high-quality materials and built according to traditional standards, setting it apart from modern structures.

After prayers at the site were suspended in years past, the SPA reported that the refurbished mosque will be able to accommodate 54 worshippers.

Al-Duwaid mosque was built 60 years ago using mud construction techniques and natural materials, renowned for their adaptation to the local environment and the hot desert climate.

The project will preserve techniques such as small square openings, strategically placed on the southern side to face the sunlight. These openings form a continuous strip along the mosque’s walls, allowing sunlight in while reducing the intake of cold air.

The mosque’s design features a low ceiling to retain warmth during the winter.

The crown prince’s project aims to balance traditional and modern construction standards to ensure the sustainability of historic mosques, according to the SPA.

Saudi companies and engineers specializing in heritage restoration are leading the work.

Phase two of the crown prince’s project follows the successful completion of phase one in 2018, in which 30 mosques were restored in 10 regions of the Kingdom.