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.

 


UN Internet Governance Forum concludes in Riyadh

UN Internet Governance Forum concludes in Riyadh
Updated 20 December 2024
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UN Internet Governance Forum concludes in Riyadh

UN Internet Governance Forum concludes in Riyadh
  • Event witnessed launch of Riyadh Declaration to help strengthen international partnerships in AI
  • Forum featured experts from 170 countries

RIYADH: The UN Internet Governance Forum concluded its 19th edition on Thursday at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh.

The forum’s organizers said that the global event had focused on internet governance policies and emerging digital challenges. It had achieved the highest attendance in the history of the forum, surpassing 11,000 participants.

The forum also witnessed the launch of the Riyadh Declaration, a document which aims at strengthening international partnerships in artificial intelligence and digital technologies to serve humanity.

The event featured experts and specialists in internet technology and policy from 170 countries, with more than 1,000 international speakers contributing to over 300 sessions and workshops, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It revolved around four main topics: innovation and risk in the digital space; development and sustainability; promoting human rights and inclusiveness; and improving the digital governance of the internet, the SPA added.


King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival concludes with record-breaking prize pool

King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival concludes with record-breaking prize pool
Updated 19 December 2024
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King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival concludes with record-breaking prize pool

King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival concludes with record-breaking prize pool
  • The 17-day event featured 1,032 falconers from nine countries, 3,322 birds and a total prize pool of $9.6 million

The 2024 King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, which featured a prize pool of more than SR36 million ($9.6 million), the largest in the history of the event, concluded on Thursday.

The festival, which began on Dec. 3 and was organized by the The Saudi Falcons Club at its headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, featured 1,032 falconers, of whom 160 came from outside the Kingdom. They represented nine countries — Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Syria, Italy and Ireland — and brought with them 3,322 birds. A youth section included 49 young falconers.

The festival culminated in two rounds of the King’s Sword, the toughest and most lucrative section of the Melwah competition, with total prize pools of SR925,000 for each round.

Barghash Al-Mansouri, who won the first round in the Shaheen and Hur categories, said his falcon SH13 had performed exceptionally well to clinch first place. He said the bird has great strength but can be affected by adverse wind conditions. On the day, however, conditions were favorable and it was able to maintain stability and perform at its best.

He added that he had expected Shama, a falcon owned by Fahd Al-Mansouri, to take the top spot but instead it finished second. He thanked the club for its exceptional efforts in organizing the festival and congratulated all the winners, noting that the competition grows stronger each year.

Talal Al-Shumaisi, CEO of the Saudi Falcons Club, thanked the Kingdom’s leaders for their support of falconry and its heritage, in particular Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is the club’s general supervisor. He also thanked Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, the chairman of the board of directors of the club, for his support.


Princess Nourah University launches ‘Itar’ exhibition to highlight student filmmaking projects

Princess Nourah University launches ‘Itar’ exhibition to highlight student filmmaking projects
Updated 19 December 2024
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Princess Nourah University launches ‘Itar’ exhibition to highlight student filmmaking projects

Princess Nourah University launches ‘Itar’ exhibition to highlight student filmmaking projects
  • The exhibition features seven short films, each with distinct themes drawn from the cultural identity of the Kingdom

RIYADH: Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, represented by the College of Design and Arts, has launched the “Itar Exhibition 2024” to feature the graduation projects of 26 students from the film production and animation program.

The exhibition, which is part of the Department of Film and Theater Arts’ graduation project course, features seven short films, each with distinct themes drawn from the cultural identity of the Kingdom.

The exhibition highlights the cognitive, technical, and creative skills developed by the graduates through their film projects, demonstrating their proficiency in applying creative and critical thinking methodologies.

The exhibition provides a platform for interaction and collaboration among graduates, university students, employers, industry professionals, researchers, partners, the business sector, and the broader community. It also prepares graduates to compete in the job market and venture into entrepreneurship.

Haya Al-Rashoud, head of the Department of Film and Theater Arts at PNU, said that the exhibition is part of the College of Design and Arts’ commitment to developing national talent. It aims to foster a supportive and inspiring environment for creativity, expertise, and specialized scientific skills, while aligning with the evolving demands of the labor market, particularly in the film industry.

The “Itar Exhibition 2024” at the College of Design and Arts reflects the objectives of PNU’s 2025 strategic plan, aiming to cultivate competitive talent and empower female students. It creates an educational environment that inspires creativity, enriches cultural and artistic expression, and promotes learning, research, and innovation. 

Additionally, it underscores the university’s commitment to advancing women’s leadership in driving development and progress.


Telling stories of Al-Ahsa through art 

Telling stories of Al-Ahsa through art 
Updated 19 December 2024
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Telling stories of Al-Ahsa through art 

Telling stories of Al-Ahsa through art 
  • Fatima Al-Hammadi uses fronds to showcase the history and heritage of her region through a natural element 

 

MAKKAH: In a small house shaded by palm trees in the heart of Al-Ahsa’s palm oasis, artist Fatima Al-Hammadi transforms fronds – often considered mere remnants of palm trees – into works of art.

Her creations tell the story of Al-Ahsa’s ancient heritage. Since childhood, Al-Hammadi viewed the surrounding palm trees from a unique perspective. 

They were not just a source of livelihood; they symbolized civilization itself. Motivated by this, she decided to breathe new life into the fronds, using her art to highlight the beauty of Saudi heritage both locally and internationally.

A graphic artist accredited by the Saudi Ministry of Education, Al-Hammadi told Arab News, “I have always been passionate about graphic art. It is a dream I have aspired to achieve on the global stage. 

“I have always wanted to become an internationally recognized graphic artist. Today, I am working hard to make that dream a reality, armed with my skills and my deep connection to the heritage of my homeland, Al-Ahsa.”

“Al-Ahsa, the famous palm oasis in the Eastern Province, inspired me to transform the land’s natural bounty into art. Palm fronds are the primary material I use in my work. I take them – once considered waste, destined to be burned – and transform them into art that reflects the story of Al-Ahsa’s civilization and heritage. My goal has always been to showcase the history and heritage of my region through this natural element. My work has been highly appreciated in Al-Ahsa and across the Kingdom,” she explained.

“During the various exhibitions and events I have participated in, I noticed the public’s interest and fascination with artwork that blends nature and creativity.” She attributes her choice of palm fronds to her inspiration from nature itself, which has earned her recognition among both art lovers and heritage enthusiasts.

Reflecting on the evolution of graphic art in the Kingdom, Al-Hammadi noted its remarkable growth and prosperity. 

“The fact that young men and women are showing increased interest in graphic arts signals the maturing taste of the Kingdom’s art scene. However, this sector requires greater support from art institutions,” she said, emphasizing the importance of artists’ awareness of their local culture and national heritage in fostering the growth of graphic art.

Underlining the need for more local and international art exhibitions and opportunities for artists to participate in local, Arab and international art fair, she said: “This kind of support is crucial for raising the profile of Saudi graphic art and enabling it to compete on the world stage.”

With her ambitious vision and the support of her community, Al-Hammadi looks forward to a bright future for graphic arts in the Kingdom, where creativity serves as a bridge between the ancient past and the present. 


Attempt to smuggle 180 kg of qat thwarted in Saudi Arabia’s Asir

Attempt to smuggle 180 kg of qat thwarted in Saudi Arabia’s Asir
Updated 19 December 2024
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Attempt to smuggle 180 kg of qat thwarted in Saudi Arabia’s Asir

Attempt to smuggle 180 kg of qat thwarted in Saudi Arabia’s Asir

ASIR: Saudi authorities in Al-Raboah, Asir, have foiled an attempt to smuggle 180 kg of qat. Legal procedures have been initiated and the confiscated drug handed over to the relevant authorities.

Meanwhile, the authorities have arrested a resident in Yanbu for attempting to sell methamphetamine (shabu). Legal action has been taken against him, and he has been referred to the Public Prosecution.

Elsewhere, land patrols of the Border Guard in Al-Dayer, Jazan, have apprehended six Ethiopians for attempting to smuggle 162 kg of qat. Preliminary legal procedures have taken place and the suspects, along with the seized drug, handed over to the relevant authorities.

Security authorities have urged citizens and residents to report any activities related to drug smuggling or trafficking. Informants can contact the authorities by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, and 999 in the rest of the Kingdom.