Fifteen missions from abroad, including teams from France, Italy, the United States, Britain, Germany, Japan and Belgium, are cooperating with the General Authority for Tourism and Antiquities to explore 15 projects at historic and archaeological sites in different regions of Saudi Arabia.
The archaeological survey began in the Kingdom 40 years ago with the implementation of five-year plans carried out by Saudi missions in cooperation with foreign missions. Through the missions, many archaeological sites were demarcated and recorded and some sites were chosen for further exploration.
Considering the diversity of various time periods, comprehensive excavations were taken up to cover various ages — from the prehistoric era to the advent of Islamic civilization.
The launch of archaeological studies in the Kingdom, in addition to field surveys and archaeological excavations taken up in all the regions, helped in collecting a tremendous amount of information and evidence covering periods stretching from prehistoric times to the late Islamic era.
Archaeological discoveries include artifacts from ancient cities, such as housing units, architectural buildings, castles, forts and towers. Other discoveries include ponds and dams, canals and wells, pottery, tools made of steatite, glass items of different colors and shapes, metal coins and ornaments, weapons made of minerals, and many rock drawings and inscriptions in Nabataean and Southern Mosnad, as well as other scripts.
Daifallah Ettalhi, head of Tourism and Archaeology at the University of Hail and the President of the Saudi side in the Saudi-French Mission at the site of Madain Saleh, said: “The Arabian Peninsula is the cradle of ancient civilizations, but many aspects of its great history are still unexplored. The Authority’s work in this field is to direct archaeological detection toward a deeper understanding of the history of Arab and Islamic nations, as well as human history in general.”
According to Ettalhi, the mission has found many artifacts in Madain Saleh, notably currencies dating back to the reign of Al-Harith, the fourth King of the Nabateans who ruled during the period 9 BC to 40 AD.
Abdul Aziz Gazan, the chairman of the Saudi Association for Archaeological Studies and the Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs of the Faculty of Tourism and Antiquities, said archaeological fieldwork in the Kingdom had turned more active than it was in the past.
“There are many foreign missions operating in Saudi Arabia in cooperation with the Saudi Mission, and this is a good thing,” he said.
However, there is a need to enhance field work by increasing missions operating at archaeological sites because archaeological work is a national act, the first goal of which is to rebuild and understand the history of the country since ancient times, he said.
Foreign teams to study 15 Saudi archaeological sites
Foreign teams to study 15 Saudi archaeological sites
Sisterhood club at full throttle on the road to freedom
- For many club members, motorcycles are not only a mode of transport, but also represent independence and the breaking of barriers
RIYADH: Young Saudi women are discovering a new freedom riding motorcycles on the streets of Riyadh, challenging stereotypes and fostering an empowering community.
The Sisterhood Motorcycle Club, with its all-female membership, is at the forefront of this trend.
Founded in 2022 by Capt. Saud Albarak and Roaa Talal Abualsaud, the club was born from a simple idea: to create a safe, inclusive space for women in Saudi Arabia to explore their passion for motorcycles.
“We wanted to break stereotypes and build a strong community that supports freedom, confidence, and sisterhood on and off the road,” Abdulsaud said.
This mission resonates deeply with women who have long felt restricted by societal norms and expectations, she added.
For many club members, motorcycles are not only a mode of transport, but also represent independence and the breaking of barriers.
Joining the club is an opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a lifestyle that celebrates adventure and camaraderie. The club seeks to encourage women to embrace their passions, while providing a supportive network for those who seek to share this journey.
Abualsaud, a dentist and proud biker, explained her motivation for co-founding Sisterhood. “I wanted to create a space where women could feel both powerful and supported,” she said.
“As someone who always seeks adventure, riding became my way of feeling free and present. Building and leading this club wasn’t just about motorcycles — it was about making a statement that women can be bold, united, and unstoppable.”
Sisterhood membership is open to all women, regardless of their experience with motorcycles.
“Owning a bike is not required to join. We welcome women at all levels, whether you’re an experienced rider, someone considering getting a license, or simply curious about the community,” Abdulsaud said.
This inclusive approach makes it easier for women to join without feeling intimidated, fostering a sense of belonging.
“I’ve always been passionate about adventurous hobbies. I ride horses and have loved ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) since childhood. So, when women were allowed to ride motorcycles, I jumped at the opportunity,” said club member Maisa Alhugaily.
“What drew me specifically to Sisterhood Club was the sense of community and empowerment it offers. I wanted to be part of a group that supports and uplifts women, while exploring something exciting and different.”
The club provides mentorship, safety training, and introductory riding experiences to ensure that new members can embark on their journeys with confidence.
“What matters most is the spirit of adventure and respect for the community,” Abdulsaud said. This commitment to safety and education helps demystify the world of motorcycles, making it accessible to everyone.
The importance of such clubs for Saudi women cannot be overstated, she believes.
“These clubs give Saudi women visibility, voice, and validation in spaces traditionally dominated by men. Riding a motorcycle in Saudi Arabia is more than a hobby — it’s a symbol of choice, strength, and movement.”
Sisterhood empowers women by offering them opportunities to lead, connect, travel, and inspire each other.
This empowerment is crucial in a society where women are often expected to conform to traditional roles. The presence of female riders challenges stereotypes and encourages other women to explore their interests without feeling limited by societal expectations.
“It also helps normalize the presence of female riders in public, creating a ripple effect for future generations of girls to dream big without limitations,” Abdulsaud says.
Currently, Sisterhood organizes over 40 rides and has 260 active members from cities across Saudi Arabia. The community is steadily growing, with regular collaborations with riders from other Gulf countries.
Abdulsaud said: “Sisterhood is not just a local club — it’s part of a larger movement.” This expansion reflects the increasing interest among women in pursuing activities that defy traditional gender roles.
In addition to riding, the club engages in various events and interests that foster camaraderie and personal growth.
“We participate in local and regional motorcycle events, organize safety awareness workshops, community outreach rides, and even lifestyle gatherings like motorcycle fashion events, fitness classes, and off-road trips,” Abdulsaud said.
The wide range of activities encourages a lifestyle filled with empowerment, connection, and fun.
Through the Sisterhood Motorcycle Club, Saudi women are not only discovering a passion for riding, but also building a supportive network that champions their dreams and aspirations. The club embodies a spirit of unity and strength, allowing women to pursue their passions unapologetically.
“We’re telling them, you have a place among us,” Abdulsaud said.
The Sisterhood Motorcycle Club is more than just a group of women who ride; it is a movement that signifies freedom, empowerment, and sisterhood. As these women continue to break barriers and redefine their roles in society, they are paving the way for future generations to ride boldly into their own destinies.
Saudi interior minister meets outgoing UK ambassador in Riyadh
- Neil Crompton will be succeeded by Stephen Hitchen
- Crompton described Saudi Arabia as a ‘key, indispensable partner’
LONDON: Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif met Neil Crompton, the outgoing UK ambassador to Riyadh, in his office on Sunday.
Crompton bid farewell to Prince Abdulaziz as his tenure as ambassador ended. Prince Abdulaziz thanked Crompton for his service in the Kingdom and wished him success.
Crompton will be succeeded by Stephen Hitchen.
In a previous interview with Arab News, Crompton described Saudi Arabia as a “key, indispensable partner” to the UK.
“We have a shared history, and part of our shared history is recognition that Saudi Arabia is a key diplomatic partner, not just in the Arab world, but in the Islamic world. I think it has a neutral ability to bridge gaps both between east and west, and north and south,” Crompton said.
Saudi Crown Prince holds talks with GCC, French and Italian leaders amid regional tensions
- Leaders affirmed unity and solidarity of GCC member states in light of current tensions
- Crown Prince and French president, Italian PM discuss continued Israeli attacks on Iran as well as the targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities by the US
RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held a series of phone calls on Sunday with the leaders of several Gulf Cooperation Council countries to discuss the escalating situation in the region following recent attacks on Iran, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Prince Mohammed spoke separately with King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa of Bahrain, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman, Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar and Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of Kuwait.
He also received a phone call from UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.
The discussions focused on the latest regional developments, including continued Israeli attacks on Iran and the targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities by the US earlier on Sunday.
The leaders affirmed the unity and solidarity of GCC member states in light of the current tensions and stressed the importance of collective efforts to exercise restraint, avoid further escalation, and pursue diplomatic solutions to the crisis, SPA added.
The crown prince also received a phone call on Sunday from French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni.
They discussed developments in the region and the repercussions of the escalation of tensions in the region following the US strikes.
Prince Mohammed affirmed to Macron and Meloni the Kingdom’s position on the need to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and resolve all disputes through diplomatic means.
Alqan Heritage Village: A window into Saudi Arabia’s past
JEDDAH: Near Haql city, located northwest of Tabuk, sits Alqan Heritage Village — one of Saudi Arabia’s most scenic and historic heritage sites. Also known as “The Snow City,” it is a popular destination during winter when the whole area can become covered in snow.
During warmer months, Alqan offers visitors a chance to explore the village’s traditional homes, which are built on raised areas using local sandstone. These structures reflect the region’s unique architectural style and building techniques, according to the Saudi Press Agency report.
The village is located about 170 km from Tabuk city in northern Saudi Arabia, and is surrounded by a stunning landscape of tall mountains and red dunes.
Alqan was built in 1934 by order of King Abdulaziz. It includes 20 houses made from red stone and mud, with palm trunks and fronds used for the roofs. These buildings were once used by the region’s first government employees and public offices.
Today, the village is officially listed in the National Register of Architectural Heritage. The Heritage Commission continues its efforts to document, protect and digitize such historic sites across the Kingdom.
Near the village is the Alqan customs checkpoint, built in 1965. The area is also home to several historical wells that were used to provide water to local communities. Among them is the well of “Abu Al-Alq,” believed to have inspired the village’s name. Others say the name comes from small particles that sometimes appear in the well water.
Perched on a rocky hill, the village was carefully planned by early settlers, who chose the location based on natural features like wind direction, rainfall and privacy. Their thoughtful urban planning shows how well they understood the desert environment.
Alqan is best known for its snowfall, a rare feature in most of Saudi Arabia. Heavy snowstorms were recorded in 1945 and again in 1965, with snow lasting for several days. These events helped shape Alqan’s reputation as a winter retreat.
Saudi art returns to Concentrico festival in Spain
- The installation will be open to the public at Plaza de la Diversidad in Logrono until June 24
DHAHRAN: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, known as Ithra, returns with more Saudi-inspired art for the second year at the Concentrico International Festival of Architecture and Design in Spain.
The installation will be open to the public at Plaza de la Diversidad in Logrono until June 24.
This year, Ithra presents “Rooted in Warmth” by Saudi multimedia artist Raghad Al-Ahmed, alongside a sensory experience, “Summer Blessings,” by Saudi visual narrative studio Nclass.
Visitors are encouraged to interact with and even climb the structure to experience the connection between agriculture and community ties to nature.
The installation was created with more than 50 women artisans from Jouf, northern Saudi Arabia, inspired by Al-Ahmed’s roots in the Hejazi community, particularly Taif, where gatherings under tree shade are part of rural life.
The sensory experience “Summer Blessings” complements “Rooted in Warmth” by showcasing the diversity of local fruits and herbs.
Noura Al-Zamil, head of programs at Ithra, said: “We are proud to present Raghad Al-Ahmed’s work at Concentrico. Showcasing it at a leading European design festival reflects Ithra’s ongoing efforts to support creative expression.
“This initiative provides a platform for Saudi artists and artisans to share their work globally, enriching the cultural landscape. ‘Rooted in Warmth,’ combining personal and national identity with contemporary art, will encourage cross-cultural dialogue at the festival,” she added.
After its debut in Spain, “Rooted in Warmth” will be exhibited in Saudi Arabia as part of Tanween 2025 later this year.
Tanween, Ithra’s annual design event, highlights global design excellence and promotes creative innovation.
