National Day events to explore Saudi heritage, civilization

The GAC has organized a wide range of activities in the Kingdom to celebrate the 88th Saudi National Day. (AN photo)
Updated 20 September 2018
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National Day events to explore Saudi heritage, civilization

  • General Authority for Culture (GAC) organizing folk festivals, music concerts, arts exhibitions, during the Kingdom's 88th National Day celebrations

JEDDAH: Poets, authors, artists and folk musicians are gearing up for a host of cultural events organized by the General Authority for Culture (GAC) to mark celebration of the 88th Saudi National Day around the Kingdom.

These activities, in which citizens and residents participate, include folk festivals, poetry evenings, music concerts, arts shows, film events, and interactive activities.

GAC has organized the “Adwaa wa Atyaf” (lights and spectra) event in Riyadh, which includes a range of activities such as falling green balloons, 3D visual shows, horse shows, sand painting shows, and many others.

The Culture Authority celebrates aviation in Riyadh by playing live national music for the passengers. It has also organized an arts exhibition in Riyadh and a pavilion for cultural heritage.

Between Sep. 19 and 27 a variety of cultural events will run in the provinces of Al-Kharj, Al-Majma’ah, Al-Aflaj, and Thadig, including theatrical performances, poetry evenings, poetry recital competitions, children-only events, women-only events, events for the Ensan Organization for orphans, and cultural seminars.

In Jeddah, GAC has organized the “Naghmet Watan,” a traditional Saudi music event, on Sep. 22. It aims to explore the evolution of the Saudi folklore as well as the Kingdom’s civilization and its heritage, cultural and artistic development through folk music concerts performed by emerging young singers.

In Tabuk, cultural events will take place between Sep. 23 and 25. The program includes a poetry evening, a folk night, and a contest for the best poem, picture, tweet, and article.

The “Lilwatan Maw’ed” (the day of the homeland) event will be held in Al-Ahsa between Sep. 23 and 27. It includes a performance of the Saudi traditional Ardha dance, cultural seminars, and a show about the founder of Saudi Arabia, the late King Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

GAC has organized the “Ya Dar Nestahlak” (we deserve our homeland) event to be held in Buraidah on Sep. 24. This event includes performances by a folk arts band, a photography exhibition, theatrical performances, poetry evenings, and cultural seminars.

In Taif on Sep. 25, the Omsiyat Watan or Saudi evening event will be held, accompanied by a lecture about Taif, an art exhibition, and live poetry recitals.

The Laylat Aflam or movie night event is to be held in Jizan. It will feature the national film “Joud,” which discusses the status of the Kingdom in the Islamic world as well as its cultural and heritage status.

GAC has organized the “Qalo Aan Al-Watan” (they said about Saudi) event in Najran for poets and authors. The event also features a documentary film.

In Al-Jawf, the “Ihtifaliyat Watan” to be held between Sep. 23 and 25 will include poetry and writing competition as well as interactive activities for children.


Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faith 

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Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faith 

  • Hira Cultural District has books, gifts and special cuisine
  • ‘Revelation Exhibition’ focuses on messages to prophets 

MAKKAH: As winter arrives, the Hira Cultural District in Makkah, a landmark destination combining history, knowledge and services for tourists, has emerged as a hub for residents and visitors seeking cultural and recreational experiences. 

At the heart of the district lies the “Revelation Exhibition,” which vividly narrates the story of divine messages to the prophets. It features a section focused on the life of Prophet Muhammad and the significance of Hira Mountain. 

Using cutting-edge audiovisual technology, the exhibition is an immersive and enriching journey through Islamic history, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

The district’s cultural library offers a treasure trove of information on the history of Makkah and Madinah, the life of the prophet, and the legacy of Hira Mountain and its surrounding areas.

This knowledge can be explored through books, scientific references, and interactive displays. 

Beyond its historical and educational appeal, the cultural district constitutes a vibrant destination for leisure and commerce.

Restaurants and cafes serve a mix of local dishes inspired by Makkah’s heritage alongside international cuisine, while shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs reflecting the district's identity. 

The Saudi Coffee Museum adds a distinctive flavor to the experience. Here guests can savor traditional Saudi coffee while learning about its regional variations and preparation methods. 

For those seeking adventure, the district provides access to the Cave of Hira via a specially paved pathway, allowing visitors to connect with the site’s spiritual and historical significance. 

A visitors’ center provides comprehensive information on the district’s features, services and cultural offerings.


Saudi attorney general holds talks with Turkish counterpart in Makkah

Updated 1 min 8 sec ago
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Saudi attorney general holds talks with Turkish counterpart in Makkah

MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s attorney general, Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib, praised the strong relationship between the Kingdom and Turkiye as he welcomed a delegation led by his Turkish counterpart, Muhsin Senturk, to Makkah on Thursday.

The officials discussed legal collaborations between their nations and affirmed their desire to enhance judicial cooperation to serve common interests, the Saudi Press Agency reported.


Indulge in the magical wizarding World of Harry Potter at Riyadh Season

Updated 5 min 54 sec ago
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Indulge in the magical wizarding World of Harry Potter at Riyadh Season

  • The pop-up experience offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles

RIYADH: Harry Potter: A Riyadh Season Adventure is one of the many enthralling and enchanting experiences on offer at Riyadh Season this year.

The pop-up experience, brought to life by Warner Bros., offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles.

Set in the vibrant Boulevard City, the area is designed to showcase some of the most iconic locations from the beloved film series, such as Hogwarts and others.

Interactive technology plays a significant role in the experience. Guests can take part in a Great Hall Sorting Experience, where they find out which Hogwarts house they belong to, and engage in Quidditch activities, as well as practice their Quaffle skills on the pitch.

There is also a zone where visitors can try wands and cast magical words they learned from the film series, like “Expecto Patronum.”

For those looking to take a piece of the magic home, the Wizarding World Shops offer exclusive merchandise, ranging from wands to house scarves, and the Three Broomsticks Food Hall offers refreshing drinks, cupcakes and other desserts.

Costumes are a big part of the fun experience, and there is a dedicated area for shopping, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect outfit to enhance their visit.

Maram Al-Ruwaili, a passionate fan dressed as a Slytherin, shared her excitement: “I’ve been a Potterhead since 2003. Now at 31, I still consider myself a big fan. I’ve tried one Harry Potter experience before, but not in Saudi Arabia.

“This time, sitting in the Great Hall, surrounded by sound effects from the films, made it feel like we were true Hogwarts students. The atmosphere, especially with the Dementors and Christmas sounds, was magical.”

The event has attracted a diverse crowd, including international visitors.

Nanditha Krishnakumar, an enthusiastic attendee from India, expressed her love for the experience: “I’ve adored Harry Potter since childhood, and this is truly amazing. It feels so lifelike and brings my dreams to life. I love Slytherin; it might seem like an evil house, but it’s one of my favorites. I can’t wait to see what else is in store.”

Aisleen de Asis, a nurse who has lived in Saudi Arabia for almost a decade, shared her perspective: “Harry Potter is a significant part of my childhood. I heard about this experience from friends and colleagues who enjoyed it, and I had to check it out myself. Being here brings back so many nostalgic memories.”

The Harry Potter experience at Riyadh Season also celebrates community and shared passion.

Fans from various backgrounds are coming together to relive the magic of their childhood, creating connections through their love for the series.

The excitement is palpable, as visitors share their stories, dress up as their favorite characters, and take part in the interactive activities that bring the magic of the books and films to life.

Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the series, the magical experience is not to be missed.


Misk Foundation celebrates NGO graduates

Updated 25 min 50 sec ago
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Misk Foundation celebrates NGO graduates

RIYADH: The Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, also known as Misk, celebrated the graduation of the fourth cohort of the Misk Initiatives Incubator and Impact Accelerator programs at a ceremony held recently at Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City in Riyadh.

Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Al-Swaha and Misk Foundation CEO Badr Al-Badr, along with representatives of government agencies, NGOs and donors, attended the ceremony.

During the event, 11 youth initiatives were transformed into nonprofit organizations with the support of the Misk Initiatives Incubator program. Four NGOs were empowered through the Impact Accelerator program, contributing to achieving the objectives of the nonprofit sector and enhancing the role of young people in development.

Fifteen NGOs took part in the two programs, benefiting 177 people. They were provided with more than 2,000 hours of mentorship and financial grants exceeding SR7 million ($1.86 million) to support the implementation of projects serving young people. The ceremony also featured inspiring success stories, highlighting future projects aimed at amplifying social impact.
 


Saudi defense minister and Lebanese army chief review military and defense relations

Updated 26 December 2024
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Saudi defense minister and Lebanese army chief review military and defense relations

  • Prince Khalid bin Salman and Gen. Joseph Aoun discuss latest developments in Lebanon and how the Kingdom can support efforts to protect the security and stability of the country

RIYADH: Prince Khalid bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s minister of defense held talks with Gen. Joseph Aoun, commander of the Lebanese army, in Riyadh on Thursday.

They reviewed military and defense relations between their countries and discussed the latest developments in Lebanon, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Before setting off for the Kingdom, Aoun said the talks would focus on ways to enhance cooperation between the Saudi and Lebanese armed forces, and ways in which the Kingdom can support efforts to protect the security and stability of Lebanon.

Prince Yazid bin Mohammed, an advisor to the Saudi foreign minister on Lebanese affairs, and Hisham bin Abdulaziz bin Saif, director general of the defense minister’s office also attended the meeting, as did Gen. Imad Khreish, director of the Lebanese army commander’s office.