RIYADH: Princess Fahda bint Falah Al-Hathleen, the wife of King Salman, will preside over the awards ceremony for the female winners of the 26th edition of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Award for Memorization, Recitation and Interpretation of the Holy Qur’an, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event, set to take place on Sunday, will see Princess Fahda crown the top three winners across six categories of the competition.

Organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, the competition ran from Feb. 24-28 and involved 125 male and female participants.

With a prize pool of SR7 million ($1.86 million), the annual competition highlights the leadership’s dedication to promoting the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and encouraging youth to engage with its values, the SPA added.

JEDDAH: Streets and public spaces across Saudi Arabia have been adorned with festive decorations, including illuminating crescents and lanterns, symbolizing the joy and anticipation that fills the air as citizens and residents mark the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan.

Throughout the Kingdom, residents are embracing traditional Ramadan customs by decorating their homes with welcoming messages and cheerful ornaments, exchanging heartfelt greetings and organizing family gatherings.

These traditions play a vital role in strengthening bonds of kinship and fostering a strong sense of community during this sacred time.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, traditional markets and public squares in historic Jeddah have become vibrant hubs as Ramadan begins, drawing locals, residents and tourists alike to Al-Balad district for seasonal shopping.

Shoppers are flocking to the bustling streets of old Jeddah, where merchants offer everything needed for Ramadan preparations, from essential food items for traditional dishes and sweets to a variety of coffee and spices.

The shops selling Ramadan lanterns and decorative lights are particularly busy as families prepare to adorn their homes for the holy month, continuing cherished social traditions in Jeddah. Stores are also stocked with kitchenware, serving dishes and hospitality items to meet seasonal demands.

Merchants are providing a wide range of products at competitive prices, with traditional pottery items remaining especially popular among elderly shoppers who appreciate these cultural treasures.

The Ministry of Culture is also hosting Ramadan Season in cities nationwide. The initiative features cultural and community events highlighting Ramadan’s heritage and Saudi traditions.

Under the slogan “Our Nights Have Returned,” the ministry has decorated roads and public spaces with lights and installations. Key locations in Riyadh and Jeddah, including Al-Ghadeer Walkway, Olaya Street and the Jeddah Corniche, will be illuminated during the holy month.

The Jeddah Historic district will host events, including a historical houses area with restaurants and cafes offering iftar and sahoor experiences. “Balad Stalls” will provide a food destination with stalls, trucks and seating.

The ministry is celebrating Saudi Ramadan traditions through a cultural experience combining entertainment and education, reinforcing cultural awareness and social values.

In parallel, the Ministry of Commerce has stepped up its oversight in preparation for Ramadan, conducting more than 19,000 inspection visits throughout the Makkah region.

These regulatory efforts ensure that commercial establishments, particularly those selling food, consumer goods and clothing, are adhering to discount regulations and maintaining the availability of essential goods for consumers.