French envoy salutes AlUla partnership with Saudi Arabia

Ludovic Pouille - KSA, France tourism
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Updated 10 February 2022
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French envoy salutes AlUla partnership with Saudi Arabia

  • Ludovic Pouille shares his vision to develop tourism and promote rapprochement between both countries
  • It is very stimulating for an ambassador to be in a country that is young, dynamic and has ambition

RIYADH: French Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ludovic Pouille has shared his 18-month experience living in the Kingdom and his vision to strengthen relations, enhance economic opportunities, share cultures, develop tourism and promote rapprochement between both countries.

Pouille is keen to show France the rich cultural heritage, tradition and picturesque natural landscapes of the Kingdom. He hopes that “the French can also discover the treasures and beauties of Saudi Arabia.”
And, likewise, he wants Saudis to experience French tourism and hospitality.
Pouille believes that Saudi Arabia has three distinct characteristics: Hospitality, 70 percent of the population being younger than 35, and its status as an ambitious country. “It is very stimulating for an ambassador to be in a country that is young, dynamic and has ambition,” he told Arab News en Francais.
The French envoy shed light on AlUla becoming a phenomenal tourist destination and the Saudi-French partnership signed in 2018 for the sustainable tourism development of the region.
“A few days ago, we celebrated the first three years of the implementation of this partnership, and above all we have drawn, with Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr, the French minister of foreign affairs, the French minister of culture and Saudi Investment Minister Khaled Al-Faleh, very promising prospects for this partnership in the coming years,” he said, adding: “I have no doubt that AlUla will become a global tourist destination.”
Pouille said that archaeological cooperation between the two countries goes back 20 years, when in 2002, a mission by Laila Nehme explored the Nabataean civilization in AlUla. Since then, and after many successful endeavors, Pouille said: “We currently have five missions unearthing in the AlUla region — the secrets of the pre-Nabataean kingdoms of Dadam and Lihyan, the Khaybar region, the old city of AlUla and its oasis.”
The tourism development of AlUla aims to attract 2 million visitors per year by 2030.
Beyond archaeological discoveries, a further strategy is to develop sustainable agriculture and urbanism, and renewable energies, thus creating a complete ecosystem.
Pouille revealed that several interested French companies have signed contracts with the Royal Commission for AlUla.
He also lauded an agreement signed last year with the Cordon Bleu Institute to open a Riyadh institute, and praised the establishment of the Ferrandi School — one of the world’s greatest gastronomic schools — in AlUla.
In addition to AlUla, similar development in other regions like Taif and Asir will also draw tourists in the near future.
“I discovered a country of great wealth. It has ancient cities and modern megacities. For all these reasons, I believe that Saudi Arabia has a very important touristic potential,” he said.
“Saudi Arabia also harbors mountains of a 3,000 meter altitude with vegetation and rain for a good part of the year, without forgetting the 1,400 kilometers of coasts along the Red Sea, full of corals and an extraordinary fauna. The Farasan Islands are fantastic and NEOM has an extraordinary ecological heritage.
“These destinations are the value that tourists will look for,” Pouille said.
“France, the world’s leading tourist country, needed decades to get there. Saudi Arabia, with its dynamism, will reach there in a few years,” he added.
The French ambassador said that Vision 2030 is a very broad agenda that concerns the economy, culture, heritage and digital transformation, and that France sees itself as a partner in this process.
The French Vision 2030 was launched a few months ago and shares many of the same ambitions of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which was launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016.
“It wants to respond to the same challenges, such as the energy transition that can lead to preserving the environment and biodiversity, and the digital transition that must be able to be accompanied by economic growth and not massive unemployment,” he said.
According to Pouille, France can play a role in the development of new projects under Saudi Vision 2030.
French President Emmanuel Macron, during his visit to Jeddah in December, where he met with the crown prince, said that he wanted to establish a global partnership with the Kingdom, but one that was not only limited to the political, military and economic fields.
“The president’s visit has opened up great prospects through agreements signed in the fields of tourism, culture, digital and space,” he said, adding that the two countries will embark hand in hand toward 2030.
For mutual beneficial interests, a Franco-Saudi business forum was also held parallel to the visit.
Cultural rapprochement is a theme very dear to the heart of the ambassador, who tries to be a “cultural transmitter,” as he considers diplomacy beyond governments and economic interests, and believes in creating bridges between peoples.
After the world came to a halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pouille hopes that in 2022, things will be promising as many Saudis have found their way back to France, and vice versa.  “The month of the Francophonie (marked in March around the world) is a very important month for our cultural activities in the Kingdom,” said Pouille.
“It is true that Saudi Arabia is not a French-speaking country, but it has 200,000 French-speaking residents. We are working with our partners to build, in March, a program of cultural, educational and musical events. Conferences and exhibitions will be organized to celebrate, not only in the French language, but also diversity and multiculturalism through the preservation of languages and cultural identities,” he said.
He added: “I remain hopeful that the French language will be reintroduced in Saudi public schools as it was in the 70s and 80s, because French is a global language: The second most learned language on the planet and the third language of business. We hope to establish more branches and more language centers to generalize the learning of the French language in the Kingdom.”
At the end of the interview, Pouille showed three calligraphy works by Saudi artists in his garden at La Residence de France in Riyadh.


Saudi equestrienne sets sights on racing to glory

Updated 20 sec ago
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Saudi equestrienne sets sights on racing to glory

  • Nawal Al-Anazi’s ‘ultimate goal is to compete in the 2025 World Cup in AlUla and represent Saudi Arabia globally’

MAKKAH: In the world of equestrianism, where courage and endurance reign supreme, Saudi rider Nawal Al-Anazi has established herself as a rising star. 

With unwavering determination and limitless ambition, she has transformed her childhood passion into a professional pursuit, becoming a certified equestrienne with the Saudi Federation and a proud horse owner who dreams of representing her nation on the international stage. 

“I have been riding since childhood, but I decided to pursue it seriously about five years ago,” Al-Anazi explained. “What began as a hobby evolved into a lifestyle after I committed to intensive training under professional guidance.” 

The road to professionalism was not without challenges, but Al-Anazi’s passion drove her forward. Through rigorous training and acquiring her own horses, she achieved a significant milestone by competing in the prestigious Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup in AlUla.

“Participating in that championship fulfilled one dream, but I am setting my sights higher,” she said. “My ultimate goal is to compete in the 2025 World Cup in AlUla and represent Saudi Arabia globally.”

For Al-Anazi, equestrianism transcends sport; it is about forming profound connections with these animals. “Each horse has its unique personality,” she said. 

“They are not just racing vehicles but true partners who understand their riders and respond accordingly. The relationship must be built on mutual trust and respect.”

The equestrienne emphasized that Saudi society has become increasingly supportive of women in this traditionally male-dominated sport. “I have received tremendous encouragement from my family, friends, and the Royal Commission for AlUla Governorate,” she said. “This is a sport for everyone with the passion to pursue it.”

To aspiring equestriennes, she offers straightforward advice. “Follow your passion, train diligently, and embrace challenges. Equestrianism builds confidence and strength of character.”

For Al-Anazi, equestrianism is a lifestyle that demands commitment and enduring passion. She said that successful horsemanship requires patience and an intuitive understanding of each animal’s distinct character.

“The essence of true horsemanship is not about domination,” she explained. “It is about cultivating a partnership founded on mutual trust and respect.”

She believes equestrianism builds character, teaching patience, courage, quick thinking, and responsibility — qualities that extend beyond the riding arena into daily life. Her ambitions are not solely personal; she hopes to inspire other Saudi women to enter the field. 

The rider said that contemporary Saudi women are empowered to fulfill their aspirations across all domains, with equestrianism now receiving substantial backing throughout the Kingdom.

“The journey toward any ambition begins with a single step forward. When you truly believe in your vision and pursue it with unwavering resolve, no obstacle can ultimately prevent your success,” she said. 

As Al-Anazi continues her journey toward international competition, she remains grounded in her philosophy: “The horse is a magnificent creature that deserves our utmost respect. If you have a dream, pursue it relentlessly. With determination, you can overcome any obstacle and reach the top.”


Teenager uses metaverse technology to create link between Chinese and Saudi students

Updated 24 min 27 sec ago
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Teenager uses metaverse technology to create link between Chinese and Saudi students

  • Superbund Alpha Project allows students to create virtual avatars and teach others about their culture
  • Young founder aims to host a student trip to Saudi Arabia for her peers

RIYADH: At just 13 years old, Chinese student Alia Kong is spearheading an initiative that utilizes the power of technology to introduce Saudi culture to her peers in Hong Kong.

With a vision of creating an open space for international students to connect with each other, the Superbund Alpha Project allows users to create virtual avatars in the metaverse.

Students in both countries will be able to create a personalized space and promote their culture through a virtual workshop and the young visionary hopes it will help forge strong links between them.

“I (would) like to create that connection between Riyadh and Hong Kong,” Kong told Arab News. “Imagine if can create your own cultural heritage and enhance it with spatial computing, with just prompting and images.”

Additionally, as a part of the project, she has set up an immersive experience to present Saudi culture to her classmates.

Kong’s story began five years ago when, aged eight, she and 25 friends decided to start a non-profit organization called Kids Power Society. The group’s aims were to educate students about different cultures, enhance mental wellness and promote positivity.

The teenager now plans to host Superbund Event Day, to be held simultaneously in both Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia virtually and in reality.

Kong highlighted the importance of embracing emerging technologies, saying Generation Alpha could envision a desired lifestyle through the metaverse.

Her admiration for Saudi Arabia stems from stories she has heard from her godfather, Alaudeen Alaskary, former consul-general of Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong. He is now honorary advisor to the Superbund Virtual Exchange Program.

Kong, who has visited the Kingdom previously, said she planned to host a student trip dedicated to teaching her peers about Saudi’s cultural history.

“He (Alaskary) showed me the culture and lifestyle of Saudi Arabians. I love attending his Saturday gatherings and parties. (They are) very warm, loving and we all enjoy each other’s company,” she said.

In July 2024, the group will host a virtual event, Superbund Virtual Society, with more than 100 attendees expected from Hong Kong, mainland China, Canada and Saudi Arabia.

“This new ecosystem with blockchain technology will let us register our digital assets with our avatar identities ... things can be created in virtual and make impact on reality,” said Kong.

“I have a concept where the older generation creates the hardware of technology, or the hardware we need in order to access the software that could be created by younger generations, and with the content and software and hardware finalized, we can come together and bridge that generation gap.”

Over the past five years, Kids Power Society has published four science fiction books, with contributions from 125 children around the world. The proceeds were donated to British Columbia Children’s Hospital in Vancouver and Hong Kong’s Sowers Action.


KSrelief aids communities in need

Updated 02 April 2025
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KSrelief aids communities in need

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief continues its humanitarian projects to assist some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

The agency delivered medications for blood diseases and thalassemia to the Ministry of Public Health and Population in Yemen’s Hadramout governorate.

KSrelief distributed 1,143 boxes of dates in Rif Dimashq governorate in the Syrian Arab Republic, benefiting 1,143 families, while also distributing clothing bags to 132 needy families in the same region.

The agency handed out 1,500 food baskets to displaced and vulnerable families in Sudan’s Ad-Damir in the Nile River state, benefiting 9,000 people.

It also supplied 472 food parcels to vulnerable individuals in the Western Bekaa region of Lebanon, helping 2,360 people.

KSrelief has implemented 3,389 projects worth nearly $7.9 billion in 106 countries since its launch in May 2015, working with more than 300 local, regional, and international partners.


Riyadh’s beauty spots come to life with Eid festivities

Updated 02 April 2025
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Riyadh’s beauty spots come to life with Eid festivities

  • Families embrace Eid Al-Fitr by enjoying picnics and outdoor fun

Riyadh: Riyadh takes on a magical charm during Eid Al-Fitr, becoming a hub of festive picnic spots.

One popular destination is Wadi Hanifa, a serene valley in the heart of the capital. With lush greenery, man-made lakes, water channels and diverse wildlife, it offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Mohammed Abdul Jaleel, a Lebanese visitor, said: “We are here with friends and family, enjoying a barbecue and celebrating this special occasion with joy. The weather is perfect, kids are playing, and families are making the most of this time before summer sets in.”

He added: “Whether hiking, cycling, or picnicking by the water, Wadi Hanifa offers a refreshing retreat in nature.”

Riyadh resident Baddiuzz Zaman Sheikh, celebrating Eid with friends, said: “It is a great picnic spot. I come here often for barbecues. Surrounded by mountains and lakes, it is a popular getaway.”

Anyone familiar with the area likely knows Wadi Hanifa — once a dumping ground but now a lush desert oasis, transformed by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City with gardens, wetlands and thousands of trees.

As well as evening strolls and picnics, Wadi Hanifa offers an array of exciting activities — and many people are unaware it is a global destination for runners.

The Great Runs website highlights the “groomed trails” near the Diplomatic Quarter, which feature an 8 km loop through desert scenery. South of the valley, Stone Dam Park challenges athletes with a 210-step staircase.

Jamal Hassan, a Yemeni expat who was enjoying a card game with friends, said: “This beautiful valley on Riyadh’s outskirts offers water channels, green corridors, walkways and picnic spots amid orchards and farms, making it a top attraction for residents and visitors.

“Riyadh needed a place like this — an escape into nature away from the city's hustle. It is a perfect spot to relax.”

Another popular Eid picnic spot is Wadi Namar, south of the capital. Its dam, lake and scenic waterfall draws people all year round.

Tabinda Qamar, there with her family, said: “On Eid’s first day, it was so crowded that security asked us to return early the next day. We did — and had a wonderful time. The park is spacious, with play areas for kids, making it ideal for families and friends. It is a perfect holiday spot, and we truly enjoyed it.”

Many people also visit Salam Park, which features a large, illuminated lake with fountains, playgrounds, green spaces and recreational areas. Once a private farm with date palms, a residential estate and a 70-year-old mosque, it was later transformed due to its strategic location and the city’s need for open spaces.

Rumana Ambar, who visited with her family, said: “It is a natural retreat in the busy city — perfect for holidays with family and friends. With well-maintained facilities, it stands out as one of Riyadh’s top attractions.”


Tabuk camel riders celebrate Eid to the rhythms of Al-Hijini

Updated 02 April 2025
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Tabuk camel riders celebrate Eid to the rhythms of Al-Hijini

  • The tempo of the verses aligns with the camels’ steady strides, creating a harmonious blend of words and motion
  • Traditionally performed solo, Al-Hijini often becomes a communal chant during celebrations

TABUK: In Tabuk’s vast, Eid is a radiant celebration infused with the scent of the land, the memory of ancestors and deeply rooted traditions passed down with pride across generations.

Here, where the sands stretch endlessly, camel riders known as hajjanah form majestic processions, offering greetings to locals while chanting Al-Hijini, poetry that stirs the heart tales of pride, love and loyalty, preserving the soul of the desert.

Al-Hijini is deeply tied to Bedouin culture, serving as a medium for expressing emotions. (SPA)

Among the people of Tabuk, customs steeped in authenticity and dignity come to life during vibrant Eid celebrations.

They are a blend of heritage and contemporary life, rooted in the nomadic rhythm of the desert. Camels, specially adorned for the occasion, play a central role in the festivities as riders set out across the sands, joyfully chanting traditional verses.

Al-Hijini poetry derives its name from the well-trained camels used for riding and racing. The riders recite lyrical verses that encompass various themes of life, often focusing on patriotism and romance. The rhythm matches the camels’ steady strides, creating a harmonious blend of words and motion.

Caption

Noted for its simple melodies and brisk tempo, Al-Hijini uplifts the spirits and eases the solitude of travelers and desert caravans. It is deeply tied to Bedouin culture, serving as a medium for expressing emotions, recording daily experiences, relaying wisdom and preserving ancestral proverbs.

Traditionally performed solo, Al-Hijini often becomes a communal chant during celebrations such as Eid, with collective recitation reflecting the unity and solidarity of Tabuk’s desert communities.

Noted for its simple melodies and brisk tempo, Al-Hijini naturally accompanies travelers and desert caravans. (SPA)