Ramadan nights at Bujairi Terrace offer poetry, food, shopping

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This Ramadan, Bujairi Terrace and At-Turaif in Diriyah will offer a curated Michelin star gastronomic experience and a variety of interactive activities and charitable events. (AN photo by Abdulrahman Bin Shalhoub)
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Updated 07 April 2023
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Ramadan nights at Bujairi Terrace offer poetry, food, shopping

  • Over 20 restaurants and several activities curated for the holy month
  • At-Turaif district offers authentic Saudi dishes and heritage shows

RIYADH: Bujairi Terrace and At-Turaif in Diriyah is offering visitors a curated Michelin-star gastronomic experience and a variety of interactive activities and events during Ramadan.

Diriyah opened its premium dining district Bujairi Terrace on Dec. 4 last year with exceptional views of the recently-renovated UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif.

Bujairi Terrace is inspired by Najdi architecture to evoke images of the past. Guests are pampered with over 20 restaurants, including four Michelin-star restaurants — Chez Bruno, Tatel, Hakkasan and Long Chim — in addition to other fine dining in Saudi and international cuisine.

Shamma Alsubaie, a retired history teacher, told Arab News that Bujairi Terrace has great significance in the region. “Bujairi is considered one of the most beautiful places in Diriyah, and one of the fastest growing and splendid areas in Riyadh. It is the magnificence of the design of the place and its historical importance,” said Alsubaie. 

She added: “If I would describe Bujairi in a sentence, I would say it is the Jewel of Wadi Hanifa.” 

Hessah Abdulaziz, a former kindergarten teacher, said: “The first time I went to Bujairi was back in 2011. I recently visited Bujairi and I saw a great difference. It is one of my favorite places in Diriyah in Riyadh.” 

“The presence of international restaurants and cafes in a historical place with stunning views of distinctive heritage sites is not something you can miss, and I have been going over there almost every month,” said Abdulaziz.  

Maiz is a contemporary Saudi restaurant inspired by food from 13 regions of the Kingdom. Their Ramadan set menu offers dishes with authentic Saudi flavors like lamb with rice and jareesh.

Noor Alawami, a senior marketing specialist, visited Bujairi Terrace prior to Ramadan and dined in Maiz with some friends. “I loved the way the restaurants are laid out and the way the place is set up. The traditional vibe of the place and children running and playing, as well as the great hospitality of the staff there. The place is walkable and parking is very easy. I tried Maiz, which has authentic Saudi food and really liked it.” 

“I want to go to Al-Turaif district next time I visit. I would go after sundown or at night because there is a section with beautiful light fixtures that would look good at night.”




Bujairi Terrace is inspired by Najdi architecture to evoke images of the past. (AN photo by Abdulrahman Bin Shalhoub)

After indulging in their cuisine of choice, guests can enjoy various activities ranging from themed storytelling, poetry readings, workshops and shopping.  The Diriyah Coffee workshop will teach guests how to recreate the traditional Al-Arid coffee and dates and hospitality methods.

One of the events, Discover the Ramadan Sky, will have an educational and spiritual program where visitors can learn about the planetary movements and their association with the times of iftar and imsak during Ramadan. Another event, titled Recreate Your Family Tree, also offers stories of kinship and family connections.

Visitors who arrive before sundown will be invited to gather as a community to break their fast with coffee, water and dates at the At-Turaif Iftar Coffee and Date Offering. Taraweeh prayers are also being held at At-Turaif Mosque.

One of the events, Hidden Heritage Trail of At-Turaif, especially created for Ramadan 2023, will give visitors the chance to discover lesser-known places within the World Heritage Site. 

The second installment of the At-Turaif Retrospective (Descendants), a docuseries of short films, is an immersive experience that dives into the history, heritage and culture of the site and its impact on the Kingdom.

Bujairi Terrace and At-Turaif’s Ramadan activities will run daily from 4 p.m. to 3 a.m. with the last entry allowed at 2 a.m. Tickets can be purchased at Bujairi Terrace restaurant. 


Saudi Arabia condemns suicide attack on Syrian church

People and rescuers inspect the damage at the site of a reported suicide attack at the Saint Elias church in Damascus’ Dwelaa.
Updated 22 June 2025
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Saudi Arabia condemns suicide attack on Syrian church

  • Syria’s health ministry said an attack on a church in Damascus on Sunday killed 20 people

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Sunday condemned a suicide attack on a church in Damascus that killed at least 20 people.

Syria’s interior ministry said in a statement that “a suicide attacker affiliated with the Daesh terrorist group entered the Saint Elias church in the Dwelaa area of the capital Damascus where he opened fire then blew himself up with an explosive belt.”

The Foreign Ministry emphasized the Kingdom’s position rejecting the targeting of places of worship, the terrorizing of civilians, and the shedding of innocent blood.

It affirmed the Kingdom’s support for the Syrian Arab Republic against all forms of violence, extremism, and terrorism.


Sisterhood club at full throttle on the road to freedom

Updated 22 June 2025
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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. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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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. 

Founded in 2022 by Captain Saud Albarak and Roaa Talal Abualsaud, the club was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to create a safe, inclusive space for women in Saudi Arabia to explore their passion for motorcycles. (Supplied)

“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. 

Sisterhood membership is open to all women, regardless of their experience with motorcycles. (Supplied)

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

Updated 22 June 2025
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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 transport minister wraps up visit to Russia and France

Updated 22 June 2025
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Saudi transport minister wraps up visit to Russia and France

  • The visit aims to strengthen cooperation between the Kingdom and Russia and France in the fields of transport and logistics

RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh Al-Jasser was recently on an official visit to Russia and France along with his accompanying delegation of officials from the sector.

He participated in the opening of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and its main session, which was also attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

In France, Al-Jasser attended the opening of the International Paris Air Show as well as a signing ceremony for an air services agreement between Saudi Arabia and Panama.

The visit aims to strengthen cooperation between the Kingdom and Russia and France in the fields of transport and logistics.

 


Saudi project clears 1,243 mines in Yemen

Updated 22 June 2025
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Saudi project clears 1,243 mines in Yemen

  • The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada

RIYADH: Members of Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam removed 1,243 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week.

The total included 1,182 unexploded ordnances, 57 anti-tank mines and four anti-personnel mines, according to a recent report.

Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the initiative’s managing director, said that 501,243 mines have been cleared since the project began in 2018.

The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.

The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.

The project trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.

Teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate the safe movement of civilians and delivery of humanitarian aid.