Crown prince receives Saudi astronauts ahead of space mission
Crown prince receives Saudi astronauts ahead of space mission/node/2288121/saudi-arabia
Crown prince receives Saudi astronauts ahead of space mission
1 / 2
Astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Al-Qarni will join the crew of the AX-2 space mission, Axiom Space’s second all-private astronaut mission to the ISS in May. (SPA)
2 / 2
Astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Al-Qarni will join the crew of the AX-2 space mission, Axiom Space’s second all-private astronaut mission to the ISS in May. (SPA)
Crown prince receives Saudi astronauts ahead of space mission
Rayyanah Barnawi, Ali Al-Qarni will join crew of AX-2 space mission
Barnawi will be the first Muslim, Saudi and Arab woman in space
Updated 21 May 2023
Arab News
RIYADH: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Saudi astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi, Ali Al-Qarni, Mariam Firdous and Ali Al-Ghamdi ahead of the launch of the Kingdom’s scientific mission to the International Space Station.
Astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Al-Qarni will join the crew of the AX-2 space mission, Axiom Space’s second all-private astronaut mission to the ISS in May.
Barnawi will be the first Muslim, Saudi and Arab woman in space, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The crown prince affirmed that the astronauts represent the capabilities and aspirations of the Saudi people in contributing to innovations and space research to find sustainable solutions for the good of humanity.
He also said that the astronauts are ambassadors and representatives of the Kingdom on the ISS in a mission to empower people, protect the planet and open new horizons through research to be conducted at the station in the fields of health and environmental sustainability.
Barnawi and Al-Qarni said that they are fully ready for this historic mission, looking forward to leaving a mark in the field of space and enriching scientific experiments that serve humanity.
Firdous and Al-Ghamdi will be assisting Barnawi and Al-Qarni from the ground station.
Liftoff aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled for 10:43 p.m. ET on May 8 (05:43 a.m. KSA) from the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, Florida.
The four-member crew will travel to the ISS aboard a SpaceX Dragon capsule and spend 10 days aboard the orbiting space station.
In 1985, Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, an air force pilot, took part in a US-organized space voyage, becoming the first Saudi in space.
KSrelief concludes urology surgery project in Yemen
Project included nine volunteers from different medical specialties
KSrelief medical team successfully performed 109 specialized urology surgeries
Updated 23 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center has completed a medical project for urology surgeries in Yemen’s Aden governorate.
The project included nine volunteers from different medical specialties and was carried out from Dec. 15-22 in collaboration with the Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen.
The KSrelief medical team examined 53 cases and successfully performed 109 specialized surgeries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
KSrelief’s project is one of Saudi Arabia’s medical initiatives to assist the Yemeni people and ease their suffering amid the humanitarian crisis.
Saudi interior minister rewards winners of King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival
Prince Abdulaziz awarded the prestigious King’s Sword to falconers Barghash Mohammed Al-Mansouri and Faisal Al-Qahtani
He honored the winners of the festival’s elite rounds with King Abdulaziz Cup
Updated 24 December 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, Saudi minister of interior and chairman of the Saudi Falcons Club, honored on Tuesday the winners of the 2024 King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival.
Prince Abdulaziz awarded the prestigious King’s Sword to falconers Barghash Mohammed Al-Mansouri and Faisal Al-Qahtani, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
He also honored the winners of the festival’s elite rounds, who received the King Abdulaziz Cup. The champions included Al-Mansouri, Amin Abdullah Al-Mallah, Mohammed Hafez Al-Marri, Fahd Mohammed Al-Mansouri, Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Buainain, and Hamid Mohammed Al-Mansouri, the SPA added.
Additional awards were given to winners in the Mazayen falcon beauty pageant, covering both amateur and professional rounds, the SPA reported.
Prince Abdulaziz also honored the sponsors of the 2024 Saudi Falcons Club events at the end of the ceremony.
King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival was held from Dec. 3-19 at the club’s headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh.
The event drew 1,032 falconers from nine countries, including 160 international participants, and showcased 3,322 falcons from countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE and Italy.
The festival featured 138 rounds in Al-Malwah, highlighting falcon speed and talent, along with Mazayen competitions. It awarded more than SR 36 million ($9.6 million) in prizes, marking a record-breaking year for the festival.
Festival in Riyadh finds Common Ground between Iraqi and Saudi cultures
We are ‘all one culture, one society and one message,’ says Iraqi official
Updated 24 December 2024
Nada Alturki
RIYADH: From heritage to long-standing traditions, the deep connections between Iraq and Saudi Arabia span thousands of years to the pre-Islamic era.
The second Common Ground festival, an initiative by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, is an immersion in the bonds of the two nations through art, cuisine and performance.
Saudi poetry and handicrafts were transferred to Iraq while Iraqi literary and cultural heritage was transferred to Saudi Arabia. (AN photo)
Alataf Ebrahim, the head of the festival department at the Iraqi Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, told Arab News: “Baghdad and all the Iraqi governorates are passionate about embracing Saudi culture. While the event is called Common Ground, with pride, we say that we are all one culture, one society and one message.
“This is a big and very important event, and the project is bold for planning and drawing joint cultural events now, and in the future. As the Ministry of Culture, this venture has been initiated for two years and we plan on having Saudi cultural nights in Baghdad as well as in 2025.”
HIGHLIGHT
Common Ground festival features an exhibition dedicated to the history of traditional clothing, musical instruments, songs, and significant cultural figures of Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
One of the main festival attractions is Al-Mutanabbi Street, which is recreated based on the historical road in Baghdad along with its iconic main gate. The renowned hub for intellectual life hosts various bookstores, clothing stores, live painting and oud performances, and panel discussions around various cultural crossovers.
Over 100 artworks are on display at the “Beneath the Gaze of the Palms” exhibition, which examines questions of identity and heritage in Iraq and Saudi Arabia. (AN photo)
In the heart of the bookshop district is one of Baghdad’s oldest coffee shops, Shabandar cafe, which opened its doors over a century ago and has since become a landmark in the city. The establishment has born witness to the twists and tragedies of Iraq’s tumultuous history.
“Shabandar cafe is an open corner for poets and intellectuals, and visitors as well, as they read about the latest cultural news through physical newspapers that are always on each table. This area is where the most prominent cultural activities in the capital (take place),” Ebrahim explained.
Visitors can indulge in local delicacies from both countries while enjoying the live folk music and dance performances that take place twice daily on the main stage. (AN photo)
Al-Mutanabbi’s poems are also honored through 10, 3-meter-high scrolls. The works are written in a font that has the characteristics of the 4th century in the style of Ibn Al-Bawwab, the famous calligrapher who was born about a year after Al-Mutanabbi’s death.
“We’re presenting a mini cultural week that encompasses many experiences, not just books and literature, but also extends to musical performances; and an absorption between the two cultures and deepening that relationship,” he added.
As the Ministry of Culture, this venture has been initiated for two years and we plan on having Saudi cultural nights in Baghdad as well in 2025.
Alataf Ebrahim, Iraqi Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities official
Visitors can also indulge in local delicacies from both countries while enjoying the live folk music and dance performances that take place twice daily on the main stage.
One of the main festival attractions is Al-Mutanabbi Street, which is recreated based on the historical road in Baghdad along with its iconic main gate. (AN photo)
The festival’s concert series featured an iconic performance by Iraqi singer Kadim Alsahir on the opening day, and a joint oud performance by Saudi singer and songwriter Abadi Al-Johar and Iraqi artist Naseer Shamma on Dec. 21.
The last show of the series will be on Dec. 25, featuring Aseel Hameem and Nawaf Al-Jabarti.
Over 100 artworks are on display at the “Beneath the Gaze of the Palms” exhibition, which examines questions of identity and heritage in Iraq and Saudi Arabia. The showcase includes Islamic, Mesopotamian and contemporary art.
At the entrance of the exhibition is a large structure known as the Mudhif, which is a traditional reed house, particularly in the Al-Ahwar region of southern Iraq. It is a type of communal guesthouse or gathering space that plays a central role in the social and hospitality traditions of the region.
A large part of the exhibition highlights Darb Zubaida, one of the historical pilgrimage routes from the city of Kufa to Makkah that not only facilitated the movement of people, goods, and ideas but also played a crucial role in the cultural and religious life of the Islamic world.
“This road became a place for exchanging ideas with our communities in the Kingdom. Saudi poetry and handicrafts were transferred to Iraq while Iraqi literary and cultural heritage was transferred to Saudi Arabia.
“This is an important aspect of the exhibition, alongside the many artworks that spotlight the traditional, modern, and contemporary art and the traditional tales that are embodied by the contributions of the participating artists.”
The festival also features an exhibition dedicated to the history of traditional clothing, musical instruments, songs, and significant cultural figures of Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
The festival, which runs until Dec. 31, is being held at Mega Studio in Riyadh’s Boulevard City.
Creative youth collective hosts art auction in Jeddah with jazz, community spirit
One of Nama’s key collaborators, Mohammad Aboalola, founder and writer at Mena Youth Magazine, expressed his admiration for the collective’s approach: “Nama and Menayouth struck a chord in terms of their values and vision
Updated 24 December 2024
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: Nama, a new collective dedicated to empowering young creatives, hosted its first event in Jeddah this week at the bustling Huna Alhabib.
The two-day Jazz Night and Silent Art Auction was a display of the power of collaboration and a cultural celebration.
Nama’s debut featured more than 30 pieces by artists from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Spain, Canada, and beyond. These works were donated specifically for the auction to bridge artistic communities across borders.
The seamless blend of jazz music and visual art has created an atmosphere that elevated creativity and engagement, bringing people together to celebrate the cultural richness of the region. (AN photo)
Jana Abdulaziz, Nama’s founder and director, told Arab News: “For the longest time, Nama was nothing more than an online group of about a dozen high schoolers that joined solely off the identity statement I wrote. No logo, no solid plans, just an idea.
“I remember a couple months in with next to no progress almost giving up the idea of having an event or Nama becoming anything. I reached out to potential sponsors and hundreds of local and international artists from my personal accounts as a last-ditch effort, expecting nothing ... and to my surprise, people did.”
With the participation of 15-plus local brands and businesses as vendors, the event was much more than an art exhibition. Visitors enjoyed an immersive experience complete with live jazz and blues performances, as well as an artist sketching portraits of guests.
The event seems to have resonated with artists and attendees alike. Yousef Zaini, a local artist and artwork donor, said: “As an artist, my work is intended to invoke emotions, raise questions, and offer perspectives. I borrow heavily from my readings in philosophy.
“I’m honored to work with Nama and showcase my works and share the philosophies they embody. The event organized by Nama was a great mix and I am eager to collaborate with them in the future. Much better is to come.”
French-Tunisian artist E. L. Seed donated one of his lithographs to Nama, describing it as a valuable opportunity. He said that participating in Nama was a chance to support the event and inspire young artists, emphasizing that no event is too big or small when it comes to reaching art enthusiasts, especially in Jeddah.
The idea for Nama came to Abdulaziz in late 2023. Despite initial setbacks, her determination and passion brought the project to life. The seamless blend of jazz music and visual art has created an atmosphere that elevated creativity and engagement, bringing people together to celebrate the cultural richness of the region.
Jwan Abdulhafeez, Nama’s head of media, said: “We wanted our launch event to be more than just an auction, we envisioned a true celebration of art, culture, and fun. The evening featured a carefully curated silent art auction that showcased emerging talent while creating an atmosphere of sophistication with live jazz performances.
“Through the silent art auction, we were able to connect talented artists with art enthusiasts, creating meaningful relationships within our community.”
The auction was a celebration of global perspectives and artistic diversity, featuring works from renowned artists while providing a platform for young creatives to share their stories and build connections in the art world.
One of Nama’s key collaborators, Mohammad Aboalola, founder and writer at Mena Youth Magazine, expressed his admiration for the collective’s approach: “Nama and Menayouth struck a chord in terms of their values and vision. When Nama approached Menayouth for us to help with managing media and activities, their approach to things proved that they have ultimate care for who they work with. They came up to us offering to deal with the event as if it was our own.”
Experts discuss transforming Saudi museums into interactive cultural spaces
The speakers discussed the role of technology in enriching visitor experiences and designing engaging programs and exhibitions
Updated 24 December 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: As part of efforts to develop Saudi Arabia’s museum sector and enhance the cultural and social roles of museums, the Museums Commission recently hosted an open meeting titled “Museums and Community Engagement: How Can a Museum Become a Community Hub?”
Moderated by Eman Zidan, director of the Red Sea Museum, the event featured Noha Al-Kadhi, director of programs at the Museums Commission; Hassa Al-Sudairy, senior manager of cultural programs at the Jeddah Historic District Program; and Maria Alam, director of learning and research at Hayy Jameel.
The discussion explored the role of museums in fostering community engagement, with speakers emphasizing the need to continuously refresh programs and activities to attract visitors and offer enjoyable experiences for all age groups.
Drawing from the commission’s experience, Al-Kadhi underscored the importance of understanding audience and community needs to create museum narratives and programs that resonate with diverse visitors.
She highlighted the value of involving schools and students to build strong connections between younger generations and museums, suggesting that children and youth could become “museum ambassadors” if they enjoy their visits.
Al-Sudairy shared insights from the Jeddah Historic District Program on engaging the local community in heritage preservation through targeted awareness and educational initiatives.
She cited successful programs involving children and students, such as workshops where participants restored heritage houses using miniature 3D models — activities that deepen their understanding of and connection to heritage.
Alam emphasized the importance of creating interactive programs for children and families to strengthen connections between museums and the community.
She highlighted Hayy Jameel’s initiative of engaging the local community in decorating the neighborhood facade, fostering interaction between art, the museum, and the public. This, she said, enhances visitors’ experiences and encourages repeat visits.
The speakers also discussed the role of technology in enriching visitor experiences and designing engaging programs and exhibitions.
Al-Kadhi highlighted technology as a powerful tool for providing innovative experiences while underlining the importance of balancing modern technology with the preservation of authentic heritage.
Alam added that blending modern media with heritage enhances museums’ appeal and delivers educational and experiential value.
Addressing challenges and opportunities in the museum sector, Al-Sudairy drew from the program’s experience to discuss the complexities of preserving heritage buildings through meticulous restoration processes that meet UNESCO and Ministry of Culture standards. She commended the local community’s support in advancing these initiatives.
The speakers stressed the importance of transforming museums into vibrant community hubs. They highlighted the need for interactive spaces that meet societal needs and encourage active participation, moving beyond the traditional role of merely displaying artifacts and decribing their histories.
