UNESCO heritage session in Riyadh celebrates region’s history

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Saudi Arabia hosts the event this year from September 10-25 in Riyadh as the current chair of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia hosts the event this year from September 10-25 in Riyadh as the current chair of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia hosts the event this year from September 10-25 in Riyadh as the current chair of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia hosts the event this year from September 10-25 in Riyadh as the current chair of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO. (SPA)
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Updated 11 September 2023
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UNESCO heritage session in Riyadh celebrates region’s history

  • Global efforts to preserve heritage sites, promote sustainable development on agenda

RIYADH: People from around the world gathered for the first time in the Saudi capital to witness the launch of the 45th extended session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee at Riyadh’s National Museum on Sunday.

During the session, more than 50 world sites are hoping to be included in the UN’s list of world heritage sites. The session is being chaired by Princess Haifa Al-Mogrin, Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative to UNESCO, and is scheduled to conclude on Sept. 25.

Prince Badr bin Abdullah, Saudi minister of culture, inaugurated the session and stressed the Kingdom’s belief in the importance of heritage as a cultural treasure and a human and knowledge heritage.

He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s collaboration with UNESCO on heritage and antiquities programs, including a long-term strategy to support the preservation of global heritage sites through capacity-building initiatives for the next decade.

Prince Badr praised UNESCO and other organizations for preserving global natural and cultural heritage, as well as promoting education, culture and science for sustainable development goals.

He also announced the establishment of the Saudi UNESCO Fund with an aim to support related heritage preservation programs and projects across the globe.

Director General of UNESCO Audrey Azoulay said: “As Riyadh welcomes the world today, it is the world that will be the focus of our discussion, in all its beauty and fragility. We will be speaking of corals, of forests, of biodiversity, of the prehistory of indigenous peoples, of strategy for Africa, but also of memory in a new way — and we will do it here, in Riyadh, with all the voices of the world.”

The World Heritage List, maintained by UNESCO, includes sites that represent the cultural and natural diversity of the world. A yearly meeting is held to review and update the list, accept new applications and make edits. This process puts certain sites, such as Venice and Kyiv, at risk of losing their status as world heritage sites.

The list, currently consisting of 1,157 sites, is highly regarded by many countries as it serves as a major driver for tourism, funding and the conservation of these sites. The meeting in Riyadh could potentially designate six additional locations as “in danger,” adding to the existing 55 sites already on the watchlist.

Azoulay said: “We know what a powerful resource heritage can be — for peace, for ecosystems, for knowledge or our history in all its complexity, for a sustainable economy, for the ties that bind generations, and that bind diverse societies so powerfully, for dialogue, also, among nations and people.”

She also extended her gratitude to the Kingdom for hosting the session of the committee, which marks a historic first. The strategic location of the Kingdom, at the crossroads of the world, and its significant contributions to history, culture and creativity, serve as a driving force for the progress of the session.

Saudi Arabia is home to the historic site of Hegra in AlUla, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ministry of Culture has been working since 2018 to develop sustainable tourism, vocational training and scholarships as part of this partnership.

The logo of the 45th session is inspired by the rock engravings of the Nabataean culture found in Hegra.

The opening ceremony was concluded with a performance showcasing the evolution of civilization in the region, spanning from ancient times to the present day.

The opening scene was a tribute to the late Saudi archaeologist Prof. Abdulrahman Al-Ansary, who played a crucial role in developing the archaeology sector in the Kingdom. Emerging from the depths of the earth, he effortlessly brushes away the dust, unveiling the hidden tales of the world below.

The journey begins in the Stone Age, where petroglyphs created by a Thamoudian artist can still be found in the Hail region to this day. It then progresses to the rise of civilizations, with established trade routes and networks. One such civilization is the gilded Kingdom of THajj, located in the Eastern Province. Additionally, the Nabataean civilization is highlighted for its renowned trade, impressive architecture, and the famous incense route.

The act proceeds to acknowledge the enlightenment that came with the dissemination of knowledge, scientific advancements, poetry, and the influence of Islam. It is followed by a concise introduction to the diverse and intricate cultures found across the regions of Saudi Arabia.

The performance serves as a tribute to a land that has embraced a multitude of civilizations throughout history, resulting in the cultural richness it possesses today.

In her speech, the UNESCO chief expressed condolences to Morocco for the recent deadly earthquake, leaving more than 2,000 dead and thousands injured.

Azoulay said that UNESCO’s team is on site and ready to support Moroccan authorities. “Solidarity is central to UNESCO’s foundation, and international assistance is part of our mission.”

Prince Badr also foreshadowed the expectations of the highly anticipated Expo 2030, saying: “Under the theme ‘Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow,’ the Kingdom will share its story of unprecedented national transformation with various communities around the world at Riyadh Expo 2030, where my country will present an exceptional historic edition and an unprecedented global experience in the history of the expo, further achieving the goals of Vision 2030.” 

With 130 organizations in dialogue, the UNESCO sessions will platform collaboration and sustainability in preserving global heritage sites and building common grounds, providing enablers, and uniting to build new paths to strong strategic partnerships.


New Saudi envoy to Oman presents credentials to Sultan Haitham

Updated 15 November 2024
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New Saudi envoy to Oman presents credentials to Sultan Haitham

MUSCAT: Saudi Arabia’s new envoy to Oman, Ibrahim bin Saad bin Bishan, presented his credentials to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq at the Al Baraka Palace on Thursday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

During their meeting, Sultan Haitham commended the historical Saudi-Omani ties and the two nations’ continued progress across various sectors.

The ambassador also conveyed greetings from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the sultan, wishing the Omani people continued prosperity.

Omani Sultan received Saudi Ambassador Ibrahim bin Saad bin Bishan at Al-Baraka Palace in Muscat on Thursday. (SPA)

Saudi Arabia and Oman are both members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, which also includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE.

There was also a meeting between the ambassador and Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidy, reported the Oman News Agency.

Previously, bin Bishan was supervisor of the Yemen operations room and minister plenipotentiary at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.


4th Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicks off in Jeddah

Updated 15 November 2024
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4th Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicks off in Jeddah

  • Three-day conference aims to enhance international efforts to confront challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance

RIYADH: The fourth high-level Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance kicked off in Jeddah on Thursday under the theme “From declaration to implementation – accelerating actions through multi-sectoral partnerships for the containment of AMR.”

The three-day conference, being held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health, includes ministers of health, environment and agriculture from various countries, besides the participation of a number of heads of international organizations such as the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Organization for Animal Health, and non-governmental organizations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, in a move to enhance international efforts to confront the escalating challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance, which has become a threat to global health.

Saudi Minister of Health Fahd Al-Jalajel stressed that the conference is an opportunity for the international community to commit to a unified roadmap and set clear guidelines that will help address the increasing drug resistance in humans and animals.

Antimicrobial resistance poses a threat to all age groups, as it affects human, animal and plant health, as well as the environment and food security.

To curb the spread of antimicrobial resistance, the minister explained that we must adopt a comprehensive approach that systematically addresses the challenges that hinder progress, including sharing best practices, innovative financing initiatives, and developing new tools to combat antimicrobial resistance, stressing that the meeting is a vital opportunity to strengthen our collective global response to the risks of this growing “silent epidemic.”

Director General of the World Health Organization Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that antimicrobial resistance is not a future threat but a present one, making many of the antibiotics and other medicines we rely on less effective, and routine infections more difficult to treat.

He praised Saudi leadership in hosting the conference, stressing that the world must work together across a range of sectors, health, environment and agriculture, to stop the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

He pointed out that the Jeddah meeting will help coordinate global efforts across diverse ecosystems, including human, animal and agricultural health, in addition to protecting the environment.

A number of countries have already resorted to imposing laws that prevent the dispensing of antibiotics in pharmacies without a prescription, and the use of antibiotics in animal farms such as poultry and livestock has been regulated in a bid to slow resistance.
 


Saudi and British defense ministers hold talks on cooperation and Middle East security

During their meeting in Riyadh, Prince Khalid bin Salman and John Healey discussed the “Saudi-British strategic partnership. (SP
Updated 15 November 2024
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Saudi and British defense ministers hold talks on cooperation and Middle East security

  • Prince Khalid bin Salman and John Healey discuss ‘joint efforts to address regional challenges’ and ‘shared vision’ for regional and international security and stability

RIYADH: The defense ministers of Saudi Arabia and the UK held talks on Thursday on cooperation between their nations and efforts to bring stability to the Middle East.

During their meeting in Riyadh, Prince Khalid bin Salman and John Healey discussed the “Saudi-British strategic partnership and explored avenues to enhance defense cooperation,” the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Khalid said: “We also discussed our joint efforts to address regional challenges, as well as our shared vision to promote regional and international security and stability.”

Ahead of the talks, the British Defense Ministry said Healey would “reaffirm the UK’s commitment to a future-facing defense relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The defense secretary will build on the decades-long defense relationship between the (countries) to enhance cooperation on shared security priorities.”

Healey, making his first visit to Riyadh since becoming defense minister following the Labour Party’s election victory in July, was also expected to discuss with Prince Khalid the ongoing efforts to secure ceasefire agreements in Gaza and Lebanon.

Earlier on Thursday, Healey met in Ankara with Yasar Guler, his counterpart in Turkiye, a NATO ally.


Ancient organic farming practices in Taif feed growing industry

Updated 15 November 2024
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Ancient organic farming practices in Taif feed growing industry

  • Closed-loop farming supports environment
  • Rising Saudi demand for organic products

RIYADH: Organic farming in Taif province’s villages and its serene mountain and valley farms represents a continuation of an ancient tradition.

This approach avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, ensuring that farms do not damage their surrounding environment, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Inherited organic farming wisdom from previous generations boosts the health of consumers and the vitality of soil, water, plants, and wildlife.

The farming methods practiced in Taif involve a closed-loop system in which animal and plant waste is recycled into natural fertilizers.

Abdullah Saed Al-Talhi, an 80-year-old Saudi farmer, has been farming in terraced fields in Taif's in the Al-Shafa mountains since he was young. (SPA)

This approach supports crop cultivation and animal husbandry, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030’s food security and sustainability objectives.

Drawing upon his years of experience tending terraced fields in the Al-Shafa mountains, 80-year-old farmer Abdullah Saed Al-Talhi told the SPA that organic agriculture is a fast-growing industry.

“Consumer demand for nutritious organic products is reshaping our industry,” he explained.

“Working these mountain terraces has taught me that organic farming is more than a cultivation method — it is our legacy to future generations, ensuring sustainable food production for years to come.”

“Organic farming operates through two distinct approaches,” Al-Talhi said. “We have protected greenhouse cultivation and open-field farming, but both share the same fundamental principle: producing pure food without chemical interventions.”

He emphasized that this natural approach encompasses every aspect of farming — from soil enhancement and seed selection to pest control methods.

“The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has spearheaded remarkable efforts to advance organic farming in Taif,” he added.

The ministry offers instructional programs to budding organic farmers, supporting the establishment of new farms, increased production from existing farms, and the import and export of organic products.

Other support from the ministry includes securing certification to ensure the credibility of products in Saudi and international markets.

Speaking at a recent organic market event in Taif, Al-Talhi said: “The market for organic products is experiencing remarkable growth.”
 


Light fantastic: Countdown begins to Noor Riyadh 2024

Updated 14 November 2024
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Light fantastic: Countdown begins to Noor Riyadh 2024

  • Event ‘embodies the essence of striving toward new horizons,’ curator says
  • World’s largest light art festival gets underway on Nov. 28

RIYADH: The start of this year’s Noor Riyadh Festival is now just two weeks away and preparations for the annual event are well underway.

Launched in 2021, the festival is a celebration of light and the arts and includes contributions from leading Saudi and international artists. It also features community activities, workshops, discussions and shows.

Billed as the largest light art festival in the world, Noor Riyadh is part of the broader Riyadh Art initiative and aims to support and inspire young artists to drive the Kingdom’s creative economy.

This year’s theme is “Light Years Away” and a host of activities are planned at three key locations — King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifa and Diriyah’s JAX District — between Nov. 28 and Dec. 14.

The title is inspired by the Thuraya star cluster, which has long been a guiding light and symbol of aspiration, according to Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag, the curator of Noor Riyadh 2024 and board member of the Visual Arts Commission.

“This year’s theme explores our journey from Althara, or Earth, toward Althuraya, or the stars, celebrating how art can bridge the physical and metaphysical,” she told Arab News.

“‘Light Years Away’ is a theme that embodies the essence of striving toward new horizons, where light is used as a metaphor for hope, creativity and resilience.

“We want the audience to feel connected to the stars above and the Earth below, experiencing how art can unite diverse elements such as science, technology, philosophy and spirituality, fostering a shared sense of inspiration and identity.”

Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag, an artist and artistic curator, is a member of the Board of Directors of the Visual Arts Commission. (Supplied)

Among the 60 artworks on offer this year are sculptural light installations and laser shows from artists like Ali Alruzaiza and Javier Riera, who use light to reimagine iconic sites like Murabba Palace.

“The works of artists like Saad Al Howede, Kimchi and Chips explore our relationship with the environment, challenging us to reflect on our impact on the Earth,” Fadag said.

“The landscapes of Wadi Hanifa serve as a living canvas, inviting the audience to consider how we can preserve the environment and the beauty of our natural heritage.

“The JAX District is a hub for innovation, experimentation and digital creativity. Originally an industrial area, it has now transformed into a space that bridges art and technology. Here, traditional and modern techniques converge in an environment that supports the creative economy.”

Fadag said she hoped visitors would leave the festival with a renewed sense of curiosity and wonder.

“The Noor exhibition reminds us that, as individuals, we aspire to connect and engage. Art and light have the power to bring us together, inspire us and illuminate new paths forward.

“I believe these experiences will remain alive long after the festival ends, encouraging visitors to carry the festival’s light with them and continue exploring their own journeys, connecting the Earth to the sky in their unique ways.”