Festivities light up Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad

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Abdul Hameed Shalabi, the owner of Sobia Bar, has attracted a bustling crowd to his shop, where he makes and serves sobia. (AN Photo)
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The historic district of Al-Balad is buzzing with cultural festivities and traditional celebrations during the holy month as part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture’s Ramadan Season. (AN Photo)
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Hussein Al-Abdali, a skilled miswak craftsman in Al-Balad since the 1960s. (AN Photo)
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Saeed Al-Ghamdi, a currency collector showcasing his treasures. (AN Photo)
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The historic district of Al-Balad is buzzing with cultural festivities and traditional celebrations during the holy month as part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture’s Ramadan Season. (AN Photo)
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The historic district of Al-Balad is buzzing with cultural festivities and traditional celebrations during the holy month as part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture’s Ramadan Season. (AN Photo)
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Updated 16 March 2024
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Festivities light up Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad

  • Ramadan Season brings a dose of nostalgia with culinary adventures, camel rides and traditional crafts
  • The streets are lined with traditional exhibits, from the miller displaying quilts, sofas, and cushions to a vendor presenting ancient cosmetic tools

JEDDAH: The historic district of Al-Balad is buzzing with cultural festivities and traditional celebrations during the holy month as part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture’s Ramadan Season.
Ramadan holds a cherished spot in the hearts of residents and visitors, symbolizing a period of spiritual contemplation, community bonding, and family gatherings. In Al-Balad, this sacred month not only honors fasting and prayer, but also embraces joyous festivities that highlight the city’s unique heritage and warm hospitality.
Organized by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, Ramadan Season events span across 30 activation zones, including restaurants, cafes, traditional food stalls, traditional performances, workshops, markets, cultural exhibitions, interactive experiences, and a dedicated kids’ corner.
At the entrance to Bab Al-Balad, visitors are welcomed with traditional Saudi coffee and captivating folklore dance performances, accompanied by camel rides for children. Strolling through the district, visitors can witness the skilled shoemakers, known as kharazon, showcasing their craft live to the delight of spectators.
The streets are lined with traditional exhibits, from the miller displaying quilts, sofas, and cushions to a vendor presenting ancient cosmetic tools, such as kohl and derm.
Saeed Al-Ghamdi, a currency collector showcasing his treasures, said: “I cherish the vibrant atmosphere of Ramadan in Al-Balad, where the community comes together to appreciate and learn about currency.”
He added: “For over 55 years, I have been devoted to currency collection, both paper and coin. I possess coins that date back more than 1,500 years.”
Hanan Aljarwani, a jewelry and art designer, captivates visitors with live embroidery demonstrations and displays of her exquisite work.
Ibrahim Jaafar, the founder of Modern Siwak, is taking part in the bazaar for the first time, introducing his innovative products and educating visitors on the significance of miswak, a traditional tooth-cleaning stick.
“Miswak has been important since the time of Prophet Muhammad. During Ramadan, there is a tendency to buy miswak for use during fasting. I offer the product in a convenient holder with airflow to maintain freshness and ease of reuse, which has been well-received by people,” Jaafar said.
Similarly, Hussein Al-Abdali, a skilled miswak craftsman in Al-Balad since the 1960s, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Culture for providing a special booth to sell miswak and raise awareness about its benefits.
Al-Abdali said that miswak sticks are made from the roots of arak trees, which are found across Saudi Arabia, and he offers various types of miswak for medical benefits.
Bustling bazaars scattered throughout the district offer a variety of products, including thobes, jalabiya, jewelry, bakhoor, oud, perfumes, toys, and decorative lighting.
Maher, the founder of Wakan stores, said: “This marks my third participation in the Ramadan bazaar in Al-Balad. This year, I am presenting a unique collection of enhanced oud and perfumes.”
Abdul Hameed Shalabi, the owner of Sobia Bar, has attracted a bustling crowd to his shop, where he makes and serves sobia, a drink traditionally made from barley, flour, dry bread, and sugar that is especially popular during Ramadan.
“I strive to bring back the memories of sobia during Ramadan and promote it as a healthy drink year-round,” he said.
“By introducing drinks like tamer hindi and hibiscus, along with the unique labania ice cream, I aim to enhance and develop the Hijazi tradition, sharing it not only with locals but also visitors who come from different parts of the world.”
Sara Thagafi, founder of the Modern Art Training Center, has set up workshops during Ramadan Season, including various art sessions, candle making sessions, quick pottery experiences, and perfume-making experiences where visitors can mix their favorite scents to create their own mini-perfumes.
“We also have Ramadan giveaways and art supplies for kids. This is the first time we are offering these workshops during Ramadan. We are creating a unique experience where, instead of just buying items, we are encouraging visitors to create their own perfume while they shop,” she said.
Ahmed Abdo Ahwas, a resident of Al-Balad since 68 years who has constructed many of the district’s houses, said: “There is no place like Al-Balad in Ramadan. Everyone loves to visit. The environment and atmosphere is different during Ramadan. Traditional foods like kibdah, baleela, sandwiches, and fries have distinct flavors and tastes in this month. Al-Balad begins to embrace Ramadan well before its arrival, with each lane offering something special.”
Reflecting on Eid celebrations in Al-Balad, he added: “The festivities during Eid are distinct, too. The decorations are unique, featuring a variety of chocolates and sweets.”
Farah Hassan, who makes sure to visit Al-Balad during Ramadan, said: “It’s nostalgic to visit the place we have been coming to while growing up. Sampling the traditional drinks like sobia and exploring the flavors of Ramadan in Al-Balad was a culinary adventure. The vendors’ passion for their craft was evident in every sip and bite.”
Another visitor, Hamza Yousef, said: “Exploring the vibrant festivities of Ramadan was a truly immersive experience. From the traditional performances to the cultural exhibitions, every moment was filled with warmth and hospitality.”


Digital clinic to open new horizons for autism care in the Kingdom

Updated 8 sec ago
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Digital clinic to open new horizons for autism care in the Kingdom

  • Prince Saud bin Abdulaziz: ‘This is just the beginning of our plans’

RIYADH: Following the success of the Taif Aziz Caravan for people with autism, the Society of Autism Families is gearing up for the launch of the Kingdom’s first digital clinic powered by a team of experts, doctors, and specialists.

The Taif Aziz Caravan was the first of its kind to travel across Saudi Arabia. Launched by the Society of Autism Families in June 2023, it offered integrated healthcare services to those with autism spectrum disorder and their families, as well as specialized medical consultations and free services.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, Taif Aziz Caravan raised awareness about early detection of autism spectrum disorder.

The convoy lasted nearly four months, covering about 12,000 km and visiting 53 cities in the Kingdom. The initiative earned the Society of Autism Families the International Excellence Award in Corporate Social Responsibility in London recently.

Prince Saud bin Abdulaziz, chairman of the organization, told Arab News: “This award holds immense importance for social work worldwide. Winning it for our innovative Taif Aziz Caravan project is a well-deserved recognition of the association's exceptional community contributions.”

Introducing the digital clinic project, he said: “Our work is ongoing and boundless, driven by a passionate commitment to serve.”

He went on to say that the Digital Autism Clinic will provide rehabilitative, medical, and therapeutic services to people with autism across the Kingdom. “This is just the beginning of our plans for greater advancements in this field, God willing.”

The organization’s digital platform allows beneficiaries to easily register and access all available services.

“No pioneering project is without its challenges. However, we tackle these obstacles with well-established strategies and meticulous planning,” Prince Saud said, noting that despite challenges, the convoy achieved its goal within a short timeframe, ensuring the necessary support, and conducting comprehensive social and psychological assessments.

“Awareness empowers society to embrace diversity and enhances the quality of life for everyone. Community understanding is fundamental to supporting individuals with autism effectively,” he added.

The association actively promotes awareness through various initiatives and projects, “as we recognize the significant impact of community awareness about autism spectrum disorder and its profound effect on various areas of life,” the chairman said.

Noting the collaborative efforts taking place in the Kingdom to uplift communities, Prince Saud said: “In Saudi Arabia, collaboration between institutions from all sectors — governmental, private, and nonprofit — is a hallmark of our approach to achieving collective progress.

“I take this opportunity to thank our partners across these sectors for their unwavering support. Together, we achieve both impact and development.”

The Society of Autism Families raises awareness through various initiatives, including high-quality media productions such as the play “Sala 4” in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the world’s first 3D series on autism, under the supervision of a team of specialists, as well as the production of the first song in the world featuring people with autism, among other initiatives.

“Continuous presence and active participation in major events, exhibitions, and conferences, along with social media platforms, are key mechanisms for highlighting inspiring real-life stories and advocating for change,” Prince Saud added.

According to the association's website, autism spectrum disorder refers to a collection of conditions marked by difficulties in social skills, repetitive behaviors, and non-verbal communication, alongside unique strengths and differences.

The site explains that autism is not a single condition but a spectrum of diverse types, shaped by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, which influence each individual in a distinct way.

The term “spectrum” highlights the vast diversity in the challenges and strengths each child with this disorder may exhibit. While the most noticeable traits typically emerge between the ages of two and three, in some instances, early diagnosis can occur as young as 18 months.

The WHO reported that one in every 160 children worldwide is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.


Riyadh symposium explores challenges in theater training

Updated 25 December 2024
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Riyadh symposium explores challenges in theater training

  • This year’s festival features 20 performances selected by experts, reflecting the diversity of Saudi theater and its developmental initiatives

RIYADH: The Riyadh Theater Festival, organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, is being held at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University until Dec. 26.

A dialogue symposium at the festival explored challenges and opportunities in theatrical training in the Arab world, focusing on issues such as limited specialized programs, financial constraints, and cultural barriers.

Participants emphasized the need for stronger partnerships between Arab countries to support training, research, and the role of theater in education and public awareness, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The symposium also highlighted the importance of innovative educational programs that foster skill development and produce tangible results in the performing arts.

Sultan Al-Bazie, CEO of the commission, called the festival a cornerstone for advancing theater in the Kingdom and raising public awareness of the performing arts.

This year’s festival features 20 performances selected by experts, reflecting the diversity of Saudi theater and its developmental initiatives.

It supports Saudi talent and enhances the Kingdom’s presence on regional and international stages. The event will conclude with awards for outstanding performers.


Saudi authorities seize drugs, arrest two suspects in Riyadh

Updated 25 December 2024
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Saudi authorities seize drugs, arrest two suspects in Riyadh

  • Authorities sezied 35 kg of hashish and 32,338 controlled medical tablets

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s drug control authority seized quantities of narcotics and arrested two suspects for drug promotion in Riyadh on Tuesday.

The General Directorate of Narcotics Control reported the seizure of 35 kg of hashish, 32,338 controlled medical tablets, as well as amphetamine and methamphetamine drugs.

It said that it had arrested two suspects in the case — a Syrian resident and a national — in Riyadh’s region, and referred them to prosecution, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Saudi security authorities are urging people to report any activities related to drug smuggling or promotion by calling 911 in the Makkah, Riyadh and Eastern Province regions, and 999 in the rest of the Kingdom.

Alternatively, information can be emailed to [email protected]. All reports are treated in confidence.


KSrelief concludes urology surgery project in Yemen

Updated 24 December 2024
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KSrelief concludes urology surgery project in Yemen

  • Project included nine volunteers from different medical specialties
  • KSrelief medical team successfully performed 109 specialized urology surgeries

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

Updated 24 December 2024
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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

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.