Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan

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Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season in Diryah from March 11 to April 11. (AN Photo/Huda Bashatah)
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Updated 19 March 2024
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Diriyah offers rich cultural experiences during Ramadan

  • Array of eating choices close to UNESCO world heritage site
  • Najdi-style architecture evokes images of country’s rich past

RIYADH: During Ramadan at Bujairi Terrace, starry nights with exceptional views of UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif ensure unforgettable experiences for the whole family. 

Bujairi Terrace is inspired by Najdi architecture to evoke images of the past. There are over 20 eateries, including several fine dining choices such as Chez Bruno, Tatel, Hakkasan and Long Chim.

Khaled Abdelazim Hassan, head of trade finance at Finance House, told Arab News that his visit was “nothing short of enchanting, offering a delightful fusion of tradition, flavor, and hospitality.”

He added that he was “greeted by an atmosphere buzzing with life. The terrace seemed to come alive with the laughter of families and friends, mingling with the gentle melodies of traditional music. It was a scene straight out of a cultural tapestry, where tradition met modernity in perfect harmony.” 

“Nestled in the heart of Diriyah, this cultural hub beckoned with promises of culinary adventures and immersive experiences,” said Hassan.

Hassan and his family dined at Maiz, a contemporary fine dining restaurant, because the authentic Saudi Arabia cuisine “stole the show.”

He added: “The mandi was a mixture of flavors and textures. The tender, succulent meat, marinated to perfection and slow-cooked until it practically melted in my mouth, was a revelation. Paired with fragrant saffron rice and traditional Saudi sauces, it was a culinary experience like no other.” 

“As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but marvel at the richness of Saudi culture and cuisine. Maiz not only satisfied my hunger but also fed my soul, offering a glimpse into the traditions and flavors of a distant land.” 

Hassan said that the venue provides a haven for those seeking to break their fast in a welcoming and culturally rich environment.

“From the vibrant ambiance to the tantalizing flavors, it was a celebration of culture, cuisine, and community. Whether you’re craving a culinary adventure or seeking a place to gather with loved ones during Ramadan, Bujairi Terrace offers an experience that will leave a lasting impression,” he said.

Visitors can walk over a bridge after dining at the Bujairi Terrace to visit the recently restored ruins of the original seat of the Al-Saud dynasty, taking the same steps as the country’s rulers did centuries ago.

Meanwhile, Souq Al-Mawsim is back for a second season at Diriyah. It began in the historic district of At-Turaif on March 11 and will end on April 11. It is open from 9:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. throughout Ramadan. 

Organized by the Diriyah Gate ‍Development Authority, the event showcases traditional markets, workshops and arts and crafts.

Abdulrahman Alsaigh, a storyteller at the souq, said: “I lived during the time of King Faisal. We lived in mud houses and life was great. We used to know all of our neighbors.”

Local brands are on sale including traditional Saudi Arabia dishes, clothes, essential oils and oud.


Saudi minister holds talks with Chinese, EU officials on climate, global issues 

Updated 25 May 2025
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Saudi minister holds talks with Chinese, EU officials on climate, global issues 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy Adel Al-Jubeir received China's Special Envoy for Climate Change Liu Zhenmin in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, they discussed strengthening cooperation in climate action and environmental conservation, along with other topics of mutual interest.

Both officials also reviewed the Kingdom’s ongoing initiatives and achievements in this field, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

In a separate meeting, Al-Jubeir received the deputy secretary-general for political affairs at the European External Action Service, Olof Skoog, and his accompanying delegation.

The meeting reviewed international developments and the efforts being made to address them, in addition to discussing topics of mutual interest.


Sheikh Saleh bin Humaid to deliver Arafah sermon during Hajj 2025

Sheikh Saleh bin Humaid will deliver the Arafah sermon during this year’s Hajj. (@PRAGOVSA)
Updated 25 May 2025
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Sheikh Saleh bin Humaid to deliver Arafah sermon during Hajj 2025

  • The day of Arafah (the 9th of Dhul Hijjah) is widely considered the pinnacle of Hajj, marking the most important day for pilgrims
  • The sermon is delivered from Masjid Al-Nimra on Mount Arafat before Dhuhr and Asr prayers are performed together on Dhul Hijjah 9

RIYADH: Sheikh Saleh bin Humaid will deliver the Arafah sermon during this year’s Hajj, the Presidency of Religious Affairs announced on Sunday.

The day of Arafah (the 9th of Dhul Hijjah) is widely considered the pinnacle of Hajj, marking the most important day for pilgrims. Muslims around the world who are not performing the pilgrimage mark the day by fasting and engaging in worship.

The sermon is delivered from Masjid Al-Nimra on Mount Arafat before Dhuhr and Asr prayers are performed together on Dhul Hijjah 9.

Head of Religious Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the appointment.

The appointment underscores the Kingdom’s global religious leadership, reflects its continued support for religious institutions, and exemplifies the leadership’s care for the two holy mosques, the presidency said.


Saudi deputy FM receives EU official in Riyadh

Updated 25 May 2025
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Saudi deputy FM receives EU official in Riyadh

  • A meeting was also held as part of the third round of political consultations between Saudi Arabia and the EEAS

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received Olof Skoog, deputy secretary-general for political affairs at the European External Action Service, and his accompanying delegation, in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations between the Kingdom and the EU and other topics of common interest, the Foreign Ministry wrote in a post on X.

A meeting was also held as part of the third round of political consultations between the Kingdom and the EEAS. Senior officials from both sides participated in the session, chaired by Raed bin Khalid Qarmli, director-general of the general directorate of policy planning at the Saudi Foreign Ministry, with Skoog representing the European side.

 


Pakistani ambassador to Saudi Arabia meets with CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority

Ahmad Farooq, Pakistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, meets with Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority.
Updated 25 May 2025
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Pakistani ambassador to Saudi Arabia meets with CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority

  • The meeting focused on strengthening Saudi-Pakistani ties in the field of heritage and culture

RIYADH: Ahmad Farooq, Pakistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, met with Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority in Riyadh.

The meeting focused on strengthening Saudi-Pakistani ties in the field of heritage and culture, the Pakistani Embassy wrote in a post on X on Sunday.

The ambassador presented Inzerillo with a painting from his own Diriyah-themed series, created to celebrate the Kingdom’s history and heritage.

He also presented him with a made-in-Pakistan FIFA-standard football “symbolizing Pakistan’s craftsmanship and the mutual spirit of friendship.”


Saudi reserve engages pilgrims on biodiversity

Updated 25 May 2025
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Saudi reserve engages pilgrims on biodiversity

  • Pilgrims were welcomed at Al-Shuqaiq in the Jouf region, where more than 4,000 gifts reflecting the reserve’s history and conservation efforts were distributed

RIYADH: Hajj pilgrims arriving in the Kingdom by land were introduced to projects and initiatives of the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority.

The initiative aims to enhance biodiversity, restore vegetation and breed endangered species to create a more sustainable natural environment.

The authority also distributed educational brochures to raise awareness about environmental preservation, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Pilgrims were welcomed at Al-Shuqaiq in the Jouf region, where more than 4,000 gifts reflecting the reserve’s history and conservation efforts were distributed.

Visitors were informed about the reserve’s environmental heritage, biodiversity, and commitment to sustainable ecological stewardship, the SPA added.

The authority works to preserve biodiversity by protecting habitats and creating safe environments for wildlife and plants to thrive.

Its achievements include planting more than 2.4 million trees, scattering four tonnes of native seeds and rehabilitating 250,000 hectares of degraded land.

The reserve hosts more than 290 documented bird species — about 58 percent of those recorded in the Kingdom — and includes five internationally recognized important bird areas.

Covering 130,700 sq. kilometers, the King Salman Reserve is the largest natural terrestrial reserve in the Middle East, spanning four administrative regions: Jouf, Hail, Northern Borders, and Tabuk.