Makkah locals welcome blessings of the spiritual season

Residents of Makkah have historically played a crucial role in hosting and supporting the millions of Muslims who come to perform Hajj. (Supplied)
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Updated 18 June 2024
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Makkah locals welcome blessings of the spiritual season

  • Hajj invites millions to the holy city where locals show deep-rooted Saudi hospitality

RIYADH: During the sacred days of Hajj, Makkah witnesses an influx of pilgrims and locals themselves engage more fervently in Islamic practices such as prayer and fasting.

Sami Al-Alwani, a local citizen, enjoys the spiritual aspects of the pilgrimage and says the Hajj season is unlike any other month.

“This annual tradition of welcoming, joy and enthusiasm with which we receive the pilgrims of the House of God is passed down from generation to generation,” he told Arab News.




Muttawwif Wejdan Buqas with Malaysian pilgrims after Hajj. (Supplied)

The arrival of pilgrims also means a peak in economic activity and boost for local employment.

Al-Alwani added: “One significant economic aspect we notice is the full occupancy of hotels, leading to a noticeable economic boost in restaurants and services.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Locals of Makkah, including young men and women, volunteer through available programs to assist and guide pilgrims.

• The sacred time of Hajj also brings forth the deep- rooted compassion and friendliness that are hallmarks of the people of Makkah.

“We have numerous job opportunities during Hajj to assist pilgrims and work with them in Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah and the train station. We also serve as their supervisors and assist them in completing their Hajj obligations. Many volunteers, including young men and women from Makkah, participate voluntarily through available programs.”




Residents of Makkah have historically played a crucial role in hosting and supporting the millions of Muslims who come to perform Hajj. (Supplied)

Al-Alwani added pilgrimage routes and traffic patterns in recent years had had no negative effects for Makkah’s population.

Wejdan Buqas is a female mutawwif — someone who leads pilgrims in the traditional rites and prayers of Hajj and Umrah — who says she used to offer to drive people to Mount Hira and other holy locations.

“Back in the 1980s, we used to greet pilgrims, let them stay in our homes, and transport them to the Al-Tanaim Mosque, Al-Maala Cemeteries, and Hira Mountain. We used to also take them to private, tiny museums that highlighted Makkah inhabitants’ customs, such as telling them about our Eid celebrations,” she said, adding such activities were now streamlined by the government.

Due to the high volume of pilgrims, nearby companies and service providers were set up to meet their needs by providing lodgings, transportation, medical care, and guidance. The sacred time of Hajj also brings forth the deep-rooted compassion and friendliness that are hallmarks of the people of Makkah.

Bakur Hemdi is a Makkah native from a long lineage of muttawifs, including his grandfather and father. He followed in their footsteps and took up the role when he was 21 years old.

“As a mutawwif, my role goes beyond just guiding the pilgrims through the rituals and ceremonies of Hajj and Umrah,” he said.

“I’m a cultural ambassador, helping them navigate the intricacies of Makkah’s landscape and ensuring they can fully immerse themselves in the spiritual journey they’ve come to undertake.”

He added: “Through my interactions with pilgrims from diverse backgrounds, I've gained a deep appreciation for the richness of their traditions and the shared devotion that unites them in their pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. I take great pride in upholding the legacy of my ancestors, while also adapting to the evolving needs of modern-day pilgrims.”   

Hayat Eid, who also comes from a family of mutawwifs, said everyone in Makkah mostly worked during Hajj or, if not, they traveled.

“We make a profit of a whole year during Hajj season, so many people will not miss that opportunity,” she said. “We also remark to each other, ‘Hajj wala dajj?’ which translates to ‘Are you working in Hajj or are you fleeing?’ which is a humorous statement.”  

She added many women participated by preparing treats like maamoul cookies and date cakes to share during Eid.

Every activity contributes to the Hajj season, a time of great spiritual significance and community engagement for the residents of Makkah who play a crucial role in hosting and supporting the millions of Muslims who come to perform this important religious duty.

 


Riyadh forum explores reading’s role in growth

Updated 11 sec ago
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Riyadh forum explores reading’s role in growth

RIYADH: The Reading Forum, organized by the Libraries Commission, recently concluded at King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh.

The forum featured dialogue sessions and workshops attracting reading and culture enthusiasts, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Discussions covered novels as artistic expressions that reflect culture and history, foster critical thinking, and the role of narration in promoting cross-cultural dialogue.

Participants highlighted reading and research as tools for personal growth, lifelong learning, and effective content creation.

They emphasized the importance of translation in cultural exchange and global copyright, the SPA reported.

Sessions explored instilling a love for reading in youth through collaboration between families, schools and society, as well as leadership in literary trends and the impact of genres on critical thinking.

The event set out to position reading as a foundation of progress, celebrating Saudi, Arab and global literary talent while fostering a culture of knowledge and intellectual growth.


Riyadh festival explores role of theater in shaping intellectual, artistic futures

Updated 25 min 37 sec ago
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Riyadh festival explores role of theater in shaping intellectual, artistic futures

RIYADH: The Riyadh Theater Festival is hosting a series of cultural discussions and theatrical performances distinguished by intellectual depth and artistic excellence.

Organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, the festival is being held at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University until Dec. 26.

A seminar on contemporary theater in the Arab world explored the intersection of creativity and sustainability, bringing together an elite group of theater thinkers and creators.

One of the festival’s participants, Kamal Al-Alawi from Tunisia, reviewed the evolution of theater, tracing its journey from the Greek era through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance to the time of Emile Zola, which marked a qualitative shift and revolution in impressionism.

Among the intellectuals and theater experts, Lina Abiad from Lebanon discussed ways to improve theatrical production and modernize it using contemporary methodologies.

The commission’s CEO, Sultan Al-Bazie, described the festival as a cornerstone for advancing theatrical movement in the Kingdom and increasing public awareness of the performing arts.

This year’s event features 20 performances, selected by a committee of experts, reflecting the diversity of theatrical arts in the Kingdom and its intellectual and developmental programs.

The festival underscores the commission’s commitment to supporting the performing arts and Saudi talent, aiming for a strong presence on regional and international stages. It will conclude with a presentation of awards to distinguished performers.


Jeddah Book Fair wraps up with 450,000 books sold

Updated 31 min 57 sec ago
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Jeddah Book Fair wraps up with 450,000 books sold

  • The event hosted workshops, seminars, panel discussions and book signings led by experts in literature, arts and sports

Jeddah: The Jeddah Book Fair concluded on Saturday, attracting thousands of visitors with local and international booksellers.

Held from Dec. 12-21 under the slogan “Jeddah Reads,” the fair featured more than 450 pavilions and showcased works from 1,000 publishing houses across 22 countries.

Mohammed Alwan, CEO of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, said that the fair displayed nearly 400,000 titles, selling more than 450,000 books in various genres.

The event hosted workshops, seminars, panel discussions and book signings led by experts in literature, arts and sports.

A dedicated children’s section featured animation, educational books and advanced learning tools.

One pavilion highlighted the cultural significance of camels, using modern technology to explore their history, types, and related poetry.

Arabic manga publications targeting youth were also a key attraction, alongside interactive displays and models of famous characters, offering a blend of entertainment and education.


Camels, kabsa, and kindness: a British influencer’s unexpected adventure in Saudi Arabia

Henry Moores found reassurance through Visit Saudi, which provided him with resources and connections across the country.
Updated 21 December 2024
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Camels, kabsa, and kindness: a British influencer’s unexpected adventure in Saudi Arabia

  • Henry Moores walked to Riyadh from UAE ahead of Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk’s rematch
  • ‘I hope to strengthen my relationship with my Saudi friends,’ says Moores

RIYADH: Henry Moores, a British influencer, has made an unusual journey to Riyadh for the high-profile boxing rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, having walked across Saudi Arabia from the UAE.

Describing the trip as an opportunity he “simply couldn’t afford to miss,” Moores told Arab News: “Riyadh has long been on my radar for many years, and when the opportunity presented itself through the Fury fight, everything aligned perfectly.”

On Saturday evening the two heavyweights compete for the WBA, WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles in a much-anticipated rematch from their bout last May. It is a fight of historic significance.

Henry Moores, British influencer

The response from Moores’ followers to his Saudi adventure has been “overwhelmingly positive,” he said.

“Initially, I wasn’t sure how they would react, especially as I was venturing to a place I had never visited before. However, everyone embraced the journey and truly loved the experience.”

Despite initial apprehension, Moores found reassurance through Visit Saudi, which provided him with resources and connections across the country. “I felt completely reassured about my safety.”

Saudi Arabia is stunning. I’ve met so many incredible people, and I’ve never felt safer in a country. This definitely won’t be my last time in the Kingdom.

Henry Moores, British influencer

His experiences with Saudi hospitality have been particularly memorable. “As soon as we arrived in Saudi Arabia, we were warmly welcomed by the locals with gifts, water, and offers of help and support. All my nerves were settled instantly,” he said.

“What surprised me the most was the incredible hospitality and generosity of the people,” he added. “I was actually given more bottles of water than I had purchased, and on several occasions, I was refused the chance to pay for my meals.”

One of Moores’ highlights was being welcomed into the home of the mayor of Haradh. “We shared tea, engaging conversation, and a delicious serving of kabsa,” he said.

His adventure also included a visit to a camel farm, an experience he recalled fondly. “We met a young man named Milfy, who was around my age, and he invited us to his camel farm. There, we had the unique experience of milking camels and drinking the milk right on the spot.”

Moores also addressed initial skepticism from some of his followers about his journey. “Those same individuals later apologized for their opinions and shared how much they’d love to visit Saudi Arabia now. I believe my content clearly showcased just how incredible Saudi Arabia is.”

His passion for hiking and walking, which he attributes to his mother’s influence during his childhood, was a significant part of his trip. “Reaching the heart of the Kingdom feels like a dream come true — something I never imagined I’d experience,” he said, adding that his first impressions were of a “beautiful, modern city” that captivated him.

Looking forward, Moores expressed eagerness to explore more of Saudi Arabia, particularly Diriyah, local cuisines, and Boulevard World.

He praised Visit Saudi for their support in logistics and translation. “Visit Saudi played a crucial role in connecting me, providing translation services, and facilitating the logistics of bringing a team, cameras, and a support car to make this trip possible,” he noted.

Moores also stated his desire to return. “Saudi Arabia is stunning. I’ve met so many incredible people, and I’ve never felt safer in a country. This definitely won’t be my last time in the Kingdom.

“I hope to strengthen my relationship with my Saudi friends and continue collaborating in the future, as I’m already looking forward to returning.”

 


Saudi farmers sow seeds of sustainability in Najran’s fertile soil

Updated 21 December 2024
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Saudi farmers sow seeds of sustainability in Najran’s fertile soil

  • The ministry’s involvement and support is pivotal for agricultural initiatives in Najran, providing farmers with marketing help, technical advice, and promoting organic farming practices to ensure the production of safe, high-quality food

RIYADH: The agricultural landscape of the Najran region, historically a cultural and economic anchor, now stands at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s push for food security, environmental stewardship, and economic vitality, according to a report from the Saudi Press Agency published on Saturday.

“Blessed with fertile land, a temperate climate, and diverse topography like mountainous terrain and extensive plains, Najran is a year-round agricultural hub,” the SPA stated.

Farmers in Najran cultivate crops including citrus fruits, wheat varieties such as Al-Samraa, samma, and zarai, and a range of dates including bayadh, mawakil, barhi, khalas, and rutab.

The region also yields tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, zucchini, beans, onions, and various leafy greens.

FASTFACT

The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture’s provides farmers with marketing help, technical advice, and promotes organic farming practices to ensure the production of safe, high-quality food.

Through the use of innovative modern agricultural practices, local farmers have “effectively contributed to producing healthy, safe food free from pesticides and chemical fertilizers,” according to the SPA.

Hamad Al-Abbas has been an organic famer for the past six years. His farm specializes in crops strawberries and stevia, the latter harvested thrice yearly.

A standout initiative in the region is the coffee cultivation project. Ali Dhafer Al-Harith, who heads the Regional Cooperative Coffee Association, told the SPA that his passion for farming led to experimenting with coffee.

He embarked on the venture in 2022 with 4,000 seedlings. Today, the project has grown to encompass 80 farms with roughly 100,000 coffee trees, aged between three to six years, nurturing varieties including khoulani, adeni, dawairi, tuffahi, and the region-specific taisani.

Coffee planting continues year-round, except during July and August, with flowering in March and harvesting in October, he explained.

The association plays a vital role in supporting coffee farms, offering workshops in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, and handling post-harvest logistics including processing, packaging, and marketing operations.

The ministry’s involvement and support is pivotal for agricultural initiatives in Najran, providing farmers with marketing help, technical advice, and promoting organic farming practices to ensure the production of safe, high-quality food, the SPA reported.

Mureih bin Sharea Al-Shahrani, the ministry’s regional director, explained that the ministry’s support system includes helping famers cultivate local trees and rare plants, as well as “various educational programs and workshops,” through which the ministry aims to “spread awareness and expertise in sustainable agriculture.”