UNESCO-inscribed oral tradition of Alheda’a reflects enduring bond between Arabs and camels
Historical accounts credit Mudar bin Nizar with having invented Alheda’a. After a fall from his camel, he kept crying “Waidah! Waidah!” (Oh, my hand!). The camels began moving, thus beginning the tradition of using vocal cues to guide camels
Updated 29 June 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Alheda’a, a folk art passed down through generations across Arabian societies, embodies the deep connection between camels and locals.
Camel herders use Alheda’a — a combination of sounds, gestures, and sometimes musical instruments — to communicate with their camels. These rhythmic expressions, inspired by poetry, form a unique vocabulary that camels seem to understand and obey.
According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency published on June 29, herders use Alheda’a to guide their camels through the desert, find pastures for grazing, and prepare them for watering, milking, and riding. It also allows them to quickly gather the herd together in case of sandstorms.
Historical accounts credit Mudar bin Nizar with having invented Alheda’a. After a fall from his camel, he kept crying “Waidah! Waidah!” (Oh, my hand!). The camels began moving, thus beginning the tradition of using vocal cues to guide camels.
Early Alheda’a mimicked natural camel noises — herders would urge their animals along with sounds including “Heh,” “Doh,” and “Dah.” These vocalizations, along with rajaz (short, improvised poems), are still used today, but their use varies depending on the environment.
Over time, Alheda’a has evolved into a more poetic artform, with distinct styles and vocabulary. It has incorporated deeper meanings, sung verses, and balanced rhythms.
Saudi folk heritage researcher Ibrahim Al-Khaldi told the SPA that Alheda’a was “essential” for nomadic caravans. It typically involved two people reciting simple rhyming verses in unison, a practice that helped encourage the camels while extracting water from wells. For larger water-extraction tasks, where gathering distant camels was crucial, up to four people might recite Alheda’a. Their voices, carried in the quiet of the desert night or dawn, would travel a great distance.
The chairman of the Saudi Society for Camel Studies, Dr. Mohammed Al-Otaibi, told the SPA that Alheda’a existed in pre-Islamic times. The short, impactful chants helped gather camels, guide their movements, and direct them back to their resting places.
Inscribed in 2022 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Alheda’a has various specific chants — for departure, travel, watering, gathering, and drawing water from wells.
Camels hold a unique place in Arab society. Recognizing this rich cultural heritage, the Camel Club was established in Saudi Arabia under the directives of King Salman in 2017.
The Ministry of Culture even declared 2024 “Year of the Camel,” in honor of an animal seen as a cultural treasure, a pillar of national identity, and a valuable part of Arab heritage.
Saudi leadership offers condolences after passing of Kuwait’s Sheikha Suhaira Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah
Sheikha Suhaira died aged 79 and was the widow of Sheikh Fahad Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah
Updated 01 July 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman offered their condolences on Monday to Kuwait’s emir after the passing of Sheikha Suhaira Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
The king and crown prince sent cables of condolences to Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah while the Kingdom’s crown prince sent a separate cable to Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah.
Sheikha Suhaira died aged 79 and was the widow of Sheikh Fahad Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Kuwait News Agency reported.
Saudi driving influencer urges women to get behind the wheel
TikTok star Balqees tells viewers of her driving content to ‘invest’ in themselves
Updated 01 July 2024
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Balqees, a trailblazing Saudi female driving enthusiast, is channeling the power of social media to empower women to get their license to drive — and do it well.
“I began driving and developing a fascination for it as a teenager, seeing it as a way to make life easier and, honestly, an adventure,” she told Arab News.
Her love and enthusiasm for driving only grew stronger after she left the Kingdom to pursue her studies. Upon her return in 2010, Balqees became a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment on the road.
Balqees, Saudi driving influencer
Recognizing the need for more accessible and engaging driving education for women, Balqees created a TikTok account to share her knowledge and expertise with the masses.
“My team was very supportive of me and insisted that I open a TikTok account, even though I was initially skeptical about whether that was my target audience,” she explained.
HIGHLIGHT
Recognizing the need for more accessible and engaging driving education for women, Balqees created a TikTok account to share her knowledge and expertise with the masses.
The decision proved to be a game-changer, as Balqees’ account on TikTok (@b9ths10) has since amassed nearly 600,000 followers, indicating a market for such content tailored toward women in the region.
Balqees’ videos are meticulously produced, tackling topics like safe driving, common driving mistakes and obstacles in an engaging and informative manner. She also demonstrates and explains what to do in tricky situations on the road.
“We work very hard on our videos as one video takes days to create and produce, but the team helps and supports me,” she noted.
Invest in yourself and learning experiences because you are the only one who will save yourself.
Balqees, Saudi driving influencer
Despite facing naysayers, Balqees has remained steadfast in her determination to contribute her perpsective on the skill.
“Not all people in my life were supportive, as many were asking me to stop having big dreams and give up on my passions, but I didn't listen to the negativity and continued doing what I like to do and didn’t give up,” she said with unwavering resolve.
Balqees’ perseverance has paid off in remarkable ways. Her compelling content and infectious enthusiasm for driving have attracted the attention of major brands, both in the automotive industry and beyond, making her a prominent voice in the community.
“Social media is a sea full of opportunities, and we should watch it to benefit from and exchange experiences and make a profit,” she added.
Balqees’ message to young women who are still hesitant to start driving is one of empowerment and self-belief: “Invest in yourself and learning experiences because you are the only one who will save yourself.”
Balqees stands as an example of what can be achieved when women are given the freedom to pursue their passions and dreams.
Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the transformative impact that women can have on society when they are empowered to take the wheel.
Reconnect with ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘The Batman’ and more at Jeddah’s new entertainment destination
Comic book displays, virtual and augmented reality games
Several visitors hail venue as ideal for both adults, children
Updated 01 July 2024
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: Warner Bros. Discovery’s new indoor entertainment destination in Jeddah is showcasing six concept zones inspired by some of cinema’s most iconic stories.
The venue includes “Batman,” “Tom and Jerry” and “Harry Potter” zones, alongside areas for shoppers.
Enthusiasts will be able to delve into Batman’s storied history and evolution with comic book displays, as well as interactive virtual and augmented reality games.
The Warner Bros. Discovery entertainment zone is open until Aug. 16, featuring interactive, family-friendly attractions and live entertainment. (Instagram/jed.calendar)
The zone featuring Harry Potter’s Magical World zone resembles Hogwarts from the movies. It includes interactive games inspired by the films, including a broomstick ball-throwing contest, and a store replicating the experience of Harry Potter buying his first wand.
Walid Jabbour, managing director of EventBox, said: “The ‘Warner Brothers Discovery Celebration’ is a unique event that brings together the best of Warner Bros. — from 100 years of history encompassing animation studios, ‘Harry Potter,’ movies, and superheroes — all in one place here in Jeddah.”
FASTFACT
The Warner Bros. Discovery entertainment destination includes ‘Batman,’ ‘Tom and Jerry’ and ‘Harry Potter’ zones, alongside areas for shoppers.
He added: “What makes it truly special is that it’s the first time such a comprehensive gathering of Warner’s iconic properties is taking place in Jeddah.
“Bringing this grand spectacle to our audience underscores our commitment, and the enthusiastic response from visitors affirms that having ‘Batman,’ ‘Harry Potter,’ and more all in one location is truly extraordinary.”
Harry Potter’s Magical World includes interactive games inspired by the fictional wizarding world. (AN photos)
Young visitors will also have the opportunity to meet their favorite heroes and characters from Warner Bros. Discovery, including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash from the “Justice League,” as well as Tom, Jerry, and the Scooby-Doo gang.
Julene Muller, event art director, told Arab News: “The energy and excitement from the crowd have been phenomenal, making this event a vibrant celebration for all ages.”
She added: “There’s always something new to discover, with various experiences, walkthroughs, and plenty of photo opportunities available. And of course, the Batmobile remains a favorite among visitors.”
Aleksandar Radulovic, a crew member of the Tom and Jerry Mini Orchestra, explained: “We are aiming to bring the music of the classic cartoons to life. These are the cartoons we grew up with, and now we want to share them with the younger generation.”
Their ensemble consists of a drummer, trombonist, pianist, bassist, and percussionist who plays the xylophone and produces other effects.
“Everything is meticulously organized, and we’re thrilled to be here. We originally collaborated on these ‘Tom and Jerry’ projects with Warner Bros., starting two years ago in Riyadh,” he added.
Fahad Nazer, a father of three, said: “The fully air-conditioned indoor entertainment area is a lifesaver this summer. My kids explored all the concept zones and had a fantastic time.
“The staff was extremely helpful and supportive, especially with the games, so I didn’t have to worry about my children getting lost.”
He said the crowd control was “impressive with five different time slots for booking tickets, which manages the flow very well and ensures kids can enjoy interactive games with shorter lines.”
Another visitor, Mohammed Harbi, said: “My son was thrilled to train with Superman and Batman. It’s amazing that Jeddah now has such a unique entertainment venue; having Warner Bros. here was a pleasant surprise.
“Experiencing it not only brought joy to our children but also allowed us to reminisce about our own childhood days with the ‘Tom and Jerry’ show. I never imagined we’d have such attractions in the city, and the tickets are affordable.
“However, it was challenging for me with a 9-month-old baby since they don’t allow strollers.”
The entertainment zone is open until Aug. 16.
Highlights and attractions
The “Celebrate Every Story” event features four shows across three stages. On the main stage, there is “Looney Tunes: Get in the Game,” an interactive sports-themed show where Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck compete to become the new team captain of Team Looney Tunes.
The “Tom and Jerry Mini Orchestra Performance” displays classic animations of the iconic cat and mouse duo on a large screen with a live orchestra playing their memorable tunes and sound effects.
The “Justice League Training Show,” allows guests to train alongside Justice League members and assist in saving the day during a live stage event. At the “Scooby-Doo: Mystery at the Mall” show visitors can help Scooby and the gang solve a mysterious case.
At the “Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight Experience” zone visitors can explore the iconic Batmobile from the movie “Batman Returns,” the Keaton Mobile and impressive life-sized figures of Batman, The Joker, Harley Quinn, and Catwoman.
The Animation Zone is a must-visit for cartoon lovers. It brings to life the worlds of “Looney Tunes" and “Scooby-Doo,” with interactive games and mystery-solving adventures.
The Celebration Zone allows visitors to take photographs and relive pivotal moments from the history of Warner Bros.
Flynas launches Saudi Arabia’s first sign language training program for cabin crew
The program will train the airline’s cabin crew to effectively communicate with passengers who have hearing impairments, with a specific focus on learning sign language
Updated 01 July 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Air carrier Flynas has launched Saudi Arabia’s first program to train airline cabin crew in sign language.
According to a recent report by Saudi Press Agency, the program is being implemented in collaboration with the Saudi Association for Hearing Impairment, and is part of Flynas’ efforts to adopt sustainable initiatives that positively impact society.
Flynas launches Saudi Arabia’s first program to train cabin crew in sign language. (SPA)
The program will train the airline’s cabin crew to effectively communicate with passengers who have hearing impairments, with a specific focus on learning sign language.
SPEEDREAD
The program will train the airline’s cabin crew to effectively communicate with passengers who have hearing impairments, with a specific focus on learning sign language.
The training covers various stages of passenger communication, from welcoming and boarding procedures to in-flight service, including safety measures, as well as farewell procedures.
Flynas has previously implemented similar initiatives, including a training program, in cooperation with the Saudi Autistic Society, for ground service staff and airline cabin crews on the best ways to care for passengers with autism spectrum disorder.
Saudi energy minister announces discovery of seven oil, gas deposits
Aramco discovers “two unconventional oil fields, reservoir of light Arabian oil, two natural gas fields, and two natural gas reservoirs”
Unconventional oil fields and one reservoir discovered in Eastern Province while two natural gas fields and two reservoirs in Empty Quarter
Updated 01 July 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s energy minister announced the discovery of seven oil and gas deposits in the Kingdom’s Eastern Province and Empty Quarter, Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said Saudi Aramco had discovered “two unconventional oil fields, a reservoir of light Arabian oil, two natural gas fields, and two natural gas reservoirs,” SPA said.
Two unconventional oil fields and one reservoir were discovered in the Kingdom’s Eastern Province while two natural gas fields and two reservoirs in the Empty Quarter.
The “Ladam” unconventional oil field was discovered in the Eastern Province after the flow of very light Arabian oil in the Ladam-2 well at a rate of 5,100 barrels per day, accompanied by about 4.9 million standard cubic feet of gas per day.
“Al-Farouk” unconventional oil field was discovered in the Eastern Province after Arab ultra-light oil flowed from the Al-Farouk-4 well at a rate of 4,557 barrels per day, accompanied by about 3.79 million standard cubic feet of gas per day.
The “Unayzah B/C” reservoir was discovered in the “Mazalij” field in the Eastern Province, after Arab Light oil flowed from the Mazalij-62 well at a rate of 1,780 barrels per day, accompanied by about 0.7 million standard cubic feet of gas per day.
“Al-Jahaq” field was discovered in the Empty Quarter after natural gas flowed from the “Al-Arab-C” reservoir in Al-Jahaq-1 well at a rate of 5.3 million standard cubic feet per day, and from the “Al-Arab-D” reservoir in the same well at a rate of 1.1 million standard cubic feet per day.
“Al-Katuf” field was discovered in the Empty Quarter after natural gas flowed into Al-Katuf-1 well at a rate of 7.6 million standard cubic feet per day, accompanied by about 40 barrels per day of condensate.
The “Hanifa” reservoir was also discovered in the “Asikra” field in the Empty Quarter after natural gas flowed in the Asikra-6 well at a rate of 4.9 million standard cubic feet per day.
Natural gas flowed into the same well from “Al-Fadhili” reservoir at a rate of 0.6 million standard cubic feet per day, accompanied by about 100 barrels of condensate per day.
