ABHA: A joint team of Saudi and German archaeologists has found the remains of a Roman shipwreck along the Red Sea coast.
In addition to it, the remains of another ship dating back to the early Islamic period have also been discovered in the area between Rabigh in the north and Al-Shoaibah in the south.
The items have been delivered to the National Museum in Riyadh for public display, said the discoverers at a seminar.
German archaeologist Michaela Reinfeld said many underwater remains are waiting to be discovered.
She said it was part of her team’s job in the Kingdom to train Saudis in the field of underwater archaeology.
Reinfeld added that the Saudi coast is rich in these wrecks and their presence has prompted the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage to step up efforts to discover the treasures with the assistance of international experts.
Mahdi Al-Qarni, head of the Saudi team, said the successive civilizations on the Arabian Peninsula were major contributors to underwater relics in the Red Sea which has been a trade route since ancient times. He said the Saudi and German team had earmarked 50 locations for more exploration.
He stressed that the discovery of underwater archaeological finds requires specialized expertise, especially as the Red Sea waters contain a good deal of waste and other pieces that are not of archaeological interest.
Al-Qarni added, “The underwater cultural heritage is part of our identity and national history, and protecting it is the responsibility of all of us.”
Al-Qarni praised the German team’s efforts in providing expertise through intensive training, and pointed to the success of the Saudi team in getting diving licenses. This promises to produce specialized archaeologists, and will contribute to the discovery of submerged relics by trained national cadres in the near future. There is a growing interest in underwater archaeology all over the world with a number of universities and scientific institutions involved in the search.
He said that the monuments system, museums and architectural heritage sites are devoted to discovering underwater relics. In addition he highlighted the cooperation between relevant government agencies to preserve the underwater cultural heritage and encourage the immediate reporting of new discoveries.
Reinfeld pointed out that the protection of sunken/underwater monuments depends on several elements, including spreading awareness of the importance of the sunken relics/discoveries by qualified archaeologists, and by adopting scientific procedures that teach how to explore and protect the discoveries as well as the museum’s role in preserving and presenting the items as well as educating the public about them.
There is also a need for laboratories dedicated to the study of archaeological finds under the sea and the way to deal with them scientifically. In this context, she mentioned the Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage.
Roman shipwreck pieces to be displayed in Riyadh museum
Roman shipwreck pieces to be displayed in Riyadh museum
Unity in diversity among global pilgrims celebrating Eid in Makkah
- Worshippers relish the festive spirit of the holy city on the first day of Eid
- Throngs of pilgrims complete their Umrah rituals at Grand Mosque
MAKKAH: An atmosphere of love, diversity, and joy permeates the sacred precincts of the Grand Mosque as pilgrims from across the globe converge to experience Eid in this unique spiritual setting.
The first day of Eid commenced with dawn prayers at the mosque, where throngs of worshippers in white ihram garments — symbolizing unity and detachment from worldly matters — gathered in devotion.
Pilgrims exchanged warm congratulations and prayers, asking Allah to accept their worship and bless them in the coming year.
Following the Eid prayer, jubilation spread throughout Makkah’s streets, which teemed with pilgrims expressing their happiness through prayers and greetings in numerous languages.
This vibrant display embodied the rich cultural diversity that characterizes the Grand Mosque, creating an atmosphere of profound spiritual tranquility.
Many pilgrims took the opportunity to complete their Umrah rituals or circumambulate the Kaaba.
The celebrations included both religious observances and social activities. After prayers and circumambulation, some pilgrims visited other sacred sites like Jabal Al-Noor (Mountain of Light) and the Cave of Hira, while others explored Makkah’s bustling markets to purchase gifts and souvenirs.
These marketplaces pulsed with energy as worshippers bought prayer beads, copies of the Qur’an, oud, and traditional Makkah sweets.
Nasser Bukhari, a clothing merchant in the central district, observed that pilgrims proudly wear attire traditional to their homelands, transforming the Grand Mosque into a living canvas of Islamic diversity.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Following the Eid prayer pilgrims expressed their joy through prayers and greetings in numerous languages.
• Makkah’s hotels and restaurants thrive during Eid, offering celebratory meals.
• Visitors gather around breakfast tables laden with dates, maamoul cookies, and Saudi coffee, while others seek out popular local dishes.
Some don white jalabiyya dresses, while others appear in vibrantly colored, embroidered traditional garments.
Women often choose colorful abayas adorned with intricate patterns reflecting their cultural heritage, with some combining traditional dress with abayas as a celebration of the joyous occasion.
The city’s hotels and restaurants thrive during Eid, offering special celebratory meals. Visitors gather around breakfast tables laden with dates, maamoul cookies, and Saudi coffee, while others seek out popular local dishes.
Traditional Makkan confections such as laddu, mushabbak, zalabiya, and debyaza are abundant, as pilgrims of all nationalities unite as one family bound by faith.
The humanitarian spirit of Eid is evident throughout the city, with volunteers distributing gifts and sweets to children and providing meals to those in need, while some pilgrims visit hospitals and orphanages bearing gifts and assistance.
The organization is impeccable, with the flow of millions of pilgrims proceeding smoothly and efficiently.
Yahya Noor, Syrian physician
As night falls, the illuminated Grand Mosque creates a breathtaking spectacle. Pilgrims continue their devotions or stroll through the mosque’s courtyards, savoring the atmosphere.
Yahya Noor, a Syrian physician, described the Eid celebrations in the city: “Here in Makkah, Eid extends beyond congratulations and festive foods to encompass charitable works and solidarity.
“Witnessing volunteers distribute gifts and meals to the needy made me feel part of a vast Islamic community that genuinely cares for its members.
“The organization is impeccable, with the flow of millions of pilgrims proceeding smoothly and efficiently,” he continued.
“When I entered the Grand Mosque at Eid dawn, I was moved to tears. Seeing the illuminated Kaaba surrounded by reverent worshippers made me truly appreciate this sacred place’s magnificence.
“The exchange of blessings and the atmosphere of love made me feel as though I were among family.”
Worry-free worship: Children’s clubs lighten pilgrims’ load
- Saudi authorities are spearheading efforts to provide top-tier childcare services for worshippers
MAKKAH: With more pilgrims making the journey to Makkah, a Children’s Club initiative is offering a secure, fun space for youngsters, freeing parents to focus on their rituals.
Childcare centers offering top-notch childcare services are available at the Two Holy Mosques, as well as hotels near the Grand Mosque.
Razan Dahlawi, an adviser to the chairman of the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques and a key figure overseeing the childcare centers, told Arab News: “The authority established several childcare centers during the holy month of Ramadan this year.
well as nearby hotels. (SPA)
“They operate 24/7 and seek to provide safe childcare services in an enriching environment by utilizing educational and recreational programs that develop children’s capabilities and promote good values.”
According to the authority, children can enjoy a packed schedule, with Qur’an and Athkar lessons, storytelling that informs and sparks imagination, sensory and creative activities, and healthy meals.
These seasonal childcare centers are found in the third Saudi expansion (areas 12-15), facing gates 100 to 104. They welcome boys aged from 18 months to 6 years and girls from 18 months of age to 9 years.
A specialized team of counselors oversees the centers, which include a dining area, a space for visual displays, educational models depicting the landmarks of the Two Holy Mosques and the process of performing the religious duties, as well as private sleeping rooms.
Hotels near the Grand Mosque are stepping up, too, enhancing their own childcare offerings to ensure a level of service that matches their prime location.
Abdullah Hazzazi, assistant front office manager at Dar Al-Tawhid Hotel, said that the Children’s Club “creates a secure and comfortable environment for children, allowing parents to perform Umrah without worrying about their little ones.”
Entertainment and learning are combined under the supervision of childcare professionals, he added.
“The club features entertainment, educational activities, and games that contribute to their development and art workshops suitable for all ages, while also providing healthy meals and comprehensive medical care.
“We make sure to update parents regularly on their children’s well-being, so they can perform the rites with peace of mind,” Hazzazi said.
Hadeel Al-Harbi, Shaza Makkah Hotel’s children’s club manager, said that children are welcomed for up to two hours at a time, with the service free for hotel guests.
“We are keen to offer a variety of activities suitable for different age groups, including educational games, art workshops and entertaining activities that help develop children’s skills and make use of their time there,” she said.
Al-Harbi said that she would encourage all pilgrims to take advantage of the service.
“The club is an ideal solution for families seeking to comfortably and safely perform their rites,” she said.
Taif governor receives officials for Eid Al-Fitr
- Prince Saud conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
TAIF: Taif Gov. Prince Saud bin Nahar received Eid Al-Fitr well-wishers, including dignitaries, military leaders, directors of government departments, sheikhs, and a group of citizens.
Prince Saud conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
He noted the great efforts and services provided by the Kingdom to the millions of visitors and pilgrims from within the country and around the world who visit the Two Holy Mosques during the holy month of Ramadan.
Saudi project clears 607 Houthi mines in Yemen
- The total included 561 unexploded ordnances, 21 anti-personnel mines, 20 anti-tank mines and five explosive devices, according to a recent report
RIYADH: Members of Saudi Arabia’s Project Masam removed 607 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen last week.
The total included 561 unexploded ordnances, 21 anti-personnel mines, 20 anti-tank mines and five explosive devices, according to a recent report.
Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the initiative’s managing director, said a total of 486,108 mines had been cleared since its inception in 2018.
The explosives were planted indiscriminately and posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.
The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.
The initiative trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.
Teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate safe movement for civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Saudi Arabia launches Hajj packages for domestic pilgrims via Nusuk app
- Priority given to Muslims undertaking Hajj for the first time
- Only those with mandatory meningitis vaccination eligible to book packages
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched this year’s Hajj packages for citizens and residents of the Kingdom, now available for booking through the Nusuk app and its dedicated electronic portal.
In line with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expanding access to the annual pilgrimage, the ministry has launched Hajj packages with priority booking for first-time pilgrims, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
According to the ministry, pilgrims must have completed the mandatory meningitis vaccination to access packages, with appointments available through the Sehhaty app.
The Nusuk platform offers a user-friendly experience, allowing pilgrims to browse and book packages with various payment options.
The Nusuk app also enables pilgrims to purchase essential Hajj items, including ihram clothing and personal necessities, as well as book flight tickets within their packages, streamlining the entire pilgrimage journey.
Welcoming the announcement, Arif Anwar, an Alkhobar resident, told Arab News: “It’s great news, I was waiting for it. Now I will make the booking via Nusuk for me and my family, and (we are) looking forward to it as priority will be given to individuals who have not previously performed this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage, to allow more Muslims to fulfil this one of the five pillars of Islam in a spiritually inclusive and accessible environment.”
Abdulrahman Qahtani, a Jeddah native, said: "It was awaited. I am keen to perform Hajj this year, and by fulfilling the requirements mentioned by the ministry, I will now apply via Nusuk to perform this one of the five key pillars of Islam."
Wissam Dekmak, a Lebanese resident in Riyadh, said: "It is exciting for all residents to hear this announcement, allowing us to plan and book Hajj well in advance. We can now easily reserve packages through the Nusuk app and portal. It is an amazing initiative that simplifies the process and prioritizes those who haven't yet experienced Hajj."
Packages are accessible through the electronic portal at masar.nusuk.sa/individuals/local-pilgrims.
"We offer pilgrims a variety of Hajj packages provided by authorized service provider companies, ensuring a seamless Hajj experience," according to Nusuk portal.
The Hajj package starts at SR8,092 ($2,157) for the Al-Diyafah camp in Mina with shared accommodation. The second package is offered at SR10,366 with an upgraded camp providing high-quality service.
The third package costs SR13,150 for the six towers in Mina, located near the Jamarat bridge. The fourth package, Kidana Al-Wadi Towers, is valued at SR12,537, offering luxurious accommodation in modern towers with advanced facilities and meals.
The launch is part of a wider digital transformation of the Hajj experience, with the Nusuk platform serving as a comprehensive digital companion.
The ministry receives pilgrims’ inquiries via the Pilgrims’ Care Center at 1966 (available 24/7) or the beneficiary care account on X (@MOHU_Care).
