A history of devoted tradition holds firm in Makkah

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The series of images that span nearly 150 years clearly illustrates the historical transition and civilizational development that Saudi Arabia has witnessed as well as the great amount of money and unparalleled effort that it has generously provided in the service of Islam. (Supplied)
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Updated 31 July 2020
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A history of devoted tradition holds firm in Makkah

  • Historians, geographers and painters preserve the past 150 years of Makkah’s history

MAKKAH: Historians, geographers and painters have all contributed to the preservation of the history of the Two Holy Mosques, conveying the urban, cultural and human heritage in all its manifestations and archaeological treasures. 

Arab News took a trip through the 150 years of Makkah’s history to review the images that have found their place in the memory of the world.

Dr. Khadran Al-Thubaiti, former professor of geography at Umm Al-Qura University, said that the role of geographers is not so much in historical aspects as in natural, urban and civilizational aspects.

“The relationship between history and geography is close because the temporal dimension and the spatial dimension go hand in hand,” he said.

He explained that historians have played a major role in documenting the development and change witnessed in Makkah and the Grand Mosque area since the migration of the Prophet until the present. 

The relationship between history and geography is close because the temporal dimension and the spatial dimension go hand in hand.

Dr. Khadran Al-Thubaiti, former professor of geography at Umm Al-Qura University

“No one can deny the prominent role that Al-Azraqi, Al-Fakihi, Al-Fassi and other (historians) have played in mapping the history and geography of Makkah,” said Al-Thubaiti.

Dr. Abdullah bin Hussein Al-Sharif, supervisor of the King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Chair for Makkah Historical Studies, told Arab News that Makkah occupies a special religious and spiritual place in the hearts of Muslims, and has received the attention of Islamic countries from the time of Prophet Muhammad and caliphs through to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which vigorously serves the pilgrims and visitors.

Al-Sharif said that in the Saudi era the Two Holy Mosques received special care from the great founder King Abdul Aziz, who was eager to reconstruct and develop them and provide the best services to the pilgrims.

“Historians, travelers, geographers, painters, writers and photographers have taken care to document the history of the Two Holy Mosques, pilgrimages, Umrah and visits, as well as the efforts of Islamic countries to serve pilgrims,” Al-Sharif said.

Al-Sharif explained that the series of images that span nearly 150 years clearly illustrates the historical transition and civilizational development that Saudi Arabia has witnessed and the services it has offered, as well as the great amount of money and unparalleled effort that it has generously provided in the service of Islam and Muslims.

“The main goal of the Kingdom, during the reign of its founder King Abdul Aziz and his righteous sons, the kings of the Kingdom after him, Saud, Faisal, Khalid, Fahd and Abdullah, was to take care of the Two Holy Mosques and provide pilgrims and visitors with the best of services so that they could perform their rituals with ease and comfort. King Salman followed in the footsteps of his predecessors and pursued this matter with vigor, drawing attention, in all his meetings and speeches, to the Kingdom’s keenness to proudly serve the pilgrims,” he said.

Al-Sharif added: “Vision 2030 is a national reform plan introduced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to develop the Kingdom. It represents the continuation of the government’s efforts and the major Saudi achievements in general, and in the Two Holy Mosques in particular. It reflects a great qualitative leap towards comprehensive sustainable development, progress and global leadership.”

He said that the Kingdom’s founder initiated various works to further develop the holy site “such constructing the Kiswa Factory of the Holy Kaaba in Makkah, building a door for the Kaaba, lighting, maintaining and painting the square of the Mosque, tiling and shading the Masaa area (the running course between Safa and Marwa), advising the expansion of the Two Holy Mosques.”

These epic efforts culminated in the expansion of the Grand Mosque in three phases, he said.  The first phase of the expansion was ordered by King Abdul Aziz and took place during the reign of King Saud and was completed during the reign of King Faisal.

“The second expansion, which took place during the reign of King Fahd bin Abdul Aziz, included the addition to the Grand Mosque of the historic Souq Al-Hazoora area, known as the Souq Al- Sagheer. Other modern developments were added, such as squares, escalators and the circumambulation areas (Mataf).”

The third expansion, the largest expansion of the Grand Mosque in history, began in the reign of King Abdullah and is continuing in the reign of King Salman. “It raised the capacity of the Grand Mosque, Mataf and Masaa to nearly 3 million worshippers, allowing them to perform the Hajj and Umrah rituals with comfort and ease.”

Historians have taken care to document the history of the Two Holy Mosques, pilgrimages, Umrah and visits, as well as the efforts of Islamic countries to serve pilgrims.

Dr. Abdullah bin Hussein Al-Sharif, supervisor of the King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Chair for Makkah Historical Studies

Al-Sharif explained that the three expansions are part of a system of facilities, works, projects and services to be carried out in the two holy cities and the holy sites, with the aim of providing integrated infrastructure, such as water networks through desalination plants and giant strategic reservoirs, electricity and drainage systems, environmental health and municipal services.

“The development projects also aim to offer adequate housing for visitors and pilgrims,” he said.

Al-Sharif said that modern sea ports, airports, roads, bridges, communications and trains, including the Haramain high-speed railway project and the holy sites project are being executed.

The Saudi leadership also took care of building the Mawaqit, entry points for pilgrims on Hajj roads and the holy sites mosques, including the Al-Khayf Mosque in Mina, the Al-Mashaar Al-Haram Mosque in Muzdalifah, the Mosque of Nimara in Arafat, and the historical mosques such as Al-Ijaba, Al-Raya and Al-Jinn mosques.

Al-Sharif stated that the Kingdom was keen to preserve the health of pilgrims and built medical cities, hospitals and health centers in Makkah, Madinah and the holy sites, providing medical services free of charge.

“The Kingdom has proven throughout its history its ability to host millions of visitors and manage crowds efficiently with its generous hospitality and services. It looks forward to receiving about 35  million pilgrims each year through its Vision 2030 projects,” he said.

He added: “The most important thing is to enable visitors and pilgrims to perform their rituals in a safe and healthy environment. The Kingdom was able to achieve this goal, enabling worshippers to perform their Hajj and Umrah ritual in security, peace, comfort and tranquility from their entry into the Kingdom and until they leave.”


Riyadh school selected as one of world’s top 100 for 2025

Updated 13 March 2025
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Riyadh school selected as one of world’s top 100 for 2025

  • BISR is one of just 100 schools from around the world selected for inclusion in the top tier of the Spear’s Schools Index

RIYADH: British International School Riyadh has been named in the Top 100 Independent Schools in the World list in the 2025 Spear’s Schools Index, a guide to the world’s most prestigious schools.

Its dedication to student excellence, state-of-the-art educational facilities, high academic results and hyper-tailored teaching programs all combined to secure the honor.

As well as the intellectual support on offer, the accolade recognizes BISR’s commitment to nurturing enthusiastic and kind global citizens through comprehensive pastoral schemes.

The full list will be announced at a launch event in London on March 15, where leaders from the best schools around the world will have the opportunity to network and celebrate their continued efforts in education.

Since its launch in 2020, the Spear’s Schools Index has garnered growing recognition in a range of national and international media and established its reputations as a definitive index of the world’s 100 leading private schools.

BISR Director of Schools Helen Olds said: “We are incredibly honored to be awarded this recognition. This achievement is testament to the dedication and hard work of our students, faculty and staff. We remain committed to providing an exceptional educational experience that fosters growth, innovation and excellence in every student. We extend our gratitude to our entire school community for making this possible.”

Edwin Smith, Spear’s editor-in-chief, said: “BISR is one of just 100 schools from around the world selected for inclusion in the top tier of the Spear’s Schools Index. This selection directly reflects the judgement and insights of the leading educationalists on our expert advisory panel, who took into account factors including academic attainment, social, cultural and pastoral considerations, standing, reputation and character.

“BISR thoroughly deserves its place. Its inclusion is testament to the school’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching and holistic development of its students.”


‘Ramadan hours’ — the social and economic effects of changing schedules

Updated 13 March 2025
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‘Ramadan hours’ — the social and economic effects of changing schedules

  • Markets and roads can be seen teeming with shoppers at night

RIYADH: With the advent of Ramadan, the rhythm of Saudi cities shifts more toward nightlife, carrying on until just before dawn.

In light of the fasting from food and drink throughout the day in Ramadan, establishments extend their opening hours later into the evening.

Markets and roads can be seen teeming with shoppers at night, and homes are busy welcoming visitors.

Reham Al-Azwari, clinical nutrition track leader at the Makkah Health Cluster, spoke to Arab News about the importance of healthy eating habits during Ramadan to enhance productivity as working hours shift.

The historic district of Jeddah during Ramadan. (Getty Images)

Healthy nutrition “helps improve productivity during the day, even with the change in lifestyle to nighttime,” Al-Azwari said.

“Despite the economic and social benefits, the nighttime shift in Ramadan is not without challenges, especially in terms of health,” she said.

“Changing sleep patterns and staying up late for long hours can negatively affect general health. Staying up at night and sleeping during the day can lead to disruptions in the body’s biological clock, affecting focus and productivity during the day.

“We have to follow moderation … in staying up late and having sufficient sleep, especially for people who work during the day,” Al-Azwari said‎.

Pilgrims from all over the world gather around Masjid al-Haram on the twenty-ninth night of Ramadan in Makkah. (Getty Images)

Abdulaziz Al-Kaltham, professor of sociology at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, spoke to Arab News about the societal effects of Ramadan hours.

“Ramadan rituals reshape social structures clearly and evidently, as most daily activities turn into intensive social activities,” he said.

“Many activities in Ramadan, such as charitable iftar tables, enhance the values of solidarity and giving, where individuals from different social classes participate in providing food,” Al-Kaltham said.

“This type of interaction contributes to bridging social gaps between social classes ‎and contributes to creating an atmosphere of social justice,” he said.

Dhahi Alwan Al-Barrak, CEO of Zatisto Services, has faced difficulties importing products from major establishments operating during daytime hours, and retail stores that often open during the evening.

Lights, celebrations, people talking and drinking Arabic coffee, shops selling drinks and snacks, and banners with Al-Baha Ramadan on them in the city of Al-Hajra in Al-Baha region celebrating the month of Ramadan. (Getty Images)

“During Ramadan, we operate under two systems. On one hand, we must deal with suppliers who work during the day, and on the other hand, we open our stores at night to receive customers. This requires extra effort and careful coordination,” he said.

However, Al-Barrak said that the month offers an opportunity for employees to form a closer bond.

“Ramadan brings us together as a team. We work together at night, and we share iftar and suhoor meals, which strengthens the bonds between us. This sense of cohesion helps us overcome challenges,” he said.

Mansour Al-Osaimi, founder of Right Decision for Customer Experience Consulting, said that Ramadan imposes a different rhythm on daily life, where the evening period after iftar becomes a valuable time for interacting with customers.

“Companies can adapt the customer experience by adjusting working and service hours to suit peak periods after iftar, and providing flexible services such as order delivery during evening hours,” he said.

“Challenges such as reduced concentration during fasting hours and different work patterns can be overcome by providing flexibility in working hours, such as adopting flexible hours or remote work for some periods.” 

He highlighted the importance of “reducing burdens and focusing on priorities, and enhancing internal communication among employees.”


Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Mauritius on its independence day

Updated 13 March 2025
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Saudi king, crown prince congratulate Mauritius on its independence day

  • The Indian Ocean nation gained independence from the UK on March 12, 1968

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Wednesday congratulated President Dharambeer Gokhool of Mauritius on his country's Independence Day, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

In a cable, King Salman wished Gokhool continued good health and happiness, and the government and people of Mauritius steady progress and prosperity.

Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman sent a similar cable to the Indian Ocean republic's leader, wishing him and his people all the best.

Mauritius, a nation of 1.27 million people and located east of Madagascar off the African continent, was a colony of Great Britain until it won independence March 12, 1968. 
 

 


Recipe renaissance – traditional foods brighten Saudi iftar spreads with heritage

Updated 13 March 2025
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Recipe renaissance – traditional foods brighten Saudi iftar spreads with heritage

  • Arab News spoke to Saudis carrying the taste of family legacy forward during holy month

JEDDAH/RIYADH: Ramadan is helping revive traditional dishes in Saudi Arabia, as many families prepare foods distinctive to their region.

Tables across the Kingdom showcase great diversity during the holy month, with families passing down culinary traditions through generations.

The connection between Ramadan and these traditional dishes is rooted in customs, but their nutritional value also plays a key role. Often rich in energy-boosting ingredients such as meats and vegetables, they provide essential nutrients that replenish the body after a long day of fasting.

In the Northern Borders, al-khumei’ah is a well-known dish, while the Eastern Province is famous for its harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat soup), according to the Kingdom’s Culinary Arts Commission.

Riyadh’s signature dish is marqooq (thin dough with meat, onions, and spiced broth), whereas Qassim is known for its al-tawah pastry.

In Tabuk, al-mafroukah (dough with dates, honey, and butter) is a popular choice, while Jazan is renowned for makshan fish, cooked with onions and spices.

Hail offers al-baseesa (dough balls with date paste), and Asir is known for tasabee’ (a flour, milk and sugar mix).

Najran features al-wafd and al-maraq (dough balls), while Makkah is recognized for its red barley soup. In Madinah, sobiyah is a well-loved traditional drink made from barley or oats.

Al-Baha is known for its maraqa bread, while Jouf specializes in saj bread, an unleavened flatbread. 

Young people are being drawn to traditional foods through social media.

“Living in this era where everyone’s trying to keep up with trends and compete on ‘who did it better’ along with the culture of sharing photos is a big motivation. But I can’t deny that nostalgia and emotional connection also play an important role,” said Maryam Al-Oufi.

Loza Al-Mahdi and Eman Al-Hussaini, a mother and daughter from western Saudi Arabia, believe these dishes represent important memories.

“No matter how many new recipes we try, traditional dishes have a special place because they hold childhood memories and connect us to the past.”

One staple that remains a must-have during Ramadan is maamoul, a date-filled pastry that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Al-Mahdi said: “No Ramadan is complete without making maamoul. It’s something that brings the whole family together.”

Platforms like TikTok and X have made it easier to share and preserve traditional recipes. “Sharing recipes on TikTok or even posting pictures of dishes on X really helps with that,” Al-Oufi explained. 

“When we see cool photos and videos, it gets us excited to try those dishes again and bring back recipes that had faded away.”

For many, Ramadan cooking is about familial legacy. “Families have the choice of continuing the tradition and passing it on to future generations or just burying it,” Al-Oufi stated.

Al-Mahdi emphasized the importance of hands-on learning: “I make sure to teach my children how to cook properly, just as I learned from my mother and grandmother.”

For some, certain dishes hold deep sentimental value. Al-Oufi recalls her grandmother’s attention to detail: “My grandma was very picky about food, especially when it came to the size and shape of the luqaimat. My grandma passed away, but her rules stayed with us.”

Similarly, Al-Hussaini shares a dish that remains close to her heart: “One of the most important dishes I have to make during Ramadan, and my kids love, is jaib al-tajir (merchant’s pocket).”

The Culinary Arts Commission has played a significant role in preserving traditional dishes by organizing a number of events and festivals that highlight Saudi heritage cuisine.

It has also documented preparation methods and cultural traditions, supported entrepreneurs, and published books and videos, helping to inspire interest in traditional foods.

Traditional markets and restaurants also play a major role in preserving these dishes, offering visitors the opportunity to experience authentic flavors and promoting traditional food culture across generations.

The Culinary Arts Commission promotes heritage foods during Ramadan by sharing special content on social media and its website.

This includes highlighting traditional Ramadan dishes, their preparation methods, historical origins, and cultural significance.

By sharing this knowledge, the commission encourages the community to appreciate and preserve Saudi culinary heritage during Ramadan.


Saudi joint forces chief receives UAE counterpart and delegation

Updated 13 March 2025
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Saudi joint forces chief receives UAE counterpart and delegation

Saudi Arabia’s Commander of the Joint Forces Lt. Gen. Fahd bin Hamad Al-Salman received Deputy Commander of the UAE Joint Operations Maj. Gen. Awad Saeed Al-Ahbabi and his accompanying delegation at the Armed Forces Officers Club in Riyadh on Wednesday.

During the meeting, they discussed various aspects of cooperation between the two sides, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Al-Ahbabi expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and stressed the importance of joint coordination between the Saudi and Emirati sides for the benefit of the two countries.