Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Gate’s series of Eid celebrations brought community together

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On the first day of Eid, ‘Party Buses’ were launched, driving around Diriyah to spread happiness by giving away thousands of balloons, cotton candy, sweets, puzzles and coloring books to children. (SPA)
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Updated 24 July 2021
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Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Gate’s series of Eid celebrations brought community together

  • Throughout the week, the DGDA launched an exciting interactive QR activation in five of Diriyah’s parks

RIYADH: To celebrate Eid, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) launched a series of initiatives to distribute gifts and run events for the enjoyment of the entire community.
Earlier in July, a cattle market was established in front of the Diriyah butcher shop to ease access to livestock for the sacrificial feast; wool was collected from the livestock in collaboration with Diriyah municipality, to be recycled.
On the first day of Eid, the DGDA distributed 1,500 first aid kits after Eid prayers to the community, anticipating that some may not have access appropriate medical supplies.
Eid prayers were held in the following six mosques in Diriyah: Imam Mohammad Bin Saud, Modi Al-Othman, Ibrahim bin Sulaiman, Abdulmohsen Al-Suailim, Munirah Al-Nasser, and Al-Khaliah, and following the prayers the DGDA distributed a boxes of chocolates to attendees in celebration.
On the first day of Eid, “Party Buses” were launched, driving around Diriyah to spread happiness by giving away thousands of balloons, cotton candy, sweets, puzzles and coloring books to passersby to celebrate the joyous occasion. Chocolates were also delivered to houses across the area.

HIGHLIGHT

The Diriyah Gate Development Authority distributed 1,500 first aid kits after Eid prayers to the community, anticipating that some may not have access appropriate medical supplies.

Throughout the week, the DGDA launched an exciting interactive QR activation in five of Diriyah’s parks. Users could scan the code to download special content including information on the history of Eid in the Kingdom and in Diriyah specifically.
“At this time for reflection and starting afresh, we wanted to celebrate with the local Diriyah community by ensuring this Eid was one to remember,” said Ahlam Althunayan, director of community engagement at the DGDA.
“Eid is a momentous and joyous occasion shared with family and friends, and I’m delighted to see the success of these wonderful activations during the week of Eid.
“DGDA always looks to support and engage the local community; there’s no better time to bring people together than during this celebratory week.”


Ramadan bonfire tradition rekindles roots in Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders

Updated 03 March 2025
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Ramadan bonfire tradition rekindles roots in Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders

  • Reflects the ‘spirit of love, communication,’ reinforces social values

RIYADH: During the holy month, the Northern Borders region lights up with one of its standout traditions: the Ramadan bonfire.

These Ramadan gatherings hold a special place in the community, strengthening family and neighborly bonds.

The spirit of Ramadan reflects love, communication, and the strengthening of social values between generations. (SPA)

They provide a space for exchanging stories and experiences about the past, present and future, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

In an interview with the SPA, local inhabitant Marawi Al-Sudairi explained that the fire is a symbol of generosity and togetherness, and an integral part of the region’s culture.

FASTFACT

In an interview with the SPA, local inhabitant Marawi Al-Sudairi explained that the bonfire is a symbol of generosity and togetherness, and an integral part of the region’s culture.

Karim Al-Dhaidi, another local, said the gatherings are open to everyone, and serve to strengthen social ties. They also connect people with their past, he said.

The spirit of Ramadan reflects love, communication, and the strengthening of social values between generations. (SPA)

Jazaa Marji, board chairman of the Retirees Association in the Northern Borders region, said the Ramadan fire has always been a part of the local heritage.

“We grew up with it, and it brings generations together, offering an opportunity to recall memories and share experiences with the youth,” he said.

“Ramadan is the perfect time to revive such traditions, as they reflect the spirit of love, communication, and the reinforcement of social values between generations.”

Even today, the Ramadan fire remains a tradition at many homes in the Northern Borders region. Residents are keen to revive it during Ramadan nights.

 


Saudi ministry promotes local products for sustainable growth

Updated 03 March 2025
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Saudi ministry promotes local products for sustainable growth

  • The ministry encouraged consumers to adopt healthy shopping practices by choosing local agricultural products, meats, and dairy, which offer high nutritional value

RIYADH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture highlighted the importance of purchasing local products to achieve environmental and economic sustainability and enhance food security, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

This came during the launch of an environmental campaign through the ministry’s Environmental Awareness Initiative, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The campaign aims to promote healthy behaviors supporting the local economy and raising environmental awareness by encouraging the purchase of national products.

The ministry emphasized that local products are of high quality, environmentally suitable, and subject to strict oversight, ensuring compliance with health and environmental standards, which enhances food safety and preserves natural resources.

It also noted that buying national products reduces the carbon footprint from imports and transportation while supporting local farmers and producers, benefiting the national economy, the SPA reported.

The ministry encouraged consumers to adopt healthy shopping practices by choosing local agricultural products, meats, and dairy, which offer high nutritional value.

Purchasing local food also promotes the consumption of seasonal and regional products, helping reduce food waste and the impact of low-quality imports. The ministry stressed that this approach supports sustainable development and boosts production efficiency.

 


Civil Defense issues rain warning across Saudi Arabia

The Civil Defense urged all residents to take necessary precautions. (SPA)
Updated 03 March 2025
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Civil Defense issues rain warning across Saudi Arabia

  • The affected regions include Makkah, Riyadh, Madinah, Tabuk, Hail, Qassim, the Eastern Province, the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Al-Baha and Asir

RIYADH: The General Directorate of Civil Defense has issued a weather warning for most regions of the Kingdom, with moderate to heavy rain expected to continue until Friday.

The affected regions include Makkah, Riyadh, Madinah, Tabuk, Hail, Qassim, the Eastern Province, the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Al-Baha and Asir, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Civil Defense urged all residents to take necessary precautions, avoid areas prone to flash floods, such as valleys, and refrain from swimming in them.

It also called on the public to stay informed about the latest weather updates through official channels and social media platforms.

 


Eastern region governor receives Tajikistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Updated 03 March 2025
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Eastern region governor receives Tajikistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia

  • Both sides explored avenues for further strengthening ties to serve mutual interests

DAMMAM: Eastern Region Gov. Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz received Ambassador of Tajikistan to the Kingdom Akram Karimi in Dammam on Monday.

They discussed bilateral relations and issues of common interest, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Meanwhile, Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Hussein Ibrahim Taha recently received the Permanent Observer of Russia to the OIC Turko Daudov at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah.

During the meeting, both sides explored avenues for further strengthening ties to serve mutual interests.

 

 


Lebanon appreciates Saudi support for its stability: Aoun

Updated 37 min 26 sec ago
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Lebanon appreciates Saudi support for its stability: Aoun

  • PM Salam highlights focus on reforms in meeting with grand mufti 
  • Beirut suburb mayor urges tough action to confront unruly gangs

BEIRUT: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said on Monday that his visit to Saudi Arabia represents an opportunity to reaffirm the depth of relations between the two nations.

He expressed appreciation for the Kingdom’s role in supporting Lebanon’s stability, safety, and the functioning of its institutions, as well as the various forms of assistance provided by Riyadh.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Aoun at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh in an official ceremony.

Aoun, in his first trip abroad as president, expressed hope that discussions with the crown prince will further enhance cooperation between the two nations.

The Lebanese president said that it was “an opportunity to express gratitude to the Kingdom for hosting Lebanese individuals who have come to it years ago and contributed to its urban and economic development.”

Aoun arrived at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh in the afternoon, accompanied by Foreign Minister Youssef Raji.

Aoun and his delegation are scheduled to travel to Cairo on Tuesday to participate in the extraordinary Arab summit.

In Beirut, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam emphasized during his visit to Dar Al-Fatwa and his meeting with the Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Deryan that the government had initiated reforms in Lebanon following last week’s vote of confidence.

Salam said all efforts would be taken to end Israeli military operations in Lebanon, and that “citizens will experience a new level of government performance and services in the coming months.

“Our primary concern will be the welfare of the Lebanese people, alleviating their burdens, restoring Lebanon to its leading role, and fostering the best relationships with Arab brothers and friendly nations committed to the state of Lebanon, its institutions, and its people.”

Salam said the government would prioritize critical issues “with a focus on living conditions, as well as essential matters such as water, electricity, roads, and the economic, social, and financial situation, particularly the depositors’ funds.”

He emphasized that “the government will ensure justice in all cases, appoint the most qualified individuals to fill vacancies, maintain balance, and protect everyone’s rights.”

He pledged to address “the plight of detainees who have not been tried for years, some of whom have exceeded their trial periods, particularly the so-called Islamist detainees. Justice must ultimately prevail, with offenders punished and innocents released.”

The Interior Ministry stepped up security measures to maintain public order and ensure the safety of citizens after a security meeting chaired by Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar on Monday, emphasizing the importance of coordination between security agencies.

On Sunday night, Burj Al-Barajneh was the site of a shooting incident that led to the death of one person not involved in the altercation.

The mayor of Burj Al-Barajneh, Atef Mansour, said that Mohammed Wissam Al-Itawi was killed by gunfire exchanged between gangs.

Mansour called on the state to work “through its security apparatus to find an immediate and decisive solution to these dangerous recurrent acts of lawlessness.”

Such attacks are claiming the lives of innocent people due to clashes between gangs involved in theft, drugs, and violence, he said.

“Swift action, with an iron fist, is urgently needed” to stop the menace, he added.

“It is time to end this by effectively deploying the army and internal security forces to protect citizens. This is a demand shared by all, without exception.

“Everyone is calling for the streets to be secured and corrupt criminals to be confronted. The citizens can no longer tolerate this lawlessness and the destruction of property by outlaws.

“Citizens must feel the presence of the state and its ability to protect them from violent armed gangs that have no regard for human life. The state is the only entity capable of providing security and safety to its citizens across Lebanon and shielding them from this harsh reality,” the mayor added.

In recent developments along the southern border, a Lebanese citizen was injured by Israeli gunfire while attempting to inspect his home in the border town of Kfar Kila.

The Israeli military, which remains positioned at five strategic Lebanese hills, has raised a new earthen barrier on the road leading to the town of Odaisseh to prevent residents from reaching their properties.

Additionally, Israeli soldiers carried out an incursion into the border plain of Al-Abbassieh, detaining a farmer who was working on his land and later releasing him.

This comes after Israeli forces opened fire on a group of citizens traveling on the Odaisseh–Kfar Kila road on Sunday evening.

On Monday morning, an Israeli military drone flew over Mansouri and Byout Al-Saiyad in the Tyre district, playing an audio recording accusing Hezbollah of obstructing the Lebanese Army’s enforcement of UN Resolution 1701.