Al-Ahsa spirit welcoming tourists with open arms

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The Tourism Authority has helped pave walkways, allocate local tour guides and create pop-up venues across the city to create an exceptional experience for tourists. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Updated 23 January 2021
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Al-Ahsa spirit welcoming tourists with open arms

  • Located in the Eastern Province, the city is eager to welcome visitors and show them the historic and cultural landmarks it has to offer
  • The city is eager to show visitors the historic and cultural landmarks it has to offer

AL-AHSA: Al-Ahsa is one of 17 regions taking part in the “Arabian Winter” campaign launched by the Saudi Tourism Authority to expand tourism and adventure opportunities in the Kingdom.

Containing more than 200 tourism private sector operators and over 300 social experiences, the city is home to many cultural landmarks promoted by its humble and welcoming people.

 

“If I were to rank Al-Ahsa, it would be first in everything,” local Mona Al-Hussein told Arab News. “The people here are friendly and so welcoming and are full of life and love. They appreciate every part of the land, and help make Al-Ahsa flourish and prosper for its people. If they have any guests they befriend them and welcome them.”

Located in the Eastern Province, the city is eager to welcome visitors and show them the historic and cultural landmarks it has to offer, Al-Hussein said.

The Tourism Authority has helped pave walkways, allocate local tour guides and create pop-up venues across the city to create an exceptional experience for tourists.

What sets Al-Ahsa apart from other tourist destinations is the overall knowledge gained from each landmark, and the history behind them being explained by passionate, experienced locals.

HIGHLIGHT

Containing more than 200 private sector tourism operators and over 300 social experiences, the city is home to many cultural landmarks promoted by its humble and welcoming people.

“Al-Ahsa’s civilization dates back to 5,000 B.C. It is not just the palm trees or the fruit, it is the people — the people are what make up Al-Ahsa,” said Hani Al-Najem, a tour guide. “When you come to Al-Ahsa you find civilization, culture, an oasis, mountains, people and history.”

Nestled between the Gara Mountains is the the Al-Dougha Pottery Factory, owned by the Gabash family. The factory has been passed down through generations for more than 150 years.

“It’s a family affair, from grandfather to grandfather to grandfather, from generation to generation,” a member of the Gabash family told Arab News. “It has been continuously passed down for easily over 150 years.”

Another landmark in the city is the Craftsmen Market, a newly built trading area that hosts the shops of some of the most well-known craftsmen in the Kingdom.

The market contains skilled artisans that still use the traditional techniques of weaving and woodworking by hand.

The people here are friendly and so welcoming and are full of life and love.

Mona Al-Hussein

One such artisan is Fatma Mahmoud, who is known locally as Bint Al-Torath. She has used the traditional technique of thread weaving to create clothing, frames and tissue boxes since childhood.

“I learned as a child from my father and have continued the craft for years. It’s important to maintain the origin of our culture. I am proud of who we are. This is how are our ancestors did it, and this is the way I do it to show people the history of our culture,” she told Arab News. “I am proud that I can teach my skills to visitors.”

Meanwhile, the Yellow Lake experience, another tourist attraction in the region, embodies the spirit of Al-Ahsa. The lake itself has a surface area of about 326,000,000 square meters and is 3 meters deep. It contains a number of migratory bird species, including egrets, flamingos, eagles and peregrines.

An off-road Jeep ride through the sand dunes transports tourists in a colorful trip through the Yellow Lake, where they can see people parachuting in the sky, equestrian activities, Saudi flags waving in the wind, and tea and coffee gatherings.

Such collaborative efforts are not created by one organization alone, but by locals, in the hope of creating lasting memories and experiences for visitors.

“The youth of Al-Ahsa have become involved in tourism. They have created innovative ideas to better serve the tourism industry, like the gentleman with the 4x4 cars,” Mona Al-Turief, a member of Saudi Tour Guides, told Arab News. “They each used their own cars to create teams and services for tourists.”

Another group of young locals assembled their fleet of Jeeps to guide tourists through the dunes of the desert and into the Yellow Lake. Lights, walkways and maps have been placed in every major landmark to assist tourists. Pop-up tents and venues have also been placed in the heart of archaeological centers to enliven the visitor experience.

Farm owner Abu Mohammed is a self-taught farmer who has harvested crops his entire life. He welcomes guests into his home with open arms and introduces visitors to his daily routine.

“I have been farming since I was a child. I never attended a college or university, I was taught by God,” he told Arab News.

He reaps crops with his sickle and offers tourists a chance to try their hand at farming. He said: “No one comes here and leaves empty-handed. This is our way.”


Saudi deputy FM receives US deputy assistant secretary of state

Waleed Elkhereiji holds talks with Daniel Benaim in Riyadh. (Twitter @KSAmofaEN)
Updated 17 sec ago
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Saudi deputy FM receives US deputy assistant secretary of state

  • The two sides discussed strengthening relations between the two friendly countries and ways to enhance cooperation

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Arabian Peninsula Affairs, Daniel Benaim in Riyadh on Sunday.

The two sides discussed strengthening relations between the two friendly countries and ways to enhance cooperation, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The most prominent regional and international developments were also discussed, as well as the efforts put forth in these areas.

 


Jeddah Historic District, Cruise Saudi team up to boost visitor numbers, economy

Updated 12 May 2024
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Jeddah Historic District, Cruise Saudi team up to boost visitor numbers, economy

  • Sides sign memorandum of understanding to ‘drive economic growth’
  • Partnership ‘pivotal’ in regeneration of district, Cruise Saudi CEO says

JEDDAH: The Jeddah Historic District Program and Cruise Saudi have agreed to work together to increase the number of international cruise visitors to the city while preserving its cultural and historical integrity.

The program, established in 2018 under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, oversees various initiatives within the so-called Historic Jeddah region with the aim of promoting it as a cultural center.

Cruise Saudi is owned by the Public Investment Fund and manages cruise-related services and infrastructure, including the development of terminals and operation of shore excursions.

Since its creation it has welcomed more than 300,000 cruise passengers.

The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding to boost economic activity and promote the region, using private sector expertise to improve the visitor experience.

The initiative is expected to create jobs, support small businesses and promote long-term economic activities that benefit the entire community.

“The tourism sector is experiencing growth and prosperity, which contributes to enhance the Kingdom’s presence on the global tourism map in line with Saudi Vision 2030,” Abdulaziz bin Ibrahim Al-Issa, director general of the Jeddah Historic District Program, said.

“Our strategic partnership with Cruise Saudi is not only to drive economic growth but also to actively engage in the regeneration of the district. We are committed to protecting both the tangible and intangible heritage that earned the district its UNESCO status.”

Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen said: “This partnership is pivotal in the strategic regeneration and sustainability of the district. With this alliance, we are dedicated to presenting Cruise Saudi tourists with an experience that inspires the visitors with the district's enriched heritage.

“Jeddah’s Historic District is one of our most popular Shorex destinations and we continue to witness just how much international passengers enjoy exploring its unique historic sites through the tours and experiences we offer.

“This MOU represents our shared vision and marks an exciting new chapter, paving the way for collaborative efforts to draw even more visitors to this enchanting destination while protecting its heritage and authenticity.”
 


Riyadh to host Global AI Summit in September

Updated 12 May 2024
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Riyadh to host Global AI Summit in September

  • The summit will bring together international ministers, organization heads, CEOs of major tech companies, and AI experts
  • Topics at the conference will include AI innovation, industry trends, and fostering human talent in AI and other key areas

RIYADH: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority will host the third Global AI Summit from Sept. 10 to 12 at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday. 

Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, president of SDAIA, highlighted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s dedication to advancing the national data and artificial intelligence agenda, aiming to bolster the Kingdom’s global presence in these fields.

The summit will bring together international ministers, organization heads, CEOs of major tech companies, and AI experts to discuss global AI developments and announce initiatives and agreements, advancing international efforts in data and AI under the Kingdom’s banner.

Topics at the conference include AI innovation, industry trends, shaping a better future with AI, fostering human talent in the field, and other key areas.

This summit, under the crown prince’s leadership, is a testament to the successes of Vision 2030, which position Riyadh as a global hub for cutting-edge AI developments, the SPA said. 


Swiss artist pays homage to heritage in Riyadh show

Updated 12 May 2024
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Swiss artist pays homage to heritage in Riyadh show

  • ‘From Roots to Vision’ by Vlad Pocol is inspired by Saudi Vision 2030 and his own personal journey

RIYADH: In Ahlam Gallery’s latest solo exhibition, Swiss painter Vlad Pocol examines the ties that link past, present and future — with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 as a reference point.

“If you could explain your artworks in one word, what would it be?” one listener asked. “Intuition,” Pocol replied, explaining the basis of his first show in the Kingdom.

The artist relied on intuition when he decided only a few months ago that Saudi Arabia would be his new home, leading him to create an exhibition based around three ideas: heritage, transition, and vision.

The immersive exhibition titled “From Roots to Vision: A Migration” urges observers to think about heritage, and challenge the possibilities of the future as we weave our past legacy for generations to come.  

Ambassador of Switzerland to the Kingdom Yasmine Chatila and Pocol discussing a patched installation made of discarded materials salvaged from artwork waste. (Supplied/AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Pocol told Arab News: “It’s great to evolve, but it’s also important to stay rooted in our own heritage. I’ve taken Saudi Arabia as an example. Everyone is so excited with what’s happening with the Vision (2030), but everyone is still so rooted and respectful and inspiring in a collective way … that can also inspire us in an individual way.”

Within the “Heritage” collection, “Identites” delves into the themes of self-reflection and outsider perceptions. Four papier mache panels woven together by rope encourage the viewer to see alternative versions of themselves as they are layered in complexity with oil paint.

It is great to evolve, but it is also important to stay rooted in our own heritage.

Vlad Pocol, Swiss artist

“Legacite” is a series of six artworks that explores the themes of circularity, continuity, and generational cycles. In a single dot, each painting prompts a reflection on the viewer’s part within these continuous loops.  

Swiss artist Vlad Pocol based the exhibition in Riyadh around three ideas: heritage, transition, and vision. (Supplied)

The highlight of the show, “Sans Fin,” is a mirage of moving images constructed by strokes of paint. The piece is inviting, yet mysterious, prompting us to question our capability to grow using the metaphor of a black hole — you never know what may lie in the unknown.  

In 2018, when Pocol was a lawyer, he was invited by a colleague to a workshop centered around recreating the work of a contemporary artist. After an accident that resulted in a damaged painting, he developed a technique to repair the artwork.

Swiss artist Vlad Pocol based the exhibition in Riyadh around three ideas: heritage, transition, and vision. (Supplied)

“My technique gives structural movement. When you see my paintings, you enter a world … it’s moving. My energy also comes up in the artwork,” he said.

In “Transition,” the works invite viewers to consider what lies beneath the surface, with more sculptural works coming into play.

Another installation is made of discarded materials salvaged from artwork waste. What we deem as undesirable is turned into something valuable, and even beautiful, challenging us to reconsider sustainability practices and our role in global consumption.  

In the “Vision” collection, the artist’s optimism about the future is linked to the promise of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

His work “Dessen” is based on a childhood memory of winning his first drawing contest, and celebrates the impact of early creative expressions on future artistic development.  

While “Elles” is a tribute to femininity and the women in his family, nearby twin works are inspired by the artist’s migration from Romania to Switzerland.  

Pocol describes the green-colored “Ja Deu Tu Certo” as “one of the most personal” works in the collection.

“Any pieces I’ve offered to my mom have been green because I really believe in the power of healing and the green (color). My mother has been fighting metastatic cancer for two years now,” he said. The work conveys his belief that “she will be well.”

He said the color also holds significant meaning in Saudi culture, as it stands for pride and patriotism.

Reflecting on showcasing his works in the Kingdom, Pocol said: “It’s so significant to have my exhibition here. While I have roots from Romania, 30 percent of my genes are Middle Eastern. Being here in Saudi Arabia is very subconscious. I feel at peace, like I’m coming back to something.  

“I’ve traveled a lot in my life and it’s the first time I’m able to find a new home outside of Switzerland … once you follow your intuition, it gets you to whatever is meant for you. That’s why I’m here in Saudi Arabia. It’s meant to be.”

The exhibition will run until June 2.

 


Saudi commission explores impact of biennales on artists

Biennales are large-scale exhibitions held every two years that provide a platform for artists to engage with specific themes. (
Updated 12 May 2024
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Saudi commission explores impact of biennales on artists

  • Shahad Al-Blihed analyzed Manal Al-Dowayan’s work “Shifting Sands: A Battle Song,” emphasizing its reflection of Saudi women amid cultural shifts

RIYADH: Various experts recently took part in a virtual meeting to consider the role of biennales in visual art.

The event was organized by the Visual Arts Commission as part of its ongoing review of the sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Biennales are large-scale exhibitions held every two years that provide a platform for artists to engage with specific themes. The meeting outlined the criteria for artist participation, focusing on career robustness and foundational achievements.

Shahad Al-Blihed gave her insights into curating the Saudi pavilion at the 60th Venice Biennale.

She analyzed Manal Al-Dowayan’s work “Shifting Sands: A Battle Song,” emphasizing its reflection of Saudi women amid cultural shifts.

The Venice event demonstrated the commission’s commitment to boosting local artists internationally, the report said.