DHAHRAN: The life of esteemed Saudi journalist Turki Al-Sudairi has been memorialized in “King of Journalism,” a documentary that premiered at the Saudi Film Festival at Ithra this week.
Turki Al-Sudairi, a pioneer of journalism in the region, had a career that spanned decades and earned him widespread recognition. The documentary’s title, “King of Journalism,” is a nod to the appreciating words of the late King Abdullah.
Al-Sudairi worked for more than four decades in the Kingdom’s media industry. He began his career as a sports journalist for the Al Riyadh newspaper, then became involved in other areas of reporting, making his way up to managing the paper as deputy chief editor and later as chief editor.
His passing impacted journalists around the world. Ali Saeed, a former Al Riyadh journalist, was so moved by the loss that he decided to team up with his twin brother, Hassan Saeed, to direct and produce a documentary on Al-Sudairi.
“Ali used to work in Al Riyadh newspaper for many years. When he became a full-time filmmaker, he decided to make a documentary about the inspirational Turki Al-Sudairi,” Hassan told Arab News.
For more than two years, the pair conducted meticulous researched and worked on their project. A critical aspect of that process was finding archives of Al-Sudairi’s work. Hassan added: “Al Riyadh newspaper and SRMG helped us with the archive. It was really a journey.”
Mazen Al-Sudairi, the son of the late journalist, was featured in the documentary. He told Arab News that he was proud of the film, which “tells the true story” of his father’s life.
He said: “The idea is to give the story an objective image and give the audience the chance or the space to judge his actual trial as a leader, as a journalist and as a writer.
“He was editor-in-chief for 40 years, from 1974 till 2015. So many changes have happened in society, economy and geopolitics. This gives you a story of an era, not just of a man.”
While filming the documentary, the producers took care to replicate Al-Sudairi’s daily routine and added a layer of authenticity by filming in his workplace and including a docudrama scene.
Hassan said: “Every location in the film is the actual location with an actor who came to play the role of Turki Al-Sudairi … we filmed at his actual office in Al Riyadh office and home office.”
The Saeed brothers said they will continue on the path of creating documentaries on important figures.
“We are also working on a few ideas for the future, but this focus is really important for the industry right now. Just to focus not on only narrative films, but also to focus on documentaries.”
‘King of Journalism’ premieres at Saudi Film Festival
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‘King of Journalism’ premieres at Saudi Film Festival
- Turki Al-Sudairi, a pioneer of journalism in the region, had a career that spanned decades and earned him widespread recognition
- His passing impacted journalists around the world
Japan’s crown prince visits Saudi pavilion at Osaka Expo
- Visited in the company of Saudi Ambassador to Japan Ghazi Faisal Binzagr.
TOKYO: Japan’s Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Akishino visited Saudi Arabia’s pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo on Thursday, in the company of Saudi Ambassador to Japan Ghazi Faisal Binzagr.
“We were deeply honored by the visit of their Imperial Highnesses,” Binzagr told Arab News Japan. “It was a beautiful visit.”
He noted how much the pair had enjoyed the music of the oud, which was being played as the imperial guests entered the courtyard of the pavilion and which echoed throughout the building owing to the design of the walls and corridors to amplify the sound.
“The imperial couple also enjoyed Saudi coffee and (a selection of various) dates,” Binzagr said, adding that the variety and color of Saudi dates is influenced by the minerals in the soil of each region where they are grown in the Kingdom.
Binzagr said they had discussed the similarities in the cultures of Saudi Arabia and Japan, adding that despite appearing different, they shared a deep pride in their heritage and history, and both countries' ability to link the East and West.
He added that Japan is authentic with what it has but is also able to blend it with foriegn best practices with its great openness. Binzagr said that he believes this makes for something very special that Saudi Arabia also shares with Japan.
“We both value our roots and connectivity, and we both seek to celebrate balance in everything we do,” he said.
At the pavilion, the imperial couple viewed the plan for Riyadh Expo 2030 and indicated they were keen to visit at that time or even before, Binzagr said.
“We are keenly looking forward to more visits between members of Japan’s Imperial Family and members of our Royal Family of Saudi Arabia,” Binzagr added.
”Such visits add a special dimension to an already special relationship.”
Buraidah’s blossoming farm scene offers a cool summer alternative
BURAIDAH: Those hoping to escape the scorching Saudi summer heat can head to Buraidah, where its farms have become a favored summer destination.
Buraidah, about 360 kilometers northwest of Riyadh in Saudi Arabia’s Qassim region, is a place for those seeking calm, comfort and a distinctive leisure experience.
“This rising popularity stems from ongoing efforts to transform these farms into integrated tourist attractions that cater both to families and individuals, offering an authentic experience with a modern touch,” according to the Saudi Press Agency.
These farms stand out for their natural beauty and the balance they strike between simplicity and contemporary features.
Visitors can step away from the pace of city life and enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by lush greenery. The experience is supported by restaurants serving traditional and international dishes, cafes with authentic design and stalls selling local produce. There are family seating areas aplenty, children’s play zones and a variety of nature-based activities.
Ali Mohammed Al-Waili, who is from the Najran region, expressed his admiration of the unique tourism diversity found in the Qassim region. He praised the rural farms that have become an attractive, offering a fully immersive natural experience that reflects the authenticity and agricultural richness of the area.
He pointed out that the farms spread across the region’s governorates provide a well-rounded family tourism experience, featuring traditional seating areas, authentic local cuisine, and a variety of agricultural and recreational activities suited for all age groups.
Another visitor, Abdulaziz Al-Mutairi, noted that rural farms have become a top family destination during the summer holiday because they meet visitors’ needs and offer a range of services that ensure an enjoyable time in a natural and safe environment.
The rising interest in this form of domestic tourism points to a clear shift in public preference toward nature and stillness. Better infrastructure and improved service quality are reinforcing the role of rural farms as a top option for day trips and short breaks.
According to the SPA, the growing interest in domestic tourism and nature helps to support the local economy and achieve sustainable development — aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to improve quality of life, diversify income sources, and enhance the balance between people and the environment.
Saudi, Russian foreign ministers meet in Moscow
- Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing relations and building on existing strategic partnerships
MOSCOW: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on Friday, as part of an official visit aimed at strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
During the meeting, the two ministers reviewed Saudi-Russian ties and ongoing cooperation between the Kingdom and the Russian Federation, and discussed avenues for further collaboration across a range of fields, SPA added.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing relations and building on existing strategic partnerships.
The talks were followed by an official session, in which Prince Faisal and Lavrov underscored the depth of friendship between the Kingdom and Russia. It also included a wide-ranging discussion on key regional developments and joint efforts to support stability and security in the Middle East, including the crisis in the Gaza Strip.
The visit comes amid ongoing diplomatic engagement between Riyadh and Moscow on regional issues and shared interests in global energy markets and political coordination.
Prince Faisal reiterated, in a press conference during his visit, that the Kingdom rejected military solutions and consistently advocated for resolving all conflicts, regardless of their nature, through negotiation.
‘Songs of Silence in Nature’: Chinese artist Shu Li honored in Riyadh
- Artist’s work depicts serene scenes of mountains and lakes
- Exhibition showcases cultural ties between China and Saudi Arabia
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Art Pure Gallery Foundation is currently hosting an exhibition, “Songs of Silence in Nature,” by the renowned Chinese artist Shu Li.
Organized in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the exhibition opened on June 24, 2024 and will run until July 25, 2025 in the Saudi capital.
A leading figure in contemporary Chinese art, Shu Li has held distinguished roles within China’s national cultural institutions.
His works have been showcased in more than 20 countries, including the Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Italy.
He has received numerous international accolades in countries such as Russia, Belgium, the US, Ukraine and India, and is a distinguished academician of the Russian Academy of Arts.
His paintings are featured in some of China’s most iconic venues, including the National Art Museum of China, the Great Hall of the People, and the headquarters of the Chinese Communist Party.
He has also published more than 20 catalogues chronicling his artistic evolution.
Shu Li’s work blends traditional Chinese techniques with a distinctly contemporary sensibility.
Characterized by tranquil landscapes, his pieces often depict mist-shrouded mountains and serene lakes. These works invite viewers to enter a meditative and reflective state.
“Art is not merely a visual encounter,” the artist explained, “but an emotional journey.
“Through my oil paintings, I aim to capture those fleeting moments of beauty that enrich our daily existence.
“My work is a dialogue between the canvas and the world it portrays — a world where light dances across surfaces and color speaks more powerfully than words.
“Each painting is an exploration of texture, form and the expressive potential of oil as a medium. I draw inspiration from nature, human experience and the myriad ways in which art connects us to both. I invite viewers to do more than just observe my work; I want them to feel it and enter the narrative that each painting weaves.”
This exhibition is part of an increasing cultural dialogue between China and Saudi Arabia. It reflects the desire of both countries to strengthen their artistic exchange and deepen the ties between these two ancient and influential civilizations.
Contemporary Chinese art embodies a rich synthesis of millennia-old traditions and modern perspectives.
Since the late-20th century, Chinese artists have experimented with various forms, including painting, sculpture, installation and video, to explore the tensions between heritage, rapid urbanization and evolving social realities.
Often merging classical craftsmanship with avant-garde techniques, they explore themes of identity, collective memory and the challenges of the present age.
Today, China’s vibrant art scene is widely recognized internationally, with many leading Chinese artists playing a pivotal role in reshaping the global contemporary art landscape.
The Art Pure Gallery Foundation is a leading Saudi cultural institution founded in 1999.
AI training for 334,000 Saudi citizens completed
- Launched in September 2024, AI skills program targets citizens of all ages and professional backgrounds
RIYADH: A total of 334,000 Saudi Arabia citizens have benefitted from a government program aimed at empowering citizens with artificial intelligence skills, according to the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority.
The “One Million Saudis in AI” program was set up in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in September 2024.
During the keynote session of the Non-Profit Sector Forum in Education and Training 2025 in Riyadh on July 2, SDAIA chief Abdullah Alghamdi highlighted key features of the program.
He said the partnerships the authority had forged with other government agencies have positioned the Kingdom globally in empowering women in AI, and community awareness, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
Launched at the Global AI Summit, the SAMAI initiative targets citizens across all age groups and professional backgrounds.
Alghamdi also cited several national initiatives that resulted from this collaboration, including the National Olympiad for Programming and Artificial Intelligence, or ATHKA Competition.
More than 260,000 male and female students from intermediate and secondary schools participated, with 10,000 advancing to the final stage, he said.
One key initiative cited by the SDAIA chief was the “Road to ATHKA,” which trained more than 570,000 students on AI concepts.
Another was the “Future Intelligence Programmers” initiative, which trained over 10,000 teachers.
The SDAIA and Education Ministry had also established the Center for Excellence in Education.
This was “designed to institutionalize technological integration within the education sector, sustain future-oriented initiatives, and leverage AI to enhance learning outcomes.”
