Saudi academy launches Arabic immersion program

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Fifty non-native Arabic-speaking students joined the second edition of the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language Linguistic Immersion program. (SPA)
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Updated 04 February 2025
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Saudi academy launches Arabic immersion program

  • Eight-week program aims to enhance participants’ Arabic skills for cultural and tourism purposes
  • Students will gain a deep understanding of the language through an immersive experience focused on integration into Saudi society

RIYADH: The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language has welcomed 50 non-native Arabic-speaking students for the second Linguistic Immersion program.

Held at the academy’s Riyadh headquarters, the program includes people from 20 countries and introduces two new tracks, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Building on the success of the 2023 edition in Jeddah, which attracted more than 100 learners from 34 countries, the eight-week program aims to enhance participants’ Arabic skills for cultural and tourism purposes.

Students will gain a deep understanding of the language through an immersive experience focused on integration into Saudi society, the SPA reported.

The initiative aligns with the academy’s mission to promote Arabic globally and supports Saudi Arabia’s Human Capability Development Program.

Participants were selected through a precise admission process to ensure they met the criteria for the flagship initiative.

Divided into two tracks, the program caters to different learning needs. The tourism track equips 25 students, tourists and visitors with practical skills to navigate real-life scenarios in Arabic while exploring Saudi culture through field visits and training.

The cultural track targets university students and language center participants, enhancing their linguistic proficiency in a comprehensive learning environment.

The program follows the “Cultural Arabic” and “Touristic Arabic” courses, based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages at the B1 level. This enables participants to communicate effectively in Arabic across various contexts.

Using a communicative approach, the institute integrates grammar and syntax within skill-based, interactive activities. Learning is supported by group work, audio-visual material and reading resources.

Structured around an advanced curriculum, the program combines classroom lessons with cultural activities, such as hosting experiences with Saudi families, national celebrations like Founding Day and National Day, and weekly cultural trips.


Saudi explores quality higher education practices at Tokyo conference

Updated 20 May 2025
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Saudi explores quality higher education practices at Tokyo conference

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia’s Education and Training Evaluation Commission participated in the 18th International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education from May 13 to 16 in Tokyo.

The conference was titled “The Big Bang Theory: The Quality Assurance Paradigm Shift.”

Hosted by the Japan University Accreditation Association, the event facilitated collaboration between institutions on quality practices amid rapid technological advancements and evolving societal needs.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the ETEC’s participation forms part of its ongoing efforts to engage with international counterparts and explore leading global practices in education and training.


Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud hails Saudi-Japan ties

Updated 19 May 2025
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Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud hails Saudi-Japan ties

  • Prince Abdullah highlights investment growth with Japan
  • Praises role of Arab News Japan in boosting cooperation 

TOKYO: In an interview with Arab News Japan, Saudi Arabia’s Prince Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki Al-Saud has lauded the strong ties between Japan and the Kingdom, and said he was deeply honored to have received a top honor from the Asia nation.

The former governor of the Saudi General Investment Authority received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun last month.

“Receiving the Imperial Award is indeed a great honor. Like many in the Kingdom, including officials and former officials, I hold the Japanese emperor, government and people in the highest regard,” Prince Abdullah said in the recent interview with Arab News Japan. 

Reflecting on his tenure at SAGIA, now the Ministry of Investment, Prince Abdullah highlighted the collective nature of the recognition. 

“The award reflects the work carried out during my tenure at SAGIA ... This recognition is not solely mine, it is a shared achievement with my colleagues.

“More importantly, it reflects the leadership’s ongoing commitment to strengthening relations with Japan,” he said. 

He emphasized the Kingdom’s investment in international cooperation, noting the evolution of SAGIA into a full ministry under the Council of Ministers. 

“The elevation of SAGIA to a full ministry ... highlights the strategic importance the Saudi leadership places on investment and international cooperation,” he added.

During his recent visit to the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Prince Abdullah shared his impressions of the Saudi Pavilion, which he described as a powerful representation of the Kingdom’s transformation and culture. 

“The Saudi Pavilion was excellent,” he said of the expo which opened on April 13 and ends Oct. 13. 

“I was particularly interested in the design elements of the Saudi Pavilion, how it captured the essence and transformation of our land, and how quickly and effectively the structure was developed.”

He praised the role of the Ministry of Culture and the young Saudis staffing the pavilion.

“The presence of talented young Saudi men and women at the pavilion was especially noteworthy.

“The structure itself, using stones especially brought from the Kingdom, was impressive, with features such as embedded loudspeakers, combining aesthetics and functionality,” he told Arab News Japan.

Prince Abdullah, who previously served as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the US, also lauded the Japanese Pavilion, saying it was “outstanding. Their designers, architects, and scientists demonstrated exceptional innovation.”

 “I even recommended our ambassador Dr. Ghazi Binzagr, who began his academic career in physics, to revisit the pavilion, as the advanced technologies on display merit deeper understanding,” he said. 

Turning to the broader significance of Saudi Arabia-Japan relations, Prince Abdullah emphasized the need for robust media and cultural exchange, pointing to Arab News Japan’s role as a valuable bridge between the two nations. 

“First, I would like to commend the efforts behind Arab News Japan. It is an important initiative, both in its content and in the way it delivers information. 

“It serves a valuable audience and contributes meaningfully to deepening understanding between our two countries.” 

He added: “There is deep mutual respect between our peoples. There is great potential for cooperation, especially among small- and medium-sized enterprises on both sides,” he said. 

Praising Japan’s technological innovation and the Kingdom’s transformative development, he said: “What we can realize by our partnership is amazing.” 

Prince Abdullah added that Japan and Saudi Arabia will benefit from increased cooperation, as well as the global economy.


Riyadh hosts a world of jewels

Updated 19 May 2025
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Riyadh hosts a world of jewels

  • Jewelry exhibition showcasing Saudi designers and global luxury pieces dazzles visitors

RIYADH: Under the chandelier-lit halls of Riyadh’s Mandarin Oriental Al-Faisaliah Hotel, the Jewels of the World exhibition gathered more than 60 brands for an eager crowd of jewelry and watch enthusiasts.

The exhibition, which ended on Monday, featured notable global names including Bil Arabi, Yoko London, Scavia and FerriFirenze.

Local talent was also spotlighted, notably Renad Al-Amoudi’s striking Marque Legacy collection, which draws inspiration from the flora of the Saudi deserts, including Ruby Lily and Petit Iris.

Nader Freiha, director and organizer of Jewels of the World, said that the exhibition this year is “the culmination of a journey that began in 2016.”

He added that hosting the event in Riyadh reflects “the remarkable growth of the jewelry market in the Kingdom, which has become a destination for global brands thanks to its discerning clientele.”

The exhibition offers the opportunity to explore new collections debuting in Saudi Arabia, from everyday jewelry to ornate bridal sets, many of which are inspired by global artistic and cultural heritage, Freiha said.

“The exhibition is a benchmark for ensuring both quality and luxury simultaneously,” he added.

Ahmed Al-Shirazi, director of SJC Saudi Arabia, a destination for luxury jewelry, said that the exhibition is an opportunity to strengthen brands and attract new customers through showcasing designs and engaging directly.

The Bahraini jeweler observed a rising inclination among clients to use luxury jewelry as a form of self-expression and personal style, highlighting a heightened appreciation for the finer details in their overall look.

Nezar Mukhtar, a member of the Precious Metals and Gemstones National Committee at the Saudi Chambers Federation, observed visitors’ keen interest in renowned brand names.

“Hosting exhibitions locally spares enthusiasts and designers the hassle of traveling and saves them valuable time,” he said.

Mukhtar added that events like Jewels of the World support the national economy and spotlight the sophisticated taste of Saudi consumers.

“Such an exhibition addresses the expectations of many discerning clients seeking specific quality standards in jewelry,” he said.


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Level Up’ social hub in Riyadh

Updated 19 May 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Level Up’ social hub in Riyadh

Level Up is a social hub in Riyadh for those seeking entertainment and connection. For just SR60 ($16), visitors gain access to activities ranging from board games and video games to virtual reality experiences.

This multifaceted venue stands out as a gathering place for individuals with shared interests, making it easy to forge new friendships.

One of the highlights at Level Up is its open mic nights, where local bands showcase their talents. This not only provides entertainment but also fosters a sense of community among those attending.

The friendly vibe welcomes both extroverts and introverts, making it a space where people can comfortably engage in conversation or simply enjoy the performances.

The hub also sells PlayStation 5 consoles and accessories, catering to gaming enthusiasts, as well as a range of anime and video game action figures for those into pop culture.

One of the items on the menu I enjoyed was the iced matcha, which is popular among patrons.

While visiting with a friend, I was captivated by the talented musicians at the open mic event, followed by an engaging session of board games.

Level Up hosts discussions every Tuesday, featuring industry leaders such as marketing heads, board members, talent acquisition directors, CEOs, and founders.

These events provide opportunities to learn from and engage with influential figures, helping to enrich the community experience.

Whether you are looking to socialize, enjoy live music, or dive into gaming, Level Up is well worth a visit.


Saudi deputy FM receives Turkmenistan’s ambassador in Riyadh

Updated 19 May 2025
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Saudi deputy FM receives Turkmenistan’s ambassador in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic and Development Affairs Abdullah bin Zarah received Oraz Mohammed Charif, Turkmenistan’s ambassador to the Kingdom, in Riyadh.

During the meeting, they reviewed economic issues of common interest, the foreign ministry said in a post on X on Monday.

Meanwhile, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received a phone call from Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger during which they reviewed bilateral relations and regional and international developments