MWL hosts forum to foster dialogue, promote Islamic unity

MWL will host second edition of the Global Conference for Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects on March 6-7 in Makkah. (MWL)
MWL will host second edition of the Global Conference for Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects on March 6-7 in Makkah. (MWL)
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Updated 19 February 2025
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MWL hosts forum to foster dialogue, promote Islamic unity

MWL will host second edition of the Global Conference for Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects in March
  • Makkah conference will feature senior figures from various sects, denominations
  • Guide to common Islamic principles to be launched during forum

RIYADH: The Muslim World League will host the second edition of the Global Conference for Building Bridges Between Islamic Schools of Thought and Sects on March 6-7 in Makkah, Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The conference will bring together leading muftis, scholars, intellectuals, and representatives from senior Islamic councils, jurisprudential academies, and religious institutions across different sects and denominations.

It will serve as a unified platform for fostering constructive dialogue among diverse Islamic traditions as well as coordinating efforts and resources to strengthen Islamic unity, while ensuring mutual respect for doctrinal diversity.

The forum also aims to overcome sectarian disputes that have historically led to division and conflict, and promote fraternity and cohesion through practical initiatives.

This year’s conference marks a critical step in transforming the principles outlined in the inaugural conference into actionable programs, SPA said.

Discussions will address issues such as enhancing intra-Islamic dialogue and cooperation.

A highlight of the conference will be the launch of the encyclopedia of Islamic intellectual convergence, prepared by the Center for Safeguarding Intellect.

The encyclopedia, developed with contributions from 60 Islamic scholars and thinkers, aims to serve as a comprehensive guide to common Islamic principles.


Ithra serves up 3 days of festive fun for Eid Al-Adha

Ithra serves up 3 days of festive fun for Eid Al-Adha
Updated 01 June 2025
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Ithra serves up 3 days of festive fun for Eid Al-Adha

Ithra serves up 3 days of festive fun for Eid Al-Adha
  • ‘Ribbons of giving’ festival features concerts, movies, games for all ages
  • Highlights include performance by oud maestro Islam Al-Qasabgy

DHAHRAN:  The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture is celebrating Eid Al-Adha with three days of activities.

From June 7-9, visitors of all ages can enjoy more than 31 events, including music, storytelling, games and workshops, under the theme “ribbons of giving.”

Many of the activities will be in Arabic but are open to all.

Among the highlights will be a concert at Ithra Theater by Egyptian oud virtuoso Islam Al-Qasabgy, who is renowned for blending classical Arabic music with modern styles.

Ithra Cinema, meanwhile, will showcase the Japanese manga character Chibi Maruko-chan and also screen the Japanese animated fantasy movie “Kiki’s Delivery Service” with Arabic subtitles.

Another screening will be “Saleeq,” a short animated film about a lonely grandmother who faces a flood after a pot of rice boils over.

Among the other festive offerings are a 96 km trek along the historic Hajj trail that revives stories of persistence and generosity echoing across generations.

Entry to the center is free but some events are ticketed. The center will be open from 4-11 p.m. during the Eid celebrations.


KSrelief extends aid to Syria, Somalia, Sudan

KSrelief continues to make a significant global impact, providing critical assistance to some of the world’s most vulnerable.
KSrelief continues to make a significant global impact, providing critical assistance to some of the world’s most vulnerable.
Updated 01 June 2025
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KSrelief extends aid to Syria, Somalia, Sudan

KSrelief continues to make a significant global impact, providing critical assistance to some of the world’s most vulnerable.
  • Since its launch in May 2015, KSrelief has implemented 3,438 projects worth more than $7.9 billion across 107 countries

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief continues to make a significant global impact, providing critical assistance to some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

The organization has distributed 2,290 food baskets and hygiene kits in Sarmada in the Idlib Governorate of the Syrian Arab Republic, benefiting 6,870 individuals. This effort is part of the second phase of a project to ease the suffering of Syrian families.

KSrelief in Somalia has distributed 1,200 food baskets to the neediest families in the Baidoa district in Bay region, assisting 7,200 people and supporting food security for vulnerable groups.

KSrelief in Sudan has distributed 825 food baskets to the most needy families in Blue Nile State, helping 3,986 people. This aid forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader humanitarian efforts to support the Sudanese population amid the ongoing crisis in the country.

Since its launch in May 2015, KSrelief has implemented 3,438 projects worth more than $7.9 billion across 107 countries, in partnership with more than 318 organizations.


Saudi Ministry of Culture launches grant to encourage research on Saudi-Chinese cultural relations

Image showing the Saudi and Chinese flags. (Shutterstock)
Image showing the Saudi and Chinese flags. (Shutterstock)
Updated 01 June 2025
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Saudi Ministry of Culture launches grant to encourage research on Saudi-Chinese cultural relations

Image showing the Saudi and Chinese flags. (Shutterstock)
  • New initiative is designed to support academic research that strengthens mutual understanding and encourages scholarly collaboration between Kingdom and China

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture has announced the launch of the Saudi-Chinese Cultural Relations Research Grant.

The new initiative is designed to support academic research that strengthens mutual understanding and encourages scholarly collaboration between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the People’s Republic of China.

The grant invites researchers to submit proposals that explore the historical, artistic, linguistic and cultural connections between the two countries, especially as political and economic ties between them continue to expand.

The initiative reflects the ministry’s broader efforts to foster knowledge sharing and intercultural dialogue through academic research.

Applicants are encouraged to address themes including history and cultural heritage, performing and visual arts, literature and translation, cultural economy and creative industries, and the role of digital platforms in contemporary cultural exchange.

Selected research will be published in peer-reviewed academic journals and will contribute to the enrichment of the field of Saudi-Chinese cultural studies.

Eligible applicants must hold a master’s or doctoral degree, or demonstrate a record of scholarly publications. Proposals must be original and submitted through the official grant portal.

The grant cycle will include proposal evaluation, peer-reviewed feedback, and final publication, with the submission deadline on July 15, 2025.

Results will be announced in August 2025, and each grant will cover a one-year research period.

 


Saudi Cultural Development Fund champions cultural entrepreneurship at Expo 2025

Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Japan Ghazi Faisal Binzagr took part in a panel discussion and networking event during Expo 2025.
Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Japan Ghazi Faisal Binzagr took part in a panel discussion and networking event during Expo 2025.
Updated 12 min 31 sec ago
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Saudi Cultural Development Fund champions cultural entrepreneurship at Expo 2025

Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Japan Ghazi Faisal Binzagr took part in a panel discussion and networking event during Expo 2025.
  • Event highlighted investment opportunities in the cultural sector in Saudi Arabia
  • ‏Throughout Expo 2025 Osaka, CDF will display Saudi Arabia’s cultural ecosystem through activities, panel discussions and networking sessions

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Japan took part in a networking event during Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

Hosted by the Saudi Cultural Development Fund, the event highlighted investment opportunities in the cultural sector in Saudi Arabia.

Titled “Cultural Entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia: Fostering Innovation and Heritage,” the event at the Saudi Arabia Pavilion brought together global investors, entrepreneurs and cultural leaders to explore the Kingdom’s cultural renaissance.

A panel discussion, moderated by cultural researcher Saba Al-Khamis, featured CDF chief credit and investment officer Basil Al-Alola; Darren Barker, founder of Barker Langham; and Hessa Alajaji, founder of Saudi artisan design brand Accents.

The fund aims to position culture as a catalyst for global partnerships and investment, sharing success stories and sector-specific opportunities, Al-Alola said in a statement.

The dialogue emphasized culture as an engine for economic diversification and social growth, highlighting CDF’s tailored financing solutions driving the sector’s sustainable expansion.

‏The event celebrated Saudi artistic heritage through handicraft displays aligned with the 2025 Year of Handicrafts, alongside a performance by Japanese violinist Ikuko Kawai symbolizing Saudi-Japanese cultural collaboration.

“Our participation translates Saudi cultural assets into economic value,” Al-Alola said.

“We’re connecting international investors with local innovators to build a globally integrated cultural economy in line with Vision 2030.”

‏Throughout Expo 2025 Osaka, CDF will display Saudi Arabia’s cultural ecosystem through activities, panel discussions and networking sessions.


Film Commission showcases cultural power of Saudi cinema at London festival

Kingdom’s Film Commission will participate in the first European edition of the SXSW Festival. (@FilmMOC)
Kingdom’s Film Commission will participate in the first European edition of the SXSW Festival. (@FilmMOC)
Updated 01 June 2025
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Film Commission showcases cultural power of Saudi cinema at London festival

Kingdom’s Film Commission will participate in the first European edition of the SXSW Festival. (@FilmMOC)
  • Event is a global platform that brings together professionals and experts from various creative sectors through various events

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s Film Commission is participating in the first European edition of the SXSW Festival, which is being held in London from June 2-7, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event is a global platform that brings together professionals and experts from various creative sectors through events such as panel discussions, musical and comedy performances, film and TV screenings, exhibitions, competitions, and networking opportunities.

As part of its participation the commission will screen a selection of short Saudi films under the Saudi Film Nights initiative, aiming to showcase the Kingdom’s storytelling and promote national talent to international audiences.

It is also organizing a panel called “Empowering the Film Industry in Saudi Arabia: From Vision to Reality,” which will explore cinema’s role in shaping national identity, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local content as a form of soft power.

The commission will highlight the Kingdom’s cinematic achievements through an exhibition at the country’s pavilion featuring films that have sold more than 250,000 tickets, participated in top international festivals, or won global awards — underscoring the growth and international rise of the Saudi film industry.

The commission forms a part of the Saudi pavilion alongside other creative sector entities, including the Music Commission, Culinary Arts Commission, and Fashion Commission, presenting a broad view of the Kingdom’s cultural diversity.

This participation reaffirms the Film Commission’s commitment to expanding Saudi Arabia’s global presence, empowering creative talent, and positioning the Kingdom as a regional leader in cinema.