Craftsmanship of decorated wooden doors reflects Aseer’s artistic heritage

The doors display the exceptional and unique skills of local artisans that have been passed down through generations. (SPA)
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Updated 14 October 2024
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Craftsmanship of decorated wooden doors reflects Aseer’s artistic heritage

  • Skills have been passed down through the generations

ASEER: Intricately designed wooden doors in the Aseer region are more than a mere means of entry for they provide a reflection of the area’s rich artistic heritage.

The doors display exceptional craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations, showcasing the unique skills and creativity of local artisans.

Researchers in architecture highlight these intricately decorated doors as essential components of the area’s architectural heritage.




The Aseer region boasts a vibrant tradition of skilled carpenters who have mastered the craft of creating traditional architectural doors and windows. (SPA)

In an interview with the Saudi Press Agency, Dr. Ali Marzouq, a professor of archaeology and Islamic arts at King Khalid University, spoke of the cultural significance of this art form.

He said: “People find psychological comfort in beautifying their possessions. The decorative motifs typical of Islamic architecture, including engravings and inscriptions, have become integral to building design, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.”

The artistry involved in carving and engraving wooden doors has elevated them to symbols of social status.

HIGHLIGHTS

• This tradition continues today, with many people updating their door decorations for holidays and special events.

• In the coastal Tihama region, some residents enhance their main entrances by planting aromatic plants, adding a delightful fragrance.

Marzouq said that the main door holds significant importance, serving as a reflection of the owner’s wealth and prestige. Elaborately adorned doors made from high-quality woods are typically found in the homes of the affluent, while simpler designs are more prevalent among average households.




The Aseer region boasts a vibrant tradition of skilled carpenters who have mastered the craft of creating traditional architectural doors and windows. (SPA)

This tradition continues today, with many people updating their door decorations for holidays and special events. In the coastal Tihama region, some residents enhance their main entrances by planting aromatic plants, adding a delightful fragrance.

Decorative elements on wooden doors and windows have been central to the architectural identity of the Arabian Peninsula since ancient times. These embellishments not only highlight the skill of the artisans but also serve as effective marketing for their craftsmanship.

Dr. Saleh Abu Arad, a researcher in the field, echoed Marzouq’s sentiments, emphasizing the significance of the “door and window industry” as a skilled trade that utilized local wood and various techniques to create doors and windows of diverse sizes. These architectural elements are often enriched with exquisite engravings and metal accents, such as handles and rings.




The Aseer region boasts a vibrant tradition of skilled carpenters who have mastered the craft of creating traditional architectural doors and windows. (SPA)

The choice of wood plays a crucial role in the final product’s quality. The talh tree, also known as the red acacia, which is renowned for its dense and cohesive fibers, is favored for crafting high-quality doors and intricate designs.

Carpenters have excelled in engraving beautiful decorations on both exterior and interior doors, utilizing the unique properties of the wood.

Traditionally, the decoration of internal wooden doors and windows is a task undertaken by the housewife, with assistance from female relatives and neighbors. These decorations feature a range of geometric, botanical, and symbolic motifs, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests and visitors.

The Aseer region boasts a vibrant tradition of skilled carpenters who have mastered the craft of creating traditional architectural doors and windows. Inspired by their natural environment, these artisans incorporate a diverse array of detailed patterns and botanical designs into their work, intentionally avoiding human or animal imagery.

Researcher Maryam Al-Omari says popular designs often feature geometric shapes such as triangles and diamonds, which are intricately combined to enhance the overall aesthetic.

Acknowledging the significance of safeguarding this area of cultural heritage, the Ministry of Culture republished the works of the French professor Thierry Mouget in 2021. His comprehensive photographic records of southern Saudi Arabia from the 1980s showcase the region’s architectural styles, historical legacies, social dynamics, and customs, shedding light on the rich cultural fabric of the Aseer region.

 


KSrelief sends vaccine to Syrian pilgrims for Hajj

Updated 5 sec ago
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KSrelief sends vaccine to Syrian pilgrims for Hajj

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief has provided 25,000 doses of the meningitis vaccine to Syrian pilgrims at the request of the Syrian Ministry of Health.

The vaccines are being administered in preparation for the pilgrims’ upcoming Hajj journey to the holy sites of Makkah and Madinah, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministry of the Syrian Arab Republic expressed its appreciation for the prompt response, describing the support as characteristic of Saudi Arabia and its leadership.

Through KSrelief, the Kingdom has consistently provided vital aid to the Syrian people while addressing their most urgent needs, the SPA added.

This support highlights Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to assisting nations and communities worldwide with critical medical supplies.

KSrelief recently concluded seven medical projects in Damascus as part of the Saudi Amal Volunteer Program.

The week-long initiatives included cardiac surgery and catheterization, orthopedics and joint surgery, prosthetics and rehabilitation, pediatric surgery, pediatric urology, and treatment for blindness and related conditions.


AlUla’s rawi historians tell tales as old as time

Updated 27 min 19 sec ago
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AlUla’s rawi historians tell tales as old as time

  • Storytellers keep oral tradition alive by guiding tourists in ancient city
  • Reciters of poetry tell the stories of historic sites 

JEDDAH: In the timeless landscape of AlUla, stories are not only carved or marked into rock — they are carried in the hearts and voices of its people.

Among those preserving and sharing memories is Aljawharah Ibrahim Abdulkarim, a rawi — or oral storyteller — in the heritage, culture and events department at the Royal Commission for AlUla.

She told Arab News: “Several years ago I took a number of tour guiding courses and decided to pursue a career in this field. I was born and raised in AlUla, so I grew up hearing stories and learning about AlUla Old Town from my parents and relatives who lived there, which allowed me to better understand the history of the site.”

Storytelling for Abdulkarim is not just a job, but a mission. As a native of AlUla, she offers a rare blend of authenticity and academic insight, which she weaves into the tours she leads.

She added: “Since I’ve lived in AlUla my entire life, I’ve witnessed its amazing transformation over the years. Through my work as a rawi I’ve also seen firsthand the exciting future that lies ahead for this unique place. All of these experiences have helped enrich my personal story of AlUla.”

The rawi has historically played an important role in Arab culture, serving as a reciter of poetry and stories.

A trilingual speaker — fluent in her native Arabic, as well as in English and French — Abdulkarim represents the next generation of rawis that will show, and tell, the tales of their ancestors.

She said: “I first started learning English in AlUla. Later, I had the opportunity to travel to France on an RCU scholarship created especially for AlUla students. While there I learned French and obtained my master’s degree in international hospitality management.”

Her ability to connect with international visitors became a key asset, and she added: “The fact that I am a trilingual rawi helps me to better understand the different tourists that come to AlUla, offer more personalized responses to their questions, and share with them the special story of AlUla.

“I’ve also had the chance to represent AlUla and my colleagues across several conferences and campaigns in the Kingdom and globally, connecting me with an even broader audience.”

While much research has been devoted to ancient sites like Dadan and Hegra, Abdulkarim is passionate about shedding light on AlUla — especially the human stories of AlUla’s Old Town.

She said: “There is a lot of available historical information and research for different ancient civilizations, especially for sites in Dadan and Hegra. However, when it comes to places like AlUla Old Town, it is quite different as we are talking about contemporary history.”

What sets her storytelling apart is her commitment to blending historical accuracy with personal memory — without conflating the two.

She said: “The people who once lived there are still with us today, and they’re able to share their stories in their own words.

“During my tours I usually start by sharing historical facts, and then I include memories from my father and family. I make sure to keep the two separate, so the history and personal stories are both respected and clearly understood.”

Beyond those narratives, Abdulkarim regularly invites other community members to lend their voices to the tours.

She added: “During our tours we also invite members of the local community to participate by sharing their stories and knowledge, helping us to tell the broader history of AlUla, through the voices of those who have lived it.”

These efforts are especially resonant during themed tours in which the history is deeply personal.

She added: “For example, during one of our special tours in Ramadan, called Ramadan Memories, my father contributed by sharing how the people of Old Town used to spend the holy month, recounting their daily routines, the food they prepared, their work, and their cherished traditions. In doing so, we offer our valued guests a truly unique and personal experience.”

Preserving and presenting heritage in such moments is more than recounting stories — it is about keeping the very culture and voice alive for future generations.

She said: “Sharing our heritage with people is crucial to prevent it from being lost, especially as elements of heritage can also be intangible.

“AlUla is a jewel to us, and persevering the heritage of the city not only helps to protect our past but also safeguards our present and shapes our future.”

That future is being actively protected, and she added: “Today, for example, we have the first Saudi Heritage Ranger team that are working hard to protect our tangible heritage in our historical and archaeological sites for the coming generations.”

In AlUla, the past is not forgotten: It is spoken, heard and passed down with pride. Through voices like Abdulkarim’s, these stories — some as old as time — are finding new ears.


Tourism minister launches Saudi Summer program

The event brought together more than 120 partners from across the Kingdom’s tourism ecosystem.
Updated 39 min 28 sec ago
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Tourism minister launches Saudi Summer program

  • New campaign features six destinations, 600 experiences, and aims to welcome 41m visitors
  • Program highlights include Esports World Cup, new resorts, and cultural festivals across the Kingdom

RIYADH: Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority Ahmed Al-Khateeb launched the Saudi Summer program under the theme “Color Your Summer” at a workshop recently organized by the authority in Riyadh.

The event brought together more than 120 partners from across the Kingdom’s tourism ecosystem, including representatives from both the public and private sectors.

The workshop fostered collaboration ahead of the summer season, aligning efforts to achieve the program’s goals and maximize its economic and tourism impact.

Running from May to September 2025, the Saudi Summer program will feature six distinct destinations — from the moderate coastal escapes of Jeddah and the Red Sea to the cool, scenic highlands of Taif, Baha, and Asir.

Key highlights include the Esports World Cup in Riyadh from July to August, along with the vibrant Jeddah and Asir seasons, offering diverse events, activities, and promotional campaigns.

“Bringing together our partners each year through this workshop is a testament to our shared commitment to shaping the future of the Saudi tourism industry,” Al-Khateeb said.

He added: “This year, we are encouraged to see the private sector contributing more than SR300 million ($80 million) in preparation for what promises to be an incredible summer. With its rich culture and breathtaking diversity, Saudi Arabia continues to inspire travelers from around the world while fueling a vibrant domestic tourism scene.”

Al-Khateeb noted that summer is more than just a peak travel period — it is a key opportunity for the sector to innovate, grow, and make a lasting impact.

“This year, we aim to welcome more than 41 million visitors from 18 countries and achieve SR73 billion in total tourism spending. These numbers reflect Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation as a world-class destination, offering unforgettable experiences year-round,” he said.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, emphasized the transformational nature of the Kingdom’s tourism offerings: “Saudi is redefining how the world views summer travel. In partnership with more than 120 stakeholders, this summer will introduce more than 600 unique tourism products and experiences, along with more than 250 special offers.”

He added: “From the pristine islands of Shebara and Umhat along the Red Sea, to iconic new luxury resorts such as St. Regis and Desert Rock, to five new beaches in Jeddah, and the cool retreats of Asir, Taif, and Baha — Saudi Arabia is turning every visit into a vibrant summer highlight reel.”

The program’s theme, “Color Your Summer,” reflects the diversity of Saudi Arabia’s tourism assets. It is designed to meet the expectations of various types of tourists, offering coastal and mountain destinations, international events, exclusive offers, and a wide range of tourism experiences across the Kingdom.


Eco-friendly and safer walkways expanded by 33% at Makkah Hajj sites 

Updated 25 May 2025
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Eco-friendly and safer walkways expanded by 33% at Makkah Hajj sites 

  • Roads made of flexible rubber asphalt expanded to 33 percent this year
  • Walking on regular roads linked to 38 percent of foot and ankle injuries during Hajj

MAKKAH: Muslims performing Hajj this year will enjoy better quality and safer walkways in Makkah, thanks to the increased use of a new road construction technique.

Saudi authorities have announced a 33 percent expansion of roads made of flexible rubber asphalt this year, with work on the road extending from Namirah Mosque to Al-Mashaer train station in Arafat, raising the total area to 16,000 sq. meters.

“Instead of accumulating used tires, which are a major source of air pollution when burned, this technology recycles them and transforms them into a flexible asphalt layer that absorbs impact and provides comfortable walking paths,” the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The report quoted the Kingdom’s Roads General Authority who said tests on asphalt surfaces and regular sidewalks showed that they “cause strong reactions on pilgrims’ ankles and feet, especially the elderly, who constitute 53 percent of pilgrims.”

About 38 percent of foot and ankle injuries that are dealt with by healthcare facilities during Hajj have been attributed to walking on regular walkways.

As explained, smart surfaces that use flexible rubber asphalt help absorb shock and relieve pressure on the body’s joints, especially the ankles and feet.  

The RGA experiment is in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 commitment to sustainable development, smart cities, and enhancing the safety and comfort of all residents and visitors.

Saudi officials expect the number of pilgrims for Hajj this year to surpass last year’s figure, which the General Authority for Statistics counted at 1.83 million. Of that number, 1.61 million arrived from outside the Kingdom, while 221,854 were internal pilgrims, including citizens and expatriates.

Hajj 2025 is expected to start on June 4, subject to confirmation by Saudi Arabia’s official moon-sighting authorities.

As of May 21, 2025, 755,344 pilgrims had arrived in the Kingdom from abroad through air, land and sea entry points, according to the General Directorate of Passports, also known as the Jawazath.

Indonesian pilgrims are expected to form the biggest delegation again for Hajj 2025. Last year, 221,000 Indonesian pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom for Hajj, followed by Pakistan with 180,000. India was third at 175,025, Bangladesh was fourth at 127,198, and Nigeria completed the top five with 95,000 pilgrims.


Over 1,245 wild animals resettled so far in Saudi Arabia’s largest natural reserve

Updated 25 May 2025
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Over 1,245 wild animals resettled so far in Saudi Arabia’s largest natural reserve

  • More than 120 wildlife births also recorded at King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve

TURAIF: Saudi Arabia’s largest wildlife park, the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve, has so far resettled more than 1,245 wild animals, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The reserve has also recorded more than 120 births among its wildlife, SPA reported, citing KSRNR Development Authority records as it marked International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22.

Situated in the Kingdom’s north, the reserve is home to more than 290 species of migratory birds, more than 550 types of wild and grazing plants, and over 350 species of various mammals, reptiles and amphibians.

KSRNR is home to over 290 species of migratory birds. (SPA photo)

Among these animals are the rare Arabian gazelle, the Arabian oryx, and the kestrel, a medium-sized bird of prey.

KSRNR covers an area of 130,000 sq. kilometers, spanning the provinces of Hail, Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders.

Map of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve. (Courtesy of KSRNR)

The reserve features a range of physical geography, consisting of 14 geographic formations of mountains, plains, and plateaus, and rare monuments dating back to about 8,000 BC.

Also within the reserve are towns such as Al-Qurayyat and Tubarjal in Al-Jouf and Turaif in the Northern Borders.

The authority said the reserve is dedicated to preserving unique natural habitats, forming a haven for wildlife, a crucial stopover for migratory birds each year, and a natural sanctuary with its balanced environment and diverse landscapes.

Since its inception, the authority has focused on raising environmental awareness in the local community to bolster its conservation efforts.

Citizens participate in the KSRNR's vegetation program as part of the national effort make the Kingdom greener and combat desertification. (SPA photo)

Last year, the KSRNR authority reported having planted more than 2,400,000 seedlings, rehabilitated 700,000 hectares, removed 119 tonnes of hazardous waste, and scattered four tonnes of local seeds in the reserve.

The voluntary seed-scattering initiative covered six valleys on reserve territory, including Nayal Valley of Niall Shuaib Abu Talihat, Fager Valley, Shaib Al-Qilayyib, Sarbout Plath, Mot and Masaha valleys.

“The two-month initiative aims to develop vegetation and increase the green area of the reserve, with the participation of several voluntary associations and volunteers, by scattering an estimated four tons of seeds,” the authority posted on its website.