DiplomaticQuarter: Bosnia and Herzegovina envoy meets Madinah university president

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The ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina meets the president of the Islamic University, Prince Dr. Mamdouh bin Saud bin Thunayan. (SPA)
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Updated 24 June 2021
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DiplomaticQuarter: Bosnia and Herzegovina envoy meets Madinah university president

  • The two countries share cordial relations, and the King Fahd Cultural Center in Sarajevo is an important link between them
  • The center consists of a mosque, sports and educational centers, and a market

RIYADH: Muhamed Jusic, ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Saudi Arabia, recently called on the president of the Islamic University of Madinah, Prince Dr. Mamdouh bin Saud bin Thunayan.
During the meeting, they discussed a number of issues of common interest, especially those related to educational development.
The ambassador also toured the central library, the sports city, and the deanship of e-learning and distance education during his visit to the university.
The prince presented an overview of the university, its various scientific and research tracks, its global mission to serve the Islamic religion and society, as well as what the university offers to international students.
Earlier, Jusic met the Saudi-Bosnian Parliamentary Friendship Committee of the Shoura Council, where the two sides stressed the importance of supporting aspects of cooperation and strengthening joint work between the Shoura Council and the Bosnian parliament, commending Saudi-Bosnian relations and bilateral cooperation in all fields.
In March, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a meeting with his Bosnia and Herzegovinian counterpart Bisera Turkovic in Riyadh, during which they discussed bilateral relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them in a way that serves their common interests.
The two countries share cordial relations, and the King Fahd Cultural Center in Sarajevo is an important link between them. The center plays a key role in building cultural relations, and serves Bosnian society by organizing educational and sports activities.
The center consists of a mosque, sports and educational centers, and a market. The educational center offers free education, while the mosque is currently Bosnia’s biggest, with a capacity of 1,500 people.
The center is one of the largest and most important support projects provided by the Kingdom to Bosnia and Herzegovina.


King Salman receives written message from Eswatini monarch

Kingdom’s Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji receives the message during a meeting with Prince Lindani.
Updated 5 sec ago
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King Salman receives written message from Eswatini monarch

  • The message was received by the Kingdom’s Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji in Riyadh during a meeting with Prince Lindani, son of King Mswati

RIYADH: King Salman received a written message from Eswatini’s King Mswati III regarding relations between their countries, Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The message was received by the Kingdom’s Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji in Riyadh during a meeting with Prince Lindani, son of King Mswati and Member of Eswatini’s Parliament.

Relations between the two countries and ways to develop joint cooperation in various fields were reviewed during the meeting.


Jeddah’s private beach resorts growing in popularity

Kashta Beach is one of the more affordable private beaches in Jeddah. (@visitsaudiAR)
Updated 20 July 2025
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Jeddah’s private beach resorts growing in popularity

  • An increasing number of resorts offer beachgoers privacy, with women-only options

JEDDAH: For a city with a historic connection to the Red Sea, Jeddah’s relationship with its coastline is entering a new chapter shaped by luxury, intentional design and a demand for privacy.

The city’s once-limited options have evolved into a range of private beach resorts offering everything from bohemian barefoot luxury to women-only wellness retreats.

Along Jeddah’s Obhur coast, a number of beach resorts have appeared in recent years, tailored for specific audiences and moods.

“Honestly, the development is very clear,” says Majda Abdulgader, a Jeddawi longtime beach lover who works as an education and social adviser.

“In the past, options were extremely limited, mostly confined to certain resorts or private chalets. But now there’s a wide variety of both public and private beaches, all focused on the overall experience; not just the location, but also the atmosphere, events, and safety.”

Each destination appeals to different sensibilities. Mangrove Beach Resort, for instance, offers women-only days and upscale, serene decor.

La Mer Beach Resort offers a more accessible mid-range option with a relaxed ambience, great for water sports, sunbathing or a quiet read by the shore.

Oia Beach Resort is another option with a Greek island feel, complete with whitewashed walls and deep blue pools.

The rise of women-only beaches — safe, respectful environments for women to relax and socialize — are allowing greater numbers of people to enjoy the sea on their terms.

Resorts like Le Ponte de l’Amitie and La Maison d’Obhur offer spa access, yoga sessions, and peaceful sunbathing in female-only spaces.

“My experience at Oia during a women-only day with my daughter was wonderful,” Abdulgader shared. “They genuinely care about the comfort of female visitors. What stood out to me was the high level of organization, respect, and privacy.”

According to resident Najla Bukhari, the expectations are clear: “People are mainly looking for a clean beach; the sand itself should be clean, with well-arranged and comfortable seating.

“A restaurant and music are important. If towels are provided, that’s even better. Showers and clean bathrooms with basics like tissues and shampoo are essential. And kids should have a separate area from the adults.”

For Noura Samargandi, a marketing professional who prefers to get tanned naturally after a good dip, privacy is key.

“I love tanning, and honestly, I just want to enjoy the beach without worrying about how I dress or who’s watching. That’s why I prefer places like La Maison or Boa Beach on their women-only days. It’s about freedom and feeling at ease.”

Meanwhile, Khalid Al-Abdulwasi, a 32-year-old software engineer and avid kite surfer, prefers open, uninterrupted access to the water.

“I go to La Mer a lot. It’s relaxed, not overly crowded, and great for watersports. I can bring my gear, get straight into the water and focus on the waves.”

Many of these private beaches carry global aesthetics such as minimalist decor, Mediterranean touches, and curated playlists. But some beachgoers hope to see more rooted, local influences.

“There are attempts to blend local culture with global trends,” Abdulgader observed. “But most tend to lean toward international styles.”

“I hope in the future we’ll see beaches that reflect more of the local identity — not just in design, but also in events and content.”

During events like the Jeddah Season, private beach resorts play a vital role in attracting both locals and tourists.

“They present a modern and appealing image of the city,” said Abdulgader. “They offer unique destinations for tourists. And demand increases significantly during big events since beaches are part of the fun and diverse event lineup.”

She added, “As the Bride of the Red Sea, Jeddah has huge potential. Many expats love the beach, and well-managed beaches provide them with an experience like what they’re used to back home. This makes Jeddah even more attractive as a place to live or visit.”

Despite the progress, there is growing awareness that beach access remains limited for some.

“We need reasonably priced beaches, sea trips, and options for families, youth, the elderly, and children, all while being mindful of different needs and privacy preferences,” Abdulgader urged.

Private beach resorts in the city come with price tags for entry that range from SR150 ($40) all the way up to SR345.

Meanwhile, Jeddah’s public beaches are more accessible options for families and tourists looking to enjoy the beauty of the Red Sea without breaking the bank.

Public beaches like Alexandria and Al-Mahazem are popular among residents and citizens alike.

Amira El-Sayed, an Egyptian expat living in Jeddah who works as a private math tutor, told Arab News that Alexandria Beach is one of her favorites.

“I’ve gotten used to spending my weekends at this lovely free beach. It’s fun for adults and has a special play area for children. I prefer to come early in the morning, before noon, to enjoy the clean sand and clear water before the beach gets crowded with families.”

Public beaches are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering umbrellas, chairs, lifeguards and designated swimming zones to ensure visitor safety.


Saudi students win 7 awards at STEM contests

Mawhiba, together with Ministry of Education and national partners, continues to develop initiatives that equip Saudi students.
Updated 20 July 2025
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Saudi students win 7 awards at STEM contests

  • Mawhiba, together with the Ministry of Education and national partners, continues to develop initiatives that equip Saudi students with world-class skills

JEDDAH: Saudi students secured seven international awards at the International Mathematical Olympiad on the Sunshine Coast, Australia, and the European Girls’ Olympiad in Informatics in Bonn, Germany.

Their participation was overseen by the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, known as Mawhiba, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

They won six awards at the maths contest — three bronze medals and three honorable mentions — competing against 630 students from 110 countries.

Bronze medals were awarded to students from the Royal Commission for Yanbu, Madinah, and the Eastern Province education directorates. Honorable mentions went to participants from Jeddah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province.

Since joining the competition, Saudi Arabia’s tally has grown to 12 silver medals, 48 bronze medals, and 22 honorable mentions.

At the informatics event, Saudi student Riefal Khaled Al-Hazmi, from Tabuk, won a bronze medal in a field with 226 participants from 60.

Mawhiba, together with the Ministry of Education and national partners, continues to develop initiatives that equip Saudi students with world-class skills, enhancing the Kingdom’s position in science and technology worldwide.


Saudi citizen turns farm into rural attraction in Jouf

West of Sakaka, Yousef Al-Haizan has turned his farm into a summer family destination. (SPA)
Updated 20 July 2025
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Saudi citizen turns farm into rural attraction in Jouf

  • Evening temperatures in Sakaka average around 27 degrees Celsius, providing a pleasant setting for family outings
  • Driven by his interest in agriculture and attachment to his land, Al-Haizan has added modern amenities while preserving the farm’s local character

RIYADH: The agricultural areas of Jouf are a popular summer evening destination during the school break. The region’s mild evening weather in July makes its farms, resorts, and parks especially appealing.

Evening temperatures in Sakaka average around 27 degrees Celsius, providing a pleasant setting for family outings, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

West of Sakaka, Yousef Al-Haizan has turned his farm into a summer family destination, combining leisure and hospitality with agricultural heritage.

Driven by his interest in agriculture and attachment to his land, Al-Haizan has added modern amenities while preserving the farm’s local character.

The site offers open-air seating under trees, areas for activities like horseback riding and motorbiking, and traditional spaces serving Saudi coffee and dates.

The effort is part of a wider initiative to promote rural tourism and engage residents in regional development, the SPA reported.

Covering about 70,000 sq. meters, the farm also includes an equestrian area boasting lessons for all ages; rural-style settings reflecting Jouf’s heritage; a Bedouin tent; and other basic visitor amenities.


Baha Craftsmen Forum empowers local artisans

Updated 20 July 2025
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Baha Craftsmen Forum empowers local artisans

  • Workshops, live demonstrations revive traditional arts like sadu weaving, palm crafts, stone carving

RIYADH: The Baha Craftsmen Forum, organized by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, is empowering local artisans in the region.

Free five-day craft training courses are being offered during the second week of the forum as part of the Baha Summer Festival.

Supervised by specialized trainers, they run from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The courses focus on skills such as palm crafts (wickerwork), sadu weaving, crochet doll making, and stone and marble carving.

The month-long forum, which is held in partnership with governmental and private entities, continues to strengthen Baha’s cultural identity.

Celebrating local heritage, the forum has attracted large crowds. A standout attraction is the sadu weaving corner, which is valued for its deep cultural significance and artistic elegance.

One participant, craftswoman Salha Al-Ghamdi, captivated visitors with a live demonstration of traditional weaving, showcasing over 20 years of experience and dedication to the heritage-rich craft.

She introduced audiences to the intricate techniques of sadu weaving, the materials used, and how the resulting products are transformed into various functional and decorative items.

Sadu is a time-honored handicraft practiced by women in desert communities and involves weaving wool with colorful threads into patterns inspired by the environment.

Renowned for its geometric precision and distinct aesthetic, the art highlights the skill and creativity of the craftswomen.

The forum aims to showcase the region’s traditional crafts and cultural heritage while fostering interaction between the artisans and the public.