How France played a role in promoting Saudi Arabia’s AlUla

When the Institut du Monde Arabe launched its immersive exhibition “AlUla: Wonder of Arabia” in October 2019, more than 10,000 Parisians and international visitors experienced a rare opportunity to discover a little-known slice of Arab archaeological history. (Supplied)
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Updated 14 July 2020
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How France played a role in promoting Saudi Arabia’s AlUla

  • How the French have been involved with Saudi Arabia’s bid to share its ancient treasures with the world

DUBAI: When the Institut du Monde Arabe launched its immersive exhibition “AlUla: Wonder of Arabia” in October 2019, more than 10,000 Parisians and international visitors experienced a rare opportunity to discover a little-known slice of Arab archaeological history in the French capital.

Co-curated by the Saudi archaeologist and Royal Commission for AlUla consultant, Dr. Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani, the exhibition was the first of its kind, designed to showcase the multiple histories and remarkably preserved Nabatean architecture of the city of AlUla through a diverse display of 265 artifacts and interactive screens.

In a dimly lit atmosphere, visitors laid eyes on sandy-toned human and animal sculptures, inscribed rocks, delicate coins and incense burners that have been unearthed by Saudi-French excavation teams and King Saud University. A feast for the eyes, a majority of what was on display was made accessible to the public for the first time.

After being extended for almost six weeks past its closing date on Jan. 19 this year, the museum was able to attract everyone, from children and parents to curious tourists, along with members of the international press. Even President Emmanuel Macron was treated to a private guided tour of the exhibition, which was spread across two floors of the museum.

Almost every detail of the exhibition — from its significant venue to the choice of expertise invited to take part and loans coming from other French museums — marked a renewed strengthening of Saudi-Franco cultural relations.

“Culturally speaking, I believe the exhibition broke many barriers,” said Alsuhaibani in an interview with Arab News. “Culture is usually the fastest, strongest, and most efficient way of breaking barriers between nations in general. The exhibition was a success and an excellent platform to not only introduce people to AlUla but also, in the bigger picture, the land of the Kingdom.”

One of the highlights of the exhibition was when the French aerial photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand was invited to film AlUla’s natural scenery, notably the massive tombs of Hegra and Dadan’s lush green oasis. The detailed animated films were projected onto large screens, transporting the viewer to the heart of AlUla.

“The rich environment of AlUla was a key point and we wanted to display it,” recalled Alsuhaibani. “Yann Arthus-Bertrand was a world-renowned professional, who was capable of allowing the visitor to virtually experience this place. Given his prior relations with the Institut du Monde Arabe, we were able to sign a contract with him and he did an amazing job.”

History shows, however, that this was not the first time the French (including other European nationals) expressed interest in the history of Hejaz (now part of modern-day Saudi Arabia). In fact, during the 19th century, several French travellers made their way to the area, documenting what they encountered.

Chief of them was Charles Huber, who Alsuhaibani described as one of the first Frenchmen to visit in 1878. Collecting rock specimens from the area, Huber’s travels to Hejaz and northern Najd were supported by the French government, which also sponsored publishing his maps and travel accounts, “Journal d’un voyage en Arabie, 1883-1884.”

Other important travelers to AlUla, specifically, were the French priests and archaeologists Antonin Jaussen (1871-1962) and Raphael Savignac (1874-1951). Residing in Jerusalem as members of the French Biblical School, the pair’s visit to Madain Saleh (Hegra) in 1907 was facilitated by the then newly established Hejaz Railway, stretching from Damascus to Madinah.

“The existence of trains meant that Jaussen and Savignac were able to take their photographic equipment with them. So, they took the very first images that we have of AlUla,” commented Alsuhaibani. Along with their insightful photographs of life in AlUla, the pair published a seminal, five-volume publication on Middle Eastern archaeology, entitled “Mission Archaeologique en Arabie,” in 1909.

Looking back, the genesis of the Paris-based French Agency for the Development of AlUla (AFALULA) in 2018 has led Saudi Arabia and France to work together in transforming AlUla into a leading tourist destination in the Arab region and the world’s largest living museum by 2035.

Aside from carrying out field excavation plans led by 50 French archaeologists, other goals of AFALULA include conservation training for the young generation of Saudis, building a museum complex, developing a sustainable agriculture and security strategy, and designing a sophisticated hotel complex by acclaimed French architect Jean Nouvel at the Shaaran Nature Reserve.

“We want to show that people can live in AlUla,” said Alsuhaibani, who obtained his doctorate in the architecture of the Dadan Kingdom at Paris’ Sorbonne University. “The place itself has been inhabited since pre-historic times until this day. AlUla has a past, a present, and a future. We have a land of historical depth and we want to share it with the world.”

Despite the challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic, AFALULA’s executive chairman, Gerard Mestrallet has assured that the agency’s teams have continuously been in contact during the confinement period, discussing master plans for AlUla. “In just two years, the cooperation between our two countries has become stronger and more asserted,” he stated. “We are pleased with the work that we accomplished, and enthusiastic about meeting the many challenges ahead together.”


Saudi authorities crack down on tourism violations

Updated 13 sec ago
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Saudi authorities crack down on tourism violations

  • Over the past month, inspection teams carried out around 2,750 field visits

RIYADH: The Ministry of Tourism intensified inspections targeting tourism service providers across key summer destinations in cities and regions throughout the Kingdom.

Over the past month, inspection teams carried out around 2,750 field visits, detecting some 170 violations, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.

These visits aimed to ensure that tourism entities are licensed by the ministry, safeguarding the rights of both domestic and international tourists as part of the Saudi Summer program.

In Asir, more than 420 inspections uncovered over 25 violations. In Taif, more than 360 visits revealed around 25 violations.

Jeddah recorded over 1,680 visits, revealing more than 110 violations. In the Baha region, more than 280 inspections resulted in five violations.

The ministry emphasized that all tourism service providers — including travel agencies, consultancy offices, and event organizers — must comply with tourism regulations and bylaws to protect tourists’ rights. It also urged the public to report any concerns about tourism services via the unified call center at 930.


Saudi scouts explore culture, skills in Portugal

Updated 11 min 53 sec ago
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Saudi scouts explore culture, skills in Portugal

  • The global event brings together more than 7,100 scouts from 118 scout associations

RIYADH: The Saudi Arabian Scout Association delegation is participating in the 16th World Scout Moot, taking place in Portugal until Aug. 3.

The global event brings together more than 7,100 scouts from 118 scout associations, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.

The Saudi delegation took part in the Paths program — an initiative featuring exploratory journeys across various regions of Portugal, designed to enrich participants’ cultural awareness and knowledge.

It also participated in several training workshops focused on building both individual and team-based skills, the SPA added.

In the coming days, the delegation will move to the main camp near the city of Porto, where the Saudi scouts will engage in five days of activities celebrating Portuguese heritage.

This participation reflects the association’s commitment to empowering Saudi scouts to represent the Kingdom on the international stage, expand their global presence, and strengthen their leadership capabilities.

The World Scout Moot is held every four years and is designed for young people aged 18 to 25, while those aged 26 and above can participate as members of the International Service Team.


Baha festival promotes fitness with walking event

Baha University recently organized a walking challenge under the slogan “A Step Toward Life.” (SPA)
Updated 54 min 52 sec ago
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Baha festival promotes fitness with walking event

  • Event attracted residents and visitors of all ages, including children and the elderly, who enjoyed walking through the heart of the Raghadan Forest Park

RIYADH: As part of its participation in the Baha Summer Festival, Baha University recently organized a walking challenge under the slogan “A Step Toward Life.”

The event attracted residents and visitors of all ages, including children and the elderly, who enjoyed walking through the heart of the Raghadan Forest Park, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The university emphasized that walking is both a recreational activity and a source of significant health benefits for individuals and society.

The event utilized walking trails developed by the Baha municipality within the forest, which have become a model for promoting regular physical activity in a healthy and engaging environment.

The Baha region combines natural beauty, moderate weather, and a variety of sports activities all within an open and interactive setting designed to enhance quality of life and encourage the community to embrace physical activity and explore nature.

Last month, Baha Gov. Prince Hussam bin Saud inaugurated the summer festival, featuring more than 500 events aimed at attracting 2.5 million visitors.


Two-state solution conference poised to convene at UN as famine spreads in Gaza

Updated 27 July 2025
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Two-state solution conference poised to convene at UN as famine spreads in Gaza

  • FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan says the Kingdom ‘spares no effort in supporting all endeavors aimed at achieving just peace in the region and globally’
  • Despite resistance, analysts say France’s recognition of the State of Palestine could tip the balance internationally

NEW YORK: As the international community braces for the two-state solution conference in New York on July 28-29, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, expectations are high for renewed political will to end decades of conflict and push forward a viable peace. The conference arrives amid worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza and a historic diplomatic shift: France’s decision to formally recognize Palestine as a state.

The event — officially titled the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution — is being described as both urgent and historic.

The backdrop is grim: since the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis, including 50 French nationals, the war in Gaza has taken an unimaginable toll. More than 56,000 Palestinians have died, and the Gaza Strip’s infrastructure and social fabric are in ruins.

From the outset, Saudi Arabia has underscored that recognizing the State of Palestine is not merely symbolic but a “strategic necessity” for regional peace. Ahead of the conference, Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan issued a statement saying that the kingdom “spares no effort in supporting all endeavors aimed at achieving just peace in the region and globally. It consistently stresses the importance of implementing the two-state solution through political, diplomatic, and international efforts, as it is a strategic choice that ensures regional and global peace and security.

“From this standpoint came the Kingdom’s presidency — together with the French Republic — of the international conference at the ministerial level to settle the Palestinian issue peacefully.”

He stressed that the conference is aimed at pushing toward the implementation of international legitimacy resolutions that call for the establishment of a two-state solution “where the Palestinian people can exercise their right to self-determination. This will bring peace and stability to the region and support sustainable development and prosperity.”

Riyadh had intensified efforts to galvanize international consensus ahead of the summit. Manal Radwan, counselor at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that a just resolution to the Palestinian question is “the cornerstone of a new regional order based on mutual recognition and coexistence.”

Slovenia’s permanent representative to the UN, Samuel Zbogar, told Arab News: “The main goal of the conference is to mobilize concrete political, security, and economic support for the implementation of the two-state solution. This should result in an independent, sovereign, and democratic Palestinian state that will coexist in peace and security with Israel.”

Slovenia was one of 10 countries that during Israel’s continuing war on Gaza has formally recognized Palestine, alongside Ireland, Spain and Norway.

UK Ambassador to the UN Barbara Woodward also underlined the importance of the summit. She told Arab News: “The United Kingdom is resolute in our commitment to a two-state solution and my foreign secretary has been clear that we are prepared to take further action to prevent the forcible erosion of the only viable path to lasting peace. Next week’s conference, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, is a vital opportunity to demonstrate the strength of international resolve to secure a better future for Israelis, Palestinians and the region.”

One of the most consequential developments ahead of the summit is President Emmanuel Macron’s July 24 announcement that France will formally recognize Palestine, with the official declaration to be made at the UN General Assembly in September.

“There is no alternative,” Macron said on X. “We must immediately secure a ceasefire, release all hostages, and provide massive humanitarian aid to Gaza. But above all, we must build the State of Palestine ... demilitarized, viable, and coexisting with Israel in full recognition and peace.”

Reactions were swift. The Palestinian Authority welcomed the decision, calling it a step toward justice and international legitimacy. Hussein Al Sheikh, vice president of the PLO, praised France’s “commitment to international law and Palestinian rights.”

Israel condemned the move. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it “rewards terrorism” and accused France of helping to legitimize what could become “an Iranian proxy state.” Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz called the decision “a disgrace.”

The United States also criticized France’s stance. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said it would embolden Hamas and complicate peace efforts.

Despite the pushback, analysts say France’s move could tip the balance internationally. Already, 147 of 193 UN member states — nearly 75 percent — recognize Palestine, including nearly all of Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. France would be the first G7 country to join that group. The US, Canada, Australia, Germany, and the UK still do not, citing the need for direct negotiations with Israel.

A French diplomatic official briefing journalists ahead of the summit described it as the start of a broader process, not a one-off event. The goal: revive the political momentum for a two-state outcome, even as that vision faces historic setbacks.

The conference will center around four key thematic areas, or “baskets,” intended to remove obstacles to implementing a Palestinian state:

The first basket will focus on recognition of Palestine. France, Saudi Arabia, and their partners will seek to rally additional countries to formally recognize Palestinian statehood. Recognition, the organizers argue, will strengthen moderate voices, most notably the Palestinian Authority, and help push back against radical and extremist factions such as Hamas.

The second area involves normalization and regional integration. While no new normalization agreements are expected, Arab and Muslim states will be encouraged to reaffirm their readiness to normalize relations with Israel — but only if credible progress is made toward Palestinian statehood. The message is that full diplomatic, economic, and security integration in the region is within reach — if peace is pursued.

The third pillar is the reform of Palestinian governance. President Mahmoud Abbas has reportedly pledged a series of major reforms in a letter to the conference organizers. These include a public condemnation of the Octo. 7 attacks, support for the unconditional release of hostages, and a commitment to disarm Hamas. Abbas has also vowed to end the controversial “pay-for-slay” program, under which stipends are paid to families of convicted attackers, and to reform Palestinian educational materials, including textbooks. Most significantly, Abbas has pledged to hold elections within a year, and to ensure that any future Palestinian state would be fully demilitarized — a long-standing Israeli demand.

The fourth and final basket centers on the disarmament and exclusion of Hamas. Conference organizers underline that Hamas must have no role in the future Palestinian state — a stance shared by Israel, France, and many others. Disarmament is being framed as essential to any secure and lasting peace.

The conference will convene foreign ministers and diplomats from dozens of countries and will build upon the work of eight working groups, each focusing on areas such as security, humanitarian aid, and post-war reconstruction.

In parallel, widespread international criticism of Israel’s conduct in Gaza is mounting. On July 21, the foreign ministers of 26 countries, including Canada, the UK, France, Japan, and most of the EU, jointly declared:

“The war in Gaza must end now ... The suffering of civilians has reached new depths. The Israeli government’s aid delivery model is dangerous and deprives Gazans of human dignity ... Permanent forced displacement is a violation of international law.”

They urged an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access, and rejected Israel’s settlement expansion plans, including the E1 project, which would bisect any future Palestinian state.

A follow-up summit is planned in September at the UN General Assembly, to be co-chaired by President Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. For now, all eyes are on New York, where the July conference may offer the last best hope to revive a solution that once seemed within reach — but now hangs by a thread.


Operation to separate Syrian conjoined twins begins in Saudi hospital

Updated 27 July 2025
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Operation to separate Syrian conjoined twins begins in Saudi hospital

  • The Saudi medical teams conducted extensive and accurate examinations of the twins ahead of the operation

RIYADH: A medical team from the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program on Sunday are carrying out an operation to separate Syrian conjoined twin girls in Riyadh. 
The procedure to separate Celine and Eileen Abdulmunem Al-Shabli is taking place at King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital in King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh. 
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, who heads the surgical team and is an advisor at the royal court and supervisor general of Saudi aid agency KSrelief, said the twins come from a Syrian family who sought refuge in Lebanon and had arrived in Saudi Arabia last December.  
Al-Rabeeah said the mother was pregnant with triplets, two conjoined girls and one healthy, non-conjoined boy. On Feb. 28, 2024, the mother gave birth to the triplets in a caesarean section at Rafik Hariri Hospital in Beirut, he said.
The twins are now one year and five months old. Their combined weight is 14 kilograms.
He explained that the Syrian conjoined twins arrived from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia on Dec. 29, 2024, in cooperation with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense. 
The Saudi medical teams conducted extensive and accurate examinations of the twins ahead of the operation.
The operation is expected take about nine hours, and is being carried out in six stages, with the participation of 24 consultants and specialist doctors.