Saudi students’ experiments launched to International Space Station

Saudi students’ experiments launched to International Space Station
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The Space Madak competition aims to support and enhance the skills of students in the space industry from across the Arab world. (Saudi Space Agency)
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Updated 30 June 2025
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Saudi students’ experiments launched to International Space Station

Saudi students’ experiments launched to International Space Station
  • Ten experiments designed by students from Saudi Arabia and across the Arab world were included in the launch
  • Space Madak competition was set up to support and encourage those who are fascinated by space science and technology

RIYADH: Saudi students’ winning entries from the “Space Madak” competition were launched to the International Space Station on Wednesday morning, the Saudi Space Agency announced.

The launch was part of an international mission that lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United States.

Ten experiments designed by students from Saudi Arabia and across the Arab world were included in the launch — a landmark event that reflects the Kingdom’s push to advance scientific innovation and empower young talents in the space industry.

The “Space Madak” competition was set up to support and encourage those who are fascinated by space science and technology and are eager to learn how to turn their ideas into practical scientific applications in the microgravity environment aboard the ISS.

The competition, an initiative by the agency in partnership with the Misk Foundation and the Ilmi Science Discovery and Innovation Center, consisted of three categories: “Art: Bezel of Inspiration,” open to ages 6-11; “Agriculture: Bezel of Growth,” open to ages 12-14; and “Engineering: Bezel of Innovation,” open to ages 15-18.

More than 80,000 students participated from across the Arab world.

At the launch of the competition in February last year, Rayyanah Barnawi, the first female Saudi astronaut and supervisor of the competition, said that it was bound to expand the horizons of ambitious young minds and fuel their creativity.

The competition presented a “unique opportunity for students in the Arab world to participate in a journey of discovery and innovation,” she said.

Barnawi was selected by the agency to join Axiom Mission 2 in May 2023, and with fellow Saudi astronaut Ali Al-Qarni, conducted 14 experiments on the ISS — 11 on research in a microgravity environment focused on human health, cell sciences, and cloud seeding, and three interactive educational experiments with students in the Kingdom.

The achievement by the students is a reflection of the Saudi Space Agency’s efforts to fortify the Kingdom’s presence in international space programs and to promote an environment that supports a knowledge-based economy, in accordance with Vision 2030 goals of preparing a generation capable of becoming active contributors in the future of the space sector.


Sri Lankan envoy hails Kingdom’s Islamic efforts

Sri Lankan envoy hails Kingdom’s Islamic efforts
Updated 4 sec ago
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Sri Lankan envoy hails Kingdom’s Islamic efforts

Sri Lankan envoy hails Kingdom’s Islamic efforts

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh received Sri Lankan Ambassador Omar Lebbe Ameer Ajwad and his accompanying delegation in Riyadh.

The officials discussed various topics related to Islamic affairs and ongoing cooperation between the two countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, the envoy praised the Kingdom’s leading role in supporting Islamic causes and promoting the values of tolerance and moderation globally, particularly in Sri Lanka.

Ameer Ajwad emphasized that these efforts reflect the true message of Islam, the SPA reported.

“We take pride in the Kingdom’s remarkable role in promoting the values of tolerance and moderation — a noble mission that truly represents the lofty message of Islam,” the envoy said.

He thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their generous support to Sri Lanka across various fields, and especially their service in response to Qur’anic injunctions.

The ambassador also praised the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for spreading a message of moderation worldwide.

He commended the ministry’s awareness programs, training for imams and preachers, and its organization of Qur’an competitions.


Madinah fair empowers Saudi authors, publishers

Madinah fair empowers Saudi authors, publishers
Updated 19 min 39 sec ago
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Madinah fair empowers Saudi authors, publishers

Madinah fair empowers Saudi authors, publishers

MADINAH: The Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission has empowered the nation’s authors and publishers at the fourth Madinah Book Fair, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The week-long event, held from July 29 to Aug. 4, hosted more than 300 local and international publishing houses and agencies across more than 200 exhibition booths.

Abdullatif Alwasel, the commission’s CEO, thanked the Kingdom’s leaders for their continued support of the nation’s arts and culture sector.

He said the fair marks a key milestone in advancing the publishing industry and spreading knowledge across society.

Alwasel noted that this year’s edition saw unprecedented participation and a wide range of cultural events tailored to various age groups and intellectual interests.

The fair offered broad opportunities for local publishers and authors, improved book accessibility, and strengthened Saudi Arabia content, he added.

Notable initiatives included a discounted book zone and upgrades to the fair’s technical infrastructure, enhancing visitor engagement and overall experience.

The fair attracted large numbers of people from diverse backgrounds who actively engaged with the cultural program presented by distinguished writers and intellectuals.

The sessions featured panels and workshops on key literary topics for the benefit of the public, according to the report.

The book-signing platform hosted several Saudi Arabia authors with their latest work, while various government and cultural organizations showcased their latest initiatives and contributions to the sector.


Hackathon to drive innovation in AlUla tourism

Hackathon to drive innovation in AlUla tourism
Updated 05 August 2025
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Hackathon to drive innovation in AlUla tourism

Hackathon to drive innovation in AlUla tourism

RIYADH: Vibes AlUla, an entrepreneurship and innovation hub launched in partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla, has opened registration for a sustainable tourism hackathon, set for Aug. 10 to 12.

The hackathon is aimed at empowering national talent and fostering innovative solutions to support AlUla’s tourism sector, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.

Participants will benefit from a comprehensive training program, including specialized workshops, mentoring sessions, and expert guidance in innovation, tourism, and entrepreneurship.

AlUla residents are invited to contribute projects that showcase the region’s environmental and cultural richness while promoting a more sustainable and resilient tourism ecosystem.

Vibes AlUla recently hosted the closing event of the AlUla Entrepreneurs Incubator Program, attended by public and private sector representatives, as well as entrepreneurs and innovators.

Participants showcased a range of startup projects developed by local entrepreneurs, focusing mainly on the film and tourism industries.

These projects contribute to economic diversification and align with AlUla’s vision for a sustainable creative economy, the SPA reported.

As one of the Kingdom’s leading tourism destinations, AlUla offers unique natural and historical assets, making it an ideal hub for entrepreneurial ventures and high-quality investment in tourism and creative sectors, the report added.


Jeddah Summer Season delivers fun for every mood

Visitors say this year’s Jeddah Summer Season program offers more variety and polish than ever. (Supplied)
Visitors say this year’s Jeddah Summer Season program offers more variety and polish than ever. (Supplied)
Updated 04 August 2025
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Jeddah Summer Season delivers fun for every mood

Visitors say this year’s Jeddah Summer Season program offers more variety and polish than ever. (Supplied)
  • Concerts, historic markets, and coastal escapes have the city buzzing with energy

JEDDAH: Jeddah Summer Season is in full swing, offering a mix of entertainment, sports, shopping, and cultural experiences that continue to attract locals and tourists despite the summer heat.

Running until Aug. 31 under the “Color Your Summer” initiative by the Saudi Tourism Authority, the season features a rich lineup of events that highlight Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial energy.

Visitors say this year’s Jeddah Summer Season program offers more variety and polish than ever. (Supplied)

From the immersive Forest Wonders experience, thrilling horror fests and buzzing beach activities, to musical performances and heritage shopping in Al-Balad, the program reflects the city’s reputation as a top-tier tourism destination in Saudi Arabia.

Popular attractions this year include the Jeddah Shopping Festival, which combines major retail details with lively music nights and engaging live shows, creating a singular commercial and entertainment experience.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Jeddah Summer Season is running until Aug. 31 under the ‘Color Your Summer’ initiative by the Saudi Tourism Authority.

• It features a rich lineup of events that highlight Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial energy.

The West Coast beach program is another standout, offering a range of activities at popular spots.

Saudi Tourism Authority’s “Color Your Summer” initiative, running until Aug. 31, showcases Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial vibrancy. (Supplied)

The attractions include the Zaya, Eden and Kashta beaches, the Souq, Pink beach (private location for women) and Jeddah Waves where visitors can enjoy concerts, food stalls, and family-friendly fun along the Red Sea coast.

Meanwhile Forest Wonders has emerged as a family favorite. The air-conditioned, jungle-themed indoor venue features animal encounters, theatrical performances, adventure-style dining, and interactive experiences designed to captivate children and adults.

We visit Jeddah every summer, but this year’s has been truly exceptional. The range of events and the level of organization are impressive; the events are beautifully diversified.

Abulrahman Al-Nahari, Returning visitor from Jazan

Visitors say this year’s program offers more variety and polish than ever.

Saudi Tourism Authority’s “Color Your Summer” initiative, running until Aug. 31, showcases Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial vibrancy. (Supplied)

Abulrahman Al-Nahari, a 52-year-old returning visitor from Jazan, praised the organization and diversity of activities, citing a beach trip and island tour to Bayada as highlights.

He told Arab News: “We visit Jeddah every summer, but this year’s has been truly exceptional. The range of events and the level of organization are impressive; the events are beautifully diversified.”

Saudi Tourism Authority’s “Color Your Summer” initiative, running until Aug. 31, showcases Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial vibrancy. (Supplied)

Al-Nahari, who is visiting with his four children, added: “We have been here for just a week and it is fun so far ... Despite the heat we enjoyed activities such as Kashta beach and the Jeddah historical district.”

Fatima Al-Bugami, a mother of two from Makkah, said her children loved Forest Wonders, while she enjoyed shopping in the historic Al-Balad district.

“It is a unique shopping experience in the heart of Jeddah where you can find everything you need,” she said, noting that they also enjoyed dining at Bab Makkah’s seafood restaurants.

“It was a fun day for us,” she said.

Even lifelong Jeddah resident Muhannad Shaker, who typically avoids crowds, was impressed by the season’s offerings.

“This year my friends were able to convince me to go to the various beaches which are part of Jeddah Summer Season and I really found them well organized and very neat,” he told Arab News.

“It kept us busy with entertaining activities beside swimming … So, simply this year’s season combines commerce and entertainment events which is really amazing.”

 


Heritage comes alive at Raghadan Historical Market in Baha

Raghadan Historical Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. (SPA)
Raghadan Historical Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. (SPA)
Updated 04 August 2025
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Heritage comes alive at Raghadan Historical Market in Baha

Raghadan Historical Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. (SPA)
  • Ancient artifacts, Arabic calligraphy, craft programs on offer
  • 17th International Honey Festival records sales of over $400k

RIYADH: The Raghadan Historical Market in Baha has opened with a lineup of vibrant cultural and entertainment programs under the auspices of Prince Hussam bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, the region’s governor, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Running daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., the market features folk performances, historical artifacts, and programs portraying traditional life in the region.

Raghadan Historical Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. (SPA)

Visitors can also enjoy artistic showcases, Arabic calligraphy, photography exhibits, children’s activities, and family-friendly competitions. 

A key focus of the event is the participation of families involved in the production of handmade crafts and traditional products. Local food and drinks are also on offer. 

NUMBER

$400k

The 17th International Honey Festival at Raghadan Forest Park achieved strong commercial results, with over 8 tonnes of honey sold and sales surpassing SR1.5 million ($400,000).

The market serves as a platform for cultural exchange, promotes heritage tourism, and positions Baha as a year-round cultural destination, the SPA reported.

Meanwhile, the 17th International Honey Festival has concluded at Raghadan Forest Park. It attracted 50,000 visitors and featured 34 beekeepers from across the Kingdom showcasing a wide array of products.

Organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the event spotlighted the biodiversity of bees in the region and the high quality of local honey.

The festival achieved strong commercial results, with over 8 tonnes of honey sold and sales surpassing SR1.5 million ($400,000). 

It also reinforced the ministry’s efforts to develop rural economies, encourage investment, and support the agricultural sector, the SPA reported.