Saudi-Egyptian joint committee meet to reviewinitiatives
Saudi-Egyptian joint committee meet to reviewinitiatives/node/2618366/saudi-arabia
Saudi-Egyptian joint committee meet to reviewinitiatives
Representatives of the Saudi-Egyptian joint committee assessedthe progress of about 38 initiatives in various fields. (SPA)
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Updated 4 min 35 sec ago
Arab News
Saudi-Egyptian joint committee meet to reviewinitiatives
Updated 4 min 35 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: The follow-up team from the Saudi-Egyptian joint committee convened a meeting in Riyadh to review the progress of initiatives and recommendations from the committee’s 18th session.
The meeting underscored the importance of further strengthening cooperation and boosting trade between the two countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The team assessed the progress of about 38 initiatives in various fields, including the economic, commercial, agricultural, tourism, and health sectors.
These initiatives have resulted in the adoption of four agreements and the implementation of cooperation programs.
The team also identified challenges and obstacles, and proposed solutions to address them, all in line with the committee’s broader goal of enhancing and deepening economic ties between the two countries.
Al-Jabal Al-Bahri stands as historic witness to Jubail’s fishing, pearling heritage
Calls to make site a tourist destination once again
In the 1950s and 1960s Al-Jabal Al-Bahri was a popular tourist attraction
Updated 15 sec ago
SPA
RIYADH: Al-Jabal Al-Bahri, which is located northeast of Jubail City, rises as a timeless landmark, bearing witness to a rich maritime history that has shaped one of the Arabian Gulf's most important fishing and pearl trading hubs.
The city itself even derives its name from this unique, historic site.
Al-Jabal Al-Bahri is among the most prominent landmarks in Jubail Governorate. Historic accounts indicate that the name “Jubail” originates from the mountain. In his book “The Geographical Dictionary of Ƶ,” Hamad Al-Jasser notes that “Jubail” is derived from a small mountain located within the port.
Ancient inscriptions and writings carved into Jabal Al-Bahri's rocks remain visible, turning it into an open-air, natural museum. (SPA)
This gives the site symbolic significance that goes beyond its natural form, making it an integral part of local identity deeply rooted in the memory of the city’s residents.
Before the era of oil, Al-Jabal Al-Bahri was not just a natural formation but a vital center of economic and social life. Its surroundings witnessed vibrant commercial activity as fishing and pearl trading flourished, making the mountain a living testament to the prosperity tied to the sea and its bounty.
In the 1950s and 1960s Al-Jabal Al-Bahri became a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors and hikers.
It retains historic names that tell stories of the past. Ancient inscriptions and writings carved into its rocks remain visible, turning it into an open-air, natural museum.
Ancient inscriptions and writings carved into Jabal Al-Bahri's rocks remain visible, turning it into an open-air, natural museum. (SPA)
Heritage and tourism advocates are calling for the development of the site in a way that honors its historic and geographical value, making it a major tourist destination once again.
Such development would represent a promising investment opportunity that would enhance Jubail’s economic and tourism profile while preserving its authenticity.
It would also contribute to diversifying income sources, creating job opportunities, and strengthening the link between the region’s ancient past and its prosperous present, ensuring that the enduring landmark continued to tell the story of a maritime heritage steeped in antiquity and authenticity.
Ƶ’s female authors in the spotlight at Riyadh International Book Fair
The exhibition supports new authors, providing a space where they can share their published works
Updated 13 min 10 sec ago
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: There was a focus on Ƶ’s female authors at the Riyadh International Book Fair 2025, highlighting their creativity and presence as part of the Kingdom’s growing literary scene.
Among the writers sharing their latest works and the stories behind them was Maha Al-Rasheed whose new book, “Stories of My City,” explores life in urban spaces where old streets meet modern life.
“The stories hide in the corners of the city,” she writes, taking readers on a nostalgic journey through time, blending emotion, memory and place.
Maha Al-Rasheed, author of the book, “Stories of My City,” promotes her book at the Riyadh International Book Fair. (Supplied)
Al-Rasheed spent around 18 months writing the book, describing it as “a tribute to the cities that shape us as much as we shape them.”
Another fantasy author Arab News met at the book fair was Najah Salama. Her fifth book, “Quoot: The Jewelry Collector,” has been published in Arabic and takes readers through a captivating fantasy world. With mermaid and demons, and each character shrouded in its own mysteries, her work is inspired by a blend of Pirates of the Caribbean and mermaid lore.
“This story is a journey into a sea fantasy where demons and mermaids intertwine with pirates, and characters from the future travel back to the past,” said Salama.
Najah Salama promoting her fifth book, “Quoot: The Jewelry Collector,” (Supplied)
Presenting her debut collection, “In the Depth of Our Minds,” a mix of poetry and short texts exploring emotional and psychological challenges in today’s frenetic world, was Munira Al-Eidan.
“This book is the result of three years of writing and reflection,” she said. Al-Eidan’s work focuses on resilience, vulnerability and self-discovery, offering readers a look into the complex emotions people experience but rarely express.
This year’s fair included dedicated platforms for male and female authors, where visitors could meet different writers.
Munira Al-Eidan prmoting her debut book “In the Depth of Our Minds.” (Supplied)
Book fairs continue to play a vital role in supporting new authors, and many writers see them as an opportunity to reach more readers, introduce their ideas and gain valuable feedback.
Among them was Amal Hamdan, who launched her first book, “Amal’s Impression,” in Arabic. She appreciated the chance to talk about her work, highlighting four years of experience as a journalist and cultural writer, with readers.
She hopes to inspire young Saudis to bring their literary or artistic talents to life and contribute to the Kingdom’s cultural scene and said publishing her first book was a dream come true.
The Riyadh International Book Fair is organized by the Literature, Publishing & Translation Commission of the Saudi Ministry of Culture.
The 10-day event, which ends on Saturday, is being held at Princess Noura Bint Abdulrahman University. This year’s guest of honor is Uzbekistan.
Prince Turki Al-Faisal: War on Gaza ‘far from over’
Updated 35 min 36 sec ago
Hebshi Alshammari
RIYADH: Ƶ’s former ambassador to the US, Prince Turki Al-Faisal, said that Israel’s war on Gaza is “far from over,” adding “the work is still in progress.” He called on the international community to advance what he described as the “broader and more comprehensive framework” championed by Ƶ and France — a pathway toward a lasting peace built on the two-state solution and an end to hostilities between Israel and its Arab neighbors.
Speaking at a panel hosted on Thursday by the Dr. Ibrahim Al-Muhanna Chair for Energy and Specialized Media at King Saud University, Prince Turki said that Ƶ had taken the initiative back in 2002 through the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz’s peace proposal, which sought to achieve “a comprehensive solution benefiting all parties involved.”
The veteran intelligence figure struck a cautious tone on the prospects for peace in Gaza, warning against premature optimism. “Let’s not cheer or celebrate until we see what truly unfolds,” he said. “These well-intentioned efforts remain unfinished, and their outcome is far from certain.”
The Dr. Ibrahim Al-Muhanna Chair for Energy and Specialized Media at King Saud University hosted Prince Turki Al-Faisal, chairman of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, in Riyadh on Thursday. (KSU photo)
Prince Turki added that only the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s plan had been signed, with additional stages still pending. He said that Israel had previously agreed to a ceasefire “but reneged when it came time to implement the second phase, resuming its brutal and inhumane bombardment of Palestinians — not only in Gaza but across the West Bank as well.
“Let’s wait and see where the next steps will lead,” he said.
Prince Turki also highlighted the powerful influence of social media on societies worldwide, describing it as a driver of a “profound and positive transformation” in global public attitudes toward the Palestinian cause.
“It’s a miracle,” he said, “to see hundreds of thousands across the world taking to the streets and squares, calling for freedom, independence and the establishment of a Palestinian state. I never imagined witnessing this before the advent of social media.” He added: “Social platforms have broken the barriers that once constrained public expression.”
While urging the international community to agree on unified frameworks to regulate artificial intelligence, Prince Turki voiced concern over the dark web, saying it contains “unacceptable activities and money laundering,” a result, he said, of the absence of early regulation when the internet was first created.
A distinguished audience of scholars, journalists, policymakers, and students attended the panel discussion organized by the Dr. Ibrahim Al-Muhanna Chair for Energy and Specialized Media in Riyadh. (Supplied/KSU)
Prince Turki described the joint defense agreement between Ƶ and Pakistan as a “foregone conclusion,” adding that the relationship has always been one of strategic alignment — even in the absence of a formal accord. He pointed to a “shared intellectual and emotional harmony” between the two countries, highlighting several examples that reflect their mutual commitment to national and religious priorities.
Shifting to the role of the media, Prince Turki urged Saudi media leaders to adopt a more open and assertive stance in communicating the Kingdom’s message. “We have no fear of opening our doors and windows for others to see for themselves,” he said, acknowledging a “shortfall” in the performance of media institutions. “There must be greater engagement — one cannot conceal what takes place at home, whether good or bad.”
Addressing Western criticism head-on, he called on officials not to fear the “fierce campaigns” waged by some outlets against Ƶ, and highlighted the importance of “presenting the truth and ensuring that the Kingdom’s statements and data reach others clearly.”
Prince Turki expressed satisfaction with Ƶ’s cooperation with several African nations, saying it stems “not only from geographic proximity, but from a human and cultural continuity rooted in the Kingdom’s values, principles and social fabric.” He recalled that throughout history, interaction between the Arabian Peninsula and Africa flowed through corridors such as the Sinai Peninsula and the Bab Al-Mandab Strait.
During the panel discussion, Prince Turki Al-Faisal called on experts to prioritize the establishment of research centers across Ƶ, underscoring their essential role in fostering intellectual progress and informing national decision-making.
He added that some Saudi tribes still have a presence on the African side, and that large African communities live and work in the Kingdom — many of whom have acquired Saudi citizenship. Prince Turki said that this enduring connection across the Red Sea should serve the interests of both sides, and highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening ties with African nations and supporting peace across the continent.
Prince Turki also called for greater focus on establishing research centers across Ƶ, describing them as vital engines of intellectual progress and social contribution.
“Such institutions play a key role in fostering the exchange of ideas and cultivating independent thought,” he said, adding that their “degree of autonomy from official sources” allows for a freer and more dynamic flow of perspectives.
The former ambassador welcomed what he described as a rising “research and intellectual awareness” across the Kingdom’s various fields, reflecting a broader shift toward innovation and open dialogue.
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City has announced the lifting of a suspension on land located in western Riyadh. (SPA)
Updated 55 min 17 sec ago
Arab News
Royal Commission for Riyadh City announces lifting of suspension on 30 km² of land in west of capital
The urban code for the Wadi Hanifa area and its tributaries will be applied in the area where the suspension has been lifted
Updated 55 min 17 sec ago
Arab News
RIYADH: The Royal Commission for Riyadh City has announced the lifting of a suspension on land located in western Riyadh, with a total area of 33.24 km².
This includes enabling landowners and property owners to dispose of land through sale and purchase, planning, subdivision, and partitioning, and issuing building permits, Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.
The urban code for the Wadi Hanifa area and its tributaries will be applied in the area where the suspension has been lifted.
The move aims to achieve balance in the real estate sector in a manner that serves comprehensive development, SPA said.
The commission said that lifting the suspension is part of a series of upcoming measures aimed at providing a distinctive urban model for Riyadh, contributing to shaping its future and reshaping its map in line with the requirements of each development phase.
This is intended to ensure the sustainability of residential sites and communities, ensure easy access, and provide a variety of services, SPA said.
The commission added that the urban code designated for the Wadi Hanifa area and its tributaries includes diverse urban development patterns that provide an ideal urban environment that addresses the needs of residents while preserving the unique urban landscape of the area.
The commission explained that these urban regulations and requirements aim to regulate building patterns within land boundaries, contributing to improving the surrounding urban environment, raising the quality of life, and strengthening the components of sustainable development in the capital.
Exhibition celebrating cultural and creative legacy of the date palm opens in Dhahran
The event at Ithra features 15 works by 25 artists from Ƶ and beyond, as well as hands-on workshops and film screenings
It shows how the date palm has helped shape life across the centuries and civilizations through its contributions to food, shelter, medicine and crafts
Updated 09 October 2025
Arab News
DHAHRAN: “Baseqat: The Palm Tree,” an exhibition exploring the cultural heritage and creative legacy of the date palm, considered a symbol of the history and identity of the Arabian Peninsula, has opened in Dhahran at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, also known as Ithra.
Curated by Samer Yamani and Razan Masri, the exhibition features 15 works by 25 artists from Ƶ and beyond. Organizers said visitors can discover the ways in which the date palm has helped shape life across the centuries and civilizations, from ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt to modern-day Arabia, through its contributions to food, shelter, medicine and crafts.
Ƶ has more than 33 million palm trees, about 27 percent of the world’s total. The UNESCO-recognized Al-Ahsa Oasis alone contains 2.5 million trees, making it the largest date palm oasis in the world.
“Baseqat invites makers, families and young learners to take part in a rooted practice we continue to build together,” said Farah Abushullaih, the head of museum at Ithra.
“In doing so, palm wisdom is carried hand to hand, generation to generation, renewing heritage through care, creativity and community-led continuity.”
The exhibition is organized into thematic sections titled Oasis, Roots, Trunk, Fronds, Dates and the Lab, which combine artistic exploration with hands-on workshops and film screenings, including filmmaker Mahmoud Kaabour’s short documentary “Sa’fa” about the palm weavers of Al-Ahsa Oasis.
Featured artworks include: “Al-Kar” by Saudi artist Fatimah Al-Nemer, a woven rug created in collaboration with local craftswomen using palm fibers; “Bouhattam” by Tunisian artist Mohammed Amine Hamouda, a sculptural installation made from oasis waste; and “La Cabra Chair” by Mexican designer Daniel Valero, which merges rural tradition with contemporary design.
Other highlights include “Toob Toob Ya Bahar” by Bahraini artists Abdulla Buhijji and Noor Alwan; “Palm Ladies” by Saudi artist Sumaya Shelbi; and “Palm in Eternal Embrace” by Saudi artist Obaid Alsafi, winner of Ithra’s 2023 Art Prize, which is described as a reflection on climate change and resilience.
The exhibition also showcases works by local, regional and international artists, including the Kingdom’s own Bashaer Hawsawi, whose pieces “The Chain that Rebelled Against the Earth” and “Holy Thirst 4” explore themes of memory, belonging and craftsmanship.
The exhibition is running at Ithra until March 2026.
