Japanese singer ASCA, Yamato perform at Jeddah’s Anime Village

ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
Japanese singer ASCA, Yamato perform at Jeddah’s Anime Village
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Yamato has performed for three days at City Walk. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
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Updated 07 June 2023
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Japanese singer ASCA, Yamato perform at Jeddah’s Anime Village

ASCA performed three shows at City Walk alongside compatriot DJ Yamato. (Supplied)
  • ASCA in Kingdom for second time following December show in Riyadh
  • DJ Yamato, first Japanese artist to collaborate with DJ Avicii, in Saudi Arabia for first time

JEDDAH: The famous Japanese singer ASCA, known for singing the opening theme song for the anime Sword Art Online and ending theme song for Edens Zero, held her second concert in Saudi Arabia at City Walk, Anime Village in Jeddah 1st of June. Also, a highly skilled DJ and producer from Japan, Yamato, who was the first Japanese artist to perform with the late DJ Avicii, has performed for three days at City Walk, Anime Village in Jeddah on June 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.

ASCA, came to Saudi Arabia before to Riyadh last year in December, this marks her second time in the kingdom. She said “Jeddah’s climate is very similar to that of Japan. It was very comfortable for me personally because the temperature was similar, and the humidity was high.” 

“Fans also made handmade boards, jumped with us, and yelled out. Saudi Arabia is very far from Japan, but I was very happy when I thought that there were people in Saudi Arabia who supported me so much,” ASCA told Arab News.




Yamato has performed for three days at City Walk. (Supplied)

She also mentioned how Saudi Arabian people are active at night and how it is the opposite of Japan. She said, “I am a night person so, Saudi Arabia suits me!”

As for Yamato, it was his first time performing in the kingdom and he performed three days. Here is his impression of Saudi Arabian fans. “At first, I got the impression that people in Saudi Arabia were shy, but once they opened up, everyone was super friendly. 

When my performance started, they jumped up and down, and I felt their power. It was amazing!” Yamato told Arab News.

Yamato came to perform in Saudi Arabia, as the company he belonged to, Avex, was in charge of designing this year’s Anime Village. His performance was planned together with Avex’s overseas team and was able to be brought to fruition.


GCC leaders, President Erdogan accuse Israel of violations of international law in Gaza, demand end to occupation

GCC leaders, President Erdogan accuse Israel of violations of international law in Gaza, demand end to occupation
Updated 12 min 26 sec ago
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GCC leaders, President Erdogan accuse Israel of violations of international law in Gaza, demand end to occupation

GCC leaders, President Erdogan accuse Israel of violations of international law in Gaza, demand end to occupation

RIYADH: Members of the GCC have condemned Israel for committing “clear violations” of international law and reitterated their demand for an end to the Israeli occupatiuon of the Palestinian territories.

In a statement issued at the end of the 44th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council on Tuesday, the leaders of the six nations condemned Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza, “which have led to the forced displacement of the civilian population, and the destruction of civilian facilities and infrastructure, including residential buildings, schools, health facilities, and places of worship.”

The statement of decleration went on to say such actions were “in clear violation of international law and international humanitarian law,” and they expressed their dissatisfaction with the “blatant Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people”.

the summit, which was attended by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as the lead member of the Saudi delegation, was in Qatar.

The representatives of the six Gulf nations were joined by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who said there had been $23bn worth of trade between Turkiye and the GCC countries.

He went on to condemn Israel’s continued bombardment of  the Gaza Strip, adding: “

Netanyahu is committing war crimes against humanity in Gaza.”

And he said that Netanyahu “is pushing the entire region into danger for the sake of his political future.”

 

The declaration went onto to call for the immediate resumption of a humanitarian truce in the Gaza Strip in order to achieve a sustainable ceasefire and the assurance of that all humanitarian aid would reach its intended destinations.

The declaration went onto to call for the immediate resumption of a humanitarian truce in the Gaza Strip in order to achieve a sustainable ceasefire and the assurance of that all humanitarian aid would reach its intended destinations.

The summit pledged its ongoing support for the Palestinian people and its continued support to alleviate the suffering of the residents of the Gaza Strip.

The GCC statement also agreed to help rebuild “what the Israeli war machine destroyed in its attacks on the Strip during the past years.”

The GCC leaders warned that if the war continued there was a danger of the conflict expanding to other regions in the Middle East, something it warned would lead to “dire consequences for the peoples of the region and for international peace and security.”

And they called on the international community to intervene to establish a ceasefire and protect civilians.

The council reiterated its demand for an end to the occupation of Palestine, and its support for the sovereignty of the Palestinian people over all the occupied territories.

It praised Saudi Arabia’s continued efforts and its initiative in partnership with the Arab League, the European Union, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to revive the peace process, in accordance with international law, United Nations resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002.

In attendance as a guest, Turkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, told members: “Netanyahu is pushing the entire region into danger for the sake of his political future.”

And pledging his country’s support for Palestinians, he added: “Netanyahu is committing war crimes against humanity in Gaza.”

Earlier in his opening remarks, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani called on the UN Security Council to force Israel to return to the negotiating table over the war in Gaza.

“It is shameful for the international community to allow this heinous crime to continue for nearly two months, during which the systematic and deliberate killing of innocent civilians continues, including women and children,” he said at the summit. 

The Qatari ruler said his country was “constantly working to renew” the truce, which he added was “not an alternative to a permanent ceasefire”.

He called for “an international investigation into the massacres committed by Israel” and condemned the targeting of civilians of all nationalities and religions.

The GCC council released a declaration at the end of the summit, with Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani saying that their primary goal now is to stop the war in Gaza, adding that mediation talks on Gaza are still ongoing.  

The minister reiterated how it is unacceptable to prevent humanitarian aid from reaching the besieged strip.


Saudi camping: exploring the untamed beauty surrounding Riyadh

The rainy season in Riyadh announces with it winter and the start of the camping season. (Visit Saudi/Supplied)
The rainy season in Riyadh announces with it winter and the start of the camping season. (Visit Saudi/Supplied)
Updated 05 December 2023
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Saudi camping: exploring the untamed beauty surrounding Riyadh

The rainy season in Riyadh announces with it winter and the start of the camping season. (Visit Saudi/Supplied)
  • Adventurers and nature lovers should not miss these spots during winter

RIYADH: Camping in Saudi Arabia provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the vast wilderness. The desert, with its mesmerizing dunes stretching as far as the eye can see, offers a serene setting for those seeking solace away from the bustle of city life.

Camping offers an unforgettable experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. With the Kingdom’s diverse landscapes and warm hospitality, the country welcomes visitors to connect with nature and forge lasting memories in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

The rainy season in Riyadh announces with it winter and the start of the camping season. (Visit Saudi/Supplied)

From late October to early February, the rainy season in Riyadh announces with it winter and the start of the camping season.

During this time of the year, people flock to the desert, spending time with family, friends and loved ones, enjoying the beautiful warm weather away from city life and hectic schedules.

For those interested in camping, it is recommended to start with a visit to Reef Shaqra.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Reef Shaqra and Al-Rimaya are local store for camping supplies.

• Rawdat Khuraim is a popular spot about 110 km from Riyadh.

• King Salman Park, great for family picnics, is 40 km to the northeast.

Reef Shaqra is one of the local stores providing camping supplies — from food to spices to grilling tools, all organized perfectly and ready to be used.

Al-Rimaya is another excellent store to visit prior to a camping trip. The store, opened 25 years ago, specializes in camping and outdoor equipment such as tents, portable fire pits and camping fridges.

They also offer a service where they prepare the vehicle with all the necessary equipment for enthusiasts who spend days in the desert.

The rainy season in Riyadh announces with it winter and the start of the camping season. (Visit Saudi/Supplied)

“Recently, we have been seeing women customers more than men, not only buying camping equipment but also requesting car preparations,” said Sultan Abdulaziz, one of the store workers.

“There are many accessories we offer, like attaching tents to the car. The tent will be set perfectly to your car where you won’t need to prepare it by yourself every time you go on a trip.”

Rawdat Khuraim is 110 km from the capital and one of the well-known camping sites in the region.

Recently, we have been seeing women customers more than men, not only buying camping equipment but also requesting car preparations.

Sultan Abdulaziz, Al-Rimaya staff

The beautiful landscape has been transformed into a reserve to preserve its innate beauty. The area is not completely a desert but more of a green landscape due to the rains during the season.

Another popular destination close to the city is King Salman Park, 40 km to the northeast. It is a family picnic area, with facilities provided to create a safe and comfortable camping experience.

For those who have more of an adventurous spirit and love to spend a camping trip in complete isolation, the locations can be endless. Since the country, generally speaking, is known for being mostly desert, visitors can find camping spots almost everywhere.

Al-Rimaya sells supplies and also prepares the vehicle with equipment necessary for a trip to the desert. (AN photo by Haifa Alshammari)

There is nothing better than gathering around the campfire for a delicious meal. Dishes include mandi, kabssa and jamriyah, with kunafah among the recently trending meals.

With fine food and the allure of the stars in a dark sky, the music of oud sets the perfect atmosphere. Among activities young people enjoy are oud playing around the fire. Some musicians even offer services for music sessions during the camping trip.

As the popularity of camping in Saudi Arabia continues to grow, tour operators, officials and local communities are actively promoting responsible and sustainable practices.

 


Tuwaiq Sculpture event to display works from 30 artists

Qian Sihua’s ‘Harmony in Diversity’ (2023) expresses the power of form shaped by harmony and difference. (Riyadhart)
Qian Sihua’s ‘Harmony in Diversity’ (2023) expresses the power of form shaped by harmony and difference. (Riyadhart)
Updated 05 December 2023
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Tuwaiq Sculpture event to display works from 30 artists

Qian Sihua’s ‘Harmony in Diversity’ (2023) expresses the power of form shaped by harmony and difference. (Riyadhart)
  • This includes interactive workshops, school visits and discussion sessions, covering elements of architecture, sculpture, art and design

RIYADH: The Riyadh Art program’s Tuwaiq Sculpture 2024 event, which will be held from Jan. 14 to Feb. 24, will feature 30 prominent local and international artists who will showcase their work under the theme “Dimensions of Movement.”

The registration for the fifth edition of the event witnessed an overwhelming response, attracting more 650 applications from 80 countries. A committee of experts in art and sculpture meticulously evaluated the submissions, culminating in the selection of 30 artists representing 20 countries.

Tuwaiq Sculpture stands as a creative platform to inspire artists worldwide to craft distinctive artworks. (SPA)

The artists will create public art sculptures using stones sourced from the Kingdom, thereby enriching the cultural and artistic landscape of the capital.

FASTFACT

The artists will create public art sculptures using stones sourced from the Kingdom, thereby enriching the cultural and artistic landscape of the capital.

Marek Wolynski, lead curator of Tuwaiq Sculpture 2024, said that the fifth edition of the event will offer an immersive experience that amalgamates innovation, ambition and expansion.

He added that the event’s thematic focus on “Dimensions of Movement” mirrors the transformation of the capital through various projects under the Riyadh Art program.

The judging panel for Tuwaiq Sculpture 2024 comprises experts in the fields of art and sculpture.

Tuwaiq Sculpture stands as a creative platform to inspire artists worldwide to craft distinctive artworks.

The collaboration among artists from diverse cultures and backgrounds is integral to the event, with the fifth edition incorporating an expanded community partnership program.

This includes interactive workshops, school visits and discussion sessions, covering elements of architecture, sculpture, art and design.

 


Saudi, Malaysian firms sign strategic partnership at Halal Expo London

Saudi, Malaysian firms sign strategic partnership at Halal Expo London
Updated 04 December 2023
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Saudi, Malaysian firms sign strategic partnership at Halal Expo London

Saudi, Malaysian firms sign strategic partnership at Halal Expo London

LONDON: Saudi Arabia’s Halal Products Development Company (HPDC) concluded on Monday its participation in the Halal Expo London 2023, one of the most prominent global halal events.

HPDC, a wholly owned Public Investment Fund (PIF) entity, signed a strategic partnership with Malaysia’s Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC), to stimulate the growth of the halal industry in Saudi Arabia and globally.

According to the terms of the agreement, the two companies will exchange information on industry-leading practices and successful models of halal ecosystems.

“Through our partnerships and strategic agreements, we at HPDC strive to connect vendors, distributors, and businesses operating in the halal industry across the world,” HPDC CEO Fahad S. AlNuhait said.

“We are excited to enter into this landmark agreement which allows us to leverage shared resources to make a significant contribution to the expansion of the industry.

“With this agreement, our aim is to establish a dynamic ecosystem in Saudi Arabia that enhances the local economy, invites international investors, and increases halal trade worldwide,” he added.

The two organizations will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders in the global halal industry, and jointly work toward shaping the halal ecosystem, ensuring transparency and efficiency all the way.

“This collaboration transcends mere business alignment; it embodies a shared vision to propel the halal industry to new heights globally,” HDC CEO Hairol Ariffein Sahari said.  

“With HDC’s vast experience in building a comprehensive halal ecosystem, we will provide specialized advisory, investment strategies, innovation collaboration, technology transfer and Industry Thought Leader sharing.

“We believe HDC can provide a proven effective operational model, along with a sustainable halal ecosystem that not only brings substantial benefits to Saudi Arabia but also extends its positive impact to a global scale and beyond,” he added.


Saudi aviation strategy boosts global connectivity, official says

Saudi aviation strategy boosts global connectivity, official says
Updated 04 December 2023
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Saudi aviation strategy boosts global connectivity, official says

Saudi aviation strategy boosts global connectivity, official says

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics Saleh Al-Jasser highlighted the success of the national aviation strategy in making Saudi Arabia more globally connected during the 15th International Conference on Air Services Negotiations in Riyadh.

Al-Jasser, who also chairs the General Authority of Civil Aviation, said that the strategy encompasses plans to swiftly advance the country’s air transport sector, including expanding the flight network of Saudi airports.

Speaking at a ministerial session titled “The Impact of Air Transport on Economic Development” at the ICAN 2023 of the International Civil Aviation Organization, Al-Jasser noted the development of airport infrastructure across the Kingdom. This includes the construction of new airports, such as the King Salman Airport in Riyadh, and enhancing air service levels at all airports. The focus is also on transforming the King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah into a global air service hub and increasing aircraft numbers.

He said that the ministry’s goal is to boost the transport and logistics sector’s contribution to GDP to 10 percent, viewing civil aviation as a key driver.

The session also featured discussions with Indonesian Minister of Transport Budi Karya Sumadi, the Ministry of External Affairs, International Trade and Civil Aviation of Saint Lucia’s Alva Romanus Baptiste, and Minister of Transport of the Republic of Seychelles Anthony Gerard D’Offay. They shared insights on the role of civil aviation in economic development and global connectivity.

Al-Jasser inaugurated the 15th ICAN conference on Sunday, which was attended by key figures in international aviation. The inauguration was attended by notable figures including GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej and ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano.

Al-Jasser also signed a cooperation agreement in air transport services with Minister of Transport and Aviation of Sierra Leone Fanday Turay on the sidelines of the event, which will continue until Thursday.

The agreement complements the Convention on International Civil Aviation, also known as the Chicago Convention, signed in 1944, aiming to regulate safe and efficient air transport between the two countries and enhance airline competition, safety and civil aviation security standards.

The bilateral agreement is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to establish international partnerships, sign new bilateral agreements and achieve ambitious goals in enhancing global air connectivity, with plans to become a global logistics hub and handle 330 million passengers annually by 2030.

The agreement also focuses on supporting the mutual economic interests of national airlines, enhancing their role in the air transport market of both countries, and embracing modern approaches to market entry and air transport.

This is part of a broader strategy in the civil aviation sector to forge international partnerships and sign new bilateral agreements. These initiatives are geared toward expanding the Kingdom’s global air network to 250 destinations.