Gaza tragedy, Western media bias top agenda at Saudi Media Forum next week

Gaza tragedy, Western media bias top agenda at Saudi Media Forum next week
File photo of a session in progress at the Saudi Media Forum 2023. (AN Photo/Saad Al-Dosari)
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Updated 16 February 2024
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Gaza tragedy, Western media bias top agenda at Saudi Media Forum next week

Gaza tragedy, Western media bias top agenda at Saudi Media Forum next week
  • ‘Gaza in the Media: Between Misrepresentation and Bias’ will analyze allegations of the Western media’s partiality toward Israel
  • The forum expects more than 2,000 participants from around the globe

RIYADH: The third Saudi Media Forum, which takes place from Feb. 19-21 in Riyadh, will put the focus on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the perceived bias of the Western media.
A dedicated session called “Gaza in the Media: Between Misrepresentation and Bias” will analyze allegations of the Western media’s partiality toward Israel and the inaccuracies in its portrayal of the Gaza conflict.
The session will aim to uncover the dimensions of the Western media in its coverage of the Gaza war, with the participation of journalists, media professionals, and senior officials.
Former Kuwaiti Minister of Information Saad bin Tefla Al-Ajmi; Editor-in-Chief of Asharq Al-Awsat Ghassan Charbel; and Assistant Secretary-General and Supervisor of the Media and Communication Sector at the Arab League Ahmed Khattabi are some of the participants in the dialogue.
The session will explore several key aspects, including how the media handles events in Gaza amid Western misrepresentation and bias.
It will delve into the Arab media’s utilization of events in Gaza to reiterate the Palestinian cause to the international political and media stage.
It will also examine how the events in Gaza pose a genuine test for the media, showcasing examples of Arab journalists’ experiences with the Palestinian issue.
The forum, which is a collaboration between the Saudi Broadcasting Authority and the Saudi Journalists Association, expects more than 2,000 participants from around the globe.
It will also host the “Future of Media Exhibition,” the largest such exhibition in the Middle East, with over 200 local and international companies participating.
Sessions will cover various media domains, including sports, the economy, entertainment, and tourism, and their relationship with the applications of intelligence and media practices.
Global sports journalism will take center stage at the forum with Gianni Merlo, president of the International Sports Press Association, and Jose Felix Diaz, editor-in-chief of Marca newspaper, among participants at the sessions.
The parties will discuss the Kingdom’s experiences in “Saudi Sports: Grand Transformations from Local to Global.” They will explore the relationship between sports and media, the soft power it yields, and the role of sports media coverage in shaping national identity and international perceptions.
An awards ceremony to celebrate media innovation and creativity will conclude the forum.
Bringing together the region’s top media and entertainment professionals, the forum — which boasts over 30 sessions — aims to establish communication bridges with various specialized media institutions.
Its goal is to elevate the quality of media and entertainment production, keeping pace with ever-evolving technological advances.
Additionally, the forum seeks to enhance the Saudi media industry and strengthen the Kingdom’s position globally in the rapidly evolving media landscape.


Saudi Arabia adds 198 sites to National Antiquities Register

Saudi Arabia adds 198 sites to National Antiquities Register
Updated 37 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia adds 198 sites to National Antiquities Register

Saudi Arabia adds 198 sites to National Antiquities Register
  • Hail Region, Makkah, Qassim, Jouf account for majority of additions
  • Register now comprises 9,317 examples of nation’s cultural heritage

RIYADH: The Heritage Commission has added 198 new archaeological sites to the National Antiquities Register, taking the total across the Kingdom to 9,317.

The commission said the registrations were part of its broader efforts to document and revive Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage, thus providing researchers and enthusiasts with reliable information on heritage locations and archaeological sites in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

Hail region accounts for the bulk of the new additions, with 50, followed by Makkah (39), Qassim (34), Jouf (28), Madinah (14), Tabuk (13). The remainder are in Riyadh region (eight), Jazan (five), Asir, Najran and Northern Borders (two each) and the Eastern Province (one).

All of the registrations were carried out in line with the Law of Antiquities, Museums and Urban Heritage.

The commission said it sought to encourage archaeological studies and highlight the historical value of sites, thus raising the global profile of Saudi heritage. It also acknowledged the role of local communities in discovering sites, whose participation contributes significantly to protecting the nation’s cultural heritage and promoting greater awareness for future generations.

People are encouraged to report any new archaeological discoveries or illegal activities that might be detrimental to heritage sites via the commission’s social media accounts, the Balagh platform, by visiting any of its offices, or by calling the Unified Security Operations Center on 911.

Saudi Arabia has several archaeological sites that are recognized internationally, including Hegra in AlUla, which in 2008 became the first in the Kingdom to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At-Turaif District in Diriyah was added to the list in 2010, Historic Jeddah in 2014, Rock Art in the Hail region in 2015, Al-Ahsa Oasis in 2018 and the Hima Cultural Area in Jazan in 2021, among others.


Saudi children’s cultural development continues at King Abdulaziz libraries

Saudi children’s cultural development continues at King Abdulaziz libraries
Updated 13 November 2024
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Saudi children’s cultural development continues at King Abdulaziz libraries

Saudi children’s cultural development continues at King Abdulaziz libraries
  • Focusing on the cultural and intellectual development of Saudi children has been a longstanding strategy of King Abdulaziz Public Library
  • Library aims not only to provide knowledge, but also to prepare children and young adults to become innovative and creative individuals

RIYADH: Saudi children’s cultural enrichment is in good hands as King Abdulaziz Public Library continues its project to nurture the nation’s youth.

Focusing on the cultural and intellectual development of Saudi children has been a longstanding strategy of King Abdulaziz Public Library, a report by Saudi Press Agency recently highlighted.

The library aims not only to provide knowledge, but also to prepare children and young adults to become innovative and creative individuals who can compete on a global level.

Its branches in Riyadh focus on children’s literature as a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to nurture generations capable of building a bright future.

From its inception, the library has provided a comprehensive educational environment that enhances children’s cultural and intellectual skills. This is achieved through a variety of efforts and initiatives.

The Children’s Library, established in 1989, provides modern educational programs that blend art, science and innovation and are supervised by specialists in children’s culture in line with global standards.

In 2000, the library launched the Children’s Book Club, allowing young readers to subscribe under their own names and select carefully curated books from more than 1,500 titles by various Arab publishers.

This activity widens their perspectives and fosters their sense of independence and belonging, benefiting thousands of children from different regions of the Kingdom.

The club also offers annual and semi-annual subscriptions, providing books suitable for each age stage and offering special support through free subscriptions for children with special needs as well as orphans.

To broaden access to knowledge, the library has developed a digital site specifically for the book club, where children and educators worldwide can explore notable books for each age group and the latest in Arabic publications, making literature more accessible.

The library’s publications for children, produced by the Children’s Publishing Department established in 2003, include more than 200 titles covering topics on values, identity, culture, knowledge, Saudi, Arab and Islamic heritage, and noble traditions.

Many of these works have been translated into more than 10 languages, including Spanish, Chinese, English and French, reflecting Saudi culture to children worldwide and opening a window into the Kingdom’s history and heritage.

To promote inclusivity, the library has transformed many of these publications into animated films, allowing children to learn through modern technology and animated stories that capture their interest and suit their tastes.

In 2005, the library established the Young Adult Library, creating an educational bridge between childhood and adulthood. It aims to develop young people’s skills and help them discover their potential.

It offers innovation and creativity programs that enable them to transform their ideas into real projects, reflecting their independent vision and critical thinking.

In 2016, King Abdulaziz Public Library launched the Learning Resource Buses, which serve as mobile libraries that reach schools, parks, public gardens and neighborhoods, offering children the opportunity to benefit from books and activities.

To reinforce methodological values in childhood studies, the library has strengthened its academic dimension by focusing on the study of children’s culture.

In 2018, it established a specialized library for postgraduate research in childhood to serve researchers and postgraduate students, encompassing everything related to the world of childhood.

The library’s Children’s Sector employs modern technologies that create an interactive environment, encouraging children to showcase their skills and talents. The technologies included enable children to experience interactive educational activities and 3D printers, allowing them to turn ideas into tangible models, learning design and production skills.

The library also strives to develop children’s creative skills through a wide range of skill-building activities, including arts, literature, crafts and other creative endeavors. These are designed to encourage children to explore their cognitive and intellectual abilities in a fun and interactive way.

Furthermore, the library is dedicated to children with disabilities, the visually impaired, amputees, orphans and the children of martyrs, offering them diverse programs, involving them in cultural exhibitions and publishing books in braille for blind readers.

Theater is also an essential part of the educational experience at King Abdulaziz Public Library, with interactive plays and educational films that stimulate children’s imagination and add an entertaining and educational dimension to their experience.


Camel committee formed in Saudi Arabia to boost heritage and economic value

Camel committee formed in Saudi Arabia to boost heritage and economic value
Updated 13 November 2024
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Camel committee formed in Saudi Arabia to boost heritage and economic value

Camel committee formed in Saudi Arabia to boost heritage and economic value

RIYADH: In the "Year of the Camel," the Federation of Saudi Chambers announced the formation of a national committee for camels, the first of its kind, appointing Saad Al-Jalban as president and Abdullah Al-Subaie as vice president.

The move is part of the federation’s efforts to increase the economic value of camels and support relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Culture, in promoting the camel as a cultural symbol and an integral part of Saudi heritage.

The committee will work to significantly increase the market and investment value of camels, estimated to number about two million in the Kingdom and owned by more than 100,000 individuals.

Sales of camels at specific festivals have reached an impressive SR350 million, highlighting their popularity and economic significance.

The committee will serve as a central resource for investors, providing assistance with investment opportunities, health and medical services, pasture management and fodder supply through collaboration with relevant public and private entities.

The Saudi Ministry of Culture designated 2024 as the “Year of the Camel” to highlight and reinforce the status of the animal as a national symbol and cornerstone of Arabian cultural identity.

Camels are regularly celebrated across the country through dedicated festivals, race events, clubs and research centers.

Recently, the Saudi pavilion at UNESCO’s Arab Week event in Paris featured a showcase of the Kingdom’s deep-rooted connection to camel culture.

It also explored the role of the animals as a vital part of the nation’s heritage, identity and civilization, offering a glimpse into their enduring place in society.

The exhibits showed how the role of the camel has evolved from an essential means of transport and provider of resources to a cultural icon that embodies the Kingdom’s values, and how camels are embedded in Saudi customs, traditions and literature, including poetry and proverbs.


Latest Saudi aid plane arrives in Lebanon

Latest Saudi aid plane arrives in Lebanon
Updated 13 November 2024
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Latest Saudi aid plane arrives in Lebanon

Latest Saudi aid plane arrives in Lebanon

RIYADH: Another plane carrying aid for people in Lebanon landed at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport on Wednesday.

The plane, the 23rd from Saudi aid agency KSrelief, was carrying food, shelter and medical supplies, reported the Saudi Press Agency.

Saudi Arabia has been sending planes carrying aid packages to Lebanon since Israel stepped up its bombing campaign in Lebanon, mainly targeting Hezbollah strongholds in south Beirut and in the east and south of the country.


Saudi Joint Forces Commander meets with UN envoy for Yemen

Saudi Joint Forces Commander meets with UN envoy for Yemen
Updated 13 November 2024
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Saudi Joint Forces Commander meets with UN envoy for Yemen

Saudi Joint Forces Commander meets with UN envoy for Yemen
  • During their meeting, both parties underscored the Kingdom’s significant role in facilitating and supporting humanitarian efforts in Yemen

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Commander of the Joint Forces, Lt. Gen. Fahd bin Hamad Al-Salman, met on Tuesday with the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg.

During their meeting, both parties underscored the Kingdom’s significant role in facilitating and supporting humanitarian efforts, along with its dedication to the development and reconstruction of Yemen, Saudi Press Agency reported.

They discussed Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to enhance humanitarian operations and promote peace and stability in Yemen.

Al-Salman reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to political initiatives aimed at achieving a comprehensive and just resolution to the Yemeni crisis.