Ramadan in Saudi Arabia ‘like nowhere else’

For residents of the Kingdom, Ramadan represents a period of calm as the rhythm of life slows down, providing opportunities to form new traditions and experience the spiritual month. (Supplied/Ramadan Season/Visit Saudi)
For residents of the Kingdom, Ramadan represents a period of calm as the rhythm of life slows down, providing opportunities to form new traditions and experience the spiritual month. (Supplied/Ramadan Season/Visit Saudi)
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Updated 24 March 2024
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Ramadan in Saudi Arabia ‘like nowhere else’

Ramadan in Saudi Arabia ‘like nowhere else’
  • Expatriates share excitement and challenges of experiencing the holy month away from home

RIYADH: With twinkling lights turned on and the smell of freshly fried samosas in the air, Muslim and non-Muslim expat households across the Kingdom join in observing the holy month of Ramadan, marked by its spiritual nature and family-centric values

Expats share both their excitement and expected challenges as they observe Ramadan away from home.




For residents of the Kingdom, Ramadan represents a period of calm as the rhythm of life slows down, providing opportunities to form new traditions and experience the spiritual month. (Supplied/Ramadan Season/Visit Saudi)

Croatian designer Tina Sablic has made a gradual move to Riyadh over the past few years, which she described as an enriching experience. Now, as a Riyadh resident, she is finally experiencing her first Ramadan.

“While I don’t celebrate Ramadan through fasting, I deeply respect its significance and the cultural practices associated with it. However, I do plan to make adjustments to my own fasting plan during this time as a sign of solidarity and respect for the observance,” she told Arab News.




For residents of the Kingdom, Ramadan represents a period of calm as the rhythm of life slows down, providing opportunities to form new traditions and experience the spiritual month. (Supplied/Ramadan Season/Visit Saudi)

She acknowledged that the holy month is a time of self-reflection, self-awareness and self-discipline. In hectic, fast-paced daily schedules and lifestyle, it becomes a period of calm as the rhythm of life slows down.

“Since it is my first time experiencing Ramadan in Riyadh, I’m expecting to see vibrant night atmospheres with all of the festive lights, beautifully decorated streets and mosques and sounds of evening prayers. Sharing iftar meals with friends, colleagues and other expats will hopefully become a cherished tradition,” she said.




Tina Sablic, Croatian designer

As a non-Muslim celebrating Ramadan away from home, one of her primary challenges is adjusting to the changes in the local environment and daily routines. This may include adapting to altered business hours, meal schedules, and social activities during the fasting period.

“Social interactions and understanding the etiquette surrounding Ramadan customs and practices can also be a bit challenging. However, my amazing Saudi friends have guided me properly and their mentorship was so helpful in overcoming any cultural gaps,” she added.

Sharing iftar meals with friends, colleagues and other expats will hopefully become a cherished tradition.

Tina Sablic, Croatian designer

Pakistani resident Ifrah Mahmood has lived in Saudi Arabia since the ripe age of 9. After a difficult time adjusting, she is proud to now call it home. For her, the Ramadan period is a symbol of peace, tranquility, and a way to grow closer to Allah.

While she misses having iftar, sahoor, and indulging in the spirit with her family, she said that celebrating Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is unlike any other, and she cannot wait for the last 10 days in particular when Muslims immerse in deeper worship.




For residents of the Kingdom, Ramadan represents a period of calm as the rhythm of life slows down, providing opportunities to form new traditions and experience the spiritual month. (Supplied/Ramadan Season/Visit Saudi)

She said: “I have been celebrating Ramadan in Saudi Arabia for many years now. Ramadan here is like nowhere else. Everyone is kinder, the mosques are always open … night prayers and festivities make it so special.

“The change of routine is what I enjoy the most. The office timings are shortened which is a perk you can’t get in most of the non-Muslim countries. The markets are open all night long. It gives Eid vibes even before Eid.”




For residents of the Kingdom, Ramadan represents a period of calm as the rhythm of life slows down, providing opportunities to form new traditions and experience the spiritual month. (Supplied/Ramadan Season/Visit Saudi)

French creative Cecilia Pitre came to work in the Kingdom after the COVID-19 pandemic and was drawn to stay in the country mainly due to the hospitality of its people. “They’re very welcoming,” she said.

“What made me stay as well is the culture — it’s full of colors. There’s a lot of things to learn because this country was, at least for Europe, a little bit veiled and undiscovered. Not many people in Europe know about Saudi Arabia, but when we’re here we discover a country full of history, culture, art, fashion. There are so many things to do and to see!”




For residents of the Kingdom, Ramadan represents a period of calm as the rhythm of life slows down, providing opportunities to form new traditions and experience the spiritual month. (Supplied/Ramadan Season/Visit Saudi)

Pitre has celebrated a few Ramadan seasons before, but the creative plans to try a full fast this year. While she has been able to restrain from food, she has found it difficult to cut out water as well. She also plans to reduce other forbidden elements during Ramadan such as smoking, gossiping, and excessive screen time.

“As a foreigner and a non-Muslim, I’m taking the Ramadan period to actually learn more about the religion, read more about Islam, and understand what the fasting process is and what it brings to the people, whether Muslim or non-muslim … I’m trying to follow Ramadan at my speed, which is also something I think we should do more often.”

With abundant invitations from locals to share iftar and sahoor, Pitre plans to take this opportunity to indulge further into the culture and understand the significance of the dining practices.

Living on Tahlia Road, one of Riyadh’s most prominent dining streets, she witnesses the bustling crowd of families and friends making Ramadan memories as the night ascends.

“What I love about Ramadan is the decorations everywhere, the lights, the joy. Everybody’s happy and going out at night,” she said. “The vibe is unbelievable.”

Pitre says she does not face any challenges spending Ramadan away from France as Saudi Arabia has embraced the creative with open arms.

“If there’s any place to spend Ramadan in, it’s definitely Saudi Arabia, which I consider my second home,” she said.

 


Meet your sole mate at Sneaker Con in Riyadh

Sneaker Con features more than 150 brands showcasing curated collections of rare sneakers, fashion items, and accessories.
Sneaker Con features more than 150 brands showcasing curated collections of rare sneakers, fashion items, and accessories.
Updated 08 February 2025
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Meet your sole mate at Sneaker Con in Riyadh

Sneaker Con features more than 150 brands showcasing curated collections of rare sneakers, fashion items, and accessories.
  • Visitors can buy, sell, and trade rare and limited-edition sneakers

RIYADH: Sneaker Con in Riyadh has opened its doors to enthusiasts and collectors, offering a platform to buy, sell, and trade rare and limited-edition items as part of Riyadh Season.

Billed as “The Greatest Sneaker Show on Earth,” Sneaker Con is one of the world’s largest sneaker conventions, which has previously been held in cities across North America, Europe, and Asia. Its Riyadh edition — the first in Saudi Arabia — runs until Feb. 19 at ANB Arena.

A pair of signed sneakers by basketball player Michael Jordan, featured at Sneaker Con Riyadh. (AN photo by Hajar AlQusayer)

The event provides visitors with the opportunity to engage with industry experts and meet influencers in the sneaker community.

One visitor, Fares Indejani, highlighted the growing sneaker culture in Riyadh, pointing out that sneakers have become an integral part of personal style and expression. He told Arab News about the impact of the event on the local sneaker community.

These sneaker communities are micro-communities that are often isolated and don’t really have a dedicated space. But this event changes that … you can just walk in and meet others like you.

Fares Indejani, Sneaker enthusiast

“These sneaker communities are micro-communities that are often isolated and don’t really have a dedicated space,” he said. “But this event changes that … you can just walk in and meet others like you.

Visitors engaging with various shops and exploring exclusive sneakers at Sneaker Con Riyadh. (Supplied)

“You get an idea of what direction we’re heading toward, and that’s valuable knowledge for investors and business owners,” he added. “Really knowing what kind of communities are popping up, seeing how loud and real they are, and recognizing that they exist, have a voice, and are moving, is crucial.”

Abdulmohsen Al-Ahmari, another visitor, said the event provides an opportunity to see sneakers that are not typically available.

“Making connections at Sneaker Con and getting to know people helps me later,” he said.

Chase Young, a sneaker trader and founder of Culture Kicks, said: “There are people with crazy pairs of shoes and a lot of different collectors’ items here, and very high-end shoes, so (the market) is definitely big here.”

Sneaker Con features more than 150 brands showcasing curated collections of rare sneakers, fashion items, and accessories.

 


Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran

Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran
Updated 08 February 2025
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Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran

Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran
  • Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days featured many other activities, ensuring that visitors could engage with Japan’s cultural heritage through a variety of creative, educational and interactive experiencesIthra’s Japan Cultural Days featured many other activities

DHAHRAN: Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days concluded on Saturday after a dynamic 17-day run, offering visitors a deep and immersive experience into Japanese arts, traditions and contemporary culture.

The event, which began on Jan. 23, attracted more than 200,000 visitors in its first 10 days.

A variety of activities were offered for children and adults, ensuring everyone's enjoyment. (Supplied)

Japanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Morino Yasunari toured the exhibitions, engaged with artists and cultural representatives, and highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.

His visit underscored the significance of the festival in fostering dialogue and mutual appreciation.

A wide variety of music was featured at the festival, from meditative shakuhachi to high-energy drums. (Supplied)

The program featured a wide range of activities for both children and adults, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages. Families took part in hands-on craft workshops, traditional calligraphy, origami and manga drawing sessions, while younger visitors enjoyed storytelling sessions featuring Japanese folktales and legends.

One of the most anticipated performances came from Drum Tao, the globally renowned Japanese drumming ensemble known for its powerful stage presence and theatrical performances.

A variety of activities were offered for children and adults, ensuring everyone's enjoyment. (Supplied)

The group combined traditional taiko drumming with modern choreography and lighting effects, delivering a high-energy spectacle that captivated audiences.

A metaverse experience in Ithra’s plaza allowed visitors to explore virtual Japanese markets and cultural celebrations.

A wide variety of music was featured at the festival, from meditative shakuhachi to high-energy drums. (Supplied)

The festival also explored Japanese storytelling through literature and anime. Several sessions on Japanese literature highlighted its unique introspective nature, referencing authors like Haruki Murakami.

Music played a central role in the festival, with performances ranging from the meditative tones of the shakuhachi flute to high-energy drum ensembles. Visitors also explored Japanese culinary traditions, gaining insights into the precision and artistry behind dishes such as sushi and wagashi.

A variety of activities were offered for children and adults, ensuring everyone's enjoyment. (Supplied)

One of the most celebrated workshops covered kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. Attendees were invited to transform shattered ceramics into decorative pieces, embracing the philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection.

Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days featured many other activities, ensuring that visitors could engage with Japan’s cultural heritage through a variety of creative, educational and interactive experiences.

 


Tourism Ministry launches second executive master’s program to develop Saudi tourism leadership

Tourism Ministry launches second executive master’s program to develop Saudi tourism leadership
Updated 08 February 2025
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Tourism Ministry launches second executive master’s program to develop Saudi tourism leadership

Tourism Ministry launches second executive master’s program to develop Saudi tourism leadership
  • Ministry spokesperson Mohammed Al-Rasasimah said that, through the executive master’s program, the ministry works to provide key opportunities for Saudi tourism professionals to receive advanced education and training

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has unveiled a second executive master’s program, offering four educational packages and teaming up with three prestigious European hospitality institutions — Les Roches in Spain and EHL and Glion in Switzerland, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The program aims to train 300 Saudi professionals in international tourism and hospitality management, advancing expertise in the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

Under the ministry’s “Ahluha” initiative, which has already trained more than 100,000 Saudi citizens, domestically and internationally, in 2024. The program focuses on equipping participants with modern management techniques and high-quality resource management skills for the tourism industry.

Candidates must meet rigorous eligibility criteria, including an honors bachelor’s degree in tourism-related fields, minimum five years of professional experience, proven English language proficiency, willingness to travel for training requirements, and successful completion of a personal interview.

According to SPA, the program builds on the success of its first edition, in which 198 graduates completed managerial training at leading Spanish and Swiss institutions.

Ministry spokesperson Mohammed Al-Rasasimah said that, through the executive master’s program, the ministry works to provide key opportunities for Saudi tourism professionals to receive advanced education and training.

He said the program represents a strategic investment in developing Saudi tourism leadership.

“This initiative is crucial for preparing the next generation of Saudi leaders who will drive our growing tourism sector,” he said.

“We are focused on enhancing our national workforce’s capabilities, expanding their horizons and exposing them to global best practices in tourism management,” he added.

 


Diriyah literary festival inspires children

In the Story Village, young visitors listened to inspiring tales told by professionals. (SPA)
In the Story Village, young visitors listened to inspiring tales told by professionals. (SPA)
Updated 08 February 2025
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Diriyah literary festival inspires children

In the Story Village, young visitors listened to inspiring tales told by professionals. (SPA)
  • Children had the opportunity to show their artistic skills in the Story and Drawing Corner in which the little ones transformed stories into paintings that reflected their creative visions

RIYADH: The Diriyah Storytelling Festival, which concluded on Feb. 8, aimed to encourage a love of reading and storytelling in young children.

As part of a series of events in Diriyah Season boasting the theme “Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity,” the festival transformed Diriyah into a magical world for children, one in which they moved between pavilions.

Photo/Saudi Press Agency

In the Story Village, young visitors listened to inspiring tales told by professionals.

Shadow Shows, meanwhile, transported children to realms inspired by the book “Kalila and Dimna,” offering a unique visual experience that blended art with literature.

Photo/Saudi Press Agency

Children also had the opportunity to show their artistic skills in the Story and Drawing Corner in which the little ones transformed stories into paintings that reflected their creative visions.

The interactive performances were no less captivating, presenting historic tales inspired by Diriyah’s rich heritage in a theatrical, interactive format that encouraged children to actively engage. This added a rich educational and cultural dimension to their experience.

The initiative was organized to strengthen the Kingdom’s role as a hub for arts and literature on the world stage.

 


Sri Lankan envoy celebrates diplomacy, independence

Sri Lankan envoy celebrates diplomacy, independence
Updated 08 February 2025
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Sri Lankan envoy celebrates diplomacy, independence

Sri Lankan envoy celebrates diplomacy, independence
  • The envoy highlighted the strong diplomatic relationship between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka

RIYADH: Sri Lanka’s ambassador in Riyadh, Omar Lebbe Ameer Ajwad, gave a speech on the 77th anniversary of Sri Lankan independence and 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom and Sri Lanka on Feb.5 at the Cultural Palace, Diplomatic Quarters in Riyadh on Feb.5.

“I take this opportunity to extend my sincere greetings to all the Sri Lankan nationals living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day of Sri Lanka,” he said.

The envoy’s speech focused on Sri Lanka’s politics, tourism and economy.

He also highlighted the strong diplomatic relationship between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka.

“Although the modern diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia were established 50 years ago, the ancient diplomatic relations between the two countries, in fact, began in the 7th century A.D., when the then King of Sri Lanka, called Aggabodhi III (623-640 AD) dispatched his ambassador from Sri Lanka to Madina Al-Munawwarah on a factfinding mission at the time of Prophet Muhammad to learn about the new religion of Islam. This incident is reported in the Ajaib-Al-Hind by Ibn Shahriyar,” he said.