AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia

AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia
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New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant. (SPA)
AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia
2 / 2
New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant. (SPA)
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Updated 12 July 2024
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AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia

AlUla unveils groundbreaking study on Neolithic settlements in northwest Saudi Arabia
  • The research, conducted under the auspices of the Royal Commission for AlUla, reveals a more sophisticated society than previously imagined
  • The research team has presented its latest conclusions and observations on archaeological investigations of structures known as standing stone circles

RIYADH: New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant.
The research, conducted under the auspices of the Royal Commission for AlUla, reveals a more sophisticated society than previously imagined, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Jane McMahon from the University of Sydney, working with a research team as part of an RCU-supervised excavation project explained that they have uncovered a complex community that engaged in cattle herding, crafted jewelry, and participated in extensive trade networks. The strategic location of these settlements facilitated commerce with distant regions, including eastern Jordan and coastal areas along the Red Sea.
The research team has presented its latest conclusions and observations on archaeological investigations of structures known as standing stone circles. These dwellings consist of vertically placed stone slabs forming circles with diameters ranging from four to eight meters.
The study examined 431 standing stone circles at various sites in Harrat Uwayrid in AlUla, with 52 undergoing field surveys and 11 being excavated.
Researchers found that stone slabs, arranged in two concentric rows, likely served as foundations for wooden poles, possibly made of acacia. These poles would have supported the structure’s roof. At the center of each circular dwelling, a single stone slab appears to have anchored the main wooden column. This architectural feature suggests a sophisticated understanding of weight distribution and structural support among the ancient inhabitants. The discovery of various tools and animal remains at the site has led archaeologists to propose that dwelling roofs were fashioned from animal hides.




New archaeological evidence reshapes the understanding of Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia, according to a study published in the journal Levant. (SPA)

McMahon explained that “this research challenges hypotheses about how early northwest Arabian inhabitants lived.” She emphasized that these people were not merely simple pastoralists but had distinctive architecture, domesticated animals, jewelry, and diverse tools. Based on the number and size of stone circles, their population was likely substantial and much larger than previously thought.
Rebecca Foote, who heads archaeology and cultural heritage research at the RCU, has emphasized the significant impact of the commission’s archaeological initiatives. Under the RCU’s supervision, what is described as the world’s most comprehensive archaeological program has yielded crucial insights into the lives of Neolithic inhabitants in the region. Foote underscored the commission’s dedication to continued research efforts aimed at highlighting AlUla’s diverse cultural heritage and ongoing work towards establishing a globally recognized hub for archaeological studies.

Researchers examining animal bones from the Harrat Uwayrid site have uncovered evidence of a robust prehistoric economy. The findings indicate that the ancient inhabitants relied on a mix of domesticated animals like goats and sheep, and wild animals such as gazelles and birds for their livelihood. This diverse approach to animal exploitation likely provided the population with resilience in the face of environmental fluctuations.
Excavations have unearthed tools linked to animal husbandry, including implements for wool shearing and sheep slaughter.
Arrowheads discovered match types used in southern and eastern Jordan, indicating clear interaction between the regions.
Small perforated snail and seashells, likely used as decorative beads, were found at the sites. These shells correspond to those from the Red Sea, 120 km away, suggesting import from the coast during the Neolithic period.
Other artifacts include sandstone and limestone ornaments and bracelets, as well as a piece of red sandstone chalk, possibly used for drawing.
Researchers concluded that the study “greatly clarified the connected (yet distinct) nature of the Neolithic period in AlUla.”
The research team included experts from King Saud University, local AlUla residents like Youssef Al-Balawi who provided ethnographic and cultural insights, and students from the University of Hail.

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Standing stone circles of AlUla

A study that examined 431 standing stone circles at various sites in Harrat Uwayrid in AlUla concludes that people living in that part of Saudi Arabia’s northwest during the Neolithic era, or the later part of the Stone Age, were not merely simple pastoralists but had distinctive architecture, domesticated animals, jewelry, and diverse tools.


Experts show off skills at Riyadh culinary event 

Experts show off skills at Riyadh culinary event 
Updated 12 sec ago
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Experts show off skills at Riyadh culinary event 

Experts show off skills at Riyadh culinary event 
  • Sirha Arabia gathered 300 exhibitors from the Kingdom and around the world to share their expertise in the culinary and hospitality sectors

RIYADH: In collaboration with the Culinary Arts Commission and the Saudi Conventions & Exhibitions General Authority, Sirha Arabia gathered 300 exhibitors from the Kingdom and around the world to share their expertise in the culinary and hospitality sectors on Thursday.

“The experience is extremely positive: Sirha brought to Arabia a very high-profile audience and the organization has been premium, we could feel its quality,” Vittorio Rocchi, the CEO of Sitaf Saudi Co. for Trade, told Arab News.

Sitaf was established in 1976 and currently has a list of more than 3,000 products.

It was one of the main exhibitors presenting during Sirha Arabia with two large booths.

The company showcased live cooking shows in their kitchens offering guests the opportunity to sample pizzas, pasta, dairy products, and seafood.

“There is a fantastic production of fresh sushi and sashimi with dedicated Japanese chefs,” Rocchi told Arab News. “The highlight was the live cutting of a 180 kg fatty tuna, performed by a professional tuna cutter. Simply amazing,” he said.

The Kingdom is working to expand its position as a global player in the catering and hospitality sectors embracing international trends while showcasing local and international products and companies such as Sitaf.

Sirha Food is organized by Sirha Lyon, a globally renowned food service event, taking place every two years in Lyon, France.

The event has expanded to include Saudi Arabia on its list of host countries.

“This is the first time ever for Sirha in KSA and we believed a lot in it. We will continue our path with Sirah for the years to come and grow together,” Rocchi said.

Sirha Arabia consisted of 60 speakers and three pavilions: the Sirha Food Forum, the Sirha Food Masters, and Newcomers for exhibitors presenting for the first time.

The exhibition also served as a one-stop shop for chefs and businesses looking to start a restaurant or expand their at-home culinary portfolio.

The exhibition also hosted a masterclass in macaroons led by the executive pastry chef, Steve Thiery, and other international chefs.

Discussion sessions were hosted which highlighted topics such as Saudi and intentional flavor fusions, “inspiring the next generation of culinary and hospital experts,” dairy trade and export, and navigating the challenges of different markets.

Discussing the reactions of visitors, Rocchi said: “Most visitors were amazed by the size and display of the booth, but most importantly they were impressed by the chefs cooking at the live stations.

“They could enjoy the best flavors of Italian cuisine and this made everyone really happy,” he added.

“For sure, Sitaf is the leading Saudi company in gourmet food,” he stressed. “Sitaf has a range of 70 percent Italian products, we are very proud to be representing this country in the Kingdom. But Sitaf is more, we consider products all over the world as long as it is genuine and high quality,” he said.

On trade relations between Saudi Arabia and Italy, Rocchi said: “We would like to see more Saudi products expand their market share in Italy, I am sure they will because they are of very high quality.” 

He added: “On our hand, we will work to help Saudi brands and products improve and increase, it will work very well.“


‘Riyadh Reads’: Pakistani panelists at book fair push for cultural diplomacy

‘Riyadh Reads’: Pakistani panelists at book fair push for cultural diplomacy
Updated 6 min 29 sec ago
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‘Riyadh Reads’: Pakistani panelists at book fair push for cultural diplomacy

‘Riyadh Reads’: Pakistani panelists at book fair push for cultural diplomacy
  • Annual Riyadh International Book Fair began Sept. 26, ends Oct. 5
  • Over 2,000 publishers from 30 countries are participating in event

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani panelists at Saudi Arabia’s largest annual book fair said this week “cultural diplomacy” could open new arenas of cooperation between the two nations as they called for more quality translations of literature in the Arabic and Urdu languages and an exchange of writers and artists.

The Riyadh International Book Fair, themed “Riyadh Reads” and spread over 800 pavilions, is organized yearly by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission.

It began on Sept. 26 and runs to Oct. 5, with over 2,000 publishing houses from 30 countries participating, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The schedule includes seminars, panel discussions, poetry recitals, stage performances and workshops.

On Tuesday, the fair hosted a panel titled “Shared Voices: Literature and Art as Bridges of Culture and Understanding.”

It featured Ahmad Farooq, ambassador of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, Suljuk Mustansar Tarar, ambassador of Pakistan to the Netherlands, and Ameena Saiyid, a well-known Pakistani publisher and the founder of the famed Karachi Literary Festival.

The panel was moderated by Yazed Almulhem, a strategic planning consultant with the Saudi Tourism Investment Company.

“Saudi Arabia and Pakistan historically shared close ties, but cultural diplomacy offered a new vista of deepening the relationship even further, as cultural affinities brought people together,” the Pakistani embassy said in a statement shared with media on Wednesday.

In pursuance of these efforts, the embassy said it was “meaningfully engaged” with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture through 11 cultural commissions, and several projects were in the pipeline.

Speaking to Arab News, ambassador Tarar, an author and the son of renowned writer Mustansar Hussain Tarar, said books “unified nations” and thus better translations were necessary for cross-acculturation.

“Having quality translations of good fiction and literature in Arabic and Urdu is very important to develop a stronger understanding of each other,” he said.

The author said the book fair was a “great opportunity” for an engaging conversation on culture’s role as a “bridge builder,” and its impact on fostering understanding across different societies and cultures.

“The messaging was very useful that indeed arts and literature can provide a great opportunity to connect different countries, especially countries from the wider Islamic world or Global South,” Tarar added.

“It is a very important tool for countries like us, such as Pakistan or even Saudi Arabia, to proactively pursue public diplomacy or cultural diplomacy in bringing forth the overall context of our society.”

Another panelist, Saiyid, a publisher and former managing director of the Oxford University Press, said literature festivals were essential as a “platform for cross-cultural dialogue.”

“They encourage us to engage with unfamiliar perspectives by listening to diverse voices, and through that, we actually break down stereotypes, and we foster greater understanding across borders,” she told Arab News over the phone from Riyadh.

“In our discussion, I actually emphasized the importance of exchange programs that bring artists and writers from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia and vice versa, as this fosters understanding, helps us appreciate different viewpoints, and breaks down existing stereotypes.”

Saiyid, who in 2005 became the first Pakistani woman to be awarded the Order of the British Empire for her services to women’s rights, education, and intellectual property rights, said she hoped more Arab writers and artists would visit Pakistan.

This would allow them to “become a part of our festivals, which will help to promote understanding of cross-cultural literature and art,” she added.


Successful marketing tour of China and Singapore concludes

Successful marketing tour of China and Singapore concludes
Updated 12 min 25 sec ago
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Successful marketing tour of China and Singapore concludes

Successful marketing tour of China and Singapore concludes

JAZAN: The Saudi Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, represented by the Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries, has ended its 28-day marketing tour of China and Singapore.

The trip took in the International Logistics and Supply Chain Fair in China and the Seafood Expo Asia 2024 in Singapore. Both events are leaders in their field and offered a chance to highlight investment opportunities available in Jazan.

The tour also included a total of 33 visits across 12 cities to several major companies and factories specializing in the food industry and logistics services.

It also included organizing meetings in several Chinese provinces that were attended by more than 600 investors.


Four new imams appointed at the Two Holy Mosques

Four new imams have been appointed at the Two Holy Mosques. (@PRAGOVSA)
Four new imams have been appointed at the Two Holy Mosques. (@PRAGOVSA)
Updated 56 min 49 sec ago
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Four new imams appointed at the Two Holy Mosques

Four new imams have been appointed at the Two Holy Mosques. (@PRAGOVSA)
  • Sheikh Badr bin Muhammad Al-Turki and Sheikh Al-Waleed bin Khalid Al-Shamsan were appointed as imams at the Grand Mosque
  • Sheikh Muhammad bin Ahmed Barhaji and Sheikh Abdullah bin Abdul Mohsen Al-Qarafi were appointed as imams at the Prophet’s Mosque

RIYADH: Two new imams have been appointed at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and another two at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.

Sheikh Badr bin Muhammad Al-Turki and Sheikh Al-Waleed bin Khalid Al-Shamsan were appointed to the prestigious position at the Grand Mosque while Sheikh Muhammad bin Ahmed Barhaji and Sheikh Abdullah bin Abdul Mohsen Al-Qarafi were appointed at the Prophet’s Mosque.

The appointments were made by royal decree, SPA said.


Netzero and Goumbook forge partnership to accelerate reforestation, carbon offset efforts

Netzero and Goumbook forge partnership to accelerate reforestation, carbon offset efforts
Updated 03 October 2024
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Netzero and Goumbook forge partnership to accelerate reforestation, carbon offset efforts

Netzero and Goumbook forge partnership to accelerate reforestation, carbon offset efforts

RIYADH: Netzero, a Saudi Arabian environmental startup revolutionizing tree planting, signed an agreement last week with Goumbook, a UAE-based social enterprise emphasizing sustainability and environmental initiatives in the region.

Mohammed Alkhalid, founder and CEO of Netzero, said that the partnership represented a significant milestone, offering global expansion as it showcased Goumbook’s expertise and environmental networks to broaden the impact of Netzero’s creative tree-planting technique.

“This partnership represents a powerful step forward in our mission to reshape the future of our planet,” Alkhalid said. “Together, we are merging technology with nature, community with purpose, and vision with action.

“We believe that afforestation is more than planting trees — it’s about planting the right species in the right place, ensuring transparency in the process, and connecting people to the land and restoring balance to our ecosystems. We are excited to grow this vision together, with a dedicated partner,” he said.

The partnership aims to achieve environmental outcomes throughout the region, including leading large-scale projects for afforestation across the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The project will emphasize biodiversity, specifically where each tree will be planted and tracked using artificial intelligence to ensure long-term growth and carbon offset accuracy.

Another objective is establishing a community engagement plan, where people will connect with the two companies through a platform, allowing schools and local communities as well as businesses to sponsor tree planting, and providing them with an opportunity to contribute to environmental protection and sustainable development.

Tatiana Antonelli Abella, founder of Goumbook, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with Netzero in this transformative partnership, which amplifies our shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

“At Goumbook, we believe that every tree planted is a symbol of hope and action — an investment in the future of our planet. By merging Netzero’s AI-driven technology with our deep-rooted knowledge of sustainability and regional ecosystems, we are paving the way for more impactful, data-driven reforestation and afforestation efforts.”

“Together, we are not just planting trees, we are creating resilient ecosystems, empowering communities and taking meaningful steps toward long-term environmental change,” she said.

Netzero is a part of the Sidra Initiative by the Ministry of Environment Water and Agriculture, focused on using artificial intelligence to improve reforestation and land management to reduce carbon emissions worldwide.