Saudi man turns historic family home into cultural center

Seifalah Sharbatly shared that the restoration of Sharbatly House took place before Al-Balad became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Supplied)
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Seifalah Sharbatly shared that the restoration of Sharbatly House took place before Al-Balad became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Supplied)
Saudi man turns historic family home into cultural center
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Seifalah Sharbatly shared that the restoration of Sharbatly House took place before Al-Balad became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Supplied)
Saudi man turns historic family home into cultural center
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The Ministry of Culture led the project to revitalize Al-Balad and turn its heritage into tourist attractions. (Supplied)
Saudi man turns historic family home into cultural center
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Seifalah Sharbatly shared that the restoration of Sharbatly House took place before Al-Balad became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Supplied)
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Updated 04 August 2024
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Saudi man turns historic family home into cultural center

Saudi man turns historic family home into cultural center
  • Seifalah Sharbatly’s project is promoting awareness of the Kingdom’s cultural heritage

JEDDAH: One of the oldest structures in Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district, the 19th-century Sharbatly House, has been transformed into a center hosting cultural, literary, artistic, scientific and intellectual events.

The renovations were carried out by Abdullah Sharbatly’s grandson, businessman Seifalah Sharbatly, who sought to modernize the building while preserving its character, foundation and interiors, as well as its original brick walls. New materials exported from countries including Sweden and Egypt comply with strict heritage preservation standards.




Seifalah Sharbatly shared that the restoration of Sharbatly House took place before Al-Balad became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Supplied)

Sharbatly told Arab News that every tile placed in the historic building was a link to its heritage. “You will find written on the back of the tile, ‘Made in Hejjaz’,” he said. The process of searching for antique tiles of the same shape took a long time, he added.

He put his heart and soul into every detail of the project, aiming not just to restore the building but revitalize it and turn it into a cultural hub.

HIGHLIGHT

• Many historic houses in the area were abandoned until the Ministry of Culture led the project to revive Al-Balad and transform its heritage into tourist attractions.

“The idea of creating a cultural house came from my passion for art, culture and poetry, and from my keenness to preserve the historic building left by our grandfather,” he said. “The idea began in 2013 when I visited our house, abandoned and collapsing in some parts, including ceilings, and covered in dust.”




The Ministry of Culture led the project to revitalize Al-Balad and turn its heritage into tourist attractions. (Supplied)

Soon after he approached his father and made a case for extensive renovations that would bring the property into the 21st century, which was agreed.

The work took a long time, said Sharbatly: “I thought it would take me around three years to complete the renovation but it took me seven years.”

The restoration took place before Al-Balad became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The idea of creating a cultural house came from my passion for art, culture and poetry, and from my keenness to preserve the historic building left by our grandfather.

Seifalah Sharbatly, Saudi businessman

“We were ahead of the preservation of the area’s heritage program,” added Sharbatly.

The four-story building, located on Al-Bayaa Square, was built in the late 19th century by Al-Sharif Abdulilah Mihanna Al-Abdaly. It was later sold to Abdullah Sharbatly and became the family home.

In its time it served as the headquarters of the Egyptian mission in Saudi Arabia, and for some 30 years was a vital touchpoint for Egyptian traders and entrepreneurs doing business in the Kingdom upon arrival through Jeddah’s sea ports.

“After I restored the house to the best of my ability, I didn’t want the house to be like other historic houses in the area, of which most (became) museums,” Sharbatly said. “So I seriously thought to make it different by paying attention to it and introducing ideas that would restore to it the sparkle that it had almost lost over the years.”

Sharbatly said he wanted the house to promote Saudi cultural identity.

“Our vision for the cultural house is (for it) to become a home to all artists — from professionals to amateurs, from established to emerging, and from traditional to contemporary,” he said.

Many historic houses in the area were abandoned until the Ministry of Culture led the project to revive Al-Balad and transform its heritage into tourist attractions.

Speaking about the efforts, Sharbatly said: “The ministry’s initiative is not just to create a tourist destination but also to bring our generation and their children back to what was once the beating heart of Jeddah.

“It was a great initiative to revive the district and restore it to its glory days, recapturing its charm and significance as a cultural destination.”

When the Ministry of Culture took control of the area, Sharbatly sat with officials to present his vision and long-term plan.

Then he moved ahead with a new, more ambitious project: “The house has become one of the most popular cultural spots,” he added.

The Sharbatly House project has played a pivotal role in promoting awareness of the Kingdom’s cultural heritage among both local and international visitors. To continue his passion for promoting culture, the graduate student from the American University in Cairo hopes to expand his dream by creating a huge cultural area in Al-Balad.

“I hope one day to (make) my house as big as (the) El-Sawy Culture Wheel, which is considered one of the most important cultural venues in Egypt,” said Sharbatly.

He also revealed a new mission: “Right now I am in negotiation with the Saudi officials to save my other grandfather’s house, which is located in Al-Ruwais area.

“Unfortunately, the house is scheduled to be demolished along with the rest of buildings. I am trying to convince them not to demolish (it) because it is a historic house and valuable and could be preserved and promoted.”

 


Saudi-led project clears 460,951 mines, explosive devices in Yemen

Saudi-led project clears 460,951 mines, explosive devices in Yemen
Updated 5 sec ago
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Saudi-led project clears 460,951 mines, explosive devices in Yemen

Saudi-led project clears 460,951 mines, explosive devices in Yemen
  • The explosives, which were planted indiscriminately by the Houthis across Yemen, posed a threat to civilians

RIYADH: A Saudi-led humanitarian initiative in Yemen has seen a milestone 460,951 land mines and unexploded ordnance cleared since the start of the project in 2018, according to a recent report.

These include 301,068 items of unexploded ordnance, 145,139 anti-tank mines, 8,148 improvised explosive devices and 6,596 anti-personnel mines, according to Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the project’s managing director.

Overseen by the Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief, Project Masam continues to remove deadly devices laid in the war-torn country by the Houthis.

Last week, the project’s special teams destroyed 2,439 items of unexploded ordnance, 28 anti-tank mines, six anti-personnel mines and one improvised explosive device.

The explosives, which were planted indiscriminately by the Houthis across Yemen, posed a threat to civilians, including children, women and the elderly.

Project Masam is one of several initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia on the orders of King Salman to help the Yemeni people, clearing routes for humanitarian aid to reach the country’s citizens.

The demining operations took place in Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale and Saada.

The initiative trains local demining engineers and provides them with modern equipment. It also offers support to Yemenis injured by the devices.

About 5 million people have been forced to flee their homes since the start of the conflict in Yemen, many of them displaced by the presence of land mines.

Masam teams are tasked with clearing villages, roads and schools to facilitate the safe movement of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.


Campaign launched to enhance hospitality standards

Campaign launched to enhance hospitality standards
Updated 39 min 59 sec ago
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Campaign launched to enhance hospitality standards

Campaign launched to enhance hospitality standards
  • The initiative seeks to enhance the quality of services offered to both domestic and international tourists across the Kingdom

Riyadh: The Ministry of Tourism has launched the “Our Guests Are Our Priority” campaign, which aims to reinforce hospitality facilities’ adherence to licensing and classification standards, ensuring compliance with all requirements and regulations.

The first phase of the campaign, which began in early September, focuses on media and awareness activities that engage all stakeholders in the tourism sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The initiative seeks to enhance the quality of services offered to both domestic and international tourists across the Kingdom.

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb emphasized that the campaign encourages all tourism stakeholders to cooperate with the ministry in achieving Saudi Vision 2030 and elevating the Kingdom’s status as a global tourism destination.

Vice Minister of Tourism Princess Haifa Al-Saud recently launched an initiative to improve education and training standards in the tourism sector.

The initiative aims to align educational programs with labor market needs, according to the ministry. The goal is to help tourism institutions earn international and local accreditations and professional certificates.


KSrelief provides aid in Sudan, Yemen and Lebanon

KSrelief provides aid in Sudan, Yemen and Lebanon
Updated 15 September 2024
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KSrelief provides aid in Sudan, Yemen and Lebanon

KSrelief provides aid in Sudan, Yemen and Lebanon

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief continues to provide humanitarian assistance in several regions.

In Sudan, the agency distributed 500 food baskets in the Dongola region, Northern State, on Thursday, benefiting 5,105 individuals affected by flash floods and heavy rains. The action formed part of the second phase of the 2024 food security support project.

In Yemen, KSrelief provided 158 shelter bags and 92 tents to 948 individuals in Al Sabran camp, Al-Madina District of Marib Governorate, as part of the emergency shelter aid project.

Al-Ja’dah Health Center in Yemen’s Hajjah Governorate, supported by KSrelief, provided medical services to 2,164 people from Aug. 21-27. Clinics treated patients in departments including emergency, internal medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics, while 1,992 individuals received medications.

In northern Lebanon, KSrelief funded 59 ambulance missions in the Miniyeh district through the Subul Al Salam Social Association. These missions involved patient transport and emergency services in refugee areas and host communities.

These efforts are part of KSrelief's ongoing assistance to needy communities in Sudan, Yemen and Lebanon.


Vibrant feathers in Asir’s cap

Asir region’s diverse habitats, from highlands to plains, provide ideal conditions for a variety of bird species to thrive. (SPA
Asir region’s diverse habitats, from highlands to plains, provide ideal conditions for a variety of bird species to thrive. (SPA
Updated 14 September 2024
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Vibrant feathers in Asir’s cap

Asir region’s diverse habitats, from highlands to plains, provide ideal conditions for a variety of bird species to thrive. (SPA
  • Asir is home to a wide range of avian life, including endemic species such as the Asir magpie, a rare bird found only in this region of Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: Asir, a region renowned for its natural beauty, is also a sanctuary for a range of migratory birds.

These feathered visitors, some of which have inhabited the region for millennia, contribute significantly to the area’s rich biodiversity. The region’s diverse habitats, from highlands to plains, provide ideal conditions for a variety of bird species to thrive, the Saudi Press Agency reports.

The acacia, juniper and natural flowers provide suitable habitats for different bird species. (SPA)

In the spring, the forests of Asir come alive with the vibrant colors and songs of these avian guests. The region’s blend of climate and topography attracts birds from around the world, including species from Africa, Europe and Asia.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Asir’s blend of climate and topography attracts birds from around the world, including species from Africa, Europe and Asia.

• The endemic species such as the Asir magpie is a rare bird found only in this region of the Kingdom.

• European species such as the European bee-eater also visit the region during the spring and summer.

The SPA team, accompanied by bird enthusiast Ahmed Niazi, recently embarked on a journey to witness the natural spectacle of gathered birds.

Asir region’s diverse habitats, from highlands to plains, provide ideal conditions for a variety of bird species to thrive. (SPA)

According to Niazi in an interview with SPA, Asir appeals to migratory birds through its diverse tree species and varying temperatures. The acacia, juniper and natural flowers provide suitable habitats for different bird species.

Asir is home to a wide range of avian life, including endemic species such as the Asir magpie, a rare bird found only in this region of the Kingdom.

The acacia, juniper and natural flowers provide suitable habitats for different bird species. (SPA)

The fall and spring seasons are peak migration periods in Saudi Arabia, as birds traverse the region on their journeys between the northern and southern hemispheres.

Migratory birds from Africa, such as the African paradise flycatcher, pied cuckoo and gray-headed kingfisher, find suitable breeding grounds in Asir’s humid southwestern highlands. European species such as the European bee-eater also visit the region during the spring and summer.

The book, “Birds of Saudi Arabia,” published by Aramco in 2020, highlights the Kingdom’s rich avian diversity; 499 species are recorded, including 401 resident or migratory birds and 11 rare species.

 


Saudi artist adds local twist to French art movements

Saudi artist adds local twist to French art movements
Updated 14 September 2024
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Saudi artist adds local twist to French art movements

Saudi artist adds local twist to French art movements
  • Vibrant artworks are a ‘rebellion against dull landscapes of the past,’ says Mohammed Al-Aameri

RIYADH: In his latest exhibition, Saudi artist Mohammed Al-Aameri is presenting his own take on cubism and fauvism — with a Saudi twist.

“Red Line” at Kenz Gallery in the Al-Mousa Center, Riyadh, is on show until Sept. 20. The works on display draw particular inspiration from fauvism, an early 20th-century art movement known for its bold colors and expressive brushwork, favoring emotional expression through color over strict adherence to realism.

“Red Line” marks a pivotal moment in Al-Aameri’s artistic journey. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)

Al-Aameri told Arab News, “My exhibition focuses on expressing feelings and emotions as an alternative to realistic photography, while mixing my own style with techniques inspired by fauvism and cubism. Although fauvism was short-lived, it laid the groundwork for many modern-art movements.”

“Red Line” is the result of an artistic journey that spans decades. Al-Aameri’s paintings encapsulate stories, emotions, and cultural heritage.

Through my research, travel, and interaction with many (international) artists, I aim to revive the innovative spirit of these schools in my own style, presenting it in a new and distinctive way in Saudi Arabia.

Mohammed Al-Aameri, Saudi artist

“Through my research, travel, and interaction with many (international) artists, I aim to revive the innovative spirit of these schools in my own style, presenting it in a new and distinctive way in Saudi Arabia,” the 55-year-old artist said.

By tapping into modern art movements that push boundaries Mohammed Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)

“Red Line” consists of 20 works, including paintings that feature figures in traditional Saudi attire rendered in a vibrant palette that contrasts sharply with the muted colors typically associated with historical representations of the region.

“I love colors, and aim to express a spectrum in my paintings,” he said. “It’s a form of rebellion against the past, where we were often limited to dull landscapes of brown and green.”

Mohammed Al-Aameri, Saudi artist

Al-Aameri’s work is also deeply inspired by his childhood memories. These recollections provide a backdrop to his artistic expression, allowing him to weave personal history into his works.

At 19, Al-Aameri became enamored with Picasso’s art after seeing it in a magazine. “His work touched me and encouraged me to explore cubism,” he said. “I had been drawing in a classical style, but Picasso’s art showed me the potential to break boundaries. Cubism requires a deep understanding of geometry, which fascinated me.”

By tapping into modern art movements that push boundaries Mohammed Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)

This newfound passion led to opportunities for training with international artists in France and Florence, enriching his artistic perspective.

Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. “I aim to elevate the concept of art in Saudi Arabia, as many artists are still confined to traditional approaches,” he said.

His own artistic journey began at a young age. “I discovered my love for drawing at eight, inspired by my mother … my first portrait was of King Khaled, which amazed everyone and ignited my passion for art,” he said.

At 16, Al-Aameri sold his first painting—a watercolor depicting a Bedouin woman spinning wool. “The piece was filled with warm colors representing the Saudi environment,” he recalls. This artwork caught the attention of a British collector and was sold for SR3,500 ($933).

“Red Line” marks a pivotal moment in Al-Aameri’s artistic journey, showcasing not only his skill but also his vision for the future of art in Saudi Arabia.

“The exhibition is a celebration of art’s power to transcend limitations and connect with deeper truths,” he said.