Asir highlights tourism opportunities at Hong Kong forum 

Asir highlights tourism opportunities at Hong Kong forum 
During the session, he said the authority in the Asir region was seeking partnerships for development in the crucial tourism sector. (SPA)
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Updated 10 September 2024
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Asir highlights tourism opportunities at Hong Kong forum 

Asir highlights tourism opportunities at Hong Kong forum 

RIYADH: The Asir Region Development Authority is participating in the International Hospitality Investment Forum in Hong Kong to introduce investors to the region’s tourism sector. 

The authority has a pavilion at the exhibition, running until Sept. 11, and held meetings with international investors, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

Sultan Al-Shehri, chief of investment at the authority, participated in a session titled “Catalysts of Tourism and Hospitality Investment: Infrastructure, Regulation, Policy and Mega Projects.” 

During the session, he said the authority in the Asir region was seeking partnerships for development in the crucial tourism sector. 

The ongoing developments in Asir, Al-Shehri said, reflect the Kingdom’s broader investment and economic diversification ambitions. The aim is to position the region as a global, year-round tourist hotspot. 

The authority’s participation in the forum coincides with the conclusion of this year's summer season. An estimated 1.1 million tourists visited Asir over the last seven months.

There was an increase in tourists to Asir from 6.8 million in 2022 to 7.6 million in 2023.


Saudi Arabia’s King Faisal University lands Gartner Eye on Innovation Award

Saudi Arabia’s King Faisal University lands Gartner Eye on Innovation Award
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Saudi Arabia’s King Faisal University lands Gartner Eye on Innovation Award

Saudi Arabia’s King Faisal University lands Gartner Eye on Innovation Award
  • Gartner Award, a major accolade in technical research and consulting, is headquartered in Stamford, US

RIYADH: King Faisal University has been awarded the prestigious Gartner Eye on Innovation Award for Education 2024 in the category of “Innovation in Teaching and Learning,” Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday. 

The award recognizes the university’s groundbreaking efforts in developing an augmented reality (AR) application that transforms traditional teaching methods.

The AR application introduces interactive 3D scientific content, enhancing students’ ability to grasp complex concepts and enriching their overall educational experience, SPA added.

This tool marks a significant leap forward in the university’s approach to teaching and learning.

Dr. Fawaz bin Wasl Allah Al-Saedi, Dean of E-Learning and Information Technology, emphasized the university’s leadership in integrating cutting-edge technology into education.

He noted that King Faisal University’s project was chosen from a wide range of submissions by top international educational institutions, highlighting its global standing in advancing educational technology.

The Gartner Award, a major accolade in technical research and consulting, is headquartered in Stamford, US, and celebrates institutions that leverage technology to improve education in innovative ways.


Diriyah Biennale announces winner of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize

Diriyah Biennale announces winner of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize
Updated 11 October 2024
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Diriyah Biennale announces winner of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize

Diriyah Biennale announces winner of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize
  • The winning team includes Lebanon and UAE-based East Architecture Studio, British engineering firm AKT II, and Lebanese artist Rayyane Tabet
  • Design combines Islamic architecture and heritage with modern sustainable practices and is inspired by palm tree farms in the Kingdom

RIYADH: The Diriyah Biennale Foundation announced the winner of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize, an architectural competition to create an innovative prayer space at King Abdulaziz International Airport’s Hajj Terminal in Jeddah, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The successful design team includes East Architecture Studio, which has offices in Lebanon and the UAE; British engineering firm AKT II; and Lebanese artist Rayyane Tabet, who splits his time between Beirut and San Francisco.
The team said they set out to design a communal prayer area that combines traditional Islamic architecture with modern sustainable practices, with the aim of creating a serene, inclusive space in which people can reflect on and engage with the rich artistic and spiritual traditions of Islam.
The design of the 6x6-meter space, inspired by palm tree farms in the Kingdom, will be constructed using materials derived from the trees, an abundant natural resource in Saudi Arabia, including wood and fronds. This choice reflects a revival in local crafts and architecture inspired by Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad neighborhood.
According to SPA, the space is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with an open courtyard in addition to designated areas for prayers. The interior of the musalla, or prayer space, will be adorned with layers of textiles colored with dyes that use natural pigments, with the aim of creating a connection between worshippers and their environment.
Prince Nawaf bin Nayef, who chaired the prize jury, said the winning project balances traditional Islamic architectural principles with an innovative, modern, eco-friendly design. The use of palm trees symbolizes the region’s cultural and environmental connections, he added, while the simplicity and versatility of the design means it can be easily assembled and disassembled, making it a model for sustainable architecture.
Aya Al-Bakri, the CEO of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, praised the successful team for creating a prayer space that embodies the values of openness and community and reflects the broader mission of the Islamic Arts Biennale to promote cultural exchanges.
The musalla will be installed as a central feature of the Islamic Arts Biennale, which begins on Jan. 25, 2025, and will remain there for four months before being moved to the airport.


Saudi Arabia, Malaysia bilateral trade in 2023 recorded at $11.07bn

Saudi Arabia, Malaysia bilateral trade in 2023 recorded at $11.07bn
Updated 11 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia, Malaysia bilateral trade in 2023 recorded at $11.07bn

Saudi Arabia, Malaysia bilateral trade in 2023 recorded at $11.07bn
  • Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah, ambassador of Malaysia to Saudi Arabia highlighted the two countries’ history as trading partners
  • “We are celebrating the National Day not only for Malaysia, we are celebrating the good ties between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia”

RIYADH: The Kingdom was the largest trading partner of Malaysia among the West Asian countries in 2023, Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah, ambassador of Malaysia to Saudi Arabia, said on Thursday.
Abdullah was speaking at a reception hosted by the Embassy of Malaysia, celebrating National Day, Malaysia Day, and the 91st Malaysian Armed Forces Day at Riyadh’s Cultural Palace.
He highlighted the two countries’ history as trading partners.
“The total bilateral trade between the two countries in 2023 was recorded at $11.07 billion, an increase of 8.5 percent from 2022,” he said. “As of the first quarter 2024, numerous projects involving the Kingdom’s participation have been approved in Malaysia, with total investments amounting to $1.65 billion.
“The bilateral economic ties have been strengthened further with the inauguration of a business council during the visit of Majed Al-Qasabi, minister of commerce, to Malaysia this year, paving the way for more extensive trade and investment opportunities, particularly in sectors aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
“We are celebrating the National Day not only for Malaysia, we are celebrating the good ties between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia,” the ambassador told Arab News.
“That’s why we invite diverse people, not only Malaysians, but also our Malaysian friends in Saudi Arabia and businesses.”
In his opening remarks, Abdullah highlighted that the celebration of National Day and Malaysia Day was centered around the theme, “Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka.”
He explained that Malaysia MADANI represented Malaysia’s prosperity and progress, grounded on the core values of “sustainability, care and compassion, respect, innovation, prosperity and trust.”
The Malaysian Armed Forces celebrate their Armed Forces Day in line with the formation of Malaysia on Sept. 16, 1963.
The ambassador in his speech highlighted the history of Malaysia, the country’s stance on Palestine, and Saudi-Malaysian cooperation on trade and bilateral relations.
“Since the independence of our nation 67 years back, on August 31, 1957, Malaysia has witnessed phenomenal growth, transitioning from an agriculture-based economy to a dynamic, diversified one,” Abdullah said.
He said that “Malaysia remains unwavering in its support of the Palestinians and their cause to achieve freedom from the illegal Israeli occupation.”
Speaking about bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, the ambassador said that numerous high-level visits had taken place since his mission as ambassador, referencing Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s several visits to the Kingdom.
“This not only solidifies the longstanding close relations between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia but further strengthens the personal bond between the two leaders,” he said.
Following his remarks, young martial artists took to the stage in a multiple-part traditional Malaysian martial arts demonstration.
Undersecretary of Riyadh Region Faisal Al-Sudairi was among the invited officials attending the ceremony.


A new visual journey: Noor Riyadh unveils art book in London

A new visual journey: Noor Riyadh unveils art book in London
Updated 11 October 2024
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A new visual journey: Noor Riyadh unveils art book in London

A new visual journey: Noor Riyadh unveils art book in London
  • Publication celebrates light art festival, city

RIYADH: Noor Riyadh, a flagship program of Riyadh Art, has announced the publication of its first coffee-table book, “Noor Riyadh: A New Visual Culture,” in collaboration with the global publishing house Assouline.

The milestone event took place in London, and was attended by curators, artists, and creatives from around the world, Riyadh Art’s media center said on Thursday.

The publication honors Noor Riyadh’s legacy as the world’s largest light art festival and pays tribute to Riyadh itself, which is transformed into an open-air gallery that blends tradition with modernity.

With contributions from artists within Saudi Arabia and beyond, the initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal to enhance the arts among Riyadh’s residents and visitors.

The publication takes readers on a visual journey through the previous editions of Noor Riyadh, showcasing the diverse artworks that have reflected the vibrant energy and transformative power of light in uniting and inspiring people.

It tells a story of innovation and aesthetic expression in light art, featuring significant contributions that enrich the cultural scene and cement Noor Riyadh as a comprehensive artistic event of global significance.

The special edition, which is part of Assouline’s Classics and Ultimate Collections, reveals the collaborative spirit of the creative community and reflects the dynamic essence of Riyadh.

It offers a unique opportunity for art lovers, photographers, and anyone inspired by the message of light art.

Noor Riyadh Festival holds a prestigious place in Guinness World Records as the world’s largest light art festival.

It returns to Riyadh from Nov. 28 to Dec. 14 with the theme “Light Years Apart,” exploring the profound connection between the Earth and stars.

Visitors to the event will experience 60 grand artworks and engage with both traditional and modern concepts of light and creativity.

Through sculptural installations, immersive experiences, and light projection techniques, the event will transform Riyadh into a living, illuminated canvas, fostering a vibrant dialogue between art and technology.

Noor Riyadh is a citywide annual festival of light and art which was launched in March 2021. It includes the festival and a world-class exhibition, along with a public program of community activities featuring educational workshops, talks and performances.

Staged by Riyadh Art, the festival aims to nurture local talent and help to inspire youngsters to drive Saudi Arabia’s creative economy.


Mayors of Riyadh and Seoul sign MoU

Mayors of Riyadh and Seoul sign MoU
Updated 11 October 2024
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Mayors of Riyadh and Seoul sign MoU

Mayors of Riyadh and Seoul sign MoU
  • Prince Faisal and Oh Se-hoon also discussed future cooperation between two capitals

SEOUL: The mayor of Riyadh signed a memorandum of understanding with his Seoul counterpart during his visit to the South Korean capital, Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf and Oh Se-hoon oversaw the signing ceremony at an event on Friday.

The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral ties and foster cooperation in key areas such as city management, smart cities, cultural exchange, and sustainable urban planning.

The MoU will covers collaboration in infrastructure management, parks and gardens, digital governance, waste management, and recycling, alongside the exchange of experts and hosting joint events.

Prince Faisal and Oh Se-hoon also discussed future cooperation between Riyadh and Seoul and shared insights on urban development and sustainable planning.