AlUla archaeology conference to explore challenges, future of nomadic societies

AlUla archaeology conference to explore challenges, future of nomadic societies
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The conference, set to alternate with the AlUla World Archaeology Summit year after year, will bring together researchers and experts in archaeology and cultural heritage from around the world. (SPA)
AlUla archaeology conference to explore challenges, future of nomadic societies
2 / 3
The conference, set to alternate with the AlUla World Archaeology Summit year after year, will bring together researchers and experts in archaeology and cultural heritage from around the world. (SPA)
AlUla archaeology conference to explore challenges, future of nomadic societies
3 / 3
The conference, set to alternate with the AlUla World Archaeology Summit year after year, will bring together researchers and experts in archaeology and cultural heritage from around the world. (SPA)
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Updated 01 October 2024
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AlUla archaeology conference to explore challenges, future of nomadic societies

AlUla archaeology conference to explore challenges, future of nomadic societies

RIYADH: The Royal Commission for AlUla will host a global archaeology conference addressing the future of archaeology and the heritage of nomadic societies on Oct. 30-31.

The conference, set to alternate with the AlUla World Archaeology Summit year after year, will bring together researchers and experts in archaeology and cultural heritage from around the world.

Held at Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, nestled amid the striking landscape of AlUla, the event will consist of presentations, dialogues, workshops and case studies. It will showcase a collection of archaeological artifacts discovered in AlUla.

The conference will highlight the essential role of mobility in shaping the world today.

Since prehistoric times, mobility has been the means to access new opportunities, improve living conditions, explore and address environmental challenges, and escape natural disasters and social and political instabilities.

While mobility remains challenging for some, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic’s movement restrictions at the time, the conference provides an opportunity to shed light on aspects of mobility and nomadic societies, challenging traditional assumptions about mobility in the past and present.

The conference will focus on the fundamental role of prehistoric mobility, when movement was the primary means to reach areas with new opportunities and seek life chances. Caravan mobility served as a means to address environmental challenges and natural disasters.

At a time when mobility remains a challenge, the conference offers an opportunity to illuminate different facets of mobility and nomadic societies.

Royal Commission for AlUla Vice President of Culture Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani said that the conference aimed to provide an advanced and pioneering platform for dialogue and collaboration, and would alternate with the summit the following year.

The commission, he said, sought to maintain the momentum generated by the summit last year through the conference, while preparing for AlUla World Archaeology Summit in 2025.

Alsuhaibani said that AlUla was one of the most active regions in the world for archaeological exploration, with more than 30,000 archaeological sites identified and 12 search projects in its rich cultural landscape.

“AlUla has held a unique position for thousands of years as a crossroads for civilizations, serving as a beacon for cultural and intellectual exchange,” Alsuhaibani said.

Key speakers at the conference include Professor Willeke Wendrich from the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures at the University of California, Los Angeles, archaeology Professor Stefano Biagetti from the Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain, and Peter Debrine, leader of Sustainable Tourism Programme at UNESCO World Heritage Center in Paris.

Research overseen by the Royal Commission for AlUla by Saudi and international archaeologists has shed light on various highlights of AlUla’s history through the ages, including the massive stone structures known as “mustatil” (rectangle in Arabic).

Among the wonders are the ancient stone-built traps for animals, known as “desert kites,” the long “funerary avenues” that connected oases and pastures through corridors lined with tombs, and the dwellings known as the “standing stone circles.”

Studies indicate that early societies in the northwestern Arabian Peninsula were more complex and interconnected with the broader region than previously believed.

The conference is anticipated to host the first global exhibition featuring archaeological pieces from the National Archaeological Museum of Naples in Italy.

The agenda also includes field visits to prominent archaeological sites in AlUla and surrounding areas of note, including Tayma and Khaybar.


Arab and Muslim leaders reaffirm support for Palestinian cause at end of Riyadh summit

Arab and Muslim leaders reaffirm support for Palestinian cause at end of Riyadh summit
Updated 45 min 50 sec ago
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Arab and Muslim leaders reaffirm support for Palestinian cause at end of Riyadh summit

Arab and Muslim leaders reaffirm support for Palestinian cause at end of Riyadh summit
  • In closing statement they reiterate their backing for the Palestinian people and the fight for their legitimate rights
  • These include the right to freedom, the right to an independent sovereign state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and the right of return for refugees  

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said holding the extraordinary Arab and Islamic summit in Riyadh reflects the sincere desire of its participants to continue efforts aimed at ending Israel’s wars in Gaza and Lebanon.

Bin Farhan reiterated during the summit's press conference how the leaders of Arab and Muslim countries called for ending Israeli violations, and easing restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian aid, the Saudi Press Agency reported Tuesday. 

He also reiterated that the summit supports the two-state solution as the only option to achieve a just and lasting peace to resolve the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.

Bin Farhan said the participating countries will coordinate with the international community to achieve a ceasefire and limit the expansion of the conflict, and reduce the growing threat posed by Israeli military operations to regional and international security.

Leaders of Arab and Muslim countries who attended an extraordinary summit in Riyadh on Monday issued a closing statement in which they affirmed the importance of the Palestinian cause, and their firm support for the Palestinian people and their efforts to achieve their legitimate and inalienable national rights.

These rights include the right to freedom, the leaders said, the right to an independent and sovereign state with East Jerusalem as its capital, the right of return for refugees, the right to the compensation to which they are due in accordance with international resolutions, and the right to challenge any attempts to deny or undermine these rights.

The leaders also reaffirmed their support for the full sovereignty of the State of Palestine over occupied East Jerusalem. They said Jerusalem remains a red line for Arab and Muslim nations, and expressed absolute solidarity in protecting the Arab and Islamic identity of occupied East Jerusalem and defending the sanctity of Islamic and Christian holy sites there.

They also affirmed their absolute support for Lebanon, including its security, stability, sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.


Abu Radah and the musical heart of Riyadh’s carpet market

A beloved figure in Souq Al-Zal, Abu Radah is known for sharing his love for vintage sounds among locals and tourists alike.
A beloved figure in Souq Al-Zal, Abu Radah is known for sharing his love for vintage sounds among locals and tourists alike.
Updated 11 November 2024
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Abu Radah and the musical heart of Riyadh’s carpet market

A beloved figure in Souq Al-Zal, Abu Radah is known for sharing his love for vintage sounds among locals and tourists alike.
  • How one man’s passion is bringing Saudi musical history to life in Souq Al-Zal

RIYADH: In Riyadh’s bustling Souq Al-Zal the air is filled with the scent of spices, vibrant colors of traditional goods, and the echo of timeless melodies.

Amid the stalls of woven rugs and antiques, Abu Radah’s corner stands out. Known for his collection of records an cassettes, and his boundless passion for folk music, he has become a beloved figure in the market, sharing his love for vintage sounds with locals and tourists alike.

Rows of old-school cassette tapes evoke memories of simpler times, a reminder of the analog age preserved at Abu Radah’s stall in Souq Al-Zal. (AN photos by Abdulrhman Bin Shalhoub)

“I work with folk art. It’s my passion,” he told Arab News. “I love folk art; artists like Fahd Al-Saeed, Bashir Shannan, Essa, Taher, and all the folk artists, including Mohammed Abdu and Talal, all Khaleeji and non-Khaleeji music.”

For over two decades, Abu Radah has nurtured this passion, turning it into a collection that speaks to the soul of Saudi Arabia’s musical heritage.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Videos of Abu Radah spinning vinyl records and inviting visitors to dance have gone viral, bringing a new wave of attention to his humble stall.

• His corner is not just a place to buy records, but a place to experience a piece of Saudi history.

His stall, adorned with colorful rugs and surrounded by retro radios and speakers, is a treasure trove of music that resonates with Saudi heritage. “Honestly, I’ve been passionate about it since I was young. I started collecting records when I was around 17 or 18,” he said. “I used to get them from Abu Wahib, may he rest in peace, in Helat Al-Ahrar.

Abu Radah’s stall showcases a vibrant collection of vintage radios and speakers, inviting passersby to explore Saudi Arabia’s musical history. (AN photos by Abdulrhman Bin Shalhoub)

“Little by little, I collected records, tapes, silencing devices, recorders, musical scales, and classic recordings. It became a hobby and a routine for me, thank God.”

Visitors to Abu Radah’s stall can explore everything from rare vinyl records to cassette tapes, all carefully organized across tables covered in colorful textiles. “(I have) some rare records, like Bashir Shannan’s album ‘Al-Barih Yom Aindak.’ It’s hard to find, as well as the classic Fahd Al-Saeed records. These are collector’s items,” he says with pride.

A selection of vinyl records featuring classic Western artists, demonstrating Abu Radah’s diverse collection that appeals to both local enthusiasts and tourists. (AN photos by Abdulrhman Bin Shalhoub)

His dedication to preserving this musical heritage has made his stall a magnet for enthusiasts.

“Honestly, Bashir Shannan, may he rest in peace. He’s my favorite artist,” Abu Radah added, reflecting on his connection to the music.

His collection also includes international names. “I have records of Michael Jackson and other international artists. I got them because we receive tourists, and some might prefer non-Arabic music.”

A visitor inspects a vinyl record at Abu Radah’s stall, capturing a moment of nostalgia amidst the treasures of Riyadh’s Carpet Market (Souq Al-Zal). (AN photos by Abdulrhman Bin Shalhoub)

This blend of local and international records makes his stall a fascinating stop for tourists. “Tourists enjoy it here. We even had an American tourist who loved it when I played a Michael Jackson record, and it became a trending moment,” Abu Radah recalls with a smile.

Souq Al-Zal, known for its antique treasures and traditional crafts, has evolved in recent years, attracting a new generation eager to reconnect with their roots. Social media, particularly TikTok, has played a surprising role in this resurgence.

Videos of Abu Radah spinning vinyl records and inviting visitors to dance have gone viral, bringing a new wave of attention to his humble stall. Young Saudis and international tourists now flock to the market, eager to meet the man behind the music and experience his one-of-a-kind collection.

Abdullah Al-Sheqair, known as Shalgm, is another familiar face in the market who has spent eight to ten years there.

Shalgm admires how the market has evolved, crediting social media and the country’s leadership for revitalizing heritage. “Social media has boosted the market, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision has rejuvenated heritage. Previously, items like traditional coffee pots sold for little, but now they have high value. Back then, only the elderly were in this trade, but now both youth and elders are involved.”

According to Shalgm, the number of tourists has increased significantly, bringing fresh energy to the market. “Now, we have an increasing number of tourists visiting. They participate in auctions and enjoy the music with Abu Radah. Everyone’s happy,” he said.

Shalgm also holds a deep admiration for Abu Radah’s dedication to music. “Speaking of Abu Radah, he’s been a fan of Bashir for over 20 years … he is one of the nicest people in the market, even kinder than I am,” Shalgm added, highlighting Radah’s well-known generosity and warmth.

As the day winds down in Souq Al-Zal, the sound of Abu Radah’s records continues to echo through the market, creating an atmosphere where music bridges generations and cultures.

For those who pass by his stall, it is not just a place to buy records, but a place to experience a piece of Saudi history, brought to life by a man whose love for music is as timeless as the records he cherishes.

 


Saudi women weave legacy of traditional goat hair tents

In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region, elderly women skillfully craft traditional goat-hair tents. (SPA)
In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region, elderly women skillfully craft traditional goat-hair tents. (SPA)
Updated 11 November 2024
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Saudi women weave legacy of traditional goat hair tents

In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region, elderly women skillfully craft traditional goat-hair tents. (SPA)
  • Working with traditional tools like the “mitraq” (hammer) and “awtar” (strings), the artisans create tents of varying sizes and colors

RIYADH: In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region, a time-honored tradition continues to thrive as winter approaches.

Here, elderly women skillfully craft traditional goat-hair tents, known locally as “buyut al-sha’ar” — a living symbol of Saudi hospitality.

According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency, the traditional craft relies on goat and sheep hair, provided by the abundant livestock in the region, which includes more than 7 million heads of camels and cattle.

Working with traditional tools like the “mitraq” (hammer) and “awtar” (strings), the artisans create tents of varying sizes and colors.

“Depending on the craftswoman’s experience, a single tent can take anywhere from three days to a week to complete,” Umm Nada told SPA in an interview.

The making of the tent is a practice that carries immense cultural significance. As the women work, they recite traditional verses of poetry.

The finished tents fetch anywhere from SR1,600 ($427) to SR6,000 ($1,600), depending on size and decorative elements.

These traditional tents are experiencing renewed popularity among local families who set them up for excursions and picnics in the natural landscape.

The northern region’s moderate climate has made these tents particularly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.


Madinah governor meets Ukraine’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Madinah governor meets Ukraine’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia
Updated 11 November 2024
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Madinah governor meets Ukraine’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Madinah governor meets Ukraine’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia
  • The two sides discussed means to boost cooperation in education and research, as well as other topics of common interest

MADINAH: Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan met with Ukraine’s Ambassador to the Kingdom Anatolii Petrenko in Madinah on Monday.

They discussed issues of common interest, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Petrenko also met with President of the Islamic University of Madinah Dr. Saleh Alagla on the same day.

The two sides discussed means to boost cooperation in education and research, as well as other topics of common interest.

 


Saudi Intermobility Expo 2024 kicks off in Jeddah

Badr Abdullah Al-Dulami, vice minister at the Ministry of Transport and CEO of the Roads General Authority, attends exhibition.
Badr Abdullah Al-Dulami, vice minister at the Ministry of Transport and CEO of the Roads General Authority, attends exhibition.
Updated 11 November 2024
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Saudi Intermobility Expo 2024 kicks off in Jeddah

Badr Abdullah Al-Dulami, vice minister at the Ministry of Transport and CEO of the Roads General Authority, attends exhibition.
  • Exhibition aims to provide a platform for exhibitors to foster business opportunities, increase brand exposure and explore transport solutions in Saudi Arabia

JEDDAH: A gathering of road, rail, and transport professionals from the Middle East and North Africa region kicked off in Jeddah on Monday with participants from more than 30 countries.

The Saudi Intermobility Expo 2024 is being held at the Jeddah International Exhibition and Convention Center and will run until Nov. 13.

The exhibition aims to provide a platform for exhibitors to foster business opportunities, increase brand exposure and explore transport solutions in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking at the opening, Badr Abdullah Al-Dulami, vice minister at the Ministry of Transport and CEO of the Roads General Authority, said: “The road network and other modes of transportation play a vital role in connecting regions, enhancing trade support, driving the economy in general, and supporting tourism.”

He described how the Roads General Authority works to evaluate roads using artificial intelligence.

“We are also excited to discuss advancements in the Saudi Highway Code, (which) aims to provide a unified technical reference for the roads authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at all levels,” he added.

Yvonne Winter, co-founder and chief operating officer of FlyNow, a company that has developed a helicopter for autonomous personal flight, told Arab News that there are plans for thousands of FlyNow helicopters to transport the public around the Riyadh World Expo in 2030.

“Saudi Arabia is really embracing a very advanced air mobility industry; therefore, we are running a large pilot program next year in Saudi Arabia with all our partners.

“We will also start next year with the setup of the assembly plant in order to start the serious production of the cargo version in 2027 with a production of 3,000 units in the first year. So, as part of this, we have signed a memorandum of understanding with various government bodies,” she said.