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JEDDAH: Makkah’s Deputy Gov. Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz received US Consul General Dao Le in Jeddah on Sunday.
The parties discussed topics of common interest, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The American Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual general meeting in Jeddah, where Le affirmed his country’s commitment to ensuring it remained Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner.
RIYADH: A new award has been launched with the aim of improving the quality of tourist offerings in the Arab world.
A memorandum of cooperation launching the Tourism Quality Award was signed by Bandar Al-Fuhaid, president of the Arab Tourism Organization, and Talal Mandoura, CEO of the Quality Applications Co., according to a statement issued on Sunday.
The Arab Tourism Organization said that the award is part of its efforts to enhance the quality of tourism services and contribute to sustainable tourism development.
It will include a comprehensive evaluation of various aspects of the tourism sector, ranging from regulations and laws to the quality of services provided to tourists.
Judging focuses on eight main areas: the quality of regulations and laws, tourism services and products, tourism management, tourist destinations, transportation, accommodation and restaurants, tours and guides, as well as management and knowledge transfer.
“The company will develop training and qualification programs for individuals and institutions to enable them to apply tourism quality and excellence standards,” Mandoura told Arab News.
The award will require effective governance to ensure its transparency and credibility and to achieve its intended goals, he explained.
Khaled Al-Akwa, the award’s technical director, told Arab News that it will motivate tourism institutions to adopt global best practices and develop their products and services to meet the growing needs of tourists.
He explained how the award will create a healthy competitive environment among institutions and boost investment.
“The Tourism Quality Award is a crucial step to boost (the) Arab tourism sector. By applying the principles of good governance, this award can achieve its desired goals of elevating the level of tourism services and enhancing the position of Arab tourism globally,” Al-Akwa said.
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has followed recent developments in Syria and is satisfied with the positive steps that have been taken to ensure the safety of the Syrian people, the Kingdom’s Foreign Ministry said on Sunday.
The Kingdom is also satisfied with steps taken to stop bloodshed in the country and preserve its institutions and capabilities, the ministry added in a statement.
The ministry affirmed the Kingdom’s support for the Syrian people and their choices at this critical stage in Syria’s history, and called for concerted efforts to preserve the unity of the country and its people, in a way that protects Syria from slipping into chaos and division.
The ministry also affirmed the Kingdom’s support for everything that would achieve the security and stability of Syria in a way that preserves its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
The Kingdom calls on the international community to stand by the Syrian people and cooperate with them in everything that serves Syria, and to refrain from interfering in its internal affairs.
It said supporting Syria at this stage is extremely important to help it overcome the woes that the Syrian people have suffered over the course of many years, during which foreign militias have ravaged Syria to impose foreign agendas on its people.
It is time for the Syrian people to enjoy the dignified life they deserve, and for all its elements to contribute to shaping a bright future of security, stability, and prosperity, the statement said.
DHAHRAN: Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast, shimmering against the backdrop of the sea and the picturesque Qatif Corniche.
With 60 commercial units offering everything from trendy boutiques to delightful eateries, C Front promises shopping, dining, and entertainment catering to different tastes.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a lively atmosphere where the salty breeze mingles with the aroma of diverse cuisines.
The project boasts a beautiful 2-km promenade for families and friends to stroll along while enjoying captivating views of the glistening waters and lively community.
Enhanced by dancing fountains and spectacular lighting and sound systems, the promenade transforms ordinary shopping trips into extraordinary experiences.
Currently, C FRONT also features exciting pop-up shops that are available until Dec. 14.
These include local abaya designers, clothing shops, Arab perfumes, gold jewelry, frankincense from Oman, dried fruits, books, and a diverse range of restaurants serving sweet delights like chocolate and ice cream, as well as savory options like tacos and burgers.
There is also a play area and an “Ice Kingdom” where kids can play with snow.
While the pop-up shops are temporary, the permanent stores will remain open, promising a wealth of choices, including cafes, food outlets, and family-friendly options.
“The vision for developing C Front is to create a comprehensive destination that reflects the aspirations of Qatif and aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 in supporting economic and social development,” said Khaled Al-Rasoul Shahab, executive director of Al-Seef Al-Sharqi Co.
Laila Abualsaud, co-owner of Tree Optics with her husband, expressed her enthusiasm for being involved in this exciting project.
“Tree Optics was founded to deliver an exceptional eyewear shopping experience, emphasizing creativity and quality. We are proud to be the first store to open in the unique C Front location,” she told Arab News.
Speaking about what is to come, Shahab said, “We plan to host a series of recreational and cultural events at C Front, including seasonal markets, live performances, and activities for all ages.
“Collaborations with local and international brands will further enhance its appeal as a key destination in Qatif.”
He also highlighted the range of businesses at C Front: “The project features a diverse lineup of restaurants, cafes, fashion shops, and the first hotel in Qatif, elevating service standards and enhancing the shopping experience with numerous options for visitors.”
Discussing C Front’s architectural choices, he added, “C Front features an innovative blend of modernity and Qatif’s coastal character, inspired by the natural environment.
“Its design emphasizes open spaces and visitors’ comfort while reflecting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by focusing on quality design and showcasing local identity.”
Alseef Alsharqi Co., a multi-activity firm engaged in real estate development, investment, and contracting, and Ryadah, an investment and real estate marketing company specializing in facilities and property management, both played crucial roles in bringing C Front to fruition.
Saudi Minister of Municipalities and Housing Majed Al-Hogail and Eastern Province Secretary Fahd Al-Jubair recently visited C Front as part of a broader exploration of development projects and investment opportunities in the area.
RIYADH: Arab media professionals attending the Noor Riyadh festival have highlighted the significant artistic activity in Saudi Arabia, noting that the movement drives creativity and innovation in the Kingdom’s contemporary arts scene.
Noor Riyadh serves as a platform for cultural exchange, aligning with Riyadh Art’s goal of nurturing local talent and boosting the capital’s cultural economy.
The festival, held under the theme “Light Years Apart” until Dec. 14, features artworks by over 60 artists across three hubs: King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifa, and JAX District.
Some 43 international artists from countries including Australia, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Turkiye, the UK, the UAE, and the US are showcasing their work, in addition to 18 Saudi artists.
Sara Al-Abri, a journalist at Oman’s newspaper Al Roya, told Arab News that the festival stood out for its diverse artworks, with the use of modern technologies like digital lighting and interactive art creating a unique experience.
She said: “What particularly caught my attention was the innovative integration of art and technology, adding depth and beauty to the venue.”
She added that the event also embodied Saudi Vision 2030, which promotes culture and the arts.
“I noticed a growing interest in contemporary and digital arts in Saudi Arabia, alongside traditional arts,” she said.
Mohammed Alafthan, TRT World correspondent in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), said contemporary arts in the Kingdom were making enormous strides and almost racing against time to keep up with global advancements, adding: “Saudi society, in all its segments, has a deep appreciation for creativity and visual arts.
“The integration of the Kingdom’s ancient civilization with contemporary arts added a magical touch to the Noor Riyadh Festival.”
Ahmed Al-Fadalah, a writer for Bahrain’s newspaper Al Ayam, said: “The event was truly stunning. I was impressed by the diversity of the artistic forms displayed, reflecting the immense creativity of Saudi artists.”
Al-Fadalah highlighted the high quality of the displayed works, and added: “(This) indicates noticeable development in the local art scene.
“An event like Noor Riyadh demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to driving creativity and innovation in contemporary arts.”
RIYADH: The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, in collaboration with the permanent mission of Saudi Arabia to the UN in New York, will stage events from Dec. 9 to 11 at UN headquarters to celebrate World Arabic Language Day.
This year’s theme is “Arabic Language and AI — Advancing Innovation While Preserving Cultural Heritage,” the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Held under the patronage of Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the event will welcome high-ranking international and diplomatic figures.
This marks the fourth consecutive year of the celebration, which displays the academy’s efforts to promote Arabic in global organizations and highlights Saudi Arabia’s dedication to preserving the language’s cultural and scientific heritage.
The event will include a panel discussion titled “Arabic Translation at the UN,” featuring international experts, and a virtual training course on “Arabic Translation Skills for Diplomatic Purposes” for UN staff.
An Arabic Language Exhibition will feature artistic works and digital displays focused on the language’s beauty, history, and impact on other civilizations. It will reflect Saudi culture’s authenticity while introducing the academy’s activities and publications.
