First AlUla World Archaeology Summit Symposium 2024 unearths past for the present and future

First AlUla World Archaeology Summit Symposium 2024 unearths past for the present and future
The event took place at Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, which has 9,740 glass panels reflecting AlUla’s desert and landscape. (Shutterstock)
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Updated 01 November 2024
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First AlUla World Archaeology Summit Symposium 2024 unearths past for the present and future

First AlUla World Archaeology Summit Symposium 2024 unearths past for the present and future

ALULA: Antiquity came alive here at the first AlUla World Archaeology Summit Symposium 2024 titled “Moving Forward: Past, Present and Future in the Archaeology and Heritage of Mobile Communities.”

Held on Oct. 30 and 31, it was organized by the Royal Commission for AlUla and is a part of the new biennial series aimed at fostering global dialogue among experts in archeology and cultural heritage.

This year’s symposium provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the interactions between mobile and settled communities, with participants sharing global research, case studies and best practices.

The event took place at Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, which has 9,740 glass panels reflecting AlUla’s desert and landscape.

Built in 2019, Maraya has become an iconic part of AlUla’s cultural scene, hosting concerts, exhibitions and events that showcase both modern and traditional Saudi Arabia culture.

It was the perfect place to quite literally reflect on the past, while living in the present and looking to the future.

Reflecting on the symposium’s theme of mobility, organizers also addressed the global experience of halted movement during the recent COVID-19 global pandemic.

The theme of this year’s symposium encouraged critical examination of past and present mobility, from prehistory onward, as people have moved for various reasons; to access scarce resources, adapt to environmental pressures and respond to socio-political instability.

Speakers from six continents gathered to discuss topics including trade, commerce, climate change and conflict — all of which have shaped mobile communities throughout history.

The symposium highlights included keynote addresses by Willeke Wendrich from the University of California, Los Angeles, Stefano Biagetti from Pompeu Fabra University, UNESCO’s Peter DeBrine, and Khalid Alasmari from King Saud University.

Attendees visited archeological sites in Khaybar and Tayma and participated in panels and workshops focused on Saudi Arabia’s expanding role in archaeology.




Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani, vice president of culture at the RCU, spoke about AlUla’s unique heritage in light of the symposium, describing itas‘a crossroads for connection, cultural and knowledge exchange.’ (Supplied)

In addition, the symposium program featured a new, specially-curated showcase of recent archaeological discoveries in AlUla, along with a preview of a world-first exhibition that will include artifacts from the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli in Italy.

Ekhlass Al-Qananweh, who holds a doctorate in Northwest Semitic epigraphy, expressed delight at attending the symposium.

“I have a deep interest in antiquities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and journeyed here from Jordan to the architectural marvel that is Maraya to attend this gathering of the sharpest minds in the world of archaeology,” she told Arab News.

“In addition to the talks, I look with keen interest at the extremely qualified upcoming generation of archeologists — many of whom are in attendance — and I’m particularly interested in the vital participation of Saudi women in the field of archeological studies and in managing heritage and preserving it.”

During an Arab News interview, Adam Ford, cultural-heritage content expert at the royal commission, emphasized AlUla’s global significance and why it was chosen as host of the symposium.

“It is the World Archaeology Summit — it’s not an AlUla Summit. We want the world to come to us to discuss the world,” he said.

“The local community should be regarded as research partners with us,” he said, reiterating the RCU’s commitment to involving indigenous populations in preserving their heritage and amplifying it worldwide.

Ford also shared personal insights on the continuity of human experience across millennia. “We stand on the shoulders of giants … millions of actions and decisions and mistakes made by people of the past all culminate to now.”

He said that “although we will never meet these people,” their stories and choices continue to shape humanity’s present, emphasizing a universal pattern to endure, overcome challenges and pass on knowledge to future generations.

Certainly, if the lands could speak, they would echo stories that date back thousands of years when Lihyanite and Nabataean kingdoms reigned.

Today, AlUla contains lush oases, mountains and ancient heritage sites — as well as a thriving modern society. The best-known location in AlUla is Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A 52-hectare ancient settlement, Hegra was the principal southern city of the Nabataean kingdom. It comprises more than 100 well-preserved tombs, many with elaborate facades cut out of the sandstone outcrops surrounding the walled urban settlement.

In addition, AlUla is home to ancient Dadan, the capital of the kingdoms of Dadan and Lihyan, which is considered to be one of the most developed cities of the first millennium B.C.E. in the Arabian Peninsula.

There is also Jabal Ikmah, an open-air library with hundreds of inscriptions and writings, which has been listed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register.

AlUla Old Town, a hodgepodge, labyrinth of more than 900 mudbrick homes, dotted with small businesses developed from at least the 12th century, was selected as one of the world’s Best Tourism Villages in 2022 by UN Tourism.

Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani, vice president of culture at the RCU, spoke about AlUla’s unique heritage in light of the symposium, describing it as “a crossroads for connection, cultural and knowledge exchange.”

“Today, AlUla is one of the world’s most active areas for archeological exploration, with over 30,000 areas of archeological interest identified and more than a dozen active research projects,” he said.

“We established this event to become a progressive and leading platform for dialogue and collaboration, holding the first gathering in 2023 with an alternate format of symposium one year and summit the next.

“We are already laying the groundwork to build on the momentum of this event and for AWAS 2025.”


Riyadh launches Middle East’s largest urban rail network 

Riyadh launches Middle East’s largest urban rail network 
Updated 30 November 2024
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Riyadh launches Middle East’s largest urban rail network 

Riyadh launches Middle East’s largest urban rail network 
  • $22bn, energy-efficient Metro system will be a world leader, official says

RIYADH: The first three lines of the Riyadh Metro will begin operating on Sunday, forming part of the largest urban rail network in the Middle East.

Riyadh Metro, which is a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030, is a crucial step toward reducing traffic congestion in the capital, and improving quality of life for the city’s residents.

The first phase of the Riyadh Metro starts with three lines: the Blue line, connecting Olaya Street to Al Batʼha; the Yellow line, running along King Khalid International Airport Road; and the Purple line, covering Abdul Rahman bin Awf Road and Al-Shaikh Hassan Bin Hussain Street.

The Red line, covering King Abdullah Road, and the Green line, spanning King Abdulaziz Road, are both scheduled to begin operating on Dec. 15, while the Orange line, which covers Madinah Road, starts on Jan. 5, 2025.

The Riyadh Metro was launched 12 years after the project was announced in April 2012, when the Saudi Cabinet approved the implementation of the public transport project and formed a high-level committee to oversee it. Despite the challenges faced by the project, including the global pandemic, it was ultimately completed.

Contracts for the Riyadh Metro project were awarded in 2013 to three global consortiums, with a total value of about $22.5 billion (SR84.4 billion).

The project features several sustainable characteristics that promote eco-friendly transportation options. The metro system will employ energy-efficient trains and stations, as well as technologies such as regenerative braking to reduce energy consumption.

Additionally, some stations will be equipped with thousands of solar panels, and each metro station will rely on electricity sourced from renewable energy.

Maher Sheira, supervisor of digital infrastructure for the King Abdulaziz Public Transport Project in Riyadh, told Arab News: “Our target is to reduce traffic within the city by up to 30 percent. This goal is supported by the metro’s capacity to transport up to 3.6 million passengers daily, which is a challenging target, especially when compared to other cities that have struggled to transition car users to public transportation.”

Achieving this goal depends on several factors, including the city’s infrastructure, integration of various transport modes, and the overall complementarity of these services, he said.

“This project is one of the key initiatives that could help make these goals a reality.”

Sheira said that the launch of the metro and improvement of public transportation will not only alleviate traffic congestion, but also also play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions.

“We all know that shifting from daily car use to public transportation can have a significant environmental impact,” he said.

“In a small study we conducted, we found that if 100,000 passengers switch from cars to public transport, it could save over 3 million trees annually. This number has the potential to grow even further.”

He said both the metro and the bus systems are integral parts of the King Abdulaziz Public Transport Program.

These systems are seamlessly integrated, ensuring a smooth and reliable experience for passengers. Once a passenger exits a metro station and boards a bus, they will use the same ticket and enjoy the same high level of service.

“To ensure quality, the design of both networks was focused on delivering first-class standards, with an emphasis on maintaining top-tier service throughout the entire journey,” Sheira added.

“The quality of service is evident throughout the system. You can see it at the stations, on the trains, and certainly on the buses and at the bus stops. We are committed to maintaining this high standard of quality and will continue to do so.”

Numerous factors have been taken into account to ensure the success and efficiency of the vast network.

“Our goal is to keep Riyadh at the forefront of global cities in terms of public transportation. This is our objective, and with determination, we are confident that we will achieve it, Inshallah,” he said.

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Inspiring story

The inspiring story of the Riyadh Metro began in 2009, led by a visionary king with determination and ambition for the future; the story’s hero is King Salman. 

The document was submitted by King Salman to develop the public transportation system in Riyadh:

My Lord, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz — May Allah preserve you. 

I am honored to inform Your Royal Highness that the city of Riyadh, which is witnessing significant population growth, urban expansion, and substantial economic prosperity, has started to experience severe traffic congestion on its main streets due to the ongoing rise in traffic.

Accordingly, the High Commission for the Development of Riyadh has developed a comprehensive and long-term plan to enhance the city’s public transportation system.

First: Establishing the backbone of the public transportation system through manufacturing an electric train.

Second: Implementing a bus network that covers all areas of Riyadh, with its services integrated with the electric train system. The network covers 708 kilometers and is also integrated with the local network within residential neighborhoods. 

The High Commission has fully prepared the engineering designs, technical specifications, and tender documents for this phase, paving the way for its implementation. 

Therefore, I kindly request Your Highness’s approval of this matter. May Allah preserve you, guide your steps, and grant you success. Peace and blessings be upon you. 

Chairman of the High Commission for the Development of Riyadh

Salman bin Abdulaziz

20/10/2009


A tapestry of cultures: Indonesian batik meets Saudi heritage

A tapestry of cultures: Indonesian batik meets Saudi heritage
Updated 30 November 2024
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A tapestry of cultures: Indonesian batik meets Saudi heritage

A tapestry of cultures: Indonesian batik meets Saudi heritage
  • Centuries-old art form of batik deeply rooted in Indonesian culture
  • Included on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage

RIYADH: Reporting on the Saudi International Handicrafts Week Exhibition (Banan) on Saturday, the Saudi Press Agency highlighted the Indonesian pavilion, which showcased the exquisite art of batik.

Indonesian artisans had creatively blended traditional batik techniques with motifs inspired by different regions of the Kingdom, “creating stunning pieces that seamlessly intertwine the two cultures,” according to the SPA.

The centuries-old art form of batik is deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, and is included on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. It involves a meticulous process known as wax resist-dyeing to create its intricate patterns. The designs often have cultural and religious significance, reflecting the deep connection between Indonesians and their environment.

The convergence of Indonesian and Saudi artistic traditions at Banan, which ended on Friday, “exemplifies the power of art to transcend cultural boundaries,” the SPA stated.

Dalia Alyahya, head of the handcrafts sector at the Heritage Commission, which organized the event, highlighted the significance of such cultural exchanges.

“Through art, we can bridge cultural divides and foster global harmony. Batik, with its rich history and enduring appeal, continues to inspire and connect people across the world,” Alyahya told the SPA.

Artists and representatives from more than 20 countries exhibited at the event alongside the Kingdom’s own talent.

Through Banan and other initiatives, the Heritage Commission “raises awareness about the importance of handicrafts as part of cultural heritage, ensuring they are preserved and passed on,” the SPA wrote.


Saudi Arabia arrests 19,024 illegals in one week

Saudi Arabia arrests 19,024 illegals in one week
Updated 13 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia arrests 19,024 illegals in one week

Saudi Arabia arrests 19,024 illegals in one week
  • The report showed that among the 1,212 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 73 percent were Ethiopian, 25 percent Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 19,024 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

According to an official report, a total of 11,268 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,773 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 2,983 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,212 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 73 percent were Ethiopian, 25 percent Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 122 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 22 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.

 


Royal order approves transformation of King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital

Royal order approves transformation of King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital
Updated 30 November 2024
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Royal order approves transformation of King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital

Royal order approves transformation of King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital

RIYADH: A royal order was issued on Saturday to transform King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital and Research Center into an independent, non-profit institution under the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Ibrahim bin Mohammed Al-Sultan, acting CEO of the commission, thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their commitment to improving health services in the Kingdom, the SPA added.

Al-Sultan said that the transformation will “establish the hospital as a global leader in ophthalmology, reflecting the leadership’s dedication to providing world-class healthcare.”

The hospital's transformation is part of a broader initiative to enhance specialized health and educational entities, including King Saud University and King Faisal Specialist Hospital.

The Royal Commission will oversee the hospital’s development, ensuring it aligns with international standards and “continues to serve as a cornerstone of Saudi healthcare excellence,” the SPA reported.

 


Thai scholar thanks Saudi Arabia for ‘transformative role’ in his life

Thai scholar thanks Saudi Arabia for ‘transformative role’ in his life
Updated 30 November 2024
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Thai scholar thanks Saudi Arabia for ‘transformative role’ in his life

Thai scholar thanks Saudi Arabia for ‘transformative role’ in his life

RIYADH: Abdullah Mustafa, a prominent Muslim scholar from Thailand and one of the guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Umrah and Visit, has expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its pivotal role in shaping his life and career, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Fifty years ago, a young Mustafa embarked on a life-changing journey to Saudi Arabia, receiving a scholarship from the Islamic University of Madinah. He fondly recalled the simplicity of the Prophet’s Mosque during his early days — a stark contrast to the magnificent religious landmark it has become today.

During his 16 years in Saudi Arabia, Mustafa immersed himself in Islamic studies, earning a doctorate in Islamic advocacy and interfaith dialogue. His academic pursuits were particularly focused on understanding Buddhism, the predominant religion in Thailand, and developing effective strategies for Islamic outreach.

Upon his return to Thailand, he dedicated his life to spreading the message of Islam. He translated the Holy Qur’an into the Thai language, making it accessible to a wider audience. His tireless efforts have led to numerous conversions and a strengthened Muslim community in Thailand.

He emphasized the enduring impact of Saudi Arabia’s support for Muslims worldwide and highlighted the “esteemed” position held by graduates of Saudi universities in various fields, including education and Islamic jurisprudence.

Looking to the future, Mustafa expressed hope that his daughter, currently studying at Taibah University in Madinah, will continue his legacy of serving Islam.

He acknowledged the Kingdom’s progressive approach to education, emphasizing the importance of women scholars in Islamic advocacy.

He also extended heartfelt thanks to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering commitment to serving Islam and Muslims around the world, and gratitude to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for its endeavors to promote moderate Islam and foster “global Islamic unity.”