British explorer Alice Morrison to embark on 2,500-km trek across Saudi Arabia

British explorer and television presenter Alice Morrison is preparing for a groundbreaking expedition that will see her traverse Saudi Arabia on foot, becoming the first person to journey from the Kingdom’s far north to its far south. (SPA)
British explorer and television presenter Alice Morrison is preparing for a groundbreaking expedition that will see her traverse Saudi Arabia on foot, becoming the first person to journey from the Kingdom’s far north to its far south. (SPA)
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Updated 30 December 2024
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British explorer Alice Morrison to embark on 2,500-km trek across Saudi Arabia

British explorer Alice Morrison to embark on 2,500-km trek across Saudi Arabia
  • Alice Morrison featured AlUla in her recent series “Arabian Adventure: The Secrets of the Nabateans,” which aired earlier this year on BBC
  • Morrison is equally passionate about connecting with Saudi women during her journey

RIYADH: British explorer and television presenter Alice Morrison is preparing for a groundbreaking expedition that will see her traverse Saudi Arabia on foot, becoming the first person to journey from the Kingdom’s far north to its far south, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

Her ambitious five-month trek begins on Jan. 1, covering a distance of 2,500 km.

Accompanied by local guides and camels, Morrison will navigate Saudi Arabia’s diverse terrains, including its deserts, oases, and mountains.

Her journey is driven by three key objectives: to uncover new landmarks and historical insights, to spotlight the significant role of Saudi women in society, and to showcase the nation’s natural beauty and environmental conservation efforts, SPA added.

“I have been studying Arabic and the Middle East for 45 years,” she said as she reflected on her upcoming adventure. “Now, I get to explore the heart of Arabia.”

By retracing ancient caravan routes, Morrison said she is aiming to shed light on the historical narratives that defined the region while offering fresh perspectives on a nation undergoing rapid transformation and modernization.

A significant milestone on her route will be AlUla, a location steeped in history and heritage. This destination is familiar to Morrison, who featured it in her recent series “Arabian Adventure: The Secrets of the Nabateans,” which aired earlier this year on the BBC.

“The route I am taking is stuffed with history, so I’ll be searching for new sites. I’m also walking through climate change and will be recording my findings,” she explained. “The desert is a harsh mistress, and I am sure she will be teaching me many lessons along the route.”

Morrison is equally passionate about connecting with Saudi women during her journey, dedicating time to hear their stories and share their experiences.

“As a female explorer, I am willing to spend time with Saudi women telling their stories,” Morrison said, emphasizing the importance of engaging with local communities.

At 61, Morrison sees her expedition as an inspiration for others to pursue their dreams, regardless of age, and a means of fostering greater interest in and understanding of the Kingdom.

“I am a mid-life woman, and I hope my adventure inspires others to get out and follow their dreams. I couldn’t have attempted this at 25; I needed the life experience to get me here.”


Meet your sole mate at Sneaker Con in Riyadh

Sneaker Con features more than 150 brands showcasing curated collections of rare sneakers, fashion items, and accessories.
Sneaker Con features more than 150 brands showcasing curated collections of rare sneakers, fashion items, and accessories.
Updated 08 February 2025
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Meet your sole mate at Sneaker Con in Riyadh

Sneaker Con features more than 150 brands showcasing curated collections of rare sneakers, fashion items, and accessories.
  • Visitors can buy, sell, and trade rare and limited-edition sneakers

RIYADH: Sneaker Con in Riyadh has opened its doors to enthusiasts and collectors, offering a platform to buy, sell, and trade rare and limited-edition items as part of Riyadh Season.

Billed as “The Greatest Sneaker Show on Earth,” Sneaker Con is one of the world’s largest sneaker conventions, which has previously been held in cities across North America, Europe, and Asia. Its Riyadh edition — the first in Saudi Arabia — runs until Feb. 19 at ANB Arena.

A pair of signed sneakers by basketball player Michael Jordan, featured at Sneaker Con Riyadh. (AN photo by Hajar AlQusayer)

The event provides visitors with the opportunity to engage with industry experts and meet influencers in the sneaker community.

One visitor, Fares Indejani, highlighted the growing sneaker culture in Riyadh, pointing out that sneakers have become an integral part of personal style and expression. He told Arab News about the impact of the event on the local sneaker community.

These sneaker communities are micro-communities that are often isolated and don’t really have a dedicated space. But this event changes that … you can just walk in and meet others like you.

Fares Indejani, Sneaker enthusiast

“These sneaker communities are micro-communities that are often isolated and don’t really have a dedicated space,” he said. “But this event changes that … you can just walk in and meet others like you.

Visitors engaging with various shops and exploring exclusive sneakers at Sneaker Con Riyadh. (Supplied)

“You get an idea of what direction we’re heading toward, and that’s valuable knowledge for investors and business owners,” he added. “Really knowing what kind of communities are popping up, seeing how loud and real they are, and recognizing that they exist, have a voice, and are moving, is crucial.”

Abdulmohsen Al-Ahmari, another visitor, said the event provides an opportunity to see sneakers that are not typically available.

“Making connections at Sneaker Con and getting to know people helps me later,” he said.

Chase Young, a sneaker trader and founder of Culture Kicks, said: “There are people with crazy pairs of shoes and a lot of different collectors’ items here, and very high-end shoes, so (the market) is definitely big here.”

Sneaker Con features more than 150 brands showcasing curated collections of rare sneakers, fashion items, and accessories.

 


Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran

Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran
Updated 10 min 48 sec ago
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Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran

Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran
  • Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days featured many other activities, ensuring that visitors could engage with Japan’s cultural heritage through a variety of creative, educational and interactive experiencesIthra’s Japan Cultural Days featured many other activities

DHAHRAN: Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days concluded on Saturday after a dynamic 17-day run, offering visitors a deep and immersive experience into Japanese arts, traditions and contemporary culture.

The event, which began on Jan. 23, attracted more than 200,000 visitors in its first 10 days.

A variety of activities were offered for children and adults, ensuring everyone's enjoyment. (Supplied)

Japanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Morino Yasunari toured the exhibitions, engaged with artists and cultural representatives, and highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.

His visit underscored the significance of the festival in fostering dialogue and mutual appreciation.

A wide variety of music was featured at the festival, from meditative shakuhachi to high-energy drums. (Supplied)

The program featured a wide range of activities for both children and adults, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages. Families took part in hands-on craft workshops, traditional calligraphy, origami and manga drawing sessions, while younger visitors enjoyed storytelling sessions featuring Japanese folktales and legends.

One of the most anticipated performances came from Drum Tao, the globally renowned Japanese drumming ensemble known for its powerful stage presence and theatrical performances.

A variety of activities were offered for children and adults, ensuring everyone's enjoyment. (Supplied)

The group combined traditional taiko drumming with modern choreography and lighting effects, delivering a high-energy spectacle that captivated audiences.

A metaverse experience in Ithra’s plaza allowed visitors to explore virtual Japanese markets and cultural celebrations.

A wide variety of music was featured at the festival, from meditative shakuhachi to high-energy drums. (Supplied)

The festival also explored Japanese storytelling through literature and anime. Several sessions on Japanese literature highlighted its unique introspective nature, referencing authors like Haruki Murakami.

Music played a central role in the festival, with performances ranging from the meditative tones of the shakuhachi flute to high-energy drum ensembles. Visitors also explored Japanese culinary traditions, gaining insights into the precision and artistry behind dishes such as sushi and wagashi.

A variety of activities were offered for children and adults, ensuring everyone's enjoyment. (Supplied)

One of the most celebrated workshops covered kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. Attendees were invited to transform shattered ceramics into decorative pieces, embracing the philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection.

Ithra’s Japan Cultural Days featured many other activities, ensuring that visitors could engage with Japan’s cultural heritage through a variety of creative, educational and interactive experiences.

 

 


Tourism Ministry launches second executive master’s program to develop Saudi tourism leadership

Tourism Ministry launches second executive master’s program to develop Saudi tourism leadership
Updated 08 February 2025
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Tourism Ministry launches second executive master’s program to develop Saudi tourism leadership

Tourism Ministry launches second executive master’s program to develop Saudi tourism leadership
  • Ministry spokesperson Mohammed Al-Rasasimah said that, through the executive master’s program, the ministry works to provide key opportunities for Saudi tourism professionals to receive advanced education and training

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has unveiled a second executive master’s program, offering four educational packages and teaming up with three prestigious European hospitality institutions — Les Roches in Spain and EHL and Glion in Switzerland, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The program aims to train 300 Saudi professionals in international tourism and hospitality management, advancing expertise in the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

Under the ministry’s “Ahluha” initiative, which has already trained more than 100,000 Saudi citizens, domestically and internationally, in 2024. The program focuses on equipping participants with modern management techniques and high-quality resource management skills for the tourism industry.

Candidates must meet rigorous eligibility criteria, including an honors bachelor’s degree in tourism-related fields, minimum five years of professional experience, proven English language proficiency, willingness to travel for training requirements, and successful completion of a personal interview.

According to SPA, the program builds on the success of its first edition, in which 198 graduates completed managerial training at leading Spanish and Swiss institutions.

Ministry spokesperson Mohammed Al-Rasasimah said that, through the executive master’s program, the ministry works to provide key opportunities for Saudi tourism professionals to receive advanced education and training.

He said the program represents a strategic investment in developing Saudi tourism leadership.

“This initiative is crucial for preparing the next generation of Saudi leaders who will drive our growing tourism sector,” he said.

“We are focused on enhancing our national workforce’s capabilities, expanding their horizons and exposing them to global best practices in tourism management,” he added.

 


Diriyah literary festival inspires children

In the Story Village, young visitors listened to inspiring tales told by professionals. (SPA)
In the Story Village, young visitors listened to inspiring tales told by professionals. (SPA)
Updated 08 February 2025
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Diriyah literary festival inspires children

In the Story Village, young visitors listened to inspiring tales told by professionals. (SPA)
  • Children had the opportunity to show their artistic skills in the Story and Drawing Corner in which the little ones transformed stories into paintings that reflected their creative visions

RIYADH: The Diriyah Storytelling Festival, which concluded on Feb. 8, aimed to encourage a love of reading and storytelling in young children.

As part of a series of events in Diriyah Season boasting the theme “Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity,” the festival transformed Diriyah into a magical world for children, one in which they moved between pavilions.

Photo/Saudi Press Agency

In the Story Village, young visitors listened to inspiring tales told by professionals.

Shadow Shows, meanwhile, transported children to realms inspired by the book “Kalila and Dimna,” offering a unique visual experience that blended art with literature.

Photo/Saudi Press Agency

Children also had the opportunity to show their artistic skills in the Story and Drawing Corner in which the little ones transformed stories into paintings that reflected their creative visions.

The interactive performances were no less captivating, presenting historic tales inspired by Diriyah’s rich heritage in a theatrical, interactive format that encouraged children to actively engage. This added a rich educational and cultural dimension to their experience.

The initiative was organized to strengthen the Kingdom’s role as a hub for arts and literature on the world stage.

 


Sri Lankan envoy celebrates diplomacy, independence

Sri Lankan envoy celebrates diplomacy, independence
Updated 08 February 2025
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Sri Lankan envoy celebrates diplomacy, independence

Sri Lankan envoy celebrates diplomacy, independence
  • The envoy highlighted the strong diplomatic relationship between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka

RIYADH: Sri Lanka’s ambassador in Riyadh, Omar Lebbe Ameer Ajwad, gave a speech on the 77th anniversary of Sri Lankan independence and 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom and Sri Lanka on Feb.5 at the Cultural Palace, Diplomatic Quarters in Riyadh on Feb.5.

“I take this opportunity to extend my sincere greetings to all the Sri Lankan nationals living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day of Sri Lanka,” he said.

The envoy’s speech focused on Sri Lanka’s politics, tourism and economy.

He also highlighted the strong diplomatic relationship between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka.

“Although the modern diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia were established 50 years ago, the ancient diplomatic relations between the two countries, in fact, began in the 7th century A.D., when the then King of Sri Lanka, called Aggabodhi III (623-640 AD) dispatched his ambassador from Sri Lanka to Madina Al-Munawwarah on a factfinding mission at the time of Prophet Muhammad to learn about the new religion of Islam. This incident is reported in the Ajaib-Al-Hind by Ibn Shahriyar,” he said.