Kiswa on display at Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah

The biennale offers an immersive journey in the making of the Kiswa, including the selection of the finest silk, hand-weaving, as well as the gold and silver embroidery. (SPA)
The biennale offers an immersive journey in the making of the Kiswa, including the selection of the finest silk, hand-weaving, as well as the gold and silver embroidery. (SPA)
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Updated 07 February 2025
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Kiswa on display at Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah

Kiswa on display at Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
  • Offers unique perspective of Kiswa manufacture and phases of Islamic art over centuries

JEDDAH: The second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025, at King Abdul Aziz International Airport’s Western Hajj Terminal in Jeddah, is hosting a unique event where the Kaaba’s complete Kiswa is being displayed for the first time outside Makkah.

This exceptional experience at the biennale’s “Al-Bidaya” (The Beginning) section, offers visitors an opportunity to examine the aesthetics of Islamic craftsmanship, in particular the Kiswa’s gold and silver embroidery.

The display of the Kiswa is a part of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation’s efforts to promote awareness of the rich history and cultural legacy of Islamic art, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.




The biennale offers an immersive journey in the making of the Kiswa, including the selection of the finest silk, hand-weaving, as well as the gold and silver embroidery. (SPA)

The biennale offers an immersive journey in the making of the Kiswa, including the selection of the finest silk, hand-weaving, as well as the gold and silver embroidery.

Additionally, the biennale is screening a film outlining the evolution of the Kiswa across different eras and the artistic techniques used in its ornamentation, narrating a story of innovation and dedication over centuries, the SPA reported.

It also has a selection of rare artifacts from Makkah and Madinah, alongside contemporary artworks that highlight the spiritual aspects of Islamic art.

The “Al-Bidaya” section offers an interactive experience that blends visual and auditory elements, through light shows and soundscapes, that unveil the symbolic meanings behind the Kiswa’s inscriptions and ornamentation.

The display of the Kiswa not only showcases its artistic beauty but also highlights Saudi Arabia’s leading role in serving the two holy mosques.

This show serves as a significant milestone in the exploration of Islamic art, spreading cultural awareness and deepening appreciation for the craftsmanship behind the making of the Kiswa, the SPA reported.

 


Offences related to drug methamphetamine outlined

Offences related to drug methamphetamine outlined
Updated 23 min 54 sec ago
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Offences related to drug methamphetamine outlined

Offences related to drug methamphetamine outlined
  • Saudi attorney general decision effective March 1
  • Addicted individuals will be given choice of rehab

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Attorney General Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib has outlined the list of criminal offences related to the drug methamphetamine.

Sheikh Saud’s decision, dated March 1, 2025, is a part of efforts to combat the use and distribution of drugs in the country, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

The criminal offences that warrant arrest include possession, smuggling, obtaining, purchasing, transporting and manufacture. In addition, personal use and consumption are also criminal offences.

Methamphetamine — also known as shabu, crystal meth, or the poor man’s cocaine —  causes serious psychological and behavioral disorders, and contributes to the rise in crime and violence.

As such, the scourge has to be dealt with firmly in accordance with deterrent legislation and decisions, the report stated.

While the law against drug trafficking and abuse is harsh, it also allows for individuals to seek reform and rehabilitation.

Article 42 of the Anti-Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Law stipulates that the user “shall be granted the opportunity to receive treatment.”

The legislation further states that this can be done without “legal accountability, by not filing a lawsuit against the user or addict, if he or one of his relatives comes forward intending to receive treatment.”

In addition, the law requires that the person “hands over the narcotic or psychotropic substances” and provide “information about their location.”


Crown prince receives Yazeed Al-Rajhi after winning Saudi Dakar Rally

Crown prince receives Yazeed Al-Rajhi after winning Saudi Dakar Rally
Updated 14 March 2025
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Crown prince receives Yazeed Al-Rajhi after winning Saudi Dakar Rally

Crown prince receives Yazeed Al-Rajhi after winning Saudi Dakar Rally

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Yazeed Al Rajhi, winner of the 2025 Dakar Rally Saudi Arabia, at Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah.

After winning the title in the cars category, Al-Rajhi became the first Saudi to accomplish the feat in the rally, one of the world's most prestigious motorsports championship.

The Crown Prince congratulated Al-Rajhi on winning a tough competition, featuring a number of prominent international competitors. He emphasized that the achievement should serve as motivation for Saudi athletes to continue developing their skills for future success.

Al-Rajhi thanked the Crown Prince for the gesture.

Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sports, and Prince Khalid bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation, attended the reception.

Saudi Arabia has hosted the Dakar Rally since 2020, when it moved from South America.


Newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors take oath of office before crown prince 

Newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors take oath of office before crown prince 
Updated 14 March 2025
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Newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors take oath of office before crown prince 

Newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors take oath of office before crown prince 

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, on behalf King Salman, received newly-appointed Saudi ambassadors to a number of countries.

The ambassadors took oath of office before the crown prince at Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the Kingdom’s Foreign Minister, attended the ceremony.


Saudi crown prince, Russia president discuss Ukraine crisis 

Saudi crown prince, Russia president discuss Ukraine crisis 
Updated 14 March 2025
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Saudi crown prince, Russia president discuss Ukraine crisis 

Saudi crown prince, Russia president discuss Ukraine crisis 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made a phone call to Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Saudi Press Agency said early Friday.

The crown prince affirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to exerting all efforts to facilitate dialogue and achieve a political solution to the crisis in Ukraine.

President Putin renewed his thanks and appreciation to the Kingdom for its constructive efforts and endeavors.

The two leaders also reviewed ways to boost bilateral cooperation.


Masjid Al-Fas’h in Madinah meticulously restored

Masjid Al-Fas’h in Madinah meticulously restored
Updated 14 March 2025
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Masjid Al-Fas’h in Madinah meticulously restored

Masjid Al-Fas’h in Madinah meticulously restored
  • Believed to be where Prophet Muhammad prayed
  • Revamped under King Salman restoration project

RIYADH: A historical gem nestled at the foot of Mount Uhud, north of Madinah, Al-Fas’h Mosque stands as a reminder of the Battle of Uhud, a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

This has a special place in the history of Islam because it is also where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have prayed, and attracts visitors from around the world, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

Historian Dr. Fouad Al-Maghamsi highlighted Al-Fas’h Mosque’s significance within the wider historical landscape of Uhud, which includes Jabal Al-Rumah and Wadi Qanat.

Al-Fas’h Mosque’s proximity to the Uhud battlefield, roughly 800 meters away, makes it an integral part of the sacred landscape of Madinah. (Photo courtesy: welcomesaudi.com) 

Known as Uhud Mosque or Sha’b Al-Jerar Mosque, Al-Fas’h has been meticulously preserved and restored.

“The remnants of Al-Fas’h Mosque, enclosed by a roughly 1-meter-high stone wall on three sides, measure 6 meters in length and 4 meters in width,” said Al-Maghamsi.

He added that this landmark, constructed with resilient black stones, has endured through centuries and undergone numerous restorations, most recently under the reign of King Salman, as part of a broader initiative to revitalize historical sites.

The mosque’s simple yet distinctive architecture features a rectangular prayer space and a mihrab crafted from red bricks.

Al-Fas’h Mosque’s proximity to the Uhud battlefield, roughly 800 meters away, makes it an integral part of the sacred landscape of Madinah. (Photo courtesy: welcomesaudi.com)

Recent restoration efforts, overseen by the Saudi Heritage Commission, have introduced a wooden roof, a floor of artistically arranged yellow natural stones, paved surrounding areas, seating, and informative signage.

The mosque’s location, approximately 4.5 km north of Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi or the Prophet’s Mosque, places it in the heart of an area rich with Islamic heritage.

Its proximity to the Uhud battlefield, roughly 800 meters away, makes it an integral part of the sacred landscape of Madinah.