Saudi manga producer participates in one of world’s largest anime events in Tokyo

Saudi manga producer participates in one of world’s largest anime events in Tokyo
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Saudi Arabia’s Manga Productions made a historic debut as the first Middle Eastern sponsor of AnimeJapan 2025. (Supplied)
Saudi manga producer participates in one of world’s largest anime events in Tokyo
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Saudi Arabia’s Manga Productions made a historic debut as the first Middle Eastern sponsor of AnimeJapan 2025. (Supplied)
Saudi manga producer participates in one of world’s largest anime events in Tokyo
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Saudi Arabia’s Manga Productions made a historic debut as the first Middle Eastern sponsor of AnimeJapan 2025. (Supplied)
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Updated 26 March 2025
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Saudi manga producer participates in one of world’s largest anime events in Tokyo

Saudi manga producer participates in one of world’s largest anime events in Tokyo
  • Held at the Tokyo Big Sight exhibition center, the four-day festival drew more than 150,000 visitors and featured over 100 global exhibitors
  • A subsidiary of Misk, Manga Production’s participation underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing position in the global anime industry

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Manga Productions made a historic debut as the first Middle Eastern sponsor of AnimeJapan 2025, one of the world’s largest anime events.

Held at the Tokyo Big Sight exhibition center, the four-day festival drew more than 150,000 visitors and featured over 100 global exhibitors, organizers said in a statement.

A subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, known as Misk, Manga Production’s participation underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing position in the global anime industry.

Attendees experienced interactive exhibitions, including traditional Saudi attire try-ons and authentic Saudi coffee tastings, offering a unique fusion of heritage and creativity.

Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions, delivered a keynote speech titled “A New Era of Animation! The Future of ‘Saudinimation’ Driven by Japan and Saudi Arabia,” outlining the collaborative opportunities between the two nations.

He said: “The overwhelming response reflects our mission to position Saudi creativity globally. AnimeJapan 2025 was a milestone in fostering co-production and content partnerships, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s vision to be a hub for entertainment innovation.”

The pavilion also welcomed high-profile Japanese officials, including Akamatsu Ken, vice minister of education, culture, sports, science and technology, and Kobayashi Fumiaki, vice minister of the environment, signaling strong governmental interest in cultural exchange.

Abdulaziz Al-Mowani, director of marketing and communications, said: “This platform allowed us to share Saudi Arabia’s creative identity while forging strategic media and industry connections.

“Effective storytelling bridges cultures, and the event proved the power of our narrative.”


Environment minister leads meeting on Saudi Irrigation Organization’s progress

Environment minister leads meeting on Saudi Irrigation Organization’s progress
Updated 6 sec ago
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Environment minister leads meeting on Saudi Irrigation Organization’s progress

Environment minister leads meeting on Saudi Irrigation Organization’s progress
  • The board looked at a report on the institution which included performance indicators, achievement rates, and the progress of ongoing projects in various regions of the Kingdom

RIYADH: The Saudi Irrigation Organization’s board of directors held its 24th meeting on Thursday in Riyadh.

The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Al-Fadli.

The board looked at a report on the institution which included performance indicators, achievement rates, and the progress of ongoing projects in various regions of the Kingdom.

It also looked into updates on activities and initiatives aimed at improving the efficiency of water resource use and boosting agricultural sustainability.

Board members spoke of their appreciation of the wise leadership’s ongoing support, affirming that the significant attention given to the water sector consolidated sustainability factors, and enhanced the institution’s ability to effectively contribute to achieving Saudi Vision 2030.

The meeting concluded with a series of decisions and directives which aim to enhance institutional performance efficiency, and expand partnership possibilities with the relevant entities.


Blue tea cultivation in Jazan highlighted

Blue tea cultivation in Jazan highlighted
Updated 7 min 42 sec ago
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Blue tea cultivation in Jazan highlighted

Blue tea cultivation in Jazan highlighted
  • The cultivation project is a part of Jazan Mountainous Areas Development and Reconstruction Authority’s strategic initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture in the mountainous area of Jazan
  • Project plays a key role in supporting the local economy and expanding income sources within the agricultural sector

RIYADH: The Jazan Mountainous Areas Development and Reconstruction Authority is currently showcasing its expertise in cultivating blue tea.

The showcase is a part of the authority’s participation in Environment Week 2025, organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, with government, private, and nonprofit organizations.

The authority’s pavilion has been visited by a number of people intrigued by blue tea’s nutritional benefits, unique flavor and vibrant color.

The cultivation project is a part of the authority’s strategic initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture in the mountainous area of Jazan.

The project plays a key role in supporting the local economy and expanding income sources within the agricultural sector.


Saudi Islamic affairs ministry participates in Muscat book fair

Saudi Islamic affairs ministry participates in Muscat book fair
Updated 13 min 22 sec ago
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Saudi Islamic affairs ministry participates in Muscat book fair

Saudi Islamic affairs ministry participates in Muscat book fair
  • The ministry’s booth showcases a variety of editions of the Qur’an printed by the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur’an in Madinah

RIYADH: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by the General Secretariat for Exhibitions and Conferences, is at the Kingdom’s pavilion for the 29th edition of the Muscat International Book Fair.

The fair began on Wednesday and runs until May 3.

The event is hosting 674 publishing houses from 35 countries this year, with 640 participating directly and 34 through agencies. 

The ministry’s booth showcases a variety of editions of the Qur’an printed by the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur’an in Madinah, along with translations of its meanings in more than 77 languages.

It is also presenting a detailed explanation of the mechanism of printing the Qur’an, the stages it undergoes within the complex, and the modern technologies used, with the aim of informing visitors about the message the Kingdom delivers in caring for the Qur’an through its printing and distribution to Muslims around the world.

In addition, the ministry is displaying numerous applications and digital programs to serve the exhibition’s visitors.


Taif rose forum attracts 350,000 visitors in 10 days

Taif rose forum attracts 350,000 visitors in 10 days
Updated 19 min 3 sec ago
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Taif rose forum attracts 350,000 visitors in 10 days

Taif rose forum attracts 350,000 visitors in 10 days
  • Highlights include ‘flower carpet’ made from 850,000 blooms
  • Event at Arruddaf Park runs until Saturday

TAIF: The inaugural Rose and Aromatic Plants Global Forum attracted more than 350,000 visitors in its first 10 days.

The event at Arruddaf Park in Taif opened on April 13 and runs until Saturday. It marks a significant milestone for the region, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology.

The organizers have incorporated artificial intelligence, automated monitoring systems and comprehensive historical documentation of Taif’s famous roses.

The innovative displays and exhibitions have attracted tourists from around the world, underscoring Taif’s growing reputation as a premier destination for natural beauty and botanical diversity.

In a stunning centerpiece that has become the festival’s most photographed attraction, Taif Municipality unveiled an elaborate flower carpet featuring more than 850,000 individual blooms.

The display combines elements of traditional Saudi architecture and Taif’s distinctive building style. It also tells a story of the region’s evolution, featuring a model of the Al-Hada mountains and representations of transport systems through the ages.

Visitors can trace the journey from the historic Camel Path that once connected Taif and Makkah to the modern Al-Masafala Road, culminating with a representation of today’s cable car system that whisks travelers through the mountainous terrain in minutes — a powerful symbol of the city’s technological and cultural advancement.

This festival reinforces Taif’s identity as the City of Roses and a unique tourist destination, and aligns perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030’s ambitious objectives for developing both the tourism and technology sectors.


Development projects boost Madinah’s position

Development projects boost Madinah’s position
Updated 23 min 50 sec ago
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Development projects boost Madinah’s position

Development projects boost Madinah’s position
  • Upgrades include electric vehicle access and a pedestrian path to Quba Mosque, as well as landscaping and public amenities to enrich the experience for pilgrims and residents, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030

MADINAH: Madinah is undergoing significant development to enhance infrastructure, boost tourism, and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors, given its historical and religious importance.

The Madinah Region Development Authority and other entities are completing pedestrian-friendly upgrades around the central area and near the Prophet’s Mosque, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Upgrades include electric vehicle access and a pedestrian path to Quba Mosque, as well as landscaping and public amenities to enrich the experience for pilgrims and residents, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.

The Rua Al Madinah Project, near the Prophet’s Mosque, is a major hospitality development with an extensive tunnel network and numerous luxury hotels, aiming to accommodate 30 million visitors on more than 1.5 million sq. meters.

The Madinah Gate Project, east of the Prophet’s Mosque near the Haramain High-Speed Railway station, covers 60,000 sq. meters. The project offers unique architecture, connecting to key roads for easy access to religious sites, the airport, and the high-speed rail, aiming to enhance tourism and entertainment.