JEDDAH, 25 May 2005 — With great enthusiasm, Yemeni expatriates came together at the weekend to celebrate their unique cultural heritage with a colorful cultural program marking the 15th anniversary of the unified Yemen.
Held annually since 1990, the festival’s main purpose is to present a diversified showcase where Yemenis from various provinces exhibit their unique culture, clothing, food and traditions.
As part of the festival at the consulate premises, Ambassador Muhammad Ali Mohsen Al-Ahwal, Yemeni consul general in Jeddah, inaugurated the Yemeni Heritage Exhibition which is strongly oriented toward art, culture and cuisine. A number of Saudi officials, diplomats and citizens attended.
The consul general praised the role of the Yemeni government headed by President Ali Abdullah Saleh in developing and reforming the country since the unification of Yemen. He also referred to the contribution of the Yemeni community here in the Kingdom in supporting the country’s program of cultural and economic development.
The consul general thanked the Saudi authorities for providing excellent services and facilities to his country’s people here in the Kingdom.
Later in a show of patriotism, Yemenis from different provinces performed their folk dances and songs.
To celebrate the day, Saudi singer Saleh Khiry took part and entertained the Yemeni community with his songs.
The most spectacular event, however, were the traditional dances from the Al-Bida and Hadhramaut areas of Yemen.
