MADINAH, 21 July 2007 — Both Saudis and expatriates are enjoying the events that are currently being held as part of Madinah’s five-week 28th “Taibah Summer Festival,” which has been organized by the Supreme Commission for Tourism.
“The festival includes various cultural and entertainment activities that visitors can partake and enjoy,” said Yousuf Al-Mazini, the head of the festival’s organizing committee. Al-Mazini expressed his appreciation for the efforts and cooperation of the Madinah Municipality and the Supreme Commission for Tourism. “These festivals are a great opportunity to boost Saudi tourism and allow people to enjoy their time while maintaining Islamic principles and sticking to their cultural identity,” he said. He added that the festival is aimed at people of different ages and interests and that different activities, including cultural and sports, are being held.
Omar Al-Barakani, the deputy head of the committee managing the event, said events are taking place at the King Fahd Park, the Al-Nakeel Park, the Al-Hjiaz Railway Station, and the Al-Hassan Mall. He added that special locations have been specified to hold events just for men.
One of the highlights of this year’s festival is a camel caravan, which, according to organizers, has crossed more than 200 km along Madinah’s roads. The caravan is a distant memory of how people used to travel in bygone days.
“The camel caravan has attracted lots of crowds from across the city,” said Yusuf Al-Mazini. “These activities enrich the experience of domestic tourists by illustrating to them our cultural heritage,” he said.
Among activities taking place in Madinah is a series of traditional activities for women, which are being held near the Al-Hijaz Railway Station, where visitors are also able to buy handmade items and attend exhibitions about Madinah. In addition, large tents have been erected in several parts of the city giving visitors a taste of old Bedouin life. Arabic coffee is distributed to visitors, who are also entertained by Bedouin dancers.
Um Saeed is from Riyadh and currently visiting Madinah. Speaking about a mock wedding she attended, she said, “This is the first time I’ve ever seen a wedding in Madinah. This is also the first time I’m seeing the beautiful culture of Madinah.” She added that she sees similarities between the cultures of Jeddah and Madinah. “This is most probably because the two cities are located in the Western region,” she said.
Um Gadir, a Madinah resident, said she has been delighted with the events held at the festival so far. “It’s great to refresh old memories. It’s a brilliant way to show visitors and tourists what our culture actually is,” she said.
Suaad Mamduh, an Egyptian who had arrived in Madinah on pilgrimage, said she was surprised and delighted by what she has seen at the festival. “What we’ve seen has been beautiful. Though I’ve visited Madinah several times, this year the feeling is something else. The festival has introduced us to new aspects and experiences. I hope I can come back every year to see Madinah and its beautiful people,” she said.
Naila Abbas, dressed in traditional Hijazi attire while attending a stall, said she was glad to be able to put on traditional make up and accessories for visitors. “Those were great days. It’s great to be able to remember them now,” she said.
