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Shafaq News
03-05-2025
- Shafaq News
Visit Kurdistan: Al-Amadiya's stories carried by the clouds
Shafaq News/ Perched high atop a flat mountain in Duhok province, Al-Amadiya (Amedi) city stands as one of the Kurdistan Region's most breathtaking and historic destinations. Located about 90 kilometers northeast of Duhok, this ancient town offers travelers a rare blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural warmth. Where History Crowns the Mountains Al-Amadiya's roots stretch back over 4,000 years, having been home to Assyrians, Medes, Abbasids, and Ottomans. It holds deeper historical treasures with thirteen officially registered archaeological sites, each offering a window into a different chapter of Mesopotamian history. 'Duhok's heritage spans multiple eras,' said Kovan Ihsan, a researcher and antiquities expert at the Duhok Directorate of Antiquities, in an interview with Shafaq News. Among these layers is a reference to Al-Amadiya dating back to the 9th century BCE, when Assyrian King Adad-Nirari II called it Kur Amad — a testament to the city's ancient stature. Notable sites include Kura Sriji, which preserves ruins from various periods, and the Al-Amadiya Gate, carved with figures believed to be from the early Simitic and Persian periods. The Zebar Gate, etched into the rocky landscape, also adds to the town's architectural legacy. Islamic periods, according to Ihsan, left a rich imprint on Al-Amadiya, with landmarks such as the Qubahan religious school, a former center of learning, and the Great Mosque, built in traditional mountain style. Other significant sites include the tomb of Estella, the Al-Amadiya Citadel, and forts constructed under Sheikh Taha Al-Naqshbandi, which still evoke the city's defensive legacy. The Khazani Temple, a Jewish place of worship dating back to the Badinan Emirate (13th–19th centuries), further highlights Al-Amadiya's embrace of religious and cultural diversity. 'Perched at 912 meters above sea level, Al-Amadiya's strategic location on a massive rock formation encircled by deep valleys and rugged peaks grants it natural defense — qualities that have kept its stories alive for millennia,' underscored Ihsan. 'This location not only offers beauty but also serves as a natural defense.' Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush valleys, the city offers panoramic views that captivate photographers, hikers, and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the old marketplace and scenic trails that reveal the breathtaking landscape. Nearby attractions include the scenic village of Kani, the serene Sipa Waterfall, and the dramatic Gali Zanta valley. Adventure seekers may also enjoy seasonal paragliding events around the cliffs, offering a bird's-eye view of this remarkable landscape. Nearby Stays While Al-Amadiya itself does not have formal hotels inside the town, several comfortable lodging options are available nearby. Travelers can find motels, guesthouses, and tourist complexes along the road connecting Al-Amadiya to Duhok. Options include the Gelye Sherane Motel and the Jwan Tourist Complex, offering modest amenities within easy reach of the town. Visitors seeking higher-end accommodations often choose resorts in nearby Sarsink, known for its cooler climate and family-friendly facilities, or larger hotels in Duhok city. For a more traditional experience, small guesthouses around Al-Amadiya provide a cozy stay, where guests can enjoy Kurdish hospitality, homemade cuisine, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Best Time to Visit The ideal time to visit Al-Amadiya is from April to October. In spring, the town is surrounded by lush greenery and colorful blooms. Summer brings cooler mountain air compared to the lowlands, while autumn blankets the hills in golden hues. Winter offers a picturesque but chilly experience, occasionally dusted with snow. Your Road to the Mountaintop The Kurdish city is accessible by car from Duhok, with a drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours through winding mountain roads and scenic valleys. There are no direct public transport options; travelers are advised to use taxis or join guided tours. Cost and Facilities Entry into Al-Amadiya is free; visitors can roam historical sites without charge. Cafés and local eateries within the town serve traditional Kurdish meals and fresh sweets. Shopping opportunities include locally made crafts, honey, and embroidered garments. Government Support In April 2024, the Kurdistan Regional Government, led by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, launched a major infrastructure initiative in the Al-Amadiya district to boost local services and support future tourism growth. The projects, valued at more than six billion Iraqi dinars ($4,581,369.71), include constructing key roadways linking villages, expanding electricity networks, and developing facilities. A Journey Through Time Standing atop the cliffs of Al-Amadiya, visitors are transported into a living tapestry of history, culture, and nature. For those seeking to step beyond the ordinary and into the heart of Kurdistan's timeless spirit, the city awaits with open gates and endless stories.
Observer
27-03-2025
- Business
- Observer
The importance of Islamic economics in contemporary society
Economy is one of the most fundamental aspects of any state, society, or civilisation. From the earliest days of human interaction, economic systems have been necessary for organising resources, trade and distribution of wealth. Every religion and school of thought has addressed economic matters in some form. Islam, as a complete way of life, offers a comprehensive and ethical economic system, rooted in justice, equity and moral responsibility. In this discussion, I aim to focus on the profound relationship between Islam and economics. If one wishes to truly understand Islamic economics, they must begin with the life and practices of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Before he received prophethood, the Prophet was deeply engaged in trade and business. His integrity, honesty and fair dealings earned him the title of Al Ameen" (the trustworthy) among the people of Makkah. His economic practices and business ethics are well documented in Islamic history and offer a foundation for understanding Islamic economic principles. Trade, entrepreneurship and financial dealings are not marginal topics in Islam, they are core to the Prophet's life and teachings. Sadly, this critical aspect is often neglected in modern Muslim societies. In today's world, it is essential for our educational institutions, colleges, universities and religious seminaries to give due importance to Islamic economics, which offers unique perspectives that contrast with contemporary models such as capitalism and socialism. Modern economic systems have their advantages but also numerous drawbacks. Capitalism, for instance, has led to extreme income inequality, environmental degradation and exploitation. Socialism, while attempting to address inequality, has often resulted in inefficiency and lack of innovation. In between lies the mixed economy, which tries to balance private and public interests. But what about the Islamic economy? Why is it seldom discussed in depth? Does it not offer alternatives? Can it not contribute to solving the economic crises of our times? Islamic economics is based on the principles of justice (Aadl), equity (Ihsan) and prohibition of exploitation (zulm). It prohibits Riba (usury), promotes zakat (mandatory charity), encourages risk-sharing in business through Mudarabah and Musharakah and discourages hoarding and monopolies. The goal is not just profit, but ethical earning and fair distribution. Prominent Islamic economists like Ibn Khaldun (1332–1406), who is considered a forerunner of modern sociology and economics, emphasised the importance of productive labour, fair taxation and the role of government in regulating markets without suppressing entrepreneurial freedom. He wrote in his Muqaddimah that 'Commerce means the attempt to make a profit by increasing capital, through the purchase of goods at a low price and their sale at a higher price.' However, he warned against state interference that discourages trade and wealth creation. In my view, there is a growing need to revisit the Seerah (biography) of the Prophet with a specific focus on his economic behaviour. We should re-study how he conducted business, treated partners and employees, managed risks and ensured fairness in transactions. His dealings with Khadijah (RA), his involvement in caravan trade and his economic leadership in Medina offer timeless lessons. It is time for scholars, educators and policymakers to integrate Islamic economic thought into curricula, public discourse and policymaking. Raising awareness about the ethical and sustainable economic system Islam promotes could potentially provide solutions to many of the challenges our societies face today, poverty, inequality, corruption and economic instability. Indeed, the path to economic revival in Muslim societies may begin with a return to our roots, drawing from the wisdom of the Holy Quran, the Sunnah and the intellectual heritage of our scholars. Let us engage, explore and educate others about the richness of Islamic economics not only as an academic discipline but as a living, practical guide for just and compassionate living.
Saba Yemen
09-03-2025
- General
- Saba Yemen
Sana'a's al-Thawra district distributes thousands of Iftar meals daily
Sana'a - Saba: Fifteen charitable kitchens in al-Thawra district of the capital Sana'a are providing 6,579 Iftar meals daily to impoverished families across the district. These efforts are driven by community initiatives and supported by philanthropists, operating in alignment with directives from the Leader of the Revolution, Sayyed Abdul-Malik Badr al-Din al-Houthi, to support the needy and strengthen social solidarity during Ramadan. Aqil al-Saqqaf, the district director, reported that these kitchens and bakeries are distributing meals and 1,896 loaves of bread daily through the Ihsan program, in collaboration with Bunyan Development Foundation. He emphasized the importance of these charitable initiatives in fostering social solidarity during the holy month. Al-Saqqaf urged affluent individuals to support the Ramadan kitchens, ensuring their continued operation. He praised the contributions of all those involved in the charitable efforts, highlighting their role in translating the Revolution Leader's directives into action. Whatsapp Telegram Email Print
