Latest news with #KingAbdulazizFoundationforResearchandArchives


Saudi Gazette
2 days ago
- Saudi Gazette
Grand Hajj Symposium kicks off in Jeddah
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The 49th Grand Hajj Symposium kicked off in Jeddah on Sunday under the theme 'Capability in Hajj and Contemporary Developments.' Organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in partnership with the Council of Senior Scholars and the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, the symposium brought together a distinguished group of scholars and researchers from across the Islamic world. Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah inaugurated the event, describing the symposium as an Islamic intellectual platform that unites prominent thinkers and scholars to highlight the significance of this great pillar of Islam and to reinforce its religious and cultural dimensions. Dr. Al-Rabiah noted that this year has witnessed the launch of several programs and initiatives, including infrastructure projects sponsored by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites. These include 170,000 square meters of shaded areas, the planting of 20,000 trees, and the construction of rubber walkways to improve pilgrims' comfort and safety. Addressing healthcare readiness, the minister cited the establishment of a new emergency hospital, 15 ambulance units, 71 rapid intervention points, and 64 two-story health complexes. He also announced the inauguration of the General Transport Center as an institutional model for managing transportation in Makkah and the holy sites. The plan integrates buses and the Haraman High-Speed Railway into a flexible and efficient system. Dr. Al-Rabiah added that the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has finalized its preparations through an advanced operational package. This includes upgrades to audiovisual equipment, the development of childcare centers, and services designed to meet the diverse needs of pilgrims and ensure enhanced services. Special Advisor to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah) Prince Faisal bin Salman also addressed the gathering. He emphasized the Kingdom's longstanding commitment to the Two Holy Mosques and Hajj since the unification of Saudi Arabia by the late King Abdul Aziz. He noted that serving the pilgrims has always been a sacred honor, a national duty, and a historical responsibility passed down through generations of Saudi leadership, with citizens proud to contribute to this mission. Prince Faisal highlighted the major infrastructure developments and humanitarian services now accompanying pilgrims from their arrival to their departure. He also announced the launch of the Hajj and Two Holy Mosques History Forum, organized by the King Abdulaziz Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The forum is designed to serve as a scientific and cultural platform that promotes the rich heritage of the Two Holy Mosques and encourages global scholarly exchange and research. Saudi Grand Mufti, Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars, and President of the General Presidency for Scientific Research and Ifta Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Sheikh addressed the symposium through remarks delivered on his behalf by Secretary General of the Council of Senior Scholars Sheikh. Fahd Al-Majed. He noted that this blessed symposium, launched more than four decades ago, has explored vital topics concerning Hajj and broader Islamic affairs. Sheikh Abdul Aziz emphasized that this year's theme, focusing on the concept of 'Capability' in Islamic jurisprudence, addresses its practical and legal implications in light of contemporary developments. The discussions aimed to facilitate the performance of Hajj and uphold the objectives of Islamic law through scholarly dialogue and thoughtful interpretation.


Observer
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's pavilion at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 has been inaugurated by the Saudi Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, presenting a dynamic cultural programme. The fair runs from April 24 to May 3, featuring participation from 35 countries and encompassing 674 publishing houses. Saudi Arabia's involvement aims to fortify cultural connections with the Sultanate of Oman and enhance knowledge-sharing initiatives, reflecting the Kingdom's Vision 2030. This vision positions culture not only as a vital contributor to development but also as an essential means of fostering intercultural dialogue. Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 Saudi Arabia's participation highlights the profound cultural ties shared between the two nations, with the fair serving as a crucial platform for bolstering the book and publishing industry. It also affords Saudi publishers the opportunity to engage in intellectual exchanges with their global counterparts. Leading the Kingdom's presence are key cultural and educational institutions, including the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), the King Abdulaziz Public Library, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur'an, the Saudi Publishing Association, and Taibah University. Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 The Saudi pavilion features a comprehensive cultural programme filled with diverse events, such as literary seminars, panel discussions, and poetry evenings that showcase the richness and creativity of the Saudi cultural scene. Among the highlights is a seminar titled 'Features of Modern and Contemporary Saudi Poetry," which explores the evolution of Saudi poetry, from romanticism to experimentalism. Renowned writer Zakia Al-Harithi, alongside moderator Badr Al-Harithi, contributes to this engaging discussion. Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 Another notable event titled 'Realism and Magical Realism: Transformations in Gulf Narratives' sees writer Youssef Al-Mohaimeed providing an analytical perspective on the influence of magical realism in Gulf literature. Poet Tahani Subaih captivates the audience with a classical Arabic poetry evening that celebrates the aesthetic beauty of Arabic verse. The significance of traditional crafts is examined by Sulaiman Al-Suhaibani in his presentation "Handicrafts in Gulf Culture: Saudi Arabia and Oman as a Model," discussing how these crafts play a critical role in preserving cultural identity. Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 Dr. Hessa Al-Shammari leads a panel on 'Archaeological Sites in Saudi Arabia and Oman: Treasures of the Past and Future Prospects,' highlighting documentation and restoration efforts while emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration. Another intriguing session, 'Experimental Theatre: Between Breaking Rules and Creating New Languages,' invites Amal Al-Tamimi to explore innovative practices in Gulf and Arab experimental theatre. Additionally, Hamda Al-Enezi delves into the art of flash fiction, discussing its unique features and the challenges it presents. Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 The Saudi cultural days also include discussions on the role of literature in promoting cultural tourism within the Arabian Gulf. Dr. Udai Al-Huraish presents insights on literature as a means of exploring cultural identity. Another session led by Dr. Rania Khoqair focuses on 'Traditional Gulf Attire in Literature and Art,' investigating how traditional garments are represented in novels and folk arts. Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 The programme concludes with a session titled 'New Expatriate Poets: The Arab Poetry Experience in the Diaspora,' presented by Dr. Tanaff Al-Otaibi. This session explores themes of alienation and cultural interaction within poetry created by expatriates. Overall, the events aim to highlight the richness of the contemporary Saudi literary experience, bolstering cultural exchange with both regional and international literary and publishing communities. Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 Through its presence at the Muscat International Book Fair, the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission seeks to promote investment opportunities within Saudi Arabia's cultural sector while underscoring the Kingdom's innovative initiatives. This effort reinforces Saudi Arabia's status as a regional cultural hub and supports the ongoing endeavour to develop channels for intercultural understanding.


CairoScene
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Leading Saudi Cultural Institutions Showcased at Abu Dhabi Book Fair
The Saudi pavilion features contributions from key institutions including the King Abdulaziz Foundation and Princess Nourah University. The 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair opened on 26th April 2025 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and will run until 5th May, bringing together a global celebration of literature, culture, and ideas. Saudi Arabia is prominently represented at the fair with a pavilion organised by major cultural institutions. Participating entities include the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), the King Abdulaziz Public Library, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, and the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran. The Saudi pavilion offers visitors a diverse display of publications, research, and cultural initiatives, underlining the Kingdom's efforts to promote knowledge exchange and cultural diplomacy. A dedicated section at the pavilion spotlights the UNESCO Chair in Translating Cultures, showcasing research collaborations and initiatives in the field of cultural translation. This year's fair features more than 1,400 exhibitors from 96 countries and hosts over 2,000 cultural activities. The 2025 edition honours renowned Islamic philosopher Ibn Sina (Avicenna) as its Focus Personality, and celebrates 'One Thousand and One Nights' as the Book of the World, underlining the fair's emphasis on intellectual heritage and storytelling traditions.


Asharq Al-Awsat
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Arabia Opens Pavilion at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025
Saudi Arabia inaugurated its pavilion today at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025, which runs from April 26 to May 5, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Saturday. The pavilion showcases the Kingdom's remarkable achievements in literature, publishing, and translation. Led by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, the Kingdom's participation in the 34th edition of the fair includes contributions from several prominent entities, including the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, the King Abdulaziz Public Library, Princess Nourah University, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, and the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran. The pavilion features a dedicated section for the UNESCO Chair in Translating Cultures—an initiative of the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission—designed to promote research and partnerships that support cultural translation as a bridge between civilizations. This platform facilitates communication and the exchange of expertise with visitors and stakeholders from the publishing and cultural sectors worldwide, reflecting the vibrancy of Saudi Arabia's cultural movement and its commitment to regional and international cooperation. Through its participation, the Kingdom seeks to strengthen cultural ties with the United Arab Emirates, building on a shared literary and intellectual heritage. Ongoing joint initiatives in literature, publishing, and translation have bolstered this collaboration, supporting the two nations' aspirations to cultivate an integrated Gulf cultural scene capable of presenting a unified and high-quality voice to the world.


Arab News
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia launches pavilion at Muscat International Book Fair
RIYADH: The Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission has inaugurated Saudi Arabia's pavilion at the 2025 Muscat International Book Fair, which is running until May 3. Abdullatif Al-Wasel, CEO of the commission, in a statement, said of the event which started on Thursday: 'The Saudi participation reflects the deep cultural bonds between Saudi Arabia and Oman. 'The commission seeks to strengthen collaboration in literature, publishing and translation fields, highlighting the cultural vitality and knowledge advancement flourishing in both nations.' Al-Wasel said the fair creates significant opportunities for the book industry by connecting Saudi Arabia's publishers with their international counterparts. The participants at the fair include the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, and the King Abdulaziz Public Library. Also present are the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur'an, the Publishing Association, and Taibah University. The participation aligns with Saudi Arabia's efforts to enhance cultural ties with Oman while promoting cultural-sector investment opportunities, Al-Wasel stated. The Kingdom's pavilion will feature a program of literary seminars, panel discussions, and poetry evenings featuring prominent Saudi Arabia intellectuals and writers.