Latest news with #SouthArabian
Saudi Gazette
25-05-2025
- Science
- Saudi Gazette
Long-serving Saudi-French archaeological mission ends tenure after 20 years in Farasan Islands
Saudi Gazette report JAZAN — The Saudi Heritage Commission has concluded a joint archaeological excavation with France in the Farasan Islands, unveiling new discoveries that shed light on the region's ancient human settlements and strategic role in Red Sea maritime trade. Conducted in collaboration with Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University and the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS), the fieldwork targeted key archaeological sites at Al-Qassar, Al-Ghureen, and Wadi Shami. The mission aimed to study burial sites, trace settlement phases, and understand the historical context of human activity in the southern Red Sea archipelago. The expedition included archaeology and anthropology experts, along with students from Saudi universities and Paris 1, as part of a supervised field training program. The Saudi-French partnership began in 2005 with a comprehensive survey and documentation of architectural structures across Farasan. Since then, successive excavation campaigns from 2011 to 2024 have led to significant discoveries, including remains from the Bronze Age, evidence of South Arabian kingdoms, watchtowers, and industrial installations believed to be remnants of a 2nd-century BCE military camp used to monitor and protect maritime trade routes. These discoveries underscore Farasan's pivotal role in connecting ancient civilizations of South Arabia and the Mediterranean, as reflected in the spread of human settlements and prehistoric shell mounds across the islands. The Heritage Commission continues to advance archaeological research and preservation through broad international collaborations, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's presence on the global archaeological map and contributing to the goals of sustainable cultural development.
Gulf Today
22-05-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sharjah Public Libraries set for diverse cultural programme
As part of its centennial celebrations, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) will roll out a comprehensive cultural programme from May to July 2025. The agenda features a curated lineup of seminars, literary discussions and expert-led activities, organised in collaboration with leading cultural institutions across the emirate. The events form part of SPL's flagship initiatives, 'Institutional Collaboration' and 'Authors Spotlight,' aimed at enriching the public's engagement with knowledge, heritage and the written word. The opening event in the 'Institutional Collaboration' series, 'Reviving Forgotten Pages,' will be held on Thursday, May 29, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum. Organised in partnership with the Juma Al Majid Centre for Culture and Heritage and the Sharjah Museums Authority, the event features a panel discussion titled 'The Home Library: Promoting Reading and Organising Books.' The session will explore the cultural value of home libraries, emphasising their role in preserving literary heritage and fostering regular reading habits. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops under the title 'Book Clinic,' offering practical guidance on cleaning, preserving and rebinding old books. The event will conclude with a cultural tour of the museum, featuring an immersive experience in ancient writing techniques using clay and the South Arabian Musnad script. SPL will host 'The Cultural Message' on Wednesday, July 30, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Holy Quran Academy, in collaboration with Al Qasimia University. The event will explore Islamic civilisation's intellectual and scientific legacy and its influence on global progress. Discussions will cover the contributions of Muslim scholars to fields such as medicine, astronomy and mathematics, the enduring cultural impact of Islamic heritage, and the values of coexistence and tolerance. The programme also features a specialised workshop on Arabic calligraphy and Islamic ornamentation, offering participants a rich and immersive cultural experience. On Tuesday, July 29, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, SPL will conclude its 'Institutional Collaboration' series with a literary event titled 'Horizons of Writers and Poets – Echoes of Modernity,' held at the House of Wisdom. Targeting adults and youth aged 14 to 18, the seminar will explore the evolution of contemporary Arabic poetry through a blend of panel discussions, interactive workshops and a live poetry reading. The event will feature four poets from different generations, presenting a dynamic and multi-layered portrayal of modern Arabic verse. SPL will also host a panel discussion as part of the 'Authors Spotlight' series, which showcases influential literary and intellectual voices from the Arab world. Scheduled for Saturday, July 12, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, the session will feature acclaimed Iraqi novelist Ali Bader in a conversation moderated by Dr Amina Al Hashimi. The discussion will explore key moments in Bader's literary career, with particular attention to his works addressing themes of exile and identity, such as 'Papa Sartre.' Earlier this year, SPL hosted the 'Exhibition of the Lens of Literary Beginnings' from April 21 to May 4, collaborating with the Emirates Writers and Authors Union. The exhibition provided an interactive journey through the early creative experiences of Emirati writers, featuring digital displays highlighting their biographies and debut works. Visitors also had the opportunity to use vintage typewriters to write motivational messages encouraging reading, while enjoying a compact cultural cafe that added a warm, literary ambience to the experience. In an interactive touch, the exhibition invited visitors to write their own messages about reading on a vintage typewriter, offering a personal connection to the literary journey. A mini cultural café further enhanced the experience, offering a space for reflection and fostering a lively literary atmosphere.
Sharjah 24
20-05-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
SPL marks centennial with three-month cultural programme
The events form part of SPL's flagship initiatives, 'Institutional Collaboration' and 'Authors Spotlight', aimed at enriching the public's engagement with knowledge, heritage and the written word. Reviving forgotten pages – May 29 The opening event in the 'Institutional Collaboration' series, 'Reviving Forgotten Pages', will be held on Thursday, May 29, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum. Organised in partnership with the Juma Al Majid Centre for Culture and Heritage and the Sharjah Museums Authority, the event features a panel discussion titled 'The Home Library: Promoting Reading and Organising Books'. The session will explore the cultural value of home libraries, emphasising their role in preserving literary heritage and fostering regular reading habits. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops under the title 'Book Clinic', offering practical guidance on cleaning, preserving and rebinding old books. The event will conclude with a cultural tour of the museum, featuring an immersive experience in ancient writing techniques using clay and the South Arabian Musnad script. The cultural message – July 30 SPL will host 'The Cultural Message' on Wednesday, July 30, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Holy Quran Academy, in collaboration with Al Qasimia University. The event will explore Islamic civilisation's intellectual and scientific legacy and its influence on global progress. Discussions will cover the contributions of Muslim scholars to fields such as medicine, astronomy and mathematics, the enduring cultural impact of Islamic heritage, and the values of coexistence and tolerance. The programme also features a specialised workshop on Arabic calligraphy and Islamic ornamentation, offering participants a rich and immersive cultural experience. Horizons of writers and poets – July 29 On Tuesday, July 29, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, SPL will conclude its 'Institutional Collaboration' series with a literary event titled 'Horizons of Writers and Poets – Echoes of Modernity', held at the House of Wisdom. Targeting adults and youth aged 14 to 18, the seminar will explore the evolution of contemporary Arabic poetry through a blend of panel discussions, interactive workshops and a live poetry reading. The event will feature four poets from different generations, presenting a dynamic and multi-layered portrayal of modern Arabic verse. 'Authors Spotlight' ... a journey through pioneering voices SPL will also host a panel discussion as part of the 'Authors Spotlight' series, which showcases influential literary and intellectual voices from the Arab world. Scheduled for Saturday, July 12, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, the session will feature acclaimed Iraqi novelist Ali Bader in a conversation moderated by Dr Amina Al Hashimi. The discussion will explore key moments in Bader's literary career, with particular attention to his works addressing themes of exile and identity, such as 'Papa Sartre'. Earlier this year, SPL hosted the 'Exhibition of the Lens of Literary Beginnings' from April 21 to May 4, collaborating with the Emirates Writers and Authors Union. The exhibition provided an interactive journey through the early creative experiences of Emirati writers, featuring digital displays highlighting their biographies and debut works. Visitors also had the opportunity to use vintage typewriters to write motivational messages encouraging reading, while enjoying a compact cultural cafe that added a warm, literary ambience to the experience.
Observer
20-04-2025
- Observer
Russian citizens express admiration for Oman
Muscat: Beauty, diversity in its landscapes, a blend of history and progress, and the preservation of its cultural heritage, identity, reputation, security, and justice—these are the qualities that have drawn visitors from various world countries to the Sultanate of Oman for many purposes, such as tourism, education, residence, and investment. In this context, some Russian citizens have highlighted these reasons for visiting Oman, a country located in the southeastern Arabian Peninsula with its warm waters overlooking the Arabian Sea and the Sea of Oman. Marta Paramonova, a student at the Sultan Qaboos Institute for Teaching Arabic to Non-Native Speakers in the Wilayat of Manah (Al Dakhiliyah Governorate), said: "I first learned about Oman while preparing a postgraduate research paper. I was amazed by how it keeps pace with modern advancements, especially in education and renewable energy. Later, some of my friends encouraged me to visit this country, which motivated me to learn the Arabic language there." She added: "What stands out about Omani citizens is their deep connection to their history—something many nations have lost. My friends and I were impressed by Oman's restoration of heritage sites like Nizwa Fort and the old neighborhoods and markets, which retain their historical spirit. Another marvel is Bahla, with its restored fort and markets, and how these landmarks are economically utilized." Marta also spoke about the Omani national identity she experienced during her stay, including moral and social principles, mutual respect, tolerance, and the preservation of customs and traditions. In the Governorate of Dhofar, Oman News Agency (ONA) met two Russian tourists from St Petersburg. Inna expressed her admiration by saying: "This is my first visit to Oman, and I am dazzled by everything in this truly remarkable country. But what impressed me most are the Omani people—their kindness, and cooperation that surpassed all expectations. I urge everyone to visit Oman.' She described the breathtaking sunsets on Dhofar's beaches, some overlooking historical landmarks like Al Baleed Archaeological Park, home to ancient South Arabian ruins, the Museum of the Frankincense Land, Sumhuram Park, and the Zheng He Memorial. On her turn, Yelena said: "This is my first time in Oman, though I have visited another Arab country before. But here—it's like a fairy tale. If you want an authentic Eastern fantasy, come to Oman." She spoke about exploring Dhofar's tourist sites, including desert life, and praised Omani cuisine. She said: 'If you truly want to know a country, you must visit it—not just read about it online. Oman's hidden depths are fascinating, and I hope to keep visiting it every year." Dr Igor Igorov, Head of the Board of Russian Compatriots in Oman affirmed that the Russians feel deeply welcomed in Oman. He said: 'Oman is an exceptionally friendly country, a sentiment shared by all nationalities here. Many Russians have lived here for over 10–15 years." He underlined some of the shared values like tradition, family cohesion and respect for heritage as key attractions. He added: "The community enjoys Oman's natural beauty—camping in deserts, mountain climbing, and beach relaxation. Group trips to Jabal Shams (Sun Mountain), Wadi Bani Khalid, Salalah, and Al Jabal Al Akhdhar (Green Mountain), especially during the rose season, are popular." He pointed out that over 50,000 Russian tourists visit Oman annually, particularly after direct flights were introduced. Conversely, the number of Omani tourists to Russia are rising, he added. As an investor, Igorov assists Russian businesses in sectors like oil, gas, food, healthcare, and advanced technology, with growing interest in tourism and real estate. On her turn, Anna Popova, Head of the Russian House in Oman, discussed bilateral cultural, tourism, educational, and business initiatives. She said: "This year, we held the second Spring Festival in Muscat, featuring 100 elite Russian artists in dance, music, and singing, alongside Omani performers. The event, supported by Omani ministries, included a trade exhibition, traditional attire, and Russian cuisine." She highlighted mutual warmth between the two cultures saying: 'Russian visitors are enchanted by Omani hospitality, while Omanis in Russia marvel at its cultural richness." 'Oman's nature and safety are its treasures," she Anna, who pointed out that the Russians are drawn to its uncrowded beaches, majestic mountains, and tranquility. She further added that a business forum for Omani and Russian entrepreneurs is planned for upcoming 7 May. Anna noted Oman's emergence as a preferred Arabic-learning destination for Russians, replacing other countries, thanks to specialized Omani universities. Conversely, interest in learning Russian among Omanis and expats is rising. She said: 'With Oman Air's year-round flights to Russia, tourism is set to flourish. Russians adore the Royal Opera House Muscat, not just for Russian performances but for its global arts." Anna concluded: 'These efforts reflect a shared vision to strengthen bilateral ties through arts, education, and economy, building on historical relations now renewed with promising opportunities.'
