On a recent morning inside Jimmy’s Corner, a narrow dive bar tucked into the commercial intensity of Times Square, 73-year-old David Gladman leaned over a series of photo-covered tables, searching through decades of memories laminated beneath worn surfaces.

Using the light from his phone, he scanned images from the 1970s and 1980s before stopping at one that captured a younger version of himself sitting beside his then-wife, cigarette in hand.The photograph, he said, was just one fragment of a routine that defined much of his adult life.

Gladman, a former executive chef, recalled frequenting the bar daily between 1988 and 2012, often spending hours there after work. He described it as a place where he could decompress from the pressures of his profession before returning home.

Jimmy’s Corner, established in 1971 by former boxer Jimmy Glenn, has long operated as an anomaly within its surroundings. While Times Square has undergone decades of commercial transformation, evolving into a global hub of tourism and entertainment, the bar has retained elements of an earlier era.

Its interior is marked by aging photographs of boxers, sticker-covered restroom walls, and a narrow bar lined with worn stools. The space offers little in terms of modern amenities but has maintained a reputation for authenticity among its patrons.

That continuity is now under threat. The building housing Jimmy’s Corner is owned by the Durst Organization, which has informed current operator Adam Glenn, the founder’s son, that the bar will be evicted as the property is prepared for sale.

Glenn, who assumed control of the establishment in 2015, has contested the move through legal action, filing a lawsuit in an attempt to delay or prevent the eviction.The dispute has drawn attention from both patrons and local officials, prompting a public demonstration aimed at preserving the bar.

On Friday, supporters gathered outside the premises, framing the potential closure as emblematic of broader tensions between longstanding local institutions and large-scale commercial redevelopment.

Participants described the effort as a final attempt to retain a venue that, for many, represents continuity in a rapidly changing urban environment.Inside the bar, however, the mood remained outwardly upbeat. Low-cost drinks and familiar surroundings sustained a sense of normalcy even as uncertainty loomed.

Regulars continued to gather, sharing stories and reflecting on their experiences within the space. For individuals like Gladman, the bar’s significance extends beyond its physical structure.He described a longstanding relationship with Jimmy Glenn, characterizing the founder as a mentor figure who provided personal advice over the years.

Those interactions, he said, contributed to the bar’s role as more than a place of business. It functioned as a social anchor, offering stability through different phases of his life.Gladman acknowledged that the photograph he had rediscovered captured a period that has since passed.

His first marriage ended, and his former wife relocated to California. He later remarried and has been with his second wife for more than three decades. Despite these changes, his connection to Jimmy’s Corner has endured, rooted in the accumulation of shared experiences and personal history.

The potential closure has therefore been received not simply as the loss of a commercial venue but as the erosion of a communal space. Patrons interviewed at the bar emphasized its role in fostering relationships and preserving a sense of identity within a district otherwise defined by transience and commercial turnover.

The broader context reflects ongoing patterns in New York City’s real estate market, where rising property values and redevelopment pressures have contributed to the disappearance of smaller, independently operated establishments.

In high-demand areas such as Times Square, such dynamics are particularly pronounced, often favoring large-scale tenants capable of meeting increasing rental demands.Efforts to prevent the closure of Jimmy’s Corner face significant challenges.

Legal proceedings initiated by Adam Glenn remain uncertain, and the property’s sale could further complicate negotiations. Observers note that similar disputes have historically favored property owners, particularly in cases involving redevelopment of prime commercial locations.

Nevertheless, the public response underscores the cultural significance attributed to the bar. Supporters argue that establishments like Jimmy’s Corner provide continuity in an environment otherwise characterized by rapid change.

The rally, attended by patrons and local representatives, sought to highlight this dimension, though no immediate resolution has been reached.As the situation develops, regulars continue to visit the bar, aware that its future remains unresolved. For Gladman, the significance of the space is defined less by its physical attributes than by the memories it contains.

He said he does not return to revisit specific moments, such as the photograph he located, but because the environment itself evokes a sense of belonging.“I don’t want this place to go,” he said, standing near the bar where he has spent decades. “It holds a lot of memories for me. For everyone.”

A late 19th-century painting by Raja Ravi Varma has set a new benchmark for Indian art after it sold for ₹167.2 crore ($17.98 million) at an auction conducted by Saffronart, surpassing previous records in the modern Indian art segment.

The work, Yashoda and Krishna, was acquired by Cyrus S. Poonawalla, chairman and managing director of Serum Institute of India. The final sale price exceeded the auction house’s pre-sale estimate of ₹80–120 crore, reflecting sustained demand among collectors for historically significant Indian works.

Poonawalla described the purchase as both a privilege and a responsibility, stating that efforts would be made to ensure the painting is accessible for public viewing. His acquisition marks one of the highest-value private purchases of Indian art to date.

The sale eclipses the previous record held by M. F. Husain’s Untitled (Gram Yatra), which had fetched over ₹118 crore. Market participants said the new record signals a strengthening valuation environment for Indian masters, particularly works with strong cultural and historical associations.

Painted in the 1890s during the peak of Ravi Varma’s career, Yashoda and Krishna depicts a domestic scene rooted in Hindu mythology, portraying the child Krishna with his foster mother Yashoda. The composition reflects Varma’s distinctive approach of combining European oil painting techniques with Indian themes, a style that contributed to his enduring influence on visual culture in India.

Born in 1848 in Kilimanoor in present-day Kerala, Ravi Varma is widely regarded as a foundational figure in modern Indian art. His portrayals of mythological figures, including Shakuntala, Sita, Damayanti and Draupadi, have had a lasting impact on artistic representation and popular imagery.

Pooyam Thirunal Gouri Parvathi Bayi, a member of the erstwhile Travancore royal family and a descendant of the artist, said the sale reflects a reassessment of Ravi Varma’s legacy.

She noted that while the painter had faced criticism in parts of the 20th century, including being described as a “poster painter,” his work is now receiving broader recognition for its artistic and cultural significance.

“I am proud that my great-grandfather is getting the recognition he deserves,” she said, adding that the retention of the artwork within India was a positive outcome. She also highlighted his role in popularising elements of Indian attire and jewellery through his paintings, which contributed to shaping visual representations of cultural identity.

Bayi added that it remains to be seen how the new owner will facilitate public access to the painting, noting that visibility and engagement are key to sustaining appreciation for such works.

According to Saffronart, the sale demonstrates the continued depth of demand in the Indian art market, particularly for museum-quality works. Minal Vazirani, president and co-founder of the auction house, said the result reflects the enduring appeal of historically significant pieces.

“Great art has a way of reaffirming its timeless value,” she said, describing the sale as indicative of both market strength and cultural resonance.The trajectory of Yashoda and Krishna, from its creation in the late 19th century to its sale in a contemporary auction setting, illustrates shifts in the valuation and perception of Indian art over time.

Works by Ravi Varma, once reproduced widely through prints and calendars, have increasingly been re-evaluated within institutional and collector circles as foundational to India’s artistic heritage.

The auction outcome also highlights the growing role of high-net-worth individuals in shaping the Indian art market, particularly in the acquisition and preservation of culturally significant works.

Industry observers note that such purchases can influence both pricing benchmarks and the visibility of Indian art on the global stage.

Up to 60 international missions would typically be active at Iraqi excavation sites, but all have now left the country, according to a government official in Baghdad, halting work on some of the world’s oldest known civilizations.

German archaeologist Adelheid Otto of the University of Munich said her team had begun work at the ancient city of Shuruppak, modern-day Tell Fara, on Feb. 28, the day the conflict started. The group initially continued operations despite nearby rocket and drone activity.

However, Iraqi authorities later advised them to leave, cutting short research that had already yielded discoveries including ancient cuneiform tablets.

Otto described the interruption as a significant setback to ongoing work.At the site of Nippur, a 6,000-year-old city, University of Chicago professor Augusta McMahon said her team departed on March 10 under pressure to evacuate amid escalating security concerns.

The eight-member team was escorted out of the area by Iraqi officials.McMahon said the evacuation marked her third withdrawal from the region in recent years, following earlier disruptions in Iraq in 2024 and Syria in 2011.

She noted the impact on both international researchers and Iraqi colleagues, whose work depends heavily on sustained field access.

The suspension of excavations leaves key heritage sites, including those linked to early Mesopotamian civilizations, without active international collaboration as security conditions remain uncertain.

Ramadan with communal Eid morning meals, as families gathered after prayers to share regionally distinct dishes that reflect local culture, social traditions and evolving lifestyles, while maintaining a common emphasis on hospitality and religious observance.

The first meal after a month of fasting carries social and symbolic importance, typically bringing together extended families in homes or shared community spaces. While ingredients and preparation methods differ across countries, the structure of the morning remains broadly similar: Eid prayers are followed by greetings, family visits and a breakfast that blends tradition with contemporary influences.

In Saudi Arabia, Eid breakfast traditions vary significantly across regions, shaped by geography, history and local customs. In the western Hijaz region, which includes Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah, the meal often takes the form of a mezze-style spread, combining light but varied dishes arranged for communal sharing.

Typical tables include labneh mixed with mint, olives, pickles, foul, breads and small plates, sometimes complemented by modern additions such as cheese platters. The meal, known in some households as “tatema,” emphasizes both simplicity and presentation.Household host Samiah Qadi said that while families aim to preserve traditional elements, newer trends have gained acceptance.

“Despite efforts to keep Eid breakfast authentic, new and interesting trends continue to grow every year,” she said, noting the increasing popularity of curated cheese and charcuterie boards.Abir Abu Sulayman, CEO of the Aloula Nonprofit Organization and a specialist in Hijazi traditions, described the meal as both festive and socially significant.

She said Eid breakfasts commonly include a variety of breads, cheeses, jams and dishes such as shakshuka, creating what she described as a substantial morning meal. She added that the gathering is central to family interaction, particularly for children who greet elders and receive small monetary gifts.

In Madinah, Eid morning often begins with prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque, followed by family gatherings influenced by the city’s long history as a destination for pilgrims. Tour guide Mohammed Qari said this has contributed to a diverse culinary tradition, with dishes including cheeses, olives, sweets and breads such as fatout Al-saman and shrik.

In central Saudi Arabia and parts of Najd, Eid breakfasts tend to feature heavier dishes associated with celebrations. Meals often include mufattah, a lamb-based preparation typically reserved for special occasions.Haneen Al-Rashid, a resident of Riyadh, said regional tables are characterized by dishes such as jareesh, qursan and haneeni, usually served with Arabic coffee and sweets.

She noted that the exchange of greetings and Eidiya, or gifts for children, forms an integral part of the gathering.In the Eastern Province, Eid begins with prayer and continues with family gatherings, often hosted by the family matriarch. Ghadeer Al-Sughair, a teacher from Dhahran, said breakfasts commonly include balaleet, aseeda, fatit and liver, accompanied by visits to relatives and neighbors throughout the day.

A traditional preparation described by residents includes a stew of mashed wheat and barley with fresh lamb, cooked in a clay pot, reflecting longstanding culinary practices in the region.

In the northern region of Al-Jouf, Eid mornings are marked by close family gatherings at the home of a senior relative. Abdulrahman Al-Sharari of the Tabarjal Family Association said hospitality typically begins with Arabic coffee and dates, followed by dishes such as hameesah, a sautéed meat preparation with onions and spices.

Another dish, bakeelah, combines date paste made from Hilwah Al-Jouf dates with roasted samah grain and ghee or olive oil. Al-Sharari said these foods reflect the agricultural identity of the region. Social visits to relatives and community elders continue throughout the day.

In southern regions such as Jazan, Eid celebrations often extend beyond individual households into shared community spaces. Residents prepare collective meals served on long tables, with each family contributing dishes featuring local ingredients such as ghee, honey, fish, barley and lamb.

Writer Mohammed Al-Malki said these gatherings are sometimes accompanied by traditional dances before breakfast. Among the prominent dishes is haisiyah, prepared in both sweet and savory forms using grains, yogurt, bread and meat.

Variations may include salted fish, reflecting coastal influences.Other dishes such as marsah, made from flour, banana, honey and ghee, along with mofalt and marshoosh, are also common. The use of clay vessels remains an important aspect of preparation, preserving traditional cooking techniques.

In India, Eid Al-Fitr breakfast traditions reflect the country’s regional diversity and cultural influences, with meals varying across states while retaining common elements tied to family gatherings and hospitality.

In northern India, particularly in cities such as Delhi and Lucknow, Eid breakfast often features sheer khurma, a sweet vermicelli dish prepared with milk, dates and nuts, which is typically served immediately after returning from Eid prayers. The dish is widely regarded as a central component of the morning meal and is often shared with neighbors and guests.

Alongside sheer khurma, families may serve breads such as naan or sheermal with savory dishes including kebabs, nihari or korma, depending on regional preferences. In many households, the breakfast extends into a larger meal that continues through the day as relatives visit and exchange greetings.

In the western state of Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Eid breakfasts often combine North Indian and coastal influences, with dishes such as malpua, biryani leftovers from Eid preparations and a range of sweets. Families typically host open-house style gatherings, allowing friends and relatives to visit throughout the day.

In southern India, including Hyderabad and parts of Kerala, Eid breakfasts are shaped by local culinary traditions. In Hyderabad, sheer khurma remains central, often accompanied by dishes such as haleem or meat-based curries prepared during Ramadan and served again on Eid morning.

In Kerala, where Muslim communities have strong maritime connections, breakfasts may include pathiri (rice-based flatbread), meat curries and coconut-based dishes, reflecting the region’s coastal cuisine. Tea and sweets are commonly served as part of the meal.

Across India, the exchange of Eidi, or gifts for children, is a common practice, reinforcing the social aspect of the festival. Families often visit relatives, neighbors and community members throughout the day, maintaining traditions that emphasize inclusivity and hospitality.

Across regions, Eid breakfasts illustrate a balance between continuity and adaptation. While traditional dishes remain central to the observance, modernization has influenced preparation methods, presentation and ingredient choices. Increased access to markets and ready-made products has simplified cooking in some households, while social media has contributed to the adoption of new presentation styles.

Despite these changes, the core structure of Eid morning remains consistent: communal prayer, shared meals and social interaction. The variations in cuisine reflect local histories, agricultural practices and cultural exchanges, while the underlying purpose of the gathering marking the end of Ramadan and reinforcing family and community ties remains unchanged.

The diversity of Eid breakfasts across Saudi Arabia, India and other parts of the Muslim world highlights how a shared religious occasion is expressed through distinct regional identities, with food serving as a central medium of cultural continuity and social connection.

Running through January 15, the festival offers daily programming from 4 p.m. to midnight, blending heritage, modern cultural expression, and interactive experiences that honor writers, readers, and creative minds across generations.

The festival spans four main sites — Aldarb, Almatal, Alfanaa, and Alsarh — and includes over 270 events, comprising 176 cultural activities, 84 theatrical performances, seven musical and poetry evenings, and 45 literary and artistic works, creating an immersive experience for attendees.

Interactive platforms, storytelling sessions, and hands-on workshops provide opportunities for children, families, and literary enthusiasts to engage directly with authors, illustrators, and publishers, enhancing participation and learning.

Approximately 42 publishing entities from both domestic and international markets participate, showcasing contemporary literary releases and facilitating exchanges between readers, writers, and the publishing industry.

Programs such as Al-Fina’ zone’s “Between Reality and Imagination” combine visual storytelling with animated narratives, guiding visitors through creative journeys and exploring Arab and global literary dimensions in an engaging format.

The festival highlights Taif’s designation as the Kingdom’s first UNESCO Creative Cities Network literature city and reinforces the city’s role as a hub for cultural exchange, creative discovery, and literary innovation.

It encourages the development of reading culture and fosters interaction among writers, readers, and thinkers, promoting intellectual growth and cultural enrichment while offering recreational and educational experiences for attendees.

Participants can enjoy diverse events, from theatrical performances to poetry evenings and interactive literary workshops, all designed to celebrate creativity and provide accessible opportunities for audiences to connect with literature.

The festival also serves as a platform for Saudi and international creatives to exchange ideas, discuss literary trends, and explore innovations in publishing and storytelling, enriching the broader cultural ecosystem.

Visitors benefit from exposure to contemporary literature across multiple domains, including literary, intellectual, and knowledge-based works, while interactive zones and workshops provide opportunities to engage with content in hands-on and immersive ways.

By combining cultural programming with recreational experiences, the festival promotes lifelong learning, artistic appreciation, and cross-generational engagement in a dynamic, festive environment.

Attendees can participate in interactive storytelling sessions, educational workshops, and creative demonstrations, allowing young audiences to explore literature while encouraging adults to deepen their engagement with contemporary and classical works.

The festival reinforces the role of literary events in fostering a strong cultural identity, encouraging dialogue, and promoting appreciation for literature as an essential aspect of modern life and societal development.

Through a diverse range of events and activities, the Taif Festival creates a vibrant, participatory environment for literary engagement, cultural exchange, and creative expression for residents, visitors, and literary enthusiasts alike.

The festival’s programming emphasizes accessibility, inclusivity, and creativity, highlighting the value of literature and reading culture as vital components of community enrichment and cultural development.

The gathering brought together scholars, cultural leaders and researchers committed to strengthening the Arab narrative in a rapidly changing world.

The two-day event, themed “From Orientalist Narrative to Arab Narrative,” aimed to reshape how Arab culture is represented by emphasizing authentic roots and intellectual contributions.

Its purpose was to encourage renewed appreciation of Arab civilization while fostering constructive dialogue about the region’s past and present.

Prince Turki Al-Faisal inaugurated the event, recalling how the Arab aesthetic emerged from the vast silence of the desert, where clarity and imagination inspired early expressions of poetry and art.

He noted that beauty first appeared through sound and script, shaping a consciousness that later became central to Arab identity.

He emphasized the transformative moment when the Arabic language rose to prominence with the revelation, marking the beginning of a linguistic and artistic renaissance.

Arabic calligraphy, he said, became a vessel for sacred expression and helped launch a tradition of creativity that continues today.

The King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies was praised for its role in documenting and preserving Arab cultural heritage.

Its collections, research programs and exhibitions were highlighted as essential tools for strengthening historical understanding and cultural awareness.

Partnership with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization further enriched the event’s mission.

This collaboration supports knowledge initiatives designed to promote language, heritage and the Arab narrative on regional and international platforms.

Mohamed Ould Amar, ALECSO’s director-general, described the event as a beacon for cultural preservation and intellectual advancement.

He said that its goals align with broader efforts to protect Arab heritage and ensure its relevance in contemporary society.

He added that rebuilding the Arab narrative requires critical engagement with history and creative re-thinking of identity.’

This process links past achievements with present aspirations, shaping a modern narrative grounded in authenticity.

Arab Narrative Days builds on earlier editions that explored classical Arab storytelling, scientific contributions and the influence of the desert in shaping imagination and values.

The event continues the journey of understanding how cultural layers form identity and how they can be preserved for future generations.

The first edition in 2023 examined classical narration and the exchange of scientific knowledge between civilizations, emphasizing the importance of historical awareness.

The second edition, held in 2024, focused on the desert as a cultural archive, drawing from Bedouin traditions and early literary expressions.

This year’s edition expands these themes by addressing the evolution of the Arabic language and its centrality in shaping cultural and intellectual life.

Speakers emphasized that language remains a key pillar of identity, creativity and collective memory.

The event encourages participants to reflect on the powerful connection between language, art and history.

It highlights how understanding this relationship can strengthen cultural pride and inspire new generations to engage with their heritage.

As the discussions continue, the gathering underscores the importance of protecting and promoting Arab identity in an interconnected world.

It reaffirms that cultural preservation is not just a responsibility but a source of strength, offering a foundation for future creativity and regional unity.

The event closes with a renewed focus on building bridges between the past and the future.

Its message is clear: sustaining the Arab narrative requires active engagement, informed dialogue and a shared commitment to cultural continuity.

The announcement took place during the fifth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, a four-day event that brought together local and international experts to explore innovations and technologies designed to improve the Hajj and Umrah experience.

The initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the National Center for the Non-Profit Sector, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s drive to integrate professional expertise into volunteering work.

It seeks to empower organizations and entrepreneurs who serve pilgrims, ensuring high-quality services that align with the Kingdom’s broader vision for sustainable development and community participation.

By focusing on professional volunteering, the program encourages specialists from diverse fields to contribute their skills toward supporting nonprofit and Hajj-related organizations.

The initiative also aims to enhance institutional efficiency, strengthen human capabilities, and improve the overall management of Hajj services through modern methods and innovative technologies.

Key areas of focus include financial sustainability, developing business models for nonprofit organizations, and identifying investment opportunities that ensure long-term success.

Additionally, it emphasizes the integration of digital transformation and artificial intelligence to streamline operations, improve service delivery, and boost volunteer engagement across all sectors serving pilgrims.

This initiative also contributes directly to the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to increase volunteer participation in national development and position Saudi Arabia as a global leader in humanitarian service.

Through these efforts, the Kingdom continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a culture of giving, innovation, and collaboration.

The Hajj Conference served as a dynamic platform where experts, innovators, and decision-makers from around the world gathered to share ideas on enhancing the pilgrim experience.

Delegates from Islamic countries, government agencies, and private companies showcased new systems designed to ensure smoother, safer, and more efficient Hajj operations.

Exhibits featured advanced smart transport solutions, digital health monitoring systems, and crowd management technologies, all aimed at ensuring the safety and comfort of millions of pilgrims.

These innovations reflect Saudi Arabia’s ongoing investment in smart infrastructure and technological transformation to make every aspect of the pilgrimage seamless.

One of the most engaging panels at the conference focused on photography and documentary filmmaking, highlighting their crucial role in preserving the spiritual and cultural memory of Hajj.

Experts discussed how photography captures not only the rituals of Hajj but also the profound emotions, unity, and faith that define the experience.

Speakers noted that visual documentation serves as an educational bridge, connecting generations and promoting global understanding of the pilgrimage’s significance.

They emphasized developing Saudi photographers’ talents to tell compelling stories that reflect the values of peace, compassion, and humanity that lie at the heart of Hajj.

Another session explored Hajj’s cultural and social dimensions, focusing on symbols, traditions, and customs that shape the collective memory of Muslim societies.

Scholars and researchers stressed that Hajj is not only a religious obligation but also a cultural journey that deepens the shared consciousness of the Muslim world.

Participants highlighted the importance of documenting oral histories, preserving heritage artifacts, and promoting collaboration between universities, museums, and research institutions.

These partnerships are vital for safeguarding the legacy of Hajj and ensuring that its stories and spiritual essence continue to inspire future generations.

Museums and cultural centers play a significant role in preserving the human dimension of Hajj, displaying photographs, artifacts, and personal belongings that tell stories of faith and devotion.

These exhibits provide visitors with an emotional connection to the journey of pilgrims through time, reinforcing the universal message of unity and peace that Hajj embodies.

The new professional volunteering initiative, combined with Saudi Arabia’s continuous innovation in pilgrimage services, represents a forward-looking approach to global service and community empowerment.

It stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to excellence, compassion, and cultural preservation — values that continue to shape its role as the spiritual and humanitarian heart of the Muslim world.

Organized by the Korea-Arab Society in collaboration with the South Korean Embassy, the caravan aimed to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen cultural and diplomatic ties. It encouraged dialogue and cooperation through shared traditions and creative expression.

Audiences enjoyed a rich blend of traditional and modern performances that highlighted the beauty of Korean culture. Traditional acts such as Pangut and Bokgae-Chum showcased Korea’s spirit, rhythm, and cultural heritage, filling the stage with lively movement and sound.

The graceful Buchae-Chum fan dance and the dynamic Samulnori percussion act displayed harmony and coordination in every motion. The final performance, “Marionette,” combined hip-hop with traditional dance, symbolizing the fusion of old and new art forms.

Korean artist Ko You Min expressed joy and gratitude for performing in Saudi Arabia for the first time. She noted that art serves as a universal language, capable of connecting people across borders and fostering peace and friendship.

Since 2008, the Korea-Arab Society has worked to promote cooperation between the two regions in culture, education, and economy. The Friendship Caravan continues this mission by spreading appreciation for Korean arts and encouraging cultural exchange.

Prince Sultan University’s participation reflected its commitment to cultural education and global awareness. Students had the opportunity to experience international art and learn how creativity can unite communities and build understanding.

Through music and movement, the performances celebrated both heritage and innovation. The event demonstrated how art can serve as a bridge between different cultures, inspiring respect, curiosity, and collaboration.

The caravan also symbolized the growing friendship between Korea and Arab nations, showcasing how cultural engagement can promote peace and understanding in a rapidly changing world.

As the caravan continues to travel across Arab countries, it carries with it a message of creativity, harmony, and hope. The Riyadh edition stands as a beautiful example of how shared art and cultural celebration can bring people closer together.

The district’s participation reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to showcasing its rich heritage, cultural diversity, and growing tourism potential on the global stage.

Through immersive exhibits, innovative digital experiences, and creative storytelling, Historic Jeddah is positioning itself as a symbol of the Kingdom’s cultural revival and sustainable tourism transformation under Vision 2030.

This year’s showcase continues Jeddah’s presence at the global travel event, reinforcing its reputation as a leading cultural and historical destination.

The exhibition highlights the ongoing revival of Al-Balad as a living museum of Saudi heritage and innovation. The district is unveiling a series of new tourism products and interactive experiences that blend history, art, and technology, offering visitors a deeper appreciation of Jeddah’s role as the gateway to Makkah and Madinah.

Among the highlights is the new Historic Pilgrimage Route, a guided experience that connects ten archaeological sites through immersive storytelling.

This route retraces Jeddah’s legacy as the entry point for millions of pilgrims over centuries, providing insight into the city’s cultural and spiritual importance.

Visitors can also engage with digital displays that bring to life archaeological discoveries through QR codes, allowing them to explore historical narratives, architectural designs, and rare artifacts with modern technological ease.

In addition, special tourism packages are being promoted for the upcoming teamLab Borderless Museum, which combines modern digital art with Jeddah’s deep cultural roots.

This innovative museum represents the intersection of art and heritage, where light, sound, and motion tell stories inspired by the region’s traditions.

Complementing this, Historic Jeddah’s dedicated page on Google Arts and Culture offers global audiences the opportunity to take virtual tours of its landmarks, showcasing the city’s timeless charm to millions of online viewers.

The participation of Historic Jeddah in the London event underscores the Ministry of Culture’s efforts to strengthen the district’s international profile.

More than 40,000 tourism professionals and cultural experts attended last year’s exhibition, making it an ideal platform to highlight Jeddah’s transformation.

The initiative is part of a broader strategic development project launched in 2021 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which focuses on reviving and preserving the historic heart of the city.

This ambitious project aligns with the Vision 2030 objectives that seek to protect Saudi Arabia’s architectural heritage while expanding its cultural and tourism sectors.

By merging traditional identity with modern infrastructure, the program aims to make history a key driver of sustainable economic development.

The revitalization of Al-Balad also contributes to cultural tourism, job creation, and community engagement, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming a top global destination for heritage and leisure.

Located along the Red Sea coast, Historic Jeddah is one of the oldest urban settlements in the region, with a legacy that spans centuries of trade, pilgrimage, and cross-cultural exchange.

Its distinct Hijazi architecture — featuring coral-stone buildings, intricately designed wooden rawasheen, and vibrant souqs — reflects a unique aesthetic that continues to inspire architects and travelers alike.

In recognition of its global importance, Al-Balad was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014.

The Jeddah Historic District Program, established by the Ministry of Culture in 2018, continues to drive restoration projects, enhance public spaces, and introduce cultural events that celebrate the area’s living heritage.

Through a balance of preservation and innovation, the initiative is breathing new life into old streets, transforming Al-Balad into a hub for art, creativity, and cultural exchange.

As Jeddah shines at the London World Travel Market, its story stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s broader transformation — where history, modernity, and sustainability come together to define a new era of cultural tourism.

The city’s revival not only honors its past but also positions it as a beacon of innovation, creativity, and global connectivity.

The charges come as investigators continue to uncover details surrounding the meticulously planned heist, which targeted treasures from the museum’s famed Galerie d’Apollon.

According to the Paris prosecutor’s office, a 37-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman were placed under formal investigation on Saturday.

The man, who is known to police for previous theft-related offenses, faces charges of organized theft and criminal conspiracy. The woman was charged with complicity in organized theft and conspiracy.

Both individuals have denied involvement in the robbery and remain in pre-trial detention as inquiries continue.

The announcement brings the total number of people formally charged in the case to four. Three others who had been detained earlier in the week were released without charge after questioning.

The ongoing investigation reflects the seriousness with which French authorities are treating the case, given both the monetary value of the stolen jewels—estimated at around $102 million—and the symbolic importance of the Louvre as a global cultural landmark.

While details about the identities of the two new suspects remain limited, local media reported that the woman is from La Courneuve, a suburb located north of Paris.

The prosecutor’s office declined to release further information to protect the integrity of the investigation. Officials emphasized that cooperation between different branches of law enforcement has been crucial in tracing the suspects and piecing together the events leading up to the heist.

The first two suspects charged in the case were arrested earlier in October. One, a 34-year-old Algerian national living in France since 2010, was detained by police at the airport as he attempted to board a flight to Algeria.

The second, a 39-year-old man already under judicial supervision for aggravated theft, resides in Aubervilliers, a neighborhood in northern Paris. Both individuals have reportedly made partial admissions regarding their involvement in the crime.

Investigators believe the heist was carried out by a small, highly organized group that used a mover’s lift to access the second-floor gallery, where they smashed display cases with power tools before fleeing on scooters driven by accomplices.

The theft was executed with precision, suggesting prior knowledge of the museum’s layout and security systems. Despite the swift arrests, none of the stolen jewels have yet been recovered, and the search for the missing treasures continues.

The Louvre Museum, one of the world’s most visited cultural institutions, has remained open to the public since the incident. Museum officials have assured visitors that security protocols are being thoroughly reviewed and strengthened to prevent similar incidents in the future.

French authorities have also noted that the museum’s cooperation has been instrumental in the investigation, providing surveillance footage and technical information that helped trace the suspects’ movements.

Experts in art security have pointed out that high-value museum heists often involve extensive planning and international networks.

They have expressed confidence in the French police’s ability to eventually locate the stolen items, as such rare pieces are extremely difficult to sell on the open market without attracting attention.

The investigation continues under the supervision of specialized judges, with international cooperation being considered in case the stolen jewels are moved across borders.

Authorities have encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious offers related to rare art or jewelry that may be connected to the case.

While the theft has raised concerns about museum security worldwide, it has also sparked renewed discussions about protecting cultural heritage and ensuring that global treasures remain accessible and safe.

The case continues to capture public attention, symbolizing both the vulnerability and enduring importance of the world’s great museums.