Organized by the Jazan Culture House, the event has successfully transformed the traditional library setting into a vibrant hub of dialogue, creativity, and shared cultural discovery.

By blending books with various forms of art, Library Nights creates an environment where knowledge feels accessible, engaging, and deeply human.

Visitors are welcomed into thoughtfully designed pavilions that host a wide range of artistic and literary activities.

Photography displays, Arabic calligraphy showcases, and visual art installations invite audiences to explore culture through multiple senses.

These artistic elements encourage visitors not just to observe but to actively participate in the creation of cultural content.

The immersive atmosphere allows individuals to connect personally with ideas, stories, and artistic traditions.

One of the key highlights of Library Nights is its focus on promoting reading through innovative engagement.

Knowledge exchange corners feature carefully curated book selections that reflect diverse intellectual interests and cultural perspectives.

These spaces foster conversation, curiosity, and a renewed appreciation for the written word.

By presenting books alongside art, the event removes barriers that often distance people from reading.

Families play a central role in the experience, with activities designed to appeal to all age groups.

The children’s area, in particular, stands out as a nurturing space for imagination and creativity.

Young participants engage in creative writing, painting, and interactive reading sessions that make learning enjoyable.

These programs aim to cultivate an early and lasting relationship with books among children.

By encouraging creativity at a young age, Library Nights supports long-term intellectual growth within the community.

The family-friendly setting ensures that parents and children can explore cultural activities together.

This shared experience strengthens bonds while reinforcing the importance of learning in everyday life.

Library Nights also offers moments of reflection through its distinctive literature and music program.

Held within the main library, these sessions explore the emotional and philosophical power of words.

The integration of music adds depth to literary expression, creating a contemplative and enriching experience.

Participants are invited to reflect on how language shapes identity, thought, and human connection.

Such programming highlights the enduring relevance of literature in a fast-changing world.

The event underscores the evolving role of libraries as active cultural institutions rather than quiet repositories.

Libraries are presented as living spaces where ideas are exchanged and creativity flourishes.

This approach aligns with broader cultural goals of fostering awareness, dialogue, and artistic appreciation.

Library Nights also strengthens local cultural identity by celebrating Arabic art forms and literary traditions.

At the same time, it embraces diversity by offering content that appeals to a wide range of interests.

The initiative demonstrates how cultural programming can be both educational and entertaining.

By combining accessibility with artistic depth, Library Nights attracts audiences who may not typically visit libraries.

The growing popularity of the event reflects a strong public appetite for meaningful cultural engagement.

It also highlights the importance of community-centered initiatives in enriching public spaces.

Library Nights stands as a model for how cultural institutions can evolve with societal needs.

Through creativity, inclusivity, and innovation, the event continues to leave a lasting impact on Jazan’s cultural landscape.

As Library Nights progresses, it reinforces the idea that libraries remain essential spaces for imagination, dialogue, and shared cultural growth.

Held as part of the Horeca exhibition, the competition brings together professional chefs from across the Kingdom, offering a dynamic platform to showcase modern interpretations of Saudi cuisine rooted in heritage and innovation.

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission, the event reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to developing the culinary sector as a key pillar of its cultural and creative economy under Vision 2030.

The competition highlights how food can serve as a powerful expression of national identity, combining traditional flavors with contemporary techniques that appeal to both local and international audiences.

Participants are challenged to demonstrate excellence in either Cuisine or Pastry categories, ensuring focused evaluation that values specialization, craftsmanship, and artistic expression in each discipline.

By emphasizing creativity and innovation, the event encourages chefs to push boundaries while remaining grounded in the use of local ingredients that reflect Saudi Arabia’s diverse regions and culinary traditions.

Sustainability is a central theme of the competition, with chefs encouraged to adopt practices that reduce food waste and align with global trends in responsible and ethical cooking.

These principles underscore the Culinary Arts Commission’s broader vision of promoting environmentally conscious practices while elevating Saudi cuisine on the world stage.

For participating chefs, the competition offers far more than recognition, providing hands-on professional experience, exposure to industry leaders, and opportunities to build meaningful networks within the culinary community.

The event also serves as a career accelerator, helping chefs refine their skills and pursue competitive paths in both national and international culinary arenas.

Winners stand to gain prestigious rewards, including priority entry to renowned global competitions such as the Bocuse d’Or and the World Pastry Cup, marking a significant step toward international recognition.

Additional prizes such as official medals, personalized chef coats, certificates, and access to elite culinary events further reinforce the competition’s role in nurturing long-term professional growth.

Beyond individual achievement, the Saudi Elite Chefs competition plays a vital role in strengthening the Kingdom’s culinary ecosystem by supporting local talent and fostering innovation across the sector.

It reflects a broader cultural shift in which gastronomy is increasingly recognized as an important creative industry that contributes to tourism, cultural exchange, and economic diversification.

The presence of the competition within the Horeca exhibition further connects chefs with hospitality professionals, suppliers, and innovators, encouraging collaboration across the food and hospitality industries.

As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to the world, initiatives like this competition help position the Kingdom as a destination for culinary excellence and creative expression.

By blending tradition with modernity, the Saudi Elite Chefs competition reinforces the idea that cuisine is not only about food, but also about storytelling, culture, and national pride.

The event stands as a clear example of how Vision 2030 is translating into tangible opportunities for Saudi youth, empowering them to compete, innovate, and succeed on global platforms.

Through initiatives like this, Riyadh is steadily building a reputation as a center for culinary innovation, where local talent is celebrated and given the tools to thrive in a competitive global landscape.

The transformation celebrates the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage while honoring one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The unveiling marked the culmination of extensive restoration work that preserved the building’s original architectural character.

The revival of Bab Al-Bunt reflects a deep commitment to safeguarding Jeddah’s heritage while offering a modern cultural experience for visitors.

The opening ceremony welcomed leaders and cultural figures who praised the museum as a vibrant platform for creativity and cross-cultural expression.

They emphasized that this project highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to building a cultural future where history and innovation coexist.

Eman Zidan, director of the Red Sea Museum, described the reopening as the rebirth of a historic site originally constructed in 1866.

What was once a bustling port for pilgrims and travelers now stands as a cultural anchor sharing the stories of the Red Sea’s diverse communities.

Zidan explained that the restoration used coral stone, concrete, and traditional materials to bring the building back to its authentic form.

Architects and heritage specialists worked meticulously to revive Bab Al-Bunt’s identity while adapting it into an engaging museum space.

The museum is committed to offering an enriching visitor experience through a wide range of curated programs and exhibitions.

Its collections include archaeological objects, manuscripts, coral specimens, maps, and contemporary artworks that explore the Red Sea’s history and biodiversity.

Collaborations with local artisans and artists further amplify the museum’s creative spirit.

Projects inspired by the sea, including works by noted artist Ahmad Angawi, highlight the region’s artistic traditions and natural beauty.

A special feature of the museum’s cultural programming is the Red Sea Symphony, created in partnership with the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum.

Composed in seven movements, the symphony brings together children’s choirs to celebrate the music of the Red Sea’s coastal nations.

Leaders from the Museums Commission noted that transforming Bab Al-Bunt into a public cultural space reflects the goal of making heritage more accessible.

They described the museum as a living environment where people can explore, learn, and feel connected to the stories of the Red Sea.

Officials shared hopes for future museums within Jeddah’s historic district, supported by ongoing excavations revealing artifacts from different eras.

Some of these discoveries may eventually be showcased in dedicated museum spaces as the district continues to evolve.

Cultural experts highlighted that the Red Sea Museum strengthens Jeddah’s identity by blending modern museology with historic preservation.

They noted that the museum’s approach honors tradition while presenting it through contemporary creative lenses.

Music also plays a central role at the museum, especially through the Silk Road Symphony performed during the opening celebration.

Drawing from the rhythms and cultures of Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Jordan, Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, and Djibouti, the performance symbolized unity through shared heritage.

Artists working with the museum emphasized the importance of storytelling through design and architecture.

They described how inspiration from waves, fish, and traditional Red Sea motifs shaped new artistic creations displayed throughout the space.

Visitors to the Red Sea Museum can explore seven thematic sections spread across 23 galleries.

The experience includes more than 1,000 carefully curated pieces that reflect the region’s tangible and intangible cultural treasures.

Temporary exhibitions, workshops, talks, and community programs complement the museum’s permanent displays.

Events such as Music of the Red Sea invite visitors of all ages to engage deeply with the region’s history, environment, and artistic expression.

The rebirth of Bab Al-Bunt as the Red Sea Museum symbolizes Jeddah’s dedication to preserving its heritage while embracing new cultural horizons.

It stands as a bridge between generations, celebrating the stories, songs, and traditions that have defined the Red Sea for centuries.

Its latest achievements reinforce the festival’s position as the world’s largest and most influential light art event, showcasing the Kingdom’s growing cultural dynamism.

Organized under the Riyadh Art program of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, this year’s edition brought together 59 artists from 24 countries.

With 60 installations placed across major locations in the capital, the festival created an immersive citywide experience blending creativity, technology, and cultural storytelling.

The 2025 theme, “In the Blink of an Eye,” invited audiences to explore how moments, memories, and emotions can be transformed through light.

Iconic sites such as the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Qasr Al-Hokm District, JAX District, King Abdullah Financial District, and Al-Faisaliah Tower became open-air galleries filled with color, movement, and futuristic design.

Noor Riyadh’s global recognition continues to grow, with this year’s awards including honors from LIT Lighting Design Awards, Muse Design Awards, TITAN Awards, and the New York Architecture Awards.

These accolades highlight the festival’s role as an international platform for creative excellence and technological experimentation.

The festival also achieved four Guinness World Records, underscoring its commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.

The records include the largest moving water-based art installation, the largest illuminated emoji, the largest AI-powered projection mapping on a building, and the largest 3D-printed mural artwork.

Leaders from the Riyadh Art program emphasized that the event strengthens Riyadh’s vision of becoming a global cultural destination.

According to the organizers, Noor Riyadh demonstrates how public art can uplift urban spaces, inspire community pride, and reshape the cultural identity of a modern metropolis.

Beyond the large-scale installations, the festival expanded its community engagement efforts, offering workshops, artist talks, guided tours, and family-friendly activities.

These programs brought tens of thousands of residents and visitors into direct interaction with the artworks, fostering artistic curiosity and creative learning.

This year’s educational outreach focused on introducing young audiences to digital art, design principles, and the possibilities of emerging technologies.

Families also enjoyed nightly shows and storytelling sessions, adding to the festival’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

The success of Noor Riyadh reflects the broader cultural transformation underway in the Kingdom, where public art is becoming an integral part of city planning and social development.

By merging tradition with innovation, the festival celebrates both local talent and global perspectives within one vibrant platform.

As part of the Riyadh Art program’s long-term vision, Noor Riyadh is just one pillar of a larger initiative to turn the city into an open-air gallery.

Upcoming projects include Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026, which will bring international sculptors to Riyadh to collaborate, create, and engage with local communities.

The festival’s growing international attention is also boosting cultural tourism, drawing travelers who seek immersive art experiences in dynamic urban environments.

Its blend of creativity, diversity, and technological advancement reflects the spirit of a city evolving into a global creative capital.

With its record-breaking achievements and expanding global reputation, Noor Riyadh 2025 stands as a symbol of artistic ambition and cultural progress.

As preparations for future editions begin, the festival continues to illuminate Riyadh’s skyline and inspire millions with the transformative power of light.

The Ministry of Media, working in partnership with the General Entertainment Authority, opened the cultural showcase on Saturday to encourage public engagement and deepen appreciation for Pakistan’s traditions.

The initiative is part of a broader national effort to embrace cultural diversity and highlight the contributions of resident communities.

Officials emphasized that the event aims to strengthen social connections and promote a greater understanding of the rich cultural identities represented in Saudi Arabia.

The programming will continue through Monday and features a variety of activities designed to provide visitors with an immersive cultural experience.

These include traditional performances, interactive stations and celebratory parades that reflect the vibrancy of Pakistani heritage.

Heritage booths have been set up to display traditional clothing, crafts and culinary items that form an essential part of Pakistan’s cultural identity.

Visitors can explore the textures, colors and artisanal details that define regional styles, as well as observe demonstrations that highlight craftsmanship passed down across generations.

The opening day featured musical and folk performances that introduced audiences to Pakistan’s artistic heritage through rhythm, movement and storytelling.

Students from a Pakistani school in the Kingdom presented an interactive cultural segment, offering insights into traditional expressions and community customs.

Organizers said the initiative is designed to welcome residents from all nationalities, allowing them to experience a cultural exchange that enriches the social fabric of the capital.

The events encourage participation from families, students and professionals, creating an inclusive space where cultures can be explored and appreciated together.

The Ministry of Media noted that the celebration underscores Saudi Arabia’s evolving position as a hub for global cultural interaction.

The initiative aligns with national efforts to build stronger connections among the Kingdom’s diverse population and to highlight the contributions of various expatriate communities.

Global Harmony 2 is focusing on 14 cultures, each represented through daily showcases, performances and interactive programs.

These activities provide a platform for communities to share their heritage while highlighting shared values such as coexistence, creativity and mutual respect.

For the Pakistani community, the event serves as a moment of visibility and appreciation within a broader cultural dialogue.

Participants say such initiatives support a greater understanding of their traditions and enhance the sense of belonging among community members living in the Kingdom.

The festival also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s growing emphasis on cultural engagement as part of its social development initiatives.

Public events such as these are designed to expose residents to different cultural experiences and strengthen connections within the country’s diverse society.

Visitors attending the event will encounter a blend of traditional arts, clothing displays, and culinary elements that showcase the historical richness of Pakistan.

Organizers highlighted that these presentations are meant to be interactive, offering guests an opportunity to learn through direct engagement rather than observation alone.

The program encourages residents to participate in cultural activities that contribute to a deeper understanding of shared community life.

Through performances and presentations, the initiative seeks to promote cultural appreciation in a way that is accessible and engaging for all age groups.

Officials said the event reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue among different cultures, ensuring that all communities have opportunities to share their stories.

They added that the initiative reinforces Riyadh’s role as a city where global traditions can be celebrated in harmony.

With its continued emphasis on cultural diversity, Global Harmony 2 highlights the importance of inclusion within Saudi society.

Through the Pakistani cultural showcase, Riyadh is offering a meaningful platform for residents to recognize and celebrate the richness of the communities around them.

The collaboration brings together two globally renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites that share a vision of preserving heritage and enriching visitor experiences through shared knowledge and innovative conservation approaches.

This partnership is being positioned as a major step forward for international cultural cooperation, blending two distinct archaeological landscapes that have influenced generations of scholars, travelers, and heritage experts.

By combining their strengths, both destinations aim to deliver deeper and more interactive ways for visitors to understand ancient civilizations and the environments that shaped them.

A delegation from the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, led by its General Director Dr. Gabriel Zuchtriegel, recently visited AlUla under the wider Saudi-Italian Cultural Cooperation Framework.

The visit emphasized the importance of heritage diplomacy and the role that international collaboration plays in safeguarding archaeological sites that continue to evolve with research and tourism demands.

Officials from the Royal Commission for AlUla said the partnership marks a significant moment in strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.

Experts from both sides engaged in extensive discussions on conservation methods, site interpretation, and improving on-the-ground visitor engagement strategies.

Set against dramatic desert cliffs and expansive oases, AlUla is home to Hegra, the first site in Saudi Arabia inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Hegra’s monumental tombs, carved by the Nabataeans more than two millennia ago, serve as a testament to human ingenuity and long-standing cultural connections across ancient trade routes.

Pompeii, by contrast, offers a rare snapshot of a Roman city frozen in time after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE.

Its preserved streets, villas, workshops, and public spaces provide an unparalleled insight into the daily lives of ancient inhabitants, making it one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world.

During the visit, specialists explored how the two destinations can respond to rising global expectations for experiential and sustainable tourism.

Heritage professionals discussed the need to balance preservation with accessibility while ensuring that modern visitors can form meaningful emotional and intellectual connections with ancient sites.

RCU’s chief tourism officer, Phillip Jones, noted that travelers increasingly seek immersive experiences rather than passive observation.

He emphasized that collaborations like this create opportunities to enhance storytelling, highlight craftsmanship, and deepen understanding of the cultures that shaped both regions.

The partnership also reflects the complementarity of the two locations. Where Pompeii represents a moment of urban life halted abruptly, AlUla reflects long-standing continuity, with layers of culture, archaeology, and living traditions still intertwined in the region.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Suhaibani, vice president of culture at RCU, highlighted that Pompeii’s focus on urban archaeology offers different but valuable insights when paired with AlUla’s landscape-based approach.

Together, these perspectives open new pathways for conservation, research, and interpretation that can elevate how heritage sites are managed around the world.

Pompeii’s General Director Dr. Zuchtriegel said the two destinations share a belief in the power of heritage as a bridge between cultures.

He underscored the importance of responsible and sustainable visitation, encouraging travelers to engage with history in ways that respect both the sites and the communities that care for them.

Future initiatives under the partnership include joint exhibitions celebrating cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and Italy, as well as collaboration on sustainable heritage management through the Pompeii G.R.E.E.N. Conference.

These projects aim to integrate culture with nature, agriculture, and community development to ensure long-term protection of historical landscapes.

Silvia Barbone, vice president of strategic partnerships at RCU, said the visit marks the first milestone since the signing of the partnership in the presence of Italy’s leadership.

She noted that the collaboration aims to transform heritage into a dynamic resource that continues to educate and inspire future generations while supporting local communities.

For travelers, the partnership promises expanded access to immersive storytelling, enhanced conservation techniques, and more interactive cultural experiences.

Whether exploring Pompeii’s ancient stone streets or discovering the carved tombs of Hegra, visitors can expect richer narratives that bring the ancient world to life through innovative interpretation and shared global expertise.