Christian Dior retrospective exhibition coming to as part of Riyadh Season offering

Update A popular Christian Dior exhibition is coming to  as part of this year’s Riyadh Season festivities, it was announced on Thursday. (Supplied)
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A popular Christian Dior exhibition is coming to as part of this year’s Riyadh Season festivities, it was announced on Thursday. (Supplied)
Update A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. (ANFR Photo/Arlette Khouri)
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A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. (ANFR Photo/Arlette Khouri)
Update A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. (ANFR Photo/Arlette Khouri)
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A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. (ANFR Photo/Arlette Khouri)
Update A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. (ANFR Photo/Arlette Khouri)
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A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. (ANFR Photo/Arlette Khouri)
Update A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. (ANFR Photo/Arlette Khouri)
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A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. (ANFR Photo/Arlette Khouri)
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Updated 27 September 2024

Christian Dior retrospective exhibition coming to as part of Riyadh Season offering

Christian Dior retrospective exhibition coming to  as part of Riyadh Season offering
  • “Christian Dior: Desginer of Dreams,” which has captivated audiences at the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris, will run from Nov. 21 to April 2

PARIS: A showcase of haute couture is set to grace ’s capital as part of this year’s Riyadh Season 2024 whe the “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition comes to town. 

The retrospective is a collaboration between the legendary fashion house and ’s General Entertainment Authority, and will run from Nov. 21 to April 2 next year at the Saudi National Museum.

The exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the legendary designer’s origins and rise in the fashion world, beginning at 30 Avenue Montaigne and exploring his admiration for gardens, the splendor of the natural world, and his fascination with the grandeur of Versailles and the Enlightenment period.

Attendees will have the opportunity to see a collection of his haute couture creations, spanning from his early designs to those crafted by his successors, with each piece illustrating the house’s artistic innovation.

Curator Florence Muller and set designer Nathalie Criniere have crafted a fresh narrative specifically for the Riyadh show, ensuring a unique experience for both Saudi and international audiences.

Arab News en francais was granted an exclusive preview of the exhibition, from elegant gowns to intricate accessories, each piece told a story that reflected the artistry and innovation at the heart of Dior.

The exhibition’s unveiling took place during a media briefing held at Dior’s Paris headquarters, attended by key figures including Charles Delapalme, Dior’s administrative director, Muller and Turki Alalshikh, chairman of ’s General Entertainment Authority.

Delapalme highlighted the strategic significance of bringing the exhibition to Riyadh, following its resounding success at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris. 

Muller expressed her passion and excitement in curating this reimagined showcase for a new audience, aiming to introduce the essence of Dior to Saudi residents.

In an exclusive statement to Arab News, Alalshikh conveyed confidence that Riyadh’s residents will warmly embrace the exhibition and emphasized that the showcase has been thoughtfully adapted to resonate with local sensibilities and capture the spirit of “Riyadh Season 2024.”

Alalshikh further revealed that the Riyadh exhibition will be enriched with exclusive, never-before-seen pieces, hinting at a distinctive local flair that will set this iteration of the exhibition apart.

While anticipation builds for the Riyadh exhibition’s debut, the Paris edition continues to captivate audiences at “Dior: La Galerie.”


Darin Island hosts community blood donation campaign

Darin Island hosts community blood donation campaign
Updated 6 sec ago

Darin Island hosts community blood donation campaign

Darin Island hosts community blood donation campaign
  • Organizer tells Arab News ‘every drop of blood could mean a new chance at life’

DHAHRAN: Residents of Darin Island on Monday gathered at Salem Al-Mutawa Hall to participate in a blood donation campaign organized by Al-Jazirah Sports Club in collaboration with the Qatif Health Network.

The campaign, “Your Blood is Life,” is rooted in compassion and civic responsibility, the organizers said.

Reem Al-Hamdan, director of social responsibility at Al-Jazirah Sports Club and head of the organizing committee, said the campaign was more than a community event, it was a personal mission.

“When we believe that every drop of blood could mean a new chance at life, we realize that donating blood is not just a voluntary act, it’s a powerful humanitarian message,” she told Arab News.

Al-Hamdan was motivated to set up the event after visits to friends and family in hospitals, where she witnessed the struggles of patients suffering from anemia and other conditions that required transfusions.

“These close and emotional moments made me realize that blood donation isn’t just a choice, it’s a necessity that saves lives and restores hope,” she said.

She also considers the campaign a chance for people to shift their perceptions of sports institutions.

“I saw that the club shouldn’t only be a place for athletic competition, it should also be a platform for social responsibility and health awareness,” Al-Hamdan said.

Among the many participants was journalist Fares Aldrbas, who is a regular donor. “Donating blood is a humanitarian act that helps treat patients and the injured who are in need of transfusions,” he said. 

Aldrbas said he first donated blood for a family member. “I was among the first to step up, and it had a big impact on me. I felt like I had saved a life.”

“Trust in God and donate,” he said. “There is great reward in this, and it’s a humanitarian act truly worth doing.”

A significant moment for Al-Hamdan during the campaign came from a donor who shared his reason for participating.

“He told me, ‘I’m donating today because I remember someone dear who passed away, they couldn’t find blood in time,’” she said.

“That moment touched me deeply and reminded me that what we’re doing here could truly be the difference between life and death.”

The campaign prioritized creating a safe and welcoming space, especially for first timers. A medical team was present to deal with questions and concerns.

“We make sure volunteers feel secure from the moment they arrive and we provide emotional and moral support, we want them to feel they’re part of something meaningful,” Al-Hamdan said. 

She also recalled how a cancer patient insisted on donating despite his illness.

“I felt overwhelming gratitude for him,” she said. “It gave real meaning to the campaign’s name ‘Your Blood is Life’ because even those in pain were trying to give life to others.”

Al-Hamdan hopes to make the campaign a permanent fixture in the community.

“I’d love to see it become an annual event … something that not only supports the blood bank, but raises awareness around anemia and the importance of regular blood donation.”

“This kind of solidarity shows that goodness is still alive in people’s hearts,” she said. “Together we can make a real difference.”


Red Sea Global unveils ‘Red Sea Health’ with first facility at new international airport

Red Sea Global unveils ‘Red Sea Health’ with first facility at new international airport
Updated 32 min 16 sec ago

Red Sea Global unveils ‘Red Sea Health’ with first facility at new international airport

Red Sea Global unveils ‘Red Sea Health’ with first facility at new international airport
  • RSG to expand its healthcare network over a year with 2 hospitals, 6 pharmacies and its emergency medical services
  • Red Sea Global Group CEO John Pagano: The unveiling of Red Sea Health reflects our deep-rooted belief that exceptional healthcare is a key part of the luxury tourism experience

RIYADH: Red Sea Global unveiled on Wednesday its dedicated healthcare brand, Red Sea Health.

This coincides with the launch of the firm’s airport clinic at the Red Sea International Airport, which officially begins operations this week, Saudi Press Agency reported.

“The unveiling of Red Sea Health reflects our deep-rooted belief that exceptional healthcare is a key part of the luxury tourism experience,” said Red Sea Global Group CEO John Pagano.

Red Sea Health represents RSG’s commitment to establishing a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem across its destinations, according to a press release.

Built on a philosophy of excellence, empathy, and patient-centered care, the new brand embodies the developer’s vision to provide unwavering support, compassionate care, and high-quality, integrated healthcare solutions to all.

The airport clinic offers a full suite of outpatient services — including walk-in consultations, urgent care, vaccinations, and travel-related medical support — for travelers, staff, and residents. It is constructed and equipped with 133 units of advanced medical technology.

“The Airport Clinic marks the beginning of RSG’s vision to build a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem across The Red Sea and AMAALA projects, cementing the firm’s position as a world-leading multi-asset developer,” said the press release.

Over the next 12 months, RSG will expand its healthcare network with the opening of two hospitals, six pharmacies and its emergency medical services provision for rapid emergency response and hospital transfers.

The Red Sea welcomed its first guests in 2023. It now has five hotels open, as well as RSI. Situated within three hours’ flying time of 250 million people and eight hours’ flying time for 85 percent of the world’s population, RSI is the gateway to the destination for guests and residents alike, whether based in the Kingdom or further afield.


Artisans showcase heritage at Al-Atula festival

Artisans showcase heritage at Al-Atula festival
Updated 06 August 2025

Artisans showcase heritage at Al-Atula festival

Artisans showcase heritage at Al-Atula festival

RIYADH: Live demonstrations of traditional crafts by skilled artisans at the eighth Al-Atula Archeological Village Festival have drawn significant interest, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.

Festival supervisor Othman Al-Zahrani said the event features more than 10 sections dedicated to traditional crafts.

These include ancient building techniques, door and window engraving, sword and dagger making, and Sadu weaving, the SPA reported on Wednesday.

The sections offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional professions firsthand with the artisans using simple tools and natural materials rooted in the heritage of the Baha region.

The event aligns with the Year of Handicrafts, an initiative launched to celebrate and support traditional crafts across the Kingdom.

The Baha region is known for its thriving craft industries that reflect the identity and history of its people.

More than 200 artisans from the region practice and preserve 20 distinct types of skills passed down through generations and showcased in local markets and cultural events.


KSrelief expands humanitarian aid in Yemen, Sudan, and Pakistan

KSrelief expands humanitarian aid in Yemen, Sudan, and Pakistan
Updated 06 August 2025

KSrelief expands humanitarian aid in Yemen, Sudan, and Pakistan

KSrelief expands humanitarian aid in Yemen, Sudan, and Pakistan
  • The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) continued its humanitarian efforts across some of the world’s most vulnerable regions this week, launching new development and emergency response initiatives in Yemen, Sudan, and Pakistan. 

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) continued its humanitarian efforts across some of the world’s most vulnerable regions this week, launching new development and emergency response initiatives in Yemen, Sudan, and Pakistan. 
Fighting Cholera in Yemen
KSrelief signed a cooperation agreement on Monday with a civil society partner to implement an urgent cholera response project in Yemen. The program aims to reach more than 1.15 million people, according to SPA. 
The agreement outlines the provision of essential medical tools, antibiotics, and intravenous solutions to reduce the number of cholera cases and prevent the disease’s spread. Medical teams will also be deployed at air and land ports to screen travelers and curb cross-border transmission. 
Food Security Support in Sudan
Meanwhile, in Khartoum State, Sudan, KSrelief annpounced the recent distribution of 700 food baskets to displaced families, benefiting 7,041 individuals, according to SPA. The aid forms part of the third phase of the 2025 Food Security Support Project, aimed at helping those uprooted by conflict and facing acute food shortages.
Sudan remains in the grip of a deepening humanitarian crisis, as conflict, displacement, and inflation severely limit access to food and basic services. 
Emergency Shelter in Yemen’s Hadhramaut
KSrelief also announced the distribution of shelter materials in response to natural disasters in Yemen’s Hadhramaut Governorate. This included the provision of tents and emergency kits to residents of Rumah district affected by floods and strong winds. The assistance reached 120 individuals, according to SPA. 
Empowering Families in Pakistan
KSrelief also signed a joint executive program with a civil society organization in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to support economic empowerment for the region’s poorest families.
The project is expected to directly benefit 2,500 families approximately 17,500 individuals and indirectly impact 88,000 people, according to SPA. The program will provide beneficiaries with livestock and poultry, along with hands-on training in animal husbandry, in an attempt to help them reduce reliance on external aid.


Cabinet appreciates positive results of international conference on Palestine co-chaired by

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chairs the Cabinet session in NEOM on Tuesday. (SPA)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chairs the Cabinet session in NEOM on Tuesday. (SPA)
Updated 05 August 2025

Cabinet appreciates positive results of international conference on Palestine co-chaired by

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chairs the Cabinet session in NEOM on Tuesday. (SPA)
  • Cabinet welcomed announcements made by several participating countries of their intention to recognize the Palestinian state

RIYADH: The Cabinet on Tuesday expressed its appreciation for the positive results of the recently held High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.

The conference, co-chaired by and France, was held between July 28-30 and aimed to catalyze concrete, time-bound, and coordinated international action toward the implementation of the two-State solution.

The chairs underlined the need to support Palestinian statehood, reinforce regional and international cooperation, and ensure respect for international law.

The Cabinet also welcomed announcements made by several participating countries of their intention to recognize the Palestinian state, Saudi Press Agency reported.

France, the UK, Canada, Portugal, Malta, and other countries have said they may recognize a State of Palestine at the UN in September.

The Cabinet reiterated the Kingdom’s call on all UN member states to support the final declaration issued by the international conference, which constitutes a comprehensive and implementable framework for implementing the two-state solution, that would in turn achieve international peace and security and contribute to building the future of the region and its peoples.

The Cabinet is following up on the Kingdom’s comprehensive support for the State of Palestine and its people, particularly on the humanitarian front, by continuing to send shelter, medical, and food aid to the Gaza Strip through the Saudi air and sea bridges.

It also condemned in the strongest terms provocative practices by Israeli government officials at Al-Aqsa Mosque, and stresses ’s demand that the international community halt these practices, which violate international laws and norms.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman briefed the Cabinet on the contents of letters received by King Salman and himself from the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and his meeting with Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.