Exploring the history of ’s ancient Dumat Al-Jandal
Exploring the history of ’s ancient Dumat Al-Jandal/node/2588559/saudi-arabia
Exploring the history of ’s ancient Dumat Al-Jandal
Remains of the ancient city, Dumat Al-Jandal, which now lies in Al-Jouf, around 50km away from Sakaka can be seen here. Many empires in the past tried to capture it. (SPA)
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Updated 31 January 2025
Haifa Alshammari
Exploring the history of ’s ancient Dumat Al-Jandal
Dumat Al-Jandal was strong and rich because of trade, says Saudi archeologist
Updated 31 January 2025
Haifa Alshammari
RIYADH: In the heart of Al-Jouf, around 50km away from Sakaka, is the city of Dumat Al-Jandal — or, to give it its ancient name, “Adumato.”
Civilizations and kingdoms have thrived here for thousands of years, leaving behind traces of their existence carved onto walls and corners.
“It was a rainy period with rivers and forests, then it turned into a savanna, then into a period of little rain, then the habitation moved to other nearby sites such as the site of Al-Jamal and the site of Al-Rajajil,” explained Hussain Al-Khalifah, a Saudi archaeologist with over 30 years’ experience.
Italian ambassador Carlo Baldocci, during his visit to archaeological sites at Dumat Aljandal in October 2024. (Supplied)
“After that, the Arabian Peninsula became a desert as we see it today. In ancient times, humans moved to sites with fertile soil and water resources. Therefore, Dumat Al-Jandal is one of the oldest cities inhabited around the second millennium BCE,” he said.
When the city was first established, people needed stability and safety. But that could not be achieved without peace, especially with their neighbors such as the kingdoms of Tayma, Iraq and the Levant.
FASTFACT
Among the kingdoms and empires that tried to control Dumat Al-Jandal were the Assyrians, who made numerous attempts to control and capture the lands.
A trade road was created to exchange goods and link regions, and Dumat Al-Jandal was one of the significant points on this for people coming from the south of the Arabian Peninsula.
“It was an important point at the beginning of the land trade,” Al-Khalifah told Arab News.
Marid Palace, one of the remarks of Dumat Aljandal and evidence of the rich history of the city. (SPA)
“Dumat Al-Jandal was strong and rich because of trade. The people were protectors of the trade that passed by the city and, therefore, they took some of the goods in exchange for protecting merchants.”
Among the kingdoms and empires that tried to control Dumat Al-Jandal were the Assyrians, who made numerous attempts to control and capture the lands.
However, another kingdom was rising at the same time — the Arabian Qedarites, which not only prevented the Assyrians from taking Dumat Al-Jandal but also expanded their territory until they reached Palestine, Al-Khalifah said.
The Assyrians captured Adumato eventually, though the exact date is unknown.
They were known to document information on clay tablets, some of which can still be seen today at Dumat Al-Jandal. They are among the primary sources that mention Arabs, providing a description of the people of the city and one of their queens, Talkhunu, among others.
They also mention a rebel named Yabu who revolted against Ayatea, the king of Dumat Al-Jandal who was loyal to the Assyrians.
The Assyrian king, an advocate of justice who despised aggression and rebellion, sent warriors to aid Ayatea who caught Yabu and put him in chains.
The tablets also mention a popular souk which took place each year on the first day of spring.
NCEC develops an environmental pollution vehicle to reduce pollution and protect public health
Updated 57 min 28 sec ago
Haifa Alshammari
RIYADH: To enhance the speed and efficiency of environmental emergency response in the Kingdom of , the National Center for Environmental Compliance has launched six first-response vehicles for ecological emergencies.
These vehicles feature advanced technologies, including systems for measuring pollutants and hazardous emissions, as well as the ability to intervene in dangerous chemical incidents, while allowing teams to reach the scene as quickly as possible.
The environmental pollution vehicle is a specialized vehicle for monitoring and responding to various sources of pollution, helping to mitigate their impact on public health and the environment.
The NCEC's Environmental Pollution Vehicle is equipped with gadgets and instruments designed for monitoring and responding to various sources of pollution. (NCEC photo)
In an interview with Saad Al-Matrafi, NCEC’s executive director of media and communication and official spokesperson, he said that these vehicles use the latest advances in pollution measurement, providing accurate and immediate data on air quality and potential hazards.
He said that the vehicles will be stationed in several locations in the Kingdom, including Riyadh, the Northern Borders, Madinah, Makkah, Jazan, and the Eastern Province.
“Functioning as mobile environmental monitoring stations, the vehicles feature integrated systems for gas analysis and air quality assessment — enabling swift, data-driven responses to environmental incidents across the Kingdom,” Al-Matrafi said.
“By collecting and analyzing real-time data, it enables rapid corrective action to address environmental challenges as they arise,” he added.
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The executive director demonstrated the operation of the equipment and devices available in each vehicle.
“Technicians can measure the volume of hazardous gases and monitor various types of gases, such as carbon monoxide, methane, propane, nitrogen oxides, ammonia, and other gases, depending on the type of sensors selected.”
Inspectors of the National Center for Environmental Compliance at work. (SPA file photo)
In addition, the vehicle’s emergency technicians can handle accidents and chemical and biological hazards, he said.
“All employees receive specialized training to operate these vehicles safely, including the use of gas detection equipment and protective suits, ensuring they can effectively respond to chemical, biological, and hazardous material emergencies,” Al-Matrafi said.
NCEC said that the technologies in the vehicle contribute to the rapid response and handling of any environmental emergency, thereby ensuring the community’s safety and achieving the highest standards of environmental protection.
More than 25 devices, items of protection equipment, and tools are available in NCEC’s environmental vehicles, including a measuring device used to calculate distances accurately. This product is designed to fold, making it easy to carry and store when not in use.
Saad Al-Matrafi, executive director and official spokesperson at NCEC. (AN file photo)
Another tool is the hazardous gas measuring device, which will be used to detect the presence of toxic or flammable gases in the surrounding environment, ensuring the safety of people where gas levels may be hazardous.
Additionally, there is an infrared thermometer to measure temperatures remotely, without the need for contact with the object or surface being measured.
Employees will be equipped with a sample collection and storage bag designed for hazardous materials responders, environmental agencies, military personnel, police, or forensic workers collecting samples containing chemical, biological, or radiological threats, including chemical warfare agents, toxic industrial materials, and toxins.
DID YOU KNOW?
• The National Center for Environmental Compliance is aiming to protect the environment and the general public’s health with the environmental pollution vehicle.
• More than 25 pieces of protective equipment are available in NCEC’s environmental vehicles to ensure accurate data collection and provide a safe environment for the workers.
• Gases that experts from NCEC can measure in vehicles include carbon monoxide, methane, and propane.
Another bag will be provided to transport samples from the collection site to laboratories or other locations safely and without any change to their quality.
To protect workers in hazardous environments, such as industrial plants, power plants, contaminated sites, and activities involving exposure to highly toxic materials, protective suits will be provided. Employee safety is essential to avoid contamination by hazardous substances.
Around the world, poor air quality is one of the causes of several health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer, according to the Clean Air Fund. (Supplied)
Furthermore, the chemical and biological hazard-resistant suit is designed to protect people from exposure to toxic chemicals, biological contaminants, or viruses in hazardous environments.
Workers are expected to use a face mask and a filter, as the modern design of full-face masks provides extensive and well-developed cover for the face while still allowing clear vision. While the availability of various sizes ensures masks fit comfortably and securely, the face mask filter provides complete protection from toxic and chemical gases.
The Kingdom is prioritizing its sustainable development goals as a significant objective of Vision 2030. Structuring a healthier, more flourishing, and greener future through innovative interventions such as the environmental vehicle by NCEC is critical for a balanced ecosystem.
Speaking to Arab News, Princess Sora said: “The Sora Collection was born from a deep love for my homeland. (Supplied)
Updated 10 October 2025
Rahaf Jambi
Princess Sora bint Saud launches interactive book celebrating Riyadh
Part of Sora Collection, book spotlights history, culture
Born from ‘deep love’ of homeland, she tells Arab News
Updated 10 October 2025
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Princess Sora bint Saud recently unveiled “Riyadh,” the first book in her Sora Collection, which is a series of interactive publications designed to highlight the culture, history, and heritage of ’s regions.
The luxury edition combines storytelling, illustration, and creative design, offering readers an immersive experience of the Saudi capital.
The book serves as a comprehensive guide to Riyadh, showcasing historic landmarks including Al-Masmak Fortress and the UNESCO-listed Diriyah, alongside modern icons such as the Kingdom Tower and Al-Faisaliah Tower.
“The book is just the starting point — there’s so much more that will be added; it’s going to be more of a lifestyle brand, but all relatable to the 13 regions.” (Supplied)
It also highlights traditional markets and heritage dishes including “haneeni,” “matazeez,” and “marqooq,” desert activities, and cultural experiences that capture the city’s unique character.
Speaking to Arab News, Princess Sora said: “The Sora Collection was born from a deep love for my homeland. I began the project back in 2022, and it took time to bring together all the right elements, from the concept and design to storytelling … to present it in the best way possible.
“The idea came from realizing that there wasn’t anything simple yet meaningful that covered all regions of in a creative and accessible way. I wanted to create something that could serve as a starting point for readers, especially children, to build their curiosity and discoveries from.
FASTFACTS
• Part of the Sora Collection, book spotlights history, culture.
• Born from ‘deep love’ of homeland, she tells Arab News.
“Each book is designed to inspire, while also living beautifully as a coffee table piece that invites conversation, pride, and connection to our culture.
“The book is just the starting point — there’s so much more that will be added; it’s going to be more of a lifestyle brand, but all relatable to the 13 regions.”
Crafted with historical accuracy and aesthetic appeal, the books provide an educational yet engaging experience for readers of all ages.
The launch comes amid ’s cultural and tourism renaissance under Vision 2030, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a leading global destination.
Princess Sora’s series is expected to attract wide interest from readers, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts.
It presents “Riyadh” as more than a book but as a starting to discover in all its richness and diversity.
Literary scene thrives across wide spectrum of genres at Riyadh book fair
Exhibition offers physical and digital books in various languages as well as works on jurisprudence and Prophet Muhammad
Updated 10 October 2025
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: The Riyadh International Book Fair continues to be a showcase for ideas, culture, and innovation. At this year’s fair, which ended Friday, several booths stood out for their contributions to the literary and cultural scene.
One of the most eye-catching was Samawi, a Saudi platform looking to transform the publishing landscape through its print-on-demand model.
One of the most eye-catching booths this year was Samawi, a Saudi platform transforming the publishing landscape through its print-on-demand model. (AN photo by Jafar Saleh)
The platform allows authors to upload their books, which are then printed only when a customer places an order. This model significantly reduces costs for writers, who no longer need to stockpile large print runs. In addition, Samawi connects bookstores directly with authors, opening more channels for distribution and visibility.
“We serve writers, publishers, and readers by providing technical support for the publishing industry, whether it’s reading, writing, printing, or digital and audio books,” Khaled Bamohamad, CEO of Samawi, told Arab News.
Another notable presence at the fair was the Saudipedia booth. Launched in 2024, Saudipedia is a multilingual digital encyclopedia dedicated to documenting every aspect of — from culture, economy, and Vision 2030 to sports, entertainment, and politics. (AN photo by Jafar Saleh)
The platform offers flexible printing and distribution options. And the Samawi Reader app provides access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks.
“We started in 2022 with e-books. Today we have 20,000 e-books and more than 5,000 audiobooks,” Bamohamad said. “With each exhibition, we introduce new services such as reading-speed analysis and enhanced reading experiences.”
(AN photo by Jafar Saleh)
Another notable presence at the fair was the Saudipedia booth. Launched in 2024, Saudipedia is a multilingual digital encyclopedia dedicated to documenting every aspect of — from culture, economy, and Vision 2030 to sports, entertainment, and politics.
Hassan Al-Qarni, editor-in-chief of Saudipedia, told Arab News: “We aim to provide reliable, original information to local, Arab, and international audiences.”
Available in Arabic, English, French, German, Russian, and Chinese, Saudipedia is billed as a comprehensive reference for anyone seeking to learn more about the country. Its presence at the book fair highlights the growing role of digital-knowledge platforms in promoting Saudi culture globally.
Another booth showcased the work of Nizar Al-Sheikh, a specialist in comparative jurisprudence and the landmarks of the Prophet’s biography.
Al-Sheikh has published around 35 works on the subject. His latest is “The Tourist Guide for Visitors to Al-Ahsa and the Eastern Province,” which explores Prophet Muhammad’s visit to the titular region on a trade journey before the revelation of the message.
“The work documents the villages and cities the Prophet passed through, the presence of the caliphs in the region, and the significance of its historical sites. It is comprehensive and covers many of the cities mentioned by the Prophet,” Al-Sheikh said.
The six-month project will benefit 1,153,000 individuals in areas most affected by the epidemic. (SPA)
Updated 10 October 2025
SPA
KSrelief launches urgent cholera response project in Yemen
Dr. Salem Al-Shabhi, undersecretary of the population at the Yemeni Ministry of Health, expressed his gratitude to the Kingdom for its comprehensive support, which he said “embodies the deep fraternal ties between the two nations
Updated 10 October 2025
SPA
ADEN: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center — the Saudi aid agency — has launched an urgent response project aimed at combating cholera in Yemen.
The six-month project will benefit 1,153,000 individuals in areas most affected by the epidemic. It aims to reduce infection rates and limit the spread of cholera through preventative measures including the establishment of specialized medical teams to examine and monitor travelers at air and land entry points in several governorates, including Aden and Hadhramaut.
The six-month project will benefit 1,153,000 individuals in areas most affected by the epidemic. (SPA)
Dr. Salem Al-Shabhi, undersecretary of the population at the Yemeni Ministry of Health, expressed his gratitude to the Kingdom for its comprehensive support, which he said “embodies the deep fraternal ties between the two nations and strengthens the health system’s resilience against epidemic crises.”
Al-Shabhi added that the project is a “cornerstone in curbing the spread of epidemics, combining preventative measures with community awareness to promote health literacy.”
The initiative comes within the framework of the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts, through KSrelief, to strengthen healthcare measures in order to tackle the cholera epidemic in Yemen.
Saudi foreign minister participates in Paris meeting on US’ Gaza ceasefire plan
Kaja Kallas, the high representative for foreign affairs and security policy and vice president of the European Commission, was also present
Updated 10 October 2025
SPA
PARIS: Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan took part in a ministerial meeting in Paris to discuss the US’ plan for a Gaza ceasefire, joining the foreign ministers and representatives of Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Turkiye, France, Italy, the UK, Germany, Spain, and Canada. Kaja Kallas, the high representative for foreign affairs and security policy and vice president of the European Commission, was also present.
Participants welcomed the agreement reached by the parties on a ceasefire, the exchange of prisoners and the release of hostages, and the start of the first phase of the peace process.
The meeting also looked at mediation efforts undertaken by Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye and ways to support implementation of the plan in line with the New York Declaration and in support of a political track leading to sustainable peace in Gaza and the region.
