Ithra comes to life as families celebrate Gargee’an
Ithra comes to life as families celebrate Gargee’an/node/2593525/saudi-arabia
Ithra comes to life as families celebrate Gargee’an
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Ithra’s festivities will last until March 15 from 8:30 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. (AN photo)
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Ithra’s festivities will last until March 15 from 8:30 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. (AN photo)
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Ithra’s festivities will last until March 15 from 8:30 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. (AN photo)
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Ithra’s festivities will last until March 15 from 8:30 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. (AN photo)
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Ithra’s festivities will last until March 15 from 8:30 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. (Ithra Studios-Photography)
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Updated 14 March 2025
Jasmine Bager
Ithra comes to life as families celebrate Gargee’an
The center is offering numerous indoor and outdoor activities for children of all ages, including performances of traditional folk songs and other live shows
Gargee’an is a traditional festival marking the middle of Ramadan
Updated 14 March 2025
Jasmine Bager
DHAHRAN: King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, Ithra, is this week full of fun and celebration for the Gargee’an festivities.
Ithra’s festivities will last until March 15 from 8:30 p.m. until 1:00 a.m.
The center is offering numerous indoor and outdoor activities for children of all ages, including performances of traditional folk songs and other live shows.
The main plaza at Ithra will have plenty of activities and Instagram-worthy moments. The Children’s Museum, Children’s Oasis, the Library and Energy Exhibit will each have dedicated activities.
The outdoor spaces are also decorated with colorful confetti, often blasted in plumes, to delight giddy children and amused adults.
Gargee’an is a traditional festival marking the middle of Ramadan, primarily celebrated in Gulf countries, specifically Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq, the UAE, and the Eastern Province of , where Dhahran is located.
Children wear traditional attire and often go knocking door-to-door in their neighborhoods while chanting traditional folk verses.
They receive handfuls of sweet treats and trinkets that are collected in their little traditional baskets.
At Ithra, the children need merely stand in line to receive goodies, without needing to go anywhere.
Arab News spoke to Dammam resident Fatimah Alqahtani at the Children’s Museum arts and crafts section. She was coloring a small wooden door with her 5-year-old daughter Munerah and her daughter’s 7-year-old cousin, Rania.
“I have the Ithra app and I often check for events — there are always things happening,” she said. “This is our first time attending the Ithra Gargee’an event — I heard that last year’s celebration was really nice so we decided to check it out. And since the weather is lovely, we are going to go outside after this,” Alqahtani said.
The wooden door they colored is theirs to keep.
When Arab News asked what part of the celebration they liked most, the girls chirped: “Everything! Everything!”
During Gargee’an, only the Children’s Museum requires an entry ticket, which can be bought on the premises. All other spaces are free.
Masam Project clears 1,140 explosive devices in Yemen
Engineers cleared explosives, which included 1,090 items of unexploded ordnance, 49 anti-tank mines, and one anti-personnel mine
This latest operation brings the overall number of mines removed since the beginning of the Masam Project to 509,612
Updated 10 August 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: ’s Project for Landmine Clearance, known as Masam and launched by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), has removed 1,140 explosive devices this month from various regions of Yemen affected by the war.
The cleared explosives included 1,090 items of unexploded ordnance, 49 anti-tank mines, and one anti-personnel mine, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
This brings the total number of mines and other devices removed since Masam began to 509,612. The devices, scattered randomly across Yemeni territory, have posed a serious threat to civilians and communities.
Masam plays a key role in making Yemen safer by training local demining engineers, equipping them with modern tools, and supporting victims of explosive devices. Its teams work to clear villages, roads, and schools, enabling the safe movement of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
The project’s efforts have significantly reduced casualties and allowed displaced people and farmers to return to their land, resume cultivation, and rebuild livelihoods — progress that has earned praise from the UN and international organizations.
Tabuk’s governor launches environmental, water, agricultural projects worth more than SR4.3bn
Initiatives aim to improve services, strengthen sustainability, support objectives of Saudi Vision 2030
Updated 10 August 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Tabuk Governor Prince Fahd bin Sultan has inaugurated 23 environmental, water, and agricultural projects with a combined value of more than SR3.8 billion ($1 billion), and laid the foundation for a further 25 projects worth over SR580 million, it was announced on Sunday.
The initiatives, launched in the presence of Environment, Water and Agriculture Minister Abdulrahman Al-Fadli, aim to improve services for residents, strengthen environmental and water sustainability, and support the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Prince Fahd thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their backing of the infrastructure projects, and praised ministry staff for their efforts in enhancing public services and bolstering the Kingdom’s food security.
According to Al-Fadli, the projects include small desalination plants along the western coast with a design capacity of more than 93,000 cubic meters per day, and new water transmission systems able to carry 72,000 cubic meters per day to boost supplies in the governorates of Duba, Al-Wajh, and Umluj.
The National Water Company has launched 16 initiatives worth more than SR860 million to expand drinking water distribution and wastewater services in Tabuk, while the Saudi Water Partnership Company has completed the SR550 million Tabuk-2 Wastewater Treatment Plant with a peak capacity of 135,000 cubic meters per day.
Additional works include dam construction projects worth more than SR92 million, and mangrove planting and rangeland reserve protection valued at over SR18 million, as well as irrigation, rural development, and vegetation cover initiatives across the region.
Istituto Marangoni’s Riyadh campus is located in the Riyadh Creative District within the King Abdullah Financial District.
Updated 10 August 2025
Afshan Aziz
Riyadh welcomes Istituto Marangoni as Saudi fashion ambitions grow
Italian fashion school’s new campus to train Saudi talent, merge heritage with global trends
Updated 10 August 2025
Afshan Aziz
JEDDAH: Italian fashion school Istituto Marangoni will open its first campus in Riyadh on Aug. 28, marking a major step in the Kingdom’s bid to become a global fashion hub.
The new campus, which is located in the Riyadh Creative District within the King Abdullah Financial District, follows extensive market research with the Saudi Fashion Commission.
Istituto Marangoni’s Riyadh campus is located in the Riyadh Creative District within the King Abdullah Financial District. (Instagram/istitutomarangoniriyadh)
Surrounded by a growing cluster of creative companies and institutions, it will offer specialized programs tailored to ’s evolving industry.
Stefania Valenti, the managing director of Istituto Marangoni, told Arab News: “There has never been a more opportune moment to invest in . The Riyadh campus is not only a symbol of our commitment to international education, but also a platform for cultural exchange, innovation, and empowerment.”
HIGHLIGHTS
• Istituto Marangoni programs have been designed in collaboration with the Saudi Fashion Commission to merge the Kingdom’s cultural heritage with modern global fashion trends.
• The school will offer three-year undergraduate advanced training diploma courses, accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation.
The school will offer three-year undergraduate advanced training diploma courses, accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, in areas such as fashion design and accessories, fashion communication and image, fashion management, digital communication and media, fashion product, and fragrances and cosmetics management.
Burak Cakmak, Saudi Fashion Commission CEO
The programs have been designed in collaboration with the Saudi Fashion Commission to merge the Kingdom’s cultural heritage with modern global fashion trends.
“It means that the three-year fashion design program offers pathways in sewing and modest fashion, reflecting local aesthetics,” Valenti explained, adding that the fashion communication and image course focused on visual storytelling for both local and international audiences. The business and management track will prepare leaders for the luxury sector.
This initiative contributes to a more diversified economy, generates new jobs, and positions the Kingdom as a hub for cultural exchange.
Burak Cakmak, Saudi Fashion Commission CEO
She added: “By fusing local identity with global standards we aim to cultivate a new generation of fashion professionals who can represent Saudi creativity on the world stage.”
To nurture and support creative young Saudis, 50 students will receive scholarships for the diploma programs through an initiative backed by the Ministry of Culture’s Fashion Commission.
Stefania Valenti, Istituto Marangoni managing director
The Riyadh campus will link to Istituto Marangoni’s global network, and Valenti said: “After two years at the Riyadh campus, students can progress to the final year at Istituto Marangoni London or Paris and get a bachelor’s degree in the chosen field of study.”
Saudi students will be helped to gain employment after their academic journey at Istituto Marangoni Riyadh, for either a Saudi or a global brand.
By fusing local identity with global standards we aim to cultivate a new generation of fashion professionals who can represent Saudi creativity on the world stage.
Stefania Valenti, Istituto Marangoni managing director
Istituto Marangoni works with more than 45,000 luxury and fashion companies worldwide and grants 91 percent placement after graduation. Its alumni network includes prominent figures such as Dario Vitale, creative director at Versace, and Alessandro Sartori, artistic director at Zegna.
Valenti stressed the institute’s commitment to empowering women and fostering entrepreneurship, aligning closely with Vision 2030’s ambitions to diversify the economy and promote cultural innovation.
Burak Cakmak, the CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission, called the opening “a pivotal milestone for ’s fashion ecosystem,” adding that it created “a sustainable talent pipeline.”
The Riyadh campus is not only a symbol of our commitment to international education, but also a platform for cultural exchange, innovation, and empowerment.” (Supplied)
He said Istituto Marangoni was chosen for its global reputation and ability to adapt to local contexts.
He added: “Their presence in Riyadh ensures that our talents receive education that meets global standards while remaining grounded in Saudi cultural expression.
“Through immersive programs, mentorship, and access to industry networks, students will gain the skills and confidence to lead, innovate, and build meaningful careers.”
Istituto Marangoni works with more than 45,000 luxury and fashion companies worldwide and grants 91 percent placement after graduation. (Supplied)
He stressed that the courses were embedded within the local context, and added: “It encourages students to draw inspiration from their heritage and personal narratives, equipping them to tell authentic Saudi stories on international platforms, from runways and campaigns to entrepreneurial ventures rooted in sustainability.”
On the commission’s broader goals and vision, Cakmak said: “We take a holistic approach that encompasses every stage of the value chain, including design, product development, manufacturing, communications, merchandising, and retail.
“Education is at the heart of this vision. Through strategic partnerships, such as our collaboration with Istituto Marangoni, we are redefining what fashion learning can look like in the region and setting new benchmarks for creative excellence.”
Istituto Marangoni works with more than 45,000 luxury and fashion companies worldwide and grants 91 percent placement after graduation. (Supplied)
He linked the initiative to Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of unlocking Saudi talent, adding: “By investing in fashion academies like Istituto Marangoni, we are creating tangible opportunities for the local youth to pursue careers in culture, creativity, and innovation.
“This initiative contributes to a more diversified economy, generates new jobs, and positions the Kingdom as a hub for cultural exchange. At the same time it strengthens our global presence while ensuring that our heritage continues to evolve and inspire.”
Phone call on same day as UN Security Council’s meeting
Updated 10 August 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan spoke on the phone with his UK counterpart David Lammy on Sunday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The parties discussed developments in the Gaza Strip, the need to stop Israeli attacks and violations, and how to end the humanitarian catastrophe suffered by the residents of the enclave, the SPA added.
During the meeting, the UK, which was joined by Denmark, France, Greece and Slovenia, urged Israel to reverse its recent decision to expand military operations in Gaza, warning it would deepen Palestinian suffering, worsen the humanitarian crisis and endanger hostages.
The UK’s representative at the meeting, James Kariuki, said the move would not secure the release of hostages held by Hamas since the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks, and reiterated calls for their unconditional release.
He stressed that Hamas must disarm and play no role in Gaza’s governance, which should involve the Palestinian Authority.
He also urged Israel to lift restrictions on aid, open all land routes for essential supplies, and allow humanitarian agencies to operate freely.
Kariuki also highlighted a further $11.4 million provided by the UK for humanitarian funding for Gaza. He called on both sides to engage in negotiations in good faith toward a ceasefire and a two-state solution, which he added was the only path to lasting peace.
This came after the launch of the cultural and educational program “Arabic Language Month,” currently organized by the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, in Azerbaijan, which runs until Aug. 31
Updated 10 August 2025
Arab News
RIYADH: The World Assembly of Muslim Youth praised the efforts of in supporting the Arabic language globally and enhancing its presence as a bridge for cultural rapprochement between peoples.
This came after the launch of the cultural and educational program “Arabic Language Month,” currently organized by the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, in Azerbaijan, which runs until Aug. 31.
The program aims to teach Arabic to non-native speakers and promote it as a global language.
The World Assembly of Muslim Youth considered the program a unique model of exceptional attention to the Arabic language, and a starting point for strengthening its status as a civilizational hub and a means of rapprochement between the peoples of the world.
It also serves to solidify its presence in academic institutions, universities, and cultural spaces abroad.
The assembly highlighted the service the program provides to researchers, scholars, university and institute students, and all those interested in Arab culture; a service that has reinforced the Kingdom’s standing as a sponsor of the Arabic language in international forums.
