Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning against damaging the nation's cultural heritage sites, imposing hefty fines and potential jail time for offenders. The Public Prosecution declared on Thursday that anyone caught defacing or vandalizing historical or urban heritage, including acts like writing, painting, engraving, posting...
Iran’s long-lasting love for gemstones believed to have divine power
Common beliefs associated with gemstones are largely what motivates people to buy them, said Hassan Samimi, a lapidary at the market near the shrine of Shah Abdolazim. Iran subsequently declared the ring "cultural heritage" and a "national asset", Samimi says demand for gemstones has remained relatively steady despite Iran's severe...
GCC makes pivotal strides in development, diplomacy
In 2023, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait collectively advanced in technology and sustainable development, achieving global integration.Archaeology talks unravel past’s influence on future
Insights from the recently held archaeology summit highlight AlUla's prominence as an archaeological epicenter, helping to bridge historical gaps and deepen understanding.
Saudi Arabia: An emerging tourism hub
The Kingdom is harnessing the potential of tourism for economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange. In 2022, Saudi Arabia welcomed 16.6 million visitors, becoming the most visited Middle Eastern country. By Q1 2023, the number of tourists increased by a remarkable 64 percent compared to 2019. Key attractions include...
US restricts import of Afghan cultural items to prevent ‘pillage’
The decree implemented on an "emergency" basis took effect on Friday based on a 'request' of a former government of Afghanistan that no longer exists.Dubai Crown Prince forms committee to oversee Hatta development
Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has issued an Executive Council Resolution forming the ‘Supreme Committee to Oversee the Development of Hatta’. The Hatta Master Development Plan, which forms an integral part of the Dubai 2040 Urban...
Al Dhafra Festival camel beauty pageant from December 14
The festival aims to, among other things, make Abu Dhabi the preferred place for camel fairs regionally as well as internationally.
