JEDDAH: Prince Sultan bin Salman, chairman of the Saudi Commision for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH), visited the Jeddah Historical Festival “Atareek” on Monday.
He also toured the shops and pavilions, which showcased handicrafts, old Hejaz clothes, traditional art and stalls. He said in a statement that historic Jeddah needs strong efforts from all sectors and the public for its complete renovation.
He said efforts began nearly 30 years ago to transform areas into a haven for prosperity, including hundreds of heritage sites.
He also said Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, governor of Makkah and Prince Misha’al bin Majed, governor of Jeddah, pay great attention and strive to restore national heritage.
He also praised the efforts of the Festivals Supreme Committee to preserve historical Jeddah as a site rich in archaeology and history.
He said that the large presence of citizens in the historic district of Jeddah and other archaeological sites are a remarkable indication that people long for the heritage of this country and look forward to obtaining knowledge of the Kingdom’s past.
Mahmoud Assadi, the Palestinian consul general, and Khalid Khairou, consul general of Iraq in Jeddah, also visited the festival.