RIYADH: The Saudi Commission of Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) and the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA) on Sunday discussed the possibility of lending archaeological and historic pieces from the Kingdom to be displayed at the opening ceremony of the Louvre Museum in the UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi.
In a meeting at the SCTH headquarters in Riyadh, the two sides also discussed a request by Louvre Abu Dhabi to host the “Roads of Arabia: Saudi Archaeological Masterpieces” exhibition after its current tour in Asia.
The supervisor of the Cultural Heritage Program, Ali Al-Ghaban, said the meeting comes within the framework of talks between the two sides which began with a visit made by SCTH President Prince Sultan bin Salman to the UAE on the prospects for cooperation in the area of cultural and urban heritage, and antiquities between the two countries.
He said they agreed on certain ideas on the participation of the Kingdom, represented by the SCTH, as regards to the proposed timing to display the Roads of Arabia exhibition in Abu Dhabi at the end of 2018.
As soon as mechanisms concerning lending archaeological and historic pieces to the UAE are complete, an agreement to this effect will be signed, while a similar agreement will also be concluded to organize the Roads of Arabia exhibition in Abu Dhabi, he said.
Louvre Abu Dhabi requests to host Saudi’s ‘Roads of Arabia’ exhibition
Louvre Abu Dhabi requests to host Saudi’s ‘Roads of Arabia’ exhibition
Minzal returns to celebrate heritage of historic Diriyah
RIYADH: The Minzal program, part of this year’s Diriyah Season, celebrates the rich natural and cultural heritage of historic Diriyah, where history meets nature.
Overlooking Wadi Safar, the largest tributary of Wadi Hanifah, the program offers an experience inspired by traditional life and authentic Saudi hospitality.
Open daily from 5 p.m. until midnight, Minzal showcases Diriyah’s traditions through heritage storytelling, scenic views, poetry and traditional cuisine, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
Running until Feb. 14, the event features horseback riding, falconry, archery, astronomy, and a selection of international restaurants, cafes and retail outlets.
Spread across four main zones highlighting Diriyah’s historical and cultural significance, visitors can enjoy the “Al-Uloom” experience for leather-working, carpet-weaving and wood-working, and the “Sloom” experience for Saudi coffee, desert plants, fire-lighting, camel-milking and tent-making.
The “Faris Al-Badiyah” experience offers horse-riding and archery, while the “Falconry” experience teaches the art of hunting with Arabian falcons.
The “Al-Mushrif” zone provides stargazing under Diriyah’s clear skies, creating a serene atmosphere amid the natural surroundings.
Diriyah Season serves as a global destination for history enthusiasts, offering journeys through heritage sites that once formed the political and cultural center of the region, the SPA reported.
The program combines Najdi authenticity with innovative designs and international standards, reflecting the values and vision of historic Diriyah alongside the Kingdom’s modern development.
