FaceOf: Ahmed Aboul Gheit, secretary-general of the Arab League

Ahmed Aboul Gheit. (Reuters)
Updated 11 July 2018
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FaceOf: Ahmed Aboul Gheit, secretary-general of the Arab League

  • After graduating with a business degree from Ain Shams University in Cairo, Aboul Gheit joined the diplomatic corps in 1965, and rose through the ranks of the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Ahmed Aboul Gheit is an Egyptian diplomat and the eighth secretary-general of the Arab League. 

Before his July 2016 nomination as secretary-general, Aboul Gheit served as the minister of foreign affairs of Egypt from July 2004 to March 2011.

On Tuesday, Aboul Gheit met with the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, Adel Al-Jubeir, in the Chinese capital of Beijing for the eighth session of the ministerial meeting of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum. 

During the meeting, they discussed a number of issues of mutual interest between the two countries, in addition to the highlighted topics on the forum’s official agenda.

Born in Cairo in 1942, Aboul Gheit originally hailed from the city of Port Said. After graduating with a business degree from Ain Shams University in Cairo, Aboul Gheit joined the diplomatic corps in 1965, and rose through the ranks of the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

Aboul Gheit occupied diplomatic positions in Rome, Nicosia, Moscow, and New York. In 1978, he participated in negotiations for the Camp David Accords, which would lead to the signing of the Israeli-Egyptian peace treaty.

Aboul Gheit was a political consultant at the Egyptian Embassy in the Soviet Union in 1984, as well as serving as the ambassador of Egypt to Italy, Macedonia and San Marino. 

In 1999, he was the head of Egypt’s permanent delegation to the UN, and in the same year was appointed permanent representative of Egypt to the UN, serving through 2004.

In December 2005, he played a vital role in mediating the Chad-Sudan conflict. In December 2010, Aboul Gheit opened the first Egyptian Consulate outside Baghdad and also held talks with former Iraqi President Jalal Talabani. 


Riyadh Ramadan tents illuminate festive traditions

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Riyadh Ramadan tents illuminate festive traditions

  • As the sun sets, Ramadan tents open for guests to enjoy sumptuous meals

Riyadh: The much-anticipated tradition of Ramadan tents in Riyadh draws hundreds of daily for lavish iftar and suhoor menus, surrounded by sophisticated and luxurious decor.

One of the largest Ramadan gatherings in the capital, Fawanees at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, has over the years become a benchmark for the seasonal experience.

Named after the traditional lantern used to decorate homes during the holy month, Fawanees immerses guests in a traditional Saudi iftar, attracting people from around the Kingdom and abroad.

“Like the glow of fawanees lighting the night, Ramadan is the time to share our blessings with others. This year’s Fawanees brings togetherness and generosity,” Andrew Abram, general manager of Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, told Arab News.

“May we carry this light in our hearts throughout the holy month and extend it to everyone around us.”

The buffet comprises a wide variety of dishes and beverages with lanterns decorating the venue and oud music echoing through the hall.

The Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh hosts a Ramadan tent and majlis celebrating “Hikayat Ramadan,” inspired by the timeless art of storytelling.

Cafe Boulud has a French-inspired iftar menu, with a signature Ramadan cake crafted by pastry chef Wael Elsherif Ahmed El-Sherif, and there is a special Ramadan high tea experience at Obaya Lounge.

Families and young guests are also welcome, with dedicated childrens’ activities ensuring a festive experience for all.

“Every detail is designed to create meaningful experiences that connect families, celebrate heritage and leave lasting memories year after year,” Shadi Suleman, regional vice president and general manager at Four Seasons Riyadh, told Arab News.

The Ramadan tent and majlis have been designed with oriental-inspired decor, blending tradition with contemporary touches.

Guests can enjoy live oud music in a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for families, friends and corporate gatherings.

“Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to surprise and delight our guests,” Suleman said.

At the heart of the culinary offerings is the signature Ramadan cake, inspired by the Arabian desert and made with Saudi dates, crisp kunafa, malt-infused white chocolate, pistachio cream and honey.

Fairmont Riyadh offers seasonal celebrations centered around the Al Thuraya Ramadan Tent with generous iftar buffets, intimate chef’s tables, and serene suhoor under the stars.

Set within the Al Thuraya Ballroom which extends into an outdoor tent, the inviting sanctuary captures the warmth of Ramadan and authentic Arabian hospitality.

In addition to hosting sophisticated iftars after sunset, the venue is home to a lively Ramadan bazaar, where guests can explore a selection of handcrafted jewelry, premium perfumes and traditional garments.

Younger guests can enjoy a dedicated children’s area, with engaging activities and a dedicated buffet.

With the holy month being a festive occasion, guests enjoy extensive menus at Ramadan tents catering to every preference in the nation’s capital.