FaceOf: Prince Bandar bin Abdullah Al-Mishari, Saudi assistant minister of interior for technology affairs

Prince Bandar bin Abdullah Al-Mishari
Updated 22 November 2018
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FaceOf: Prince Bandar bin Abdullah Al-Mishari, Saudi assistant minister of interior for technology affairs

  • Prince Bandar was the director general of the National Information Center of the Ministry of Interior from 2008 to 2013.
  • In 1985 Prince Bandar obtained his bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering from King Saud University. In 1988 he received his master’s in electronic engineering from the same university.

Prince Bandar bin Abdullah Al-Mishari has been the assistant minister of interior for technology affairs since February 2018.

Prince Bandar spoke recently at the cybersecurity meeting organized by the Jeddah branch of the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS International).

“The portal of the Ministry of Interior is a pioneer in the region in smart services and solutions. The ministry’s platforms and initiatives are used by millions of users every day,” he said.

He said that data had become “a commodity, an industry, wealth. All forms of data, in fact, have become an integrated industry and a national treasure on all levels.” Data and information, if used properly, can make a big leap in our life, he said, but if neglected, they will be a burden on societies.

Prince Bandar was the director general of the National Information Center of the Ministry of Interior from 2008 to 2013.

In 1985 Prince Bandar obtained his bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering from King Saud University. In 1988 he received his master’s in electronic engineering from the same university.

In 1994 he obtained his Ph.D. in electronic engineering from the University of Pittsburgh, US.

In 2006, Prince Bandar was promoted to an associate professor at the College of Engineering at King Saud University.

Prince Bandar has participated in more than 20 academic conferences in his area of specialization and has published more than 24 arbitrated and academic research. He supervised many research projects and participated in supervision and examination committees for master’s and Ph.D. degrees.


Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. (SPA)
Updated 19 December 2025
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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

  • Festival now established as a premier annual event

AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.

The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency. 

Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.

FASTFACT

In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.

In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.

This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship. 

As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.

The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.

The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.