Saudi diplomat receives outgoing Austrian ambassador

Dr. Nizar Madani, minister of state for foreign affairs, receives Gregor Koessler, outgoing Austrian ambassador to Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
Updated 21 December 2018
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Saudi diplomat receives outgoing Austrian ambassador

  • Madani expressed his appreciation for Koessler’s efforts to strengthen Austria’s relations with the Kingdom

RIYADH: Dr. Nizar Madani, minister of state for Foreign Affairs, received Gregor Koessler, outgoing Austrian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, on Thursday and wished him future success in his career. 

Madani expressed his appreciation for the efforts made by the ambassador to strengthen Austria’s relations and bilateral cooperation with Saudi Arabia.

During a recent meeting in Riyadh, Koessler called on Austrian companies to ensure their “local presence” in Saudi Arabia for intensive contacts and for doing business

The networking lunch in April was attended by several Saudi businessmen and members of the Austrian business mission.

“The new Austrian government is business-friendly, and hence more cooperation and collaboration in various sectors are expected,” said Ambassador Koessler.

The companies in the mission were specialized in medical technologies, energy and solar energy, railway, air conditioning, engineering services, transport, data management systems, electromechanical equipment and water treatment.


Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

Updated 10 January 2026
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Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

  • The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16

ALULA: The AlUla Citrus Festival has seen a remarkable turnout of residents and visitors as it has coincided with the mid-year school break, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival is being held at the farmers’ market in the cultural oasis, amid an environment that blends stunning natural beauty with the governorate's rich agricultural heritage.

The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16.

It allows visitors to explore local products and purchase citrus fruits directly from farmers, highlighting the deep connection between the people, their land, and agricultural legacy.

The festival showcases a diverse selection of AlUla’s finest citrus fruits, alongside platforms for local producers, the SPA added.

The event also features interactive family-friendly activities and live cooking demonstrations.

It contributes to revitalizing agricultural economic activity and reinforces agricultural seasons as a pillar of sustainable development in the governorate.

The AlUla Citrus Festival is a key social and economic event and gives local farmers a vital platform to showcase and sell their produce, supporting the agricultural economy of a governorate home to nearly 5,000 productive farms.