95-year-old Indonesian man invited by King Salman arrives for Hajj

Samri, who is believed to be the oldest person to ever perform Hajj, was welcomed by a number of Saudi officials. (SPA)
Updated 31 July 2019
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95-year-old Indonesian man invited by King Salman arrives for Hajj

JEDDAH: A 95-year-old Indonesian man invited to perform Hajj by King Salman arrived in the Kingdom Wednesday to perform Hajj in Makkah, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

Ohi Aidros Samri arrived at the King Abdulaziz International Airport with his family of six. He is being hosted by the King Salman’s Hajj and Umrah Guests Program to perform Hajj rituals this year after receiving the royal invitation.

The invite came after a video message of himself and his two daughters — holding the king’s photograph while pleading in Arabic their wish to go to Hajj in spite of their family’s limited funds— went viral and was reported to have reached Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Samri was welcomed by a number of Saudi officials on his arrival.

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RELATED: Indonesian pilgrim, 95, heads for Hajj after King Salman invite

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The oldest person to previously perform Hajj was 104-year-old Ibu Mariah Marghani Muhammad from Indonesia. She made her pilgrimage in 2017.


Al-Eishan Palace jewel in Jouf’s cultural crown

Located in the heart of Sakaka, Al-Eishan Palace dates back to 1852 and is surrounded by lush palm groves. (SPA)
Updated 47 min 4 sec ago
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Al-Eishan Palace jewel in Jouf’s cultural crown

  • Guests are greeted with coffee and freshly baked Maqshush, a thin flatbread with a distinctive flavor, at Al-Eishan Palace

RIYADH: Visitors to the Jouf region can explore a host of historical landmarks and unique architectural heritage, with mud brick palaces offering immersive cultural experiences that combine traditional cuisine and local hospitality.

The highlight is Al-Eishan Palace, where guests are greeted with coffee and freshly baked Maqshush, a thin flatbread with a distinctive flavor, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Located in the heart of Sakaka, the building dates back to 1852 and is surrounded by lush palm groves. Built from mud, stone, tamarisk wood and palm fronds, it has five-meter high walls and spans more than 1,000 sq. meters. To the east, it borders orchards of peaches, pomegranates and grapes.

Parts of the palace were redeveloped in 2017-18, though the original foundations were maintained and traditional building materials were used for the renovations to ensure the building retained its character, including the majlis, inner courtyard and living quarters.

Al-Eishan Palace is open to visitors daily.