Diriyah was the birthplace of the first Saudi state and, historically, a crossroads for pilgrims and traders. Nowadays, it is home to one of the Kingdom’s most ambitious heritage developments.
Located on the outskirts of Riyadh, amid an oasis on the banks of Wadi Hanifa, Diriyah’s mud-brick walls once surrounded a thriving desert city that was a powerhouse of culture and commerce.
The citadel in Al-Turaif district, the area’s primary quarter, was the original seat of power for the Kingdom’s ruling Al-Saud family. In 1745, Riyadh was named the country’s capital, laying the foundations for what would become a unified Saudi Arabia.
This photograph was taken by Bander Sagheer as part of the Colors of Saudi competition.
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ThePlace: Diriyah, a powerhouse of Saudi culture and commerce
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ThePlace: Diriyah, a powerhouse of Saudi culture and commerce
Prince Faisal: Saudi Arabia’s UAE relationship ‘critically important’ for regional stability
LONDON: The UAE’s withdrawal from Yemen is the “building block” for a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia that will help regional stability, the Kingdom’s foreign minister said on Monday.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan said there had been a “difference of view” between the two countries over Yemen but insisted their relationship was “critically important.”
“It is an important element of regional stability and therefore the Kingdom is always keen on having a strong, positive relationship with the UAE as a important partner within the GCC,” Prince Faisal told a press conference during his visit to Poland.
“Obviously, when it comes to Yemen there is a difference of view. The UAE has now decided to leave Yemen, and I think if that indeed is the case and the UAE has completely left the issue of Yemen, then the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will take responsibility.
“I think that will be the building block for making sure that the relationship with UAE continues strong and continues to serve the interest not just of both countries but the region.”
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