Saudi Village in Rome to showcase Kingdom’s culture, heritage, cuisine, tourist attractions

Casina Valadier in Villa Borghese will host the Saudi Village from Sept. 25-29. (Supplied)
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Updated 21 September 2023
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Saudi Village in Rome to showcase Kingdom’s culture, heritage, cuisine, tourist attractions

  • Arab News is media partner of next week’s event, organized to celebrate Kingdom’s National Day
  • Venue is considered one of the most prestigious in Italy’s capital, with panoramic view of the city

ROME: For five days next week, residents of Rome will be given a unique opportunity to discover the culture, history, heritage, cuisine, tourist attractions and future goals of Saudi Arabia.

From Sept. 25-29, the Saudi Village will open its doors in Villa Borghese, the historical park in the heart of Italy’s capital, with attractions for adults and children.

The venue — Casina Valadier, an iconic neoclassical building — is considered one of the most beautiful and prestigious in Rome, with its unique panoramic view of the city.

The event, of which Arab News is a media partner, is organized by the Saudi Embassy in Italy to celebrate the Kingdom’s National Day.

Visitors will be able to follow a colorful route among the stands where images of Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites will be on display.

The village will also host a children’s area, and a stage where musical and dance performances, conferences and debates will take place. Every evening, the village will feature artistic light shows.

Several Italian and Saudi companies will be represented. Representatives of the Kingdom’s ministries of investment, sports and education, as well as the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Royal Commission of AlUla, will also take part in the event.


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.