RIYADH: The Diriyah Gate Development Authority celebrated Eid Al-Adha by organizing a range of artistic and cultural shows.

Citizens and visitors participated in the events, enjoying the carnival atmosphere in several locations, including Diriyah’s parks, squares and neighborhoods, as well as the historic Al-Turaif neighborhood and the Bujairi Terrace.

The four-day events, which kicked off on the first day of Eid, included artistic and cultural programs and live shows in Al-Turaif, in addition to popular arts shows such as Ardah and Samri. About 25,000 gifts were distributed to citizens and visitors enjoying the activities, interactive shows and live music.

Also on the first day of Eid, the authority launched a service to manage the sacrificed animals, in accordance with approved standards and requirements. It supervised the organization and preparation process during the pilgrimage and arranged parking areas and waiting tents, in addition to distributing sacrificial bags to those wishing to perform the ritual.

This year’s events included Arabian horse shows, traditional henna decorations and the distribution of gift. Boxes of sweets were also handed out.

Crowds of people enjoyed Eid Al-Adha events at Bujairi Terrace. These included live musical shows using oud, rababa and qanun instruments, and pavilions where artists drew caricatured portraits of guests and children could have their faces painted.

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held an annual reception for officials and dignitaries who are performing Hajj this year.

The reception, held on behalf of King Salman at Mina Palace on Monday, was also attended by the Kingdom’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, several princes, senior scholars, senior GCC officials, ministers, the commanders of military sectors, and scouts who performed Hajj this year.

The crown prince congratulated attendees on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha and prayed that God accept the rituals of the pilgrims and help them complete the pilgrimage in safety and with reassurance.

“We thank God for honoring us with serving the Two Holy Mosques and the Holy Sites, taking care of those who visit them, and ensuring their security and safety. We are proud to continue carrying out this great duty, and we are making efforts and harnessing all capabilities to provide comfort for pilgrims from their arrival until their departure,” Prince Mohammed told the gathering. 

Talking about the war in Gaza, the crown prince said that “heinous crimes against our brothers in the Strip continue.”