Beauty of Soudah to feature in 3 Discovery documentaries

Soudah Development and Warner Bros. Discovery sign partnership to showcase the rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty of Soudah to the world. (Supplied)
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Updated 29 May 2024
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Beauty of Soudah to feature in 3 Discovery documentaries

  • Media giant teams up with state-owned real estate firm Soudah Development
  • Films will tell ‘captivating stories of Soudah’s natural wonders,’ Discovery says

JEDDAH: Soudah Development, a real estate company owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, has teamed up with Warner Bros. Discovery International to produce three short films to promote the beauty, culture and heritage of the Soudah region in the Kingdom’s southwest.

The partnership will focus on Soudah Peaks, a luxury mountain tourism destination in Abha region, set 3,000 meters above sea level.

The documentaries will air around the world this summer on WBD’s Discovery Channel, Food Network, Travel Channel, Eurosport 1 and 2, as well as on international social media platforms.

Eng. Saleh Al-Oraini, CEO of Soudah Development, said: “We are delighted to join forces with Warner Bros. Discovery to unveil the exceptional beauty and cultural significance of the Soudah region, along with Saudi Arabia, on a global scale.

“This collaboration marks a pivotal step in our endeavor to position Soudah as a unique luxury mountain tourism destination and we are confident that it will captivate travelers from around the world.”

The Soudah region’s diverse fauna and flora, landscapes and agricultural traditions, like beekeeping, will all feature in the films.

Mike Rich, head of sports and lifestyle international brand partnerships at Warner Bros. Discovery, said: “Partnering with Soudah Development presents an exciting opportunity for us to showcase the unique appeal of Soudah Peaks through our influential media platforms.

“We are thrilled to bring captivating stories of Soudah’s natural wonders and cultural heritage to our viewers. We eagerly anticipate a successful collaboration.”

The partnership comes after Saudi property developer Red Sea Global in April teamed up with Warner Bros. Discovery to produce a 45-minute documentary titled “Beneath the Surface: The Fight for Corals.”

Released on Earth Day, the film chronicles the work of Saudi free diver and environmentalist Salma Shaker and illuminates the remarkable resilience of Red Sea corals and their pivotal role in bolstering global coral health.

“Soudah is not merely a tourist spot, it’s a sanctuary of tranquility and natural marvels,” Saudi environmentalist Hussain Asiri told Arab News.

“With this newfound exposure, I’m sure we will see a concerted effort toward responsible tourism, one that cherishes and conserves our environment while showcasing its magnificence to the world.”

Mohammed Al-Malky, a local tour guide, said: “Soudah’s beauty isn’t just for us to enjoy, it’s a treasure that deserves global recognition. Hopefully, these documentaries will inspire more people to visit and experience the magic of our mountains and valleys.”


Ramadan in Madinah: A blend of tradition and modernity

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Ramadan in Madinah: A blend of tradition and modernity

  • Ramadan iftar tables in the neighborhoods have evolved into a community initiative that promotes solidarity and neighborliness

MADINAH: In the holy city of Madinah, Ramadan highlights a seamless blend of ancestral traditions and modern celebrations, as residents decorate homes and streets with lanterns.

Women play a central role in creating this spiritual atmosphere, transitioning from handmade ornaments to curated prayer spaces and Ramadan diaries for children.

Social solidarity remains the city’ cornerstone, manifested through the exchange of Ramadan baskets and the organization of massive communal iftar meals at the Prophet’s Mosque and in local neighborhoods.

Ramadan iftar tables in the neighborhoods have evolved into a community initiative that promotes solidarity and neighborliness.

The project has been undertaken by “Mujtamaei,” the Neighborhood Centers Association in Madinah Region, in partnership with the Madinah Regional Municipality, and covers 97 locations across residential districts.

The initiative organizes daily iftar gatherings that bring together residents, volunteers, and partner entities, reflecting strong community cohesion and fostering volunteerism and social connection among neighborhood residents and visitors during the holy month.

The program provides more than 80,000 iftar and sahoor meals, benefiting over 40,000 individuals, with 1,600 volunteers overseeing site organization and service delivery in accordance with quality and safety standards.

The project is part of a community development system that expands annually, focusing on increasing volunteer participation and strengthening partnerships, thereby reinforcing social values and revitalizing the spirit of neighborliness in Madinah.