Alkhobar walking tour unveils urban history

The ticketed walking tour, which Khaled Almsaad guides personally, begins at Tanafs’ headquarters, and takes participants through local and urban landmarks of the city. (Supplied/AN photos)
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Updated 12 February 2025
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Alkhobar walking tour unveils urban history

  • Khaled Almsaad’s Tanafs initiative invites people to explore the city’s hidden gems and vibrant past

ALKHOBAR: Khaled Almsaad, a lifelong resident of historic northern Alkhobar, is bridging the city’s past and present through guided walking tours that promise a deeper connection with its heart and past.

His cultural initiative, Tanafs, connects the community with the arts, with a permanent location launched this year after the project first began during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The hub offers a range of activities including workshops and local tours designed to enrich Alkhobar’s cultural scene.




One memorable stop takes place at a watch repair stand in a bustling market, where time seems to stand still. (Supplied/AN photos)

The ticketed walking tour, which Almsaad guides personally, begins at Tanafs’ headquarters, which also houses his coffee shop, Marfa, located on the first floor of the building.

During a recent tour, participants were given a brief presentation about the activity and about Alkhobar itself.

Almsaad, who is also a street photographer with over a decade of experience, spoke about the neighborhood’s evolution, reflecting on his deep understanding of the city’s character and evolving maps. Many of his own photographs were showcased on the walls.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tanafs offers a range of activities including workshops and local tours designed to enrich Alkhobar’s cultural scene.

• The walking tours are organized every Friday afternoon and sessions will continue until Ramadan.

• Tickets can be booked through Tanafs’ Instagram.

He shared safety tips and general advice before leading the group on a tour through northern Alkhobar’s streets.




The walking tour provides participants with an opportunity to experience the evolution of Alkhobar firsthand. (Supplied/AN photos)

Alkhobar itself, with its unique historical and urban development, serves as the perfect backdrop for these tours. The headquarters directly overlook the beloved old Al-Shula Mall.

Almsaad explained that Alkhobar’s development is unlike other cities in Saudi Arabia. “Alkhobar is unique among Saudi cities because it was not formed out of natural growth through trade or tribal alliances. Instead, it emerged out of industrial necessity, driven by the need to house the workers in the early days of oil production,” he says.

The city became the first planned urban development in the region, setting a precedent for other cities, such as Riyadh, that followed a more organic path of growth.




Old rusted doors with intricate designs stand as reminders of the city’s past. (Supplied/AN photos)

One of the first stops is a hidden gem tucked away in the neighborhood. This shop, which has “no photography allowed” signs in every single cluttered aisle, is filled with slightly dusty but pristine toys and trinkets from long ago — objects that remain untouched and undocumented, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the past.

We passed by several friendly northern Alkhobar cats and continued our journey through the streets, learning the city’s secrets as Almsaad shares its history.

Alkhobar’s commercial rise began in 1923, when it became a hub for movement and trade between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. Despite its modern growth, the city’s cultural heritage has always remained intertwined with its commercial activities — a theme Almsaad continues to explore throughout the tour.




A watch repair stand in a bustling market is a memorable stop. (Supplied/AN photos)

One notable historical figure in the city’s development is Floyd Ohliger, an American engineer who played a key role in Saudi Arabia’s oil discovery. In 1938, he was instrumental in the discovery of commercial oil at Oil Well No. 7 (Dammam Well No. 7), a landmark event that confirmed the country’s vast oil reserves.

Later, in 1945, his arrival in Dhahran marked the beginning of planned urban developments. His work in establishing “company towns” to house Aramco workers led to the creation of self-sufficient communities with modern infrastructure, setting a blueprint for urban growth in the region.

The walking tour provides participants with an opportunity to experience the evolution of Alkhobar firsthand. Stops along the way include businesses, marketplaces, and cultural landmarks that showcase the city’s transformation over time. Old rusted doors with intricate designs stand as reminders of the city’s past. Many are still used today as people and businesses still reside behind those doors.

One memorable stop takes place at a watch repair stand in a bustling market, where time seems to stand still.

Ashraf Ali Khan has been operating his stand for 36 years. “I am from Pakistan. I came in 1989 and opened this shop. I’m still here, Alhamdulillah,” Khan told Arab News.

Reflecting on the changes in the market, Khan said: “After a few months of moving here, the first Gulf War came. Many people went to Riyadh, left for Bahrain, or went back to India or Pakistan. I stayed. My children were born in Alkhobar. This clock repair stand has been here for decades. The customers have changed, but I am still here, Alhamdulillah.”

Participants on the tour also get to sample local foods, from fluffy Filipino bread, which is light and soft, to engaging in a detailed conversation about coffee with the vivacious and knowledgeable founder of Hiqbah specialty coffee.

During the tour, we sampled fried snacks from a local vendor and enjoyed a chai latte at the elegant Oi cafe.

Rawan Albakri, a participant at the tour, told Arab News: “As someone not from Alkhobar, I find the tour very interesting. I love this, actually. I learned that there are untold stories. Stories that we always pass by but never had the chance to ask about or learn the history of this place.

“It actually has a lot of history. We walked around, we went to different businesses, we tasted some of the foods and drinks. I love walking — I think that was an experience in itself.”

Throughout the tour, Almsaad emphasized the importance of community and cultural awareness. As the group moved between stops, he explained how the city is divided into specialized commercial zones, catering to different needs.

“If you want to buy home decor, you’ll go to a different district. This organization makes it easy to find what you need, but it also means that certain areas become specialized over time,” he noted.

One of the tour’s highlights is the bus ride back, which surprised the participants who had never used public transport in the city.

The event, which lasts for several hours, immerses participants in a blend of history, culture, and modern life.

Almsaad encourages the younger generation to connect with the city’s past and future by physically walking through its streets. “For Alkhobar to grow, we need to collaborate. The new generation has to support each other, work together to create a stronger, more connected community. It’s not just about businesses; it’s about sharing ideas, uplifting one another, and making the city better together.”

As the tour neared its end, Almsaad shared a personal anecdote — how his 2-year-old son now visits the same barbershop he used to visit as a child, highlighting how the traditions of the community remain close to his heart.

“They also still give the same exact little gift after the haircut. I got it when I was a kid and now my son gets it,” he said.

Tours are organized every Friday afternoon and sessions will continue until Ramadan. Tickets can be booked through Tanafs’ Instagram.

As Almsaad put it: “To truly preserve and understand Alkhobar, you have to experience it on foot.” And with every step, the city’s rich history and vibrant present come alive.

 

Decoder

Alkhobar’s Tanaf

Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, tanaf is a cultural initiative in Alkhobar that seeks to connect the city’s past and present through guided walking tours. A permanent location launched this year offers a range of activities including workshops and local tours designed to enrich the eastern Saudi Arabian city’s cultural scene.


Ramadan nights come alive in charming historic Jeddah

Updated 22 March 2025
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Ramadan nights come alive in charming historic Jeddah

  • Visitors browse bustling markets and tour historical sites
  • Workshops in Arabic calligraphy, pottery and other crafts

JEDDAH: In the holy month of Ramadan, Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district has come alive with a unique blend of culture, traditional crafts and authentic delicacies.

Its festival running throughout the month also highlights the historical significance of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The offerings include workshops in Arabic calligraphy, pottery, and other crafts showcasing the artistic legacy of the Hijaz region.

Children can enjoy interactive entertainment designed as an introduction to Saudi Arabia’s culture and heritage.

During a tour, Arab News spoke to several visitors who outlined the charms of the old city.

Salem Al-Harthi, a Saudi citizen, expressed his admiration for Al-Balad, calling it an “unparalleled destination” during Ramadan.

“The historic charm and festive energy here make it the perfect place to experience the essence of the holy month,” he said.

Hamad Al-Shemmari from Hail, who is visiting to perform Umrah with his family, shared his excitement: “These narrow alleys and winding streets transport us to another era.

“The ambiance, the food, everything about this place makes Ramadan special.”

First-time visitor Mahmoud Al-Nori from Syria was captivated by the area’s architectural beauty and vibrancy. “I had heard about Jeddah’s charm but experiencing it in Ramadan is something else.

“One night here is simply not enough to take it all in.”

One of the festival’s most beloved attractions is its street food. After evening prayers, hundreds of vendors set up stalls, wearing traditional attire and singing folk songs to entice visitors to sample local delicacies.

Among them is Muath Al-Bukiri, a young entrepreneur who, along with his friends, launched a food stall serving balila (boiled chickpeas) and chopped liver.

“We wanted to do something meaningful this Ramadan, and this has been an amazing experience,” he said, noting the popularity of these dishes among young and old.

Al-Balad has become a hub for families looking to celebrate Ramadan in an authentic setting.

Abdulaziz Al-Ahmadi, 54, enjoys bringing his family to stroll through the historic streets, sharing stories of the past. “This place connects us to our roots.

“It’s where our ancestors lived, and now, we experience Ramadan in the same streets they once did.”

A popular gathering spot is Al-Hazazi Yard, where dozens of traditional food stalls create a lively evening scene. Residents from across Jeddah gather in what has become an annual tradition to relish the festive atmosphere.

Mohammed bin Zagir told Arab News: “Visiting Al-Balad to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of families, the delicious flavors of kebdah and balila, and the cool evening breeze has become an annual tradition for my family and me.

“Here, you can truly experience the essence of Ramadan, in the very place where our ancestors once lived. It takes us back in time, allowing us to witness the transformation we live in today from every perspective.”

The Ramadan season in historic Jeddah plays a crucial role in supporting local entrepreneurs and artisans.

Heritage markets provide small and medium businesses with a platform to showcase their crafts, from handmade goods to culinary specialties.

Under the supervision of the Historic Jeddah District Program and the Ministry of Culture, the Ramadan festival continues to gain in popularity, reportedly drawing more than a million visitors in its first week.


How Saudi Arabia is pioneering soil quality and water conservation solutions

Updated 22 March 2025
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How Saudi Arabia is pioneering soil quality and water conservation solutions

  • SandX is a biodegradable sand coating that reduces water evaporation by 80 percent using nature-inspired technology
  • CarboSoil is a breakthrough in soil amendment and carbon capture, enhancing plant growth and reducing emissions

JEDDAH: For more than a decade Saudi Arabia has invested in sustainability, implementing groundbreaking initiatives to combat desertification, improve soil quality and preserve water.

These efforts are transforming the Kingdom’s landscape, aligning with the broader goals of the Saudi Green Initiative.

One of the most ambitious projects is King Salman Park in Riyadh — one of the world’s largest urban parks. The initiative focuses on increasing green spaces, restoring soil health and mitigating the urban heat island effect.

Native tree planting and sustainable water management systems are key components, ensuring long-term environmental benefits.

Meanwhile, on the Kingdom’s east coast, Saudi Aramco has spearheaded efforts to manage soil erosion, improve water retention and enhance biodiversity.

But it is in the laboratories of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology where cutting-edge technology is shaping the future of sustainable soil solutions.

Terraxy technology in the lab. (KAUST photo)

Himanshu Mishra, an associate professor at KAUST, has spent the last decade addressing some of Saudi Arabia’s biggest environmental challenges. A specialist in water properties, his early research led him to an eye-opening realization about the Kingdom’s water usage.

“When I came to Saudi Arabia, I learned about the stress on water,” Mishra told Arab News. “Somebody told me that 80 percent of Saudi Arabia’s water is used for food production, yet (the country) is importing most of its food. That just blew my mind. I was disturbed by it.”

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Inspired by nature’s ability to repel water, Mishra co-founded SandX, a biodegradable, water-repellent sand coating designed to reduce water evaporation.

The technology mimics nature’s super water-repellent surfaces — like butterfly wings and bird feathers — to create a revolutionary material.

“This material, it hates water. It absolutely hates water,” said Mishra. “This is SandX, and water doesn’t penetrate it.

Screen grab from a video showing KAUST researchers applying Carbosoil at a SandX testing site. (KAUST video)

Each grain of SandX is coated with a nanoscale layer of biodegradable paraffin wax, reducing water evaporation by over 80 percent without the use of plastics. “Bacteria will eat the wax, so SandX will become sand again,” Mishra said.

“No one has ever done this in Saudi Arabia. We are the engineers, the first ones to do that. We are pioneers in this.”

Water scarcity, however, is only part of the challenge. “Do you know how old this water is?” Mishra asked, holding up a bottle. “This water is older than our planet. We have limited water resources, but we still have some resources. What we don’t have (are) fertile soils.”

Himanshu Mishra. (Supplied)

Green spaces in Saudi Arabia are heavily dependent on imported peat moss, he said, a practice that is not only expensive but also counterproductive to sustainability.

“You import so much peat moss every year — it’s a multi-million-dollar market. And you rely on these imports. It defeats the whole purpose of sustainability.”

To address this, Mishra developed CarboSoil, a groundbreaking soil amendment and carbon capture technology derived from organic waste.

A layer of SandX applied like mulch over wet soil greatly reduces evaporation. (KAUST/Terraxy photo)

Unlike traditional compost, which eventually releases carbon back into the air, CarboSoil locks carbon into the soil while enhancing plant growth.

“This is the only technology known to humanity that does soil amendment and carbon capture at the same time,” he said.

Field trials for CarboSoil are ongoing, with production scaling up following a KAUST Innovation and Economic Development grant. Mishra believes the impact will be transformative.

“Our technology will contribute to food production and greening projects in arid regions,” he said. “When you apply it on plants, they grow bigger and stronger — like 60 percent bigger, with wider trunks. Enhanced food production. Enhanced yields. That’s additional carbon capture.”

Oil palm waste. (Getty Images)

Looking ahead, Mishra envisions Saudi Arabia leading the world in carbon dioxide removal.

“I can guarantee you that as we continue to scale up this production under the stewardship of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, in less than five years, Saudi Arabia will be ranked number one in carbon dioxide removal deliveries on the planet.”

The startup’s ambitions extend far beyond the Kingdom. “Right now, our goal is to contribute to the landscaping and green sector in the Kingdom,” he said.

“In phase three, we start building factories for poultry farms, date farms, and other industries. Phase four is we will expand to the wider Middle East.”
 

 


Saudi aid center distributes 3,800 boxes of dates in Aden

The distribution benefited 22,800 individuals. (SPA)
Updated 21 March 2025
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Saudi aid center distributes 3,800 boxes of dates in Aden

  • The center distributed 300 food baskets in Costanta, Romania, benefiting 1,500 individuals.

ADEN: The King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Aid recently distributed 3,800 boxes of dates across the districts of Mansoura, Sheikh Othman, and Dar Saad in Aden province, Yemen.

The distribution benefited 22,800 individuals, including displaced persons and people with special needs, as part of KSrelief’s 2025 date assistance distribution project in the country.

The center also distributed 300 food baskets in Costanta, Romania, benefiting 1,500 individuals. This is part of the Etaam Food Basket Distribution Project.

These initiatives are part of the Kingdom’s relief and humanitarian efforts carried out to support those in need and alleviate suffering worldwide.

 


Saudi deputy foreign minister meets Chad’s president

Updated 21 March 2025
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Saudi deputy foreign minister meets Chad’s president

  • Al-Khuraiji conveyed to Deby and his people greetings and well wishes from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

AMDJARASS: Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Khuraiji met recently with Chad’s President Gen. Mahmat Idriss Deby Itno in Amdjarass.

Al-Khuraiji conveyed to Deby and his people greetings and well wishes from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

During the reception, the officials reviewed bilateral relations and discussed the latest global developments.

The reception was attended by Chad’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Saber Fadl, and several other ministers and officials of the African nation.

Also present was Ali bin Hassan Jafar, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Sudan.

 


Attempt to smuggle 22,496 unlicensed pills foiled in Saudi Arabia’s Jazan

Updated 21 March 2025
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Attempt to smuggle 22,496 unlicensed pills foiled in Saudi Arabia’s Jazan

  • Security authorities call upon citizens and residents to report all available information about any activities related to drug smuggling or selling

JAZAN: Al-Afwaj security patrols in Jazan foiled an attempt to smuggle 22,496 unlicensed medical pills and 3 kg of hashish in Faifa Governorate. The seized narcotics were handed to the relevant authority.

Authorities in Jazan arrested a violator of the border security system, of Ethiopian nationality, for promoting amphetamine. Preliminary procedures have been completed and the offender referred to the competent authority.

Land patrols of the Border Guard in Al-Raboah in the Asir Region led to the arrest of six violators of the border security system, of Ethiopian nationality, for smuggling 120 kg of qat. Preliminary procedures have been completed, and the seized narcotics handed to the relevant authority.

Security authorities call upon citizens and residents to report all available information about any activities related to drug smuggling or selling. They can contact the General Directorate of Narcotics Control by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or 999 in the other regions. The organization can also be contacted by email.