Taif rose forum attracts 350,000 visitors in 10 days

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The organizers have incorporated artificial intelligence, automated monitoring systems and comprehensive historical documentation of Taif’s famous roses. (SPA)
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The organizers have incorporated artificial intelligence, automated monitoring systems and comprehensive historical documentation of Taif’s famous roses. (SPA)
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The organizers have incorporated artificial intelligence, automated monitoring systems and comprehensive historical documentation of Taif’s famous roses. (SPA)
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Updated 24 April 2025
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Taif rose forum attracts 350,000 visitors in 10 days

  • Highlights include ‘flower carpet’ made from 850,000 blooms
  • Event at Arruddaf Park runs until Saturday

TAIF: The inaugural Rose and Aromatic Plants Global Forum attracted more than 350,000 visitors in its first 10 days.

The event at Arruddaf Park in Taif opened on April 13 and runs until Saturday. It marks a significant milestone for the region, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology.

The organizers have incorporated artificial intelligence, automated monitoring systems and comprehensive historical documentation of Taif’s famous roses.

The innovative displays and exhibitions have attracted tourists from around the world, underscoring Taif’s growing reputation as a premier destination for natural beauty and botanical diversity.

In a stunning centerpiece that has become the festival’s most photographed attraction, Taif Municipality unveiled an elaborate flower carpet featuring more than 850,000 individual blooms.

The display combines elements of traditional Saudi architecture and Taif’s distinctive building style. It also tells a story of the region’s evolution, featuring a model of the Al-Hada mountains and representations of transport systems through the ages.

Visitors can trace the journey from the historic Camel Path that once connected Taif and Makkah to the modern Al-Masafala Road, culminating with a representation of today’s cable car system that whisks travelers through the mountainous terrain in minutes — a powerful symbol of the city’s technological and cultural advancement.

This festival reinforces Taif’s identity as the City of Roses and a unique tourist destination, and aligns perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030’s ambitious objectives for developing both the tourism and technology sectors.


Saudi Arabia expresses concern over UAE pressure on STC, warns against threats to its security

Updated 30 December 2025
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Saudi Arabia expresses concern over UAE pressure on STC, warns against threats to its security

  • Saudi Arabia stressed that any threat to its national security constituted a “red line”
  • Riyadh further emphasized the importance of the UAE responding to Yemen’s request to withdraw its military forces within 24 hours

Riyadh: Saudi Arabia on Tuesday expressed regret over what it described as pressure by the United Arab Emirates on Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces to carry out military operations in Yemen’s Hadramout and Al-Mahra governorates, warning that such actions pose a direct threat to the Kingdom’s national security and regional stability.

In a statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the reported moves were inconsistent with the principles of the Arab Coalition that supports the internationally recognised government of Yemen and undermined ongoing efforts to achieve security and stability in the country.

 

The ministry referred to earlier statements by the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council and the coalition leadership concerning the movement of ships carrying weapons and heavy vehicles from Fujairah port to Mukalla without official authorization.

Saudi Arabia stressed that any threat to its national security constituted a “red line,” adding that it would not hesitate to take all necessary measures to confront and neutralize such risks.

The Kingdom reaffirmed its support for Yemen’s security, stability, and sovereignty, as well as its full backing of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council and its government. It also reiterated that the southern issue is a just cause that can only be addressed through dialogue as part of a comprehensive political solution involving all Yemeni parties, including the STC.

Riyadh further emphasized the importance of the UAE responding to Yemen’s request to withdraw its military forces within 24 hours and to halt military or financial support to any Yemeni faction.

The statement called for wisdom to prevail in order to preserve Gulf unity, bilateral relations, and the shared goal of regional stability and development.