Saudi anti-drugs chief receives French official

Maj. Gen. Mohammed Al-Qarni (R) and Antoine Sivan in Riyadh. (Supplied)
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Updated 29 April 2025
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Saudi anti-drugs chief receives French official

  • They discussed several topics of mutual interest

RIYADH: Saudi Director General of Narcotics Control Maj. Gen. Mohammed Al-Qarni received Minister Plenipotentiary and Diplomatic Adviser at the Paris Police Prefecture Antoine Sivan and his accompanying delegation in Riyadh on Tuesday.

The meeting, a result of the Ministry of Interior’s international partnership programs, aims to develop human capital and enhance national competencies through the exchange of visits, expertise and knowledge based on global best practices, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Meanwhile, Eastern Region Gov. Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz received UK Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Neil Crompton in Dammam on Tuesday. They discussed several topics of mutual interest.

 


Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. (SPA)
Updated 19 December 2025
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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

  • Festival now established as a premier annual event

AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.

The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency. 

Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.

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In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.

In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.

This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship. 

As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.

The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.

The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.