Royal Commission for AlUla, Smithsonian collaboration

Experts will conduct joint initiatives in art conservation, historic research, archaeological exploration, and scientific analysis. (SPA)
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Updated 15 May 2025
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Royal Commission for AlUla, Smithsonian collaboration

  • The agreement supports the commission’s vision to transform AlUla into a world-class heritage destination and economic hub

MADINAH: The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, and the Royal Commission for AlUla have formalized a collaboration agreement to enhance cultural exchange and establish a framework to broaden global understanding of northern Arabia’s ancient civilizations and cultural legacy.

The agreement supports the commission’s vision to transform AlUla into a world-class heritage destination and economic hub. Rooted in mutual dedication to cultural preservation and celebration, the collaboration will unlock new research opportunities and deepen insights into ancient Kingdom artistry, with special focus on the Dadanite civilization.

Experts will conduct joint initiatives in art conservation, historic research, archaeological exploration, and scientific analysis. The institutions will collaborate on exhibitions and artifact exchanges, bringing cultural treasures to international audiences.

Professional development programs covering exhibition curation, research methodologies, narrative development, and museum operations will enhance expertise among staff at AlUla’s museums and the Smithsonian.


Commander of Royal Saudi Air Force receives Military Order of Oman

Updated 24 December 2025
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Commander of Royal Saudi Air Force receives Military Order of Oman

  • Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman conferred the order upon Lt. Gen. Turki bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz

LONDON: Lt. Gen. Turki bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, the commander of the Royal Saudi Air Force, received on Wednesday the Military Order of Oman (Second Class) in recognition of his efforts and contributions in strengthening military cooperation between Oman and Saudi Arabia.

The order was presented by Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al-Said, the deputy prime minister for defense affairs, when he received the Saudi Air Force commander in his office at Al-Murtafa’a Camp in Muscat.

Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman conferred the order upon Lt. Gen. Abdulaziz, according to the Oman News Agency.

Several Omani officials, including Air Vice Marshal Khamis bin Hammad Al-Ghafri, the Commander of the Royal Air Force of Oman, attended the ceremony. Also present were the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Oman Ibrahim bin Saad bin Bishan, and the military attache from the Saudi Embassy in Muscat.

In a separate meeting on Wednesday, Lt. Gen. Abdulaziz and his Omani counterpart Al-Ghafri discussed training and drills between the two air forces, as well as aspects of military cooperation.