First phase of historic Sheikh’s Fortress renovation completed in Rijal Almaa

With the completion of the renovation efforts, the company is transforming the fortress to be one of the monuments in the region. (Supplied)
Short Url
Updated 02 June 2025
Follow

First phase of historic Sheikh’s Fortress renovation completed in Rijal Almaa

  • Sheikh’s Fortress is one of three heritage sites receiving emergency repairs through a collaboration between Soudah Development and the Tourist Villages Cooperative Society of Rijal Almaa, under a deal signed last year

RIYADH: The first phase of renovating the historic Sheikh’s Fortress site in Rijal Almaa was recently completed by Soudah Development, a Public Investment Fund company.

It is one of the heritage sites in Jareen, one of six development zones within the Soudah Peaks project, according to a report.

Sheikh’s Fortress is one of three heritage sites receiving emergency repairs through a collaboration between Soudah Development and the Tourist Villages Cooperative Society of Rijal Almaa, under a deal signed last year.




The emergency restorations process of the Fortress is a partnership between the investment fund company and the Tourist Villages Cooperative Society of Rijal Almaa. (Supplied)

The collaboration includes emergency repairs of Sheikh’s Fortress, Bee House and Hamidiyah Fortress, the report said.

It is part of broader efforts by Soudah Development to preserve and protect architectural and cultural heritage within the Soudah Peaks project area, which includes about 300 historical and cultural sites.

The goal is to provide exceptional experiences for tourists and residents, create job opportunities, and boost the regional and national economy.

With the first phase of repairs complete, Sheikh’s Fortress will symbolize the region’s rich architectural, cultural and historical identity, and help promote local heritage.

Soudah Peaks will be a luxury mountain destination inspired by local architectural identity. The project includes six distinctive zones: Tahlal, Sahab, Sabrah, Jareen, Rijal and Red Rock.

It will offer luxury tourism, hospitality and residential experiences, and is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs while generating long-term economic impact for the region and the Kingdom.

 


Taif festival celebrates Saudi’s literary icons

Updated 11 sec ago
Follow

Taif festival celebrates Saudi’s literary icons

  • It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content

TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.

The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.

It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.

Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.

The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.

Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.