Artisans showcase heritage at Al-Atula festival/node/2610871/saudi-arabia
Artisans showcase heritage at Al-Atula festival
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More than 200 artisans from the region practice and preserve 20 distinct types of skills passed down through generations and showcased in local markets and cultural events. (SUPPLIED/SPA)
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More than 200 artisans from the region practice and preserve 20 distinct types of skills passed down through generations and showcased in local markets and cultural events. (SUPPLIED/SPA)
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More than 200 artisans from the region practice and preserve 20 distinct types of skills passed down through generations and showcased in local markets and cultural events. (SUPPLIED/SPA)
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More than 200 artisans from the region practice and preserve 20 distinct types of skills passed down through generations and showcased in local markets and cultural events. (SUPPLIED/SPA)
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More than 200 artisans from the region practice and preserve 20 distinct types of skills passed down through generations and showcased in local markets and cultural events. (SUPPLIED/SPA)
RIYADH: Live demonstrations of traditional crafts by skilled artisans at the eighth Al-Atula Archeological Village Festival have drawn significant interest, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.
Festival supervisor Othman Al-Zahrani said the event features more than 10 sections dedicated to traditional crafts.
These include ancient building techniques, door and window engraving, sword and dagger making, and Sadu weaving, the SPA reported on Wednesday.
The sections offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional professions firsthand with the artisans using simple tools and natural materials rooted in the heritage of the Baha region.
The event aligns with the Year of Handicrafts, an initiative launched to celebrate and support traditional crafts across the Kingdom.
The Baha region is known for its thriving craft industries that reflect the identity and history of its people.
More than 200 artisans from the region practice and preserve 20 distinct types of skills passed down through generations and showcased in local markets and cultural events.
Celestial spectacle in Saudi Arabia’s north on first day of Ramadan
Venus-crescent moon alignment visible over Northern Borders Region skies
Meteorology Center completes operational plan for the holy month
Updated 19 February 2026
Arab News
ARAR/JEDDAH: The holy month of Ramadan has commenced in Saudi Arabia with a striking astronomical display in the Northern Borders Region, setting a serene tone for the month as meteorological authorities confirmed full readiness to support pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
On Tuesday evening, the skies over Arar witnessed a rare alignment as the planet Venus paired with the slender crescent moon marking the first day of Ramadan. Appearing shortly after sunset, the crescent shimmered low on the western horizon above Venus — one of the brightest celestial bodies — in a display enhanced by clear skies.
While the conjunction is a recurring astronomical phenomenon caused by the apparent proximity of the two bodies as viewed from Earth, its coincidence with the start of the holy month added a special aesthetic and spiritual dimension to the atmosphere in the north, SPA said.
Meteorological readiness
As the faithful began their fasting, the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) announced the completion of its operational and technical preparations for Ramadan 1447 AH.
The plan includes heightened performance levels at observatories in the Kingdom’s airports to manage increased flight traffic and aviation safety. (SPA)
NCM Chief Executive Dr. Ayman bin Salem Ghulam confirmed that the center has finalized a comprehensive plan to ensure round-the-clock weather monitoring for Makkah, Madinah, and the roads leading to the Two Holy Mosques. The initiative aims to provide accurate forecasting to enhance the safety and comfort of the influx of visitors and Umrah pilgrims.
The plan includes heightened performance levels at observatories in the Kingdom’s airports to manage increased flight traffic and aviation safety.
To ensure pilgrims have real-time access to information, the NCM has integrated its data with the "Nusuk" and "Tawakkalna" smart applications. Ten-day extended forecasts and real-time alerts will also be available via the "Anwaa" app and displayed on guidance boards along highways.
The center has mobilized 14 media platforms to deliver swift weather alerts, ensuring high standards of security and logistical support throughout the season.
