Saudi deputy minister receives ambassador of Iran

Abdulrahman Al-Rassi (R) and Alireza Enayati in Riyadh. (Supplied)
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Updated 08 September 2025
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Saudi deputy minister receives ambassador of Iran

  • During the meeting, both officials discussed issues of mutual interest

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi received Ambassador of Iran to the Kingdom Alireza Enayati in Riyadh on Monday.

During the meeting, both officials discussed issues of mutual interest, the Kingdom’s Foreign Ministry posted on X.

Al-Rassi, who is also the general supervisor of the Public Diplomacy Deputyship, also received Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Saudi Arabia Madiyar Menilbekov, with whom he held similar talks.

Meanwhile, Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic and Development Affairs Abdullah bin Zarah received Paulo Uchoa Ribeiro Filho, the newly appointed ambassador of Brazil to the Kingdom, wishing him success in his new role.

 


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.

FASTFACT

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.