Saudi leadership sends cables of condolences after passing of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and mourners pray at the grave of former prime minister Khaleda Zia in Dhaka on January 1, 2026. (AFP)
Short Url
Updated 01 January 2026
Follow

Saudi leadership sends cables of condolences after passing of former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia

  • Zia died at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman on Thursday sent a cable of condolences to the President of Bangladesh Mohammed Shahabuddin after the passing of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia on Tuesday.

The king prayed that God have mercy on Zia, forgive her sins, and admit her into paradise. He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent a similar cable.

On Wednesday, huge crowds had flocked to the area outside Bangladesh’s national parliament building in the capital to attend the funeral prayers for Zia, who died at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.

Zia was buried in late afternoon with state honors beside the grave of her husband, a former president who was assassinated in a military coup in 1981, in a park outside the parliament building later Wednesday.


Al-Eishan Palace jewel in Jouf’s cultural crown

Located in the heart of Sakaka, Al-Eishan Palace dates back to 1852 and is surrounded by lush palm groves. (SPA)
Updated 47 min 4 sec ago
Follow

Al-Eishan Palace jewel in Jouf’s cultural crown

  • Guests are greeted with coffee and freshly baked Maqshush, a thin flatbread with a distinctive flavor, at Al-Eishan Palace

RIYADH: Visitors to the Jouf region can explore a host of historical landmarks and unique architectural heritage, with mud brick palaces offering immersive cultural experiences that combine traditional cuisine and local hospitality.

The highlight is Al-Eishan Palace, where guests are greeted with coffee and freshly baked Maqshush, a thin flatbread with a distinctive flavor, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Located in the heart of Sakaka, the building dates back to 1852 and is surrounded by lush palm groves. Built from mud, stone, tamarisk wood and palm fronds, it has five-meter high walls and spans more than 1,000 sq. meters. To the east, it borders orchards of peaches, pomegranates and grapes.

Parts of the palace were redeveloped in 2017-18, though the original foundations were maintained and traditional building materials were used for the renovations to ensure the building retained its character, including the majlis, inner courtyard and living quarters.

Al-Eishan Palace is open to visitors daily.