DHAHRAN: Visitors to the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) enjoyed a real treat this Eid Al-Fitr with three days of family-friendly activities at the center’s Dhahran headquarters.
The Plaza was converted into a playground of festive fun as live Arabic music weaved into the space amid the sounds of excited children running around.
Arab News spoke with Riffayu Deen, an IT engineer based in Alkhobar, who came to Ithra’s Eid celebrations with his children — Ayyaash, 7, and Arqam, 3.
“It’s a pleasure to be here — every celebration is special in (Alkhobar) and more special in Ithra, they take an extra step to arrange many new things for the kids, making a family gathering here really a happening spot,” he said.
“I went to the Candy Garden area (at the Plaza) and my kids really enjoyed it. It’s really amazing — they have new innovative ideas every time, it is not repetitive,” he added.
His one criticism? “I personally feel crowd management can be bit better because the crowd is too huge, so if they can allow some time slot for the people it would be great.”
Ayyaash, flashing the real candy that was handed out at the exit by Ithra staff, said: “I enjoyed it, it is a fun place! I liked the Lollipop (display at the Plaza’s Candy Garden). I like the Energy Exhibit.”
The Energy Exhibit, which is in the Ithra grounds, and also an Aramco initiative, hosted plenty of activities, as did the various spaces in Ithra itself, including the library and various workshops and activities, indoors and outdoors.
Entry to Ithra and the Energy Exhibit is always free. Some events require visitors to reserve free tickets, which can be acquired on the premises, such as for entry to the main museum or the cinema to watch one of the scheduled film screenings.
The Children’s Museum, as always, requires paid tickets; SR45 ($12) for ages 1-12; SR 20 for those over 12 and free for those younger than a year.
