JEDDAH: Interpol is looking for two Saudis — a former Jeddah mayor and former president of a sports club — who have been convicted in cases related to the 2009 flash floods here.
The ex-mayor was sentenced to seven years in prison while the sports official was jailed for three years. The Kingdom sought Interpol's help after both of them jumped bail, local media has reported.
The rulings against them are final as they have been upheld by the Jeddah Administrative Court of Appeals.
The two, who were released on bail, left Saudi Arabia and have refused to return even as their lawyers have contested their convictions.
The prosecution called on Interpol to arrest the two so they can start serving their prison terms in the Jeddah General Prison. Up to 322 people have been slapped with charges of wrongdoing in the Jeddah floods case.
Interpol help sought to arrest Jeddah flood convicts
Interpol help sought to arrest Jeddah flood convicts
Saudi arts panel explores heritage at Damascus fair
RIYADH: The Theater and Performing Arts Commission hosted a panel discussion on symbolism and heritage in traditional Saudi performing arts at the Kingdom’s pavilion during the Damascus International Book Fair.
Participants examined the symbolic meanings of folk arts such as Ardah, Samri, and Al-Khatwa, highlighting their role in expressing Saudi values, history, and national identity.
Key topics included the significance of collective movements and rhythms in conveying unity and social solidarity, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
The panel also explored the symbolism of costumes, performance tools, and lyrics, and discussed strategies for preserving authenticity in contemporary cultural contexts.
Saudi Arabia was guest of honor at the fair, which concluded on Feb. 16. The Kingdom’s pavilion highlighted creativity and cultural exchange, supporting Vision 2030’s goals of knowledge sharing and cultural leadership.
The seminar was part of the commission's efforts to promote Saudi culture at regional and international forums, highlighting the rich heritage of traditional performing arts and fostering cultural dialogue with diverse audiences.
