Across the Arabian Peninsula, countless historical locations have either disappeared, been renamed, or survived only in memory and oral tradition. One such name that appears in stories, archival mentions, and cultural discussions is “bab alfurdhah.” While not widely documented in modern city records, the name carries traits that strongly connect it to the old fortified cities of the Hejaz region, particularly those along the Red Sea trade route. Meaning and Linguistic Roots of “bab alfurdhah” The name “bab alfurdhah” can be broken into two parts: Bab (باب): Arabic for gate Alfurdhah (الفُرضَة or الفُردة): A term that historically referred to…
Author: wasila
In the heart of Jeddah, where ancient traditions meet the rhythm of modern Saudi Arabia, stands a remarkable cultural beacon — Darat Safeya Binzagr. This private museum and art centre is not merely a gallery; it is a heartfelt narrative of Saudi heritage told through the delicate brushstrokes of one of the kingdom’s most celebrated artists, Safeya Binzagr. Her vision transformed a personal dream into a national treasure — a place where art, memory, and culture coexist harmoniously. Safeya Binzagr’s life and work embody the story of Saudi Arabia’s artistic awakening. At a time when few women in the kingdom…
Nestled quietly within the golden sands of Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province lies one of the most intriguing archaeological discoveries in the Arabian Peninsula — the Jubail Church. This ancient Christian structure, dating back many centuries, stands as a silent witness to a time when Christianity flourished in the Gulf region long before the rise of Islam. While Saudi Arabia today is known as the birthplace of Islam and home to its two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina, few realise that traces of earlier faiths and civilisations remain scattered across its vast deserts. Among these rare relics, the Jubail Church occupies…
The global pharmaceutical industry is undergoing a major transformation. Nations that once depended entirely on imported medicines are now investing aggressively in their own manufacturing capabilities. Saudi Arabia is among the countries leading this change, especially under its Vision 2030 programme, which encourages localisation of high-value industries. Within this landscape, Dammam Pharma has emerged as one of the most promising pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in the Kingdom. Operating from the Eastern Province, Dammam Pharma focuses on producing high-quality medicines, expanding the country’s pharmaceutical infrastructure, and reducing reliance on imported drugs. This article explores everything about the organisation—its role in Saudi Arabia’s…
Yanbu Cement stands as one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant industrial success stories — a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s construction, infrastructure, and economic development for nearly five decades. Established in 1977, the company has evolved from a regional cement producer to one of the most advanced and efficient cement manufacturers in the Middle East. With its strategic location on the Red Sea coast, a commitment to innovation, and alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, Yanbu Cement continues to shape the nation’s industrial transformation and sustainability goals. Historical Background and Foundation Yanbu Cement Company, often abbreviated as YCC, was founded in 1977…
Alahsa Municipality, one of the most prominent administrative bodies in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, stands at the intersection of heritage, modernity, and urban development. Located in the historically rich Al-Ahsa region, the municipality has become a benchmark for how local governance can drive sustainable growth while preserving cultural and environmental identity. Through a visionary approach to infrastructure, tourism, and municipal services, Alahsa Municipality continues to play a pivotal role in realising the broader goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The Historical and Geographical Context of Alahsa Alahsa, also spelled Al-Ahsa, is one of the oldest and most fertile regions in…
Aqua Arabia stands as one of the most visionary projects redefining the meaning of water in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Whether in the field of advanced water treatment technology or the world of entertainment and tourism, the name “Aqua Arabia” has become synonymous with innovation, sustainability, and progress. As Saudi Arabia continues its remarkable transformation under Vision 2030, Aqua Arabia represents a blend of environmental engineering excellence and creative development that highlights the country’s growing leadership in the Middle East. The Essence of Aqua Arabia At its core, Aqua Arabia reflects the Kingdom’s response to one of the most…
Among the colourful marine life thriving along the coasts of Saudi Arabia, one species holds a special place in both culture and cuisine — the hareed fish. Locally known as the “parrotfish” for its beak-like mouth and vibrant scales, this remarkable species is more than just a seafood delicacy. It’s a living symbol of the Red Sea’s biodiversity, a central part of Farasan Island traditions, and a magnet for both tourists and marine researchers. From its natural behaviour to its cultural celebrations, the story of the hareed fish reflects the deep relationship between the Saudi people and the sea that…
In Saudi Arabia’s evolving job market, the term “Ajeer paper” has become increasingly important for both employers and expatriate workers. As the Kingdom advances towards Vision 2030, the government has introduced several reforms to modernise labour regulations, promote transparency, and enhance flexibility in employment practices. One such initiative is the Ajeer system, which issues official documents—commonly referred to as Ajeer papers—to regulate temporary work arrangements between different establishments. What Is the Ajeer Paper? The Ajeer paper in Saudi Arabia refers to the official permit or document issued through the Ajeer platform, an online service launched by the Ministry of Human…
Healthcare in Saudi Arabia has undergone an extraordinary transformation in the last few decades. From modest clinics and local health units, the Kingdom now boasts some of the most technologically advanced hospitals and medical institutions in the region. Among these, Sumeshi Hospital has emerged as a name that symbolises innovation, compassion, and quality care. Positioned strategically in the heart of the Kingdom, Sumeshi Hospital represents a perfect blend of traditional medical ethics and modern healthcare practices. The Origin and Vision of Sumeshi Hospital Sumeshi Hospital was established with a singular purpose — to bring world-class healthcare within the reach of…