Under Saudi Heritage Authority’s Microscope: Exploring Historical Souq Thul-Majaz

The Saudi Heritage Authority sheds light on the historical site of Souq Thul-Majaz (Heritage Authority)
The Saudi Heritage Authority sheds light on the historical site of Souq Thul-Majaz (Heritage Authority)
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Under Saudi Heritage Authority’s Microscope: Exploring Historical Souq Thul-Majaz

The Saudi Heritage Authority sheds light on the historical site of Souq Thul-Majaz (Heritage Authority)
The Saudi Heritage Authority sheds light on the historical site of Souq Thul-Majaz (Heritage Authority)

The Saudi Heritage Authority has shed light on the historical site of Souq Thul-Majaz, one of the most renowned pre-Islamic Arab markets.

The Authority's survey and excavation team successfully completed their inaugural season, aimed at uncovering the site’s archaeological treasures, unearthing findings, and revealing architectural remnants that bear witness to the market’s historical and cultural significance.

This bustling market was once frequented by Arabs and Muslims during the early days of Islam before they embarked on the annual Hajj pilgrimage season.

The Authority, in collaboration with a group of Saudi experts, has successfully concluded the first season of archaeological survey and excavation at the site of the market in the holy city of Makkah.

The endeavor aimed to unearth scientific and historical evidence related to the location as part of the Authority's efforts to explore national heritage sites, preserve their historical significance, and promote awareness about them.

Additionally, the initiative seeks to utilize these sites as valuable cultural and economic resources, enriching the experiences of both citizens and visitors to the holy city.

Saudi Arabia, with its vast geographical expanse and pivotal role in the region’s history, is home to numerous historical sites that have embraced the heritage and epics of Arab communities, nationalities, and neighboring cultures over the ages.

Among these renowned sites are the ancient markets that have flourished since pre-Islamic times, through the early Islamic eras, where societies gathered in their shops and stalls.

Notably, the markets of Okaz, Majnah, and Thul-Majaz stand out, known as the pilgrimage markets since they took place during the pilgrimage months.

These markets served as hubs for trade and commerce and witnessed the exchange of poetry, literature, and diverse intellectual endeavors.

Located in Wadi Al-Mughmas, Souq Thul-Majaz lies about 20 kilometers to the east of the city of Makkah. This market holds historical, cultural, and archaeological significance, being one of the renowned Arabian markets in the Arabian Peninsula from pre-Islamic times until the early Islamic era.

Souq Thul-Majaz was linked to overland trade routes through which Arabs and merchants from various regions arrived in Makkah.

On the other hand, it was connected to the historic port of Al-Shuaiba on the Red Sea coast, south of Jeddah.

The prominence of Souq Thul-Majaz continued to endure even beyond the year 129 AH in the Islamic calendar year.



Dubai Culture Celebrates Winners of 3rd Dubai Festival for Youth Music

The competition featured 10 categories with intense rivalry among the finalists. WAM
The competition featured 10 categories with intense rivalry among the finalists. WAM
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Dubai Culture Celebrates Winners of 3rd Dubai Festival for Youth Music

The competition featured 10 categories with intense rivalry among the finalists. WAM
The competition featured 10 categories with intense rivalry among the finalists. WAM

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has crowned the winners of the third Dubai Festival for Youth Music during a ceremony hosted at Etihad Museum, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported Thursday.

The festival is geared toward elevating the local music sector, discovering emerging talent, inspiring them to pursue their creative passion, and contribute to strengthening the cultural and creative industries, WAM said.

The closing ceremony was attended by Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, Fatma Al Jallaf, Acting Director of the Performing Arts Department at Dubai Culture, and poet Dr. Aref Alshaikh, who was honoured with the ‘Music Personality of the Year’ award in recognition of his longstanding literary contributions and influential role in enriching the local cultural landscape.

The event also welcomed the festival’s jury members, including composer Mohammad Malulla, maestro Fadel Hamidi, and artist Jasem Mohamed, WAM said.
The competition featured 10 categories with intense rivalry among the finalists, who unleashed their creativity through captivating musical and vocal performances. These were eagerly followed by the jury and audience, showcasing diverse skills in singing, music composition, instrumental performance, and more.