Darah Launches ‘History of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques’ Forum

Muslim pilgrims walk out after the Friday prayer at the Grand mosque ahead of annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia August 17, 2018.REUTERS/Zohra Bensemra
Muslim pilgrims walk out after the Friday prayer at the Grand mosque ahead of annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia August 17, 2018.REUTERS/Zohra Bensemra
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Darah Launches ‘History of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques’ Forum

Muslim pilgrims walk out after the Friday prayer at the Grand mosque ahead of annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia August 17, 2018.REUTERS/Zohra Bensemra
Muslim pilgrims walk out after the Friday prayer at the Grand mosque ahead of annual Hajj pilgrimage in the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia August 17, 2018.REUTERS/Zohra Bensemra

King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah) launched Monday the “History of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques” forum at the Hajj Conference and Exhibition, organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in collaboration with the “Pilgrim Experience Program”.

The forum aims to highlight the Kingdom’s historical and organizational efforts in serving the Two Holy Mosques, document the architectural and artistic transformations of the holy sites, and adopt the latest digital methods for studying the history of Hajj, SPA reported.

Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, Chairman of the Council of Muslim Scholars, and member of the Supreme Supervisory Committee for the Hajj and Two Holy Mosques History Project Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa delivered a speech underscoring the importance of preserving the history of Hajj and its landmarks. He emphasized the scholarly responsibility to document the Kingdom’s prominent role in serving pilgrims and caring for the Two Holy Mosques throughout history.

For his part, Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfig Al-Rabiah highlighted major advancements in the Hajj ecosystem, including administration, organization, and services. He stressed the importance of harnessing historical research and modern technologies to support decision-making, shape the future of Hajj and Umrah, and enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims.

The forum aims to promote specialized scientific research in this field and translate its outcomes into educational and media content. It also seeks to shed light on the historical evolution of the Hajj in the Islamic world, reflecting the Kingdom’s deep commitment to documenting and preserving the legacy of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques, two of Islam’s greatest rituals and enduring symbols of civilization.

The forum’s significance lies in its focus on Hajj as a pillar of Islamic identity and a manifestation of unity among Muslims. Through this platform, Darah seeks to transform research outputs into accessible cultural and educational content. Organized as part of the broader project on the history of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques, the forum aligns with the Foundation’s mission to preserve and document the Kingdom’s history and that of its holiest sites.

It aspires to serve as a national and global reference for chronicling the Hajj ritual and promoting the Kingdom’s cultural and civilizational image, in line with Vision 2030 objectives in culture and tourism, through interactive scientific and digital content that showcases the historical depth of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques.



Jazan Cultural House Launches Summer Ceramics Camp to Nurture Artistic Talent

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
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Jazan Cultural House Launches Summer Ceramics Camp to Nurture Artistic Talent

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA

The Cultural House in Jazan Region is running a summer ceramics camp as part of its seasonal programs aimed at developing artistic skills and discovering talent through a training program that combines theoretical and practical instruction in a stimulating creative environment, SPA reported.

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops that guide participants from concept development to the creation of ceramic sculptures. It also features dedicated workshops for children with age-appropriate activities.

The camp aims to make productive use of the summer vacation by developing artistic capabilities, supporting talent, and enhancing cultural activity in the region.


Royal Commission for Makkah Draws 17.5 Million Visitors to Historical Sites

Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5% - SPA
Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5% - SPA
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Royal Commission for Makkah Draws 17.5 Million Visitors to Historical Sites

Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5% - SPA
Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5% - SPA

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites is implementing an integrated strategy to conserve historical and enrichment sites and transform them into sustainable cultural destinations, enhancing Makkah's position as a city of ancient heritage in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The commission has developed and rehabilitated 28 historical sites each, documented 60 sites, opened 27 sites to visitors, and established seven visitor service centers.

Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5%, SPA reported.

The commission has also executed more than 200 promotional announcements and prepared 65 development studies to support conservation and rehabilitation plans, achieving a 100% activation rate in implementing planned operational targets.

These efforts reflect the commission's commitment to balancing the preservation of Makkah's historical identity with modern development requirements, reinforcing the city's position as a global destination combining holiness, history, and culture.


Jazan’s Performing Arts Preserve Heritage and Showcase Regional Identity

In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation - SPA
In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation - SPA
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Jazan’s Performing Arts Preserve Heritage and Showcase Regional Identity

In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation - SPA
In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation - SPA

Jazan Region holds a distinguished place in Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape, shaped by its rich heritage and diverse traditions, which have enriched the national cultural scene through a wide range of performing and folk arts preserved and showcased across generations.

The region’s diverse geography, including mountains, plains, coastlines, and islands, has influenced the development of unique performing arts connected to local lifestyles, agricultural seasons, and maritime activities.

These arts form a vibrant cultural heritage that has maintained its authenticity while evolving with the Kingdom’s cultural growth, SPA reported.

In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation.

Its folk arts remain a key expression of regional identity, reflecting its history, values, and customs while maintaining a strong presence in national events and cultural programs.