Riyadh Hosts GCC Society for History, Archaeology Forum

The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum launches in Riyadh - SPA
The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum launches in Riyadh - SPA
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Riyadh Hosts GCC Society for History, Archaeology Forum

The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum launches in Riyadh - SPA
The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum launches in Riyadh - SPA

The 23rd GCC Society for History and Archaeology forum, organized by the Heritage Commission in cooperation with King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah) was launched in Riyadh. It will run for two days and involve 300 researchers in history and archaeology, SPA reported.
Darah CEO Turki Al-Shuwaier stressed in his opening speech that the forum is a vivid example of how interdisciplinary sciences can equip individuals to think critically, serve their communities, and contribute to human progress.
Heritage Commission CEO Dr. Jasir Al-Harbash commended the society's efforts in serving history and antiquities enthusiasts in the GCC region. He highlighted the successes of the Heritage Commission in Saudi Arabia, particularly the registration of the Cultural Landscape of Al-Faw Archaeological Area and At-Turaif District in Diriyah on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The forum aims to foster scientific advancement in the society's field of expertise and empower members to contribute to scientific research. It showcases the contributions of GCC citizens in archaeology, heritage, and history and facilitates cultural exchange to promote scientific production in these areas.



Heavy Rains Damage Historic Buildings, Forts in Yemen

Unprecedented rains have hit parts of Yemen this season. (EPA)
Unprecedented rains have hit parts of Yemen this season. (EPA)
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Heavy Rains Damage Historic Buildings, Forts in Yemen

Unprecedented rains have hit parts of Yemen this season. (EPA)
Unprecedented rains have hit parts of Yemen this season. (EPA)

Recent heavy rains have caused significant damage in cities and villages controlled by the Houthi group in Yemen.

Historic forts and ancient buildings have been affected, with homes collapsing in Sanaa, its outskirts, and in the governorates of Raymah, Amran, Al-Bayda, and Hodeidah.

Flooding has particularly impacted the Bustan al-Sultan and Harqan neighborhoods in the UNESCO-listed city of Sanaa.

Sources have accused the Iran-backed Houthis of neglecting the disaster and ignoring residents’ calls for help, while they instead focused on their annual sectarian celebrations.

The Houthi-controlled “Historical Cities Preservation Authority” issued urgent warnings about historic buildings at risk of collapse in the old city in Sanaa and elsewhere. They reported that an ancient palace in an old neighborhood is near collapse.

In rural Sanaa, local sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that the historic Haraz fort has partially collapsed due to the rains. The fort is one of Yemen’s oldest.

The Raymah governorate has also suffered, with recent floods causing around eight deaths and destroying over 400 homes, including ancient buildings. Parts of the historic Zalamlam Mountain Castle have collapsed from the rain.

The Yemen Meteorological and Early Warning Center predicted that heavy thunderstorms, including hail and strong winds, will continue for the next 72 hours.

This weather is expected to impact highlands, slopes, and western coastal areas from Saada in the north to Taiz, Al-Daleh, and Lahj in the south.

The weather forecast predicted continued rainfall, including thunderstorms and strong winds, over parts of Al-Mahra, Hadramawt, Shabwa, Abyan, Marib, and Al-Jawf.

The center also expected strong winds to stir up dust and sand in the Socotra Archipelago, southern coasts, and areas affected by thunderstorms.

It advised people to stay away from valleys, flood-prone areas, and muddy roads. It warned to avoid electrical poles, billboards, and trees, and to turn off mobile phones during storms.